US travel and guidebook writer Arthur Frommer dies at 95

Arthur Frommer, a prominent figure in the world of travel writing, has sadly passed away at the age of 95. He was best known for his influential guidebook 'Europe on 5 Dollars a Day,' along with many other titles that focused on budget travel. His daughter, Pauline Frommer, confirmed his death in a heartfelt statement on his website. Arthur died peacefully at home, surrounded by his loved ones, which is a testament to the life he lived and the connections he made. Throughout his remarkable life, Arthur Frommer played a significant role in making travel accessible to the average American. He dedicated his career to showing people that they could explore the world without needing to be wealthy. In her statement, Pauline expressed her pride in continuing her father's legacy, saying, 'I am honoured to carry on his work of sharing the world with you. ' Arthur's guidebooks became a trusted resource for travelers, providing them with practical tips and insights into various destinations around the globe. One of his most notable works, 'Europe on 5 Dollars a Day,' was published in 1957 and quickly became a bestseller, selling millions of copies. This groundbreaking book detailed how everyday Americans could afford to travel to Europe, a place many believed was only for the rich. Arthur's witty writing style resonated with readers, as he humorously noted, 'This is a book for American tourists who a) own no oil wells in Texas, b) are unrelated to the Aga Khan, c) have never struck it rich in Las Vegas and who still want to enjoy a wonderful European vacation. ' Arthur's journey into travel writing began during his service in the Korean War. He was stationed in Europe, specifically in Germany, where his language skills proved invaluable. While serving, he wrote his first travel guidebook, 'The GI's Guide to Travelling in Europe,' aimed at helping fellow soldiers navigate their travels. In addition to being a prolific writer, Arthur was also a television and radio host, sharing his travel insights with a broader audience. He believed that travel had the power to enrich lives, stating, 'Travel has taught me that despite all the exotic differences in dress and language, of political and religious beliefs, that all the world’s people are essentially alike. ' Arthur's legacy will continue to inspire countless travelers to explore the world and embrace the beauty of diverse cultures.