FILE - Guidebook author and publisher Arthur Frommer holds up the latest book of his publish company, 'Arthur Frommer's Europe,' in New York, USA, 18 November 2015. (Photo by Chris Melzer/picture alliance via Getty Images) LOS ANGELES - Arthur Frommer, the man who transformed international travel for everyday Americans with his iconic book "Europe on 5 Dollars a Day," has died at 95. His daughter Pauline Frommer confirmed his passing Monday, attributing it to complications of pneumonia.
"My father opened up the world to so many people," Pauline said. "He believed deeply that travel could be an enlightening activity and one that did not require a big budget." Frommer's legacy is vast, having encouraged millions to explore the world through affordable and enriching means.
Frommer's journey began in the 1950s while serving in the U.S. Army in Europe.
His first guidebook, written for American soldiers stationed overseas, was so popular it sold out immediately. This success led him to self-publish "Europe on 5 Dollars a Day" in 1957. The guidebook’s philosophy was simple yet revolutionary: stay in budget accommodations, use public transportation, and dine where locals eat.
At a time when foreign travel was perceived as a luxury, Frommer’s advice was groundbreaking. His guide empowered middle-class Americans to travel abroad and experience other cultures without breaking the bank. "Arthur did for travel what Consumer Reports did for everything else," said Pat Carrier, a former .