FrugalMonkey Discount Travel News

Category: Trip Locations

  • More Affordable Attractions in Hong Kong – Hidden Gems in Chinese City

    Most visitors to Hong Kong spend their time shopping up a storm or hitting the casinos in nearby Macau. These tourists leave the Chinese region with a large hole in their finances, and little sense of Hong Kong’s culture. We’ve looked at some great tourist attractions in Hong Kong before, but in this article we highlight some more of Hong Kong’s hidden gems, the affordable experiences that offer a true taste of the region.

    Hong Kong might be famous for its high-tech buildings, but it’s also a sanctuary for nature lovers. Nearby Lantau Island is an oasis located just a short bus trip from Hong Kong International Airport. Make sure you take the trail all the way up to Lantau Peak, a stunning lookout with views of the Shek Pek reservoir below. It’s a favorite spot to see sunrise, but you’ll need to set off early as it takes around two hours to reach the summit! The island is also rich in history, with ancient temples, forts, and other architectural remnants.

    A trip to Wetland Park is another treat for admirers of the natural world. The 60-hectare reserve is home to herons, egrets, and kingfishers, so it’s a must-see for bird watchers. The salt-water crocodile Pui Pui is another crowd favorite. Admission costs $30HK, which is the equivalent of roughly $3.80US.

    Hong Kong’s beaches are also often overlooked in favor of the city’s sights. However they’re a must for frugal tourists, as you can spend a few days wiling away the hours without spending a cent! The water at Deepwater Bay and Stanley Beaches is quite polluted, so you’re best enjoying time on the sand and the free BBQ pits. If you insist on a dip, head to cleaner waters at Lo So Shing and Silvermine Bay Beaches.

    History buffs will love the Hong Kong Museum of History, a museum which teaches visitors about the city’s history from the Stone Age through to the handover from the United Kingdom to the People’s Republic of China in 1997. Standard tickets cost just $10HK, or $1.30US, but that fee is waived every Wednesday!

    If you’re an early riser, make sure you start the day off like the locals with a Tai Chi class. This peaceful form of exercise is the perfect way to relax in the middle of the bustling city. It might seem daunting to master the fluid movements, but they’re much simpler than they look! The Hong Kong Tourism board runs free beginners Tai Chi classes at the Tsim Sha Tsui Waterfront and The Peak Tower every weekday except Tuesday from 8 am. Bookings are essential though; call the Hong Kong Tourism Hotline on +852 2508 1234 to reserve your place.

    Riding an escalator doesn’t sound very thrilling on paper, but the Hong Kong Central-Mid-Level Escalator is no ordinary escalator. Set above the street level, the escalator system is around 2625 feet long and rises some 443 feet! A one-way trip takes around 25 minutes, making it one of the longest escalator journeys you’re likely to take. Best of all, it’s completely free to ride!

    Hong Kong's Lantau Island
    Hong Kong’s Lantau Island

    And no matter what time of year you visit, the locals are probably celebrating one of China’s many festivals. From Chinese New Year in February through to the hiking holiday dubbed the Cheung Yeung Festival in October, there’s likely to be a party happening in Hong Kong. It’s usually free or close to it to join in the celebrations.

  • Cheap Hostels in China – Stay in Beijing or Shanghai for Less

    China is a country that caters for high flying businessmen and cashed up shopaholics, and many of its accommodation options are priced accordingly. If you’re visiting the country on the cheap, staying in hostels will help you keep more yuan in your pocket.

    Most of China’s hostels are located in its two largest cities: Shanghai and Beijing. That might disappoint travelers who prefer to step off the beaten track, but should suit anyone hoping to see the sites.

    Some of the city’s hostels are costly, but you should save money on your Shanghai stay in the Old City, the French Concession, or near the famous Bund. These areas call their establishments youth hostels, as they once catered for young tourists. Happily for frugal travelers those days are long gone, and visitors of all ages are now welcome.

    Traditional dorm-style rooms are available for as little as $6US a night, but if you prefer your privacy it’s worth splurging on a private room. For as little as $23US a night you can enjoy your own space, and in many cases a private bathroom. These perks make them a tempting proposition for couples and families. If the solitude is getting you down you can always soak up the hostel experience in one of the common areas. You’ll find internet-ready computers, televisions, and couches for socializing in most Shanghai hostels. Many also offer a basic breakfast for as little as $3US. Don’t expect a gourmet meal with all the trimmings, but it should provide enough sustenance to get you through to lunch time.

    Visitors flock to Beijing to see the Forbidden City, and the Great Wall of China nearby. If you want to save money in Beijing, hostels located within the Ring Road Two area are some of the most convenient and affordable. Most are called hostels, but you’ll also find hostel-style accommodation in some “hotels,” “inns,” and “houses.” Consider the rates and facilities to determine if the establishment suits your needs and budget.

    Just as they do in Shanghai, Beijing’s hostels offer both shared dormitory rooms and private digs. If you don’t mind bunkering down with strangers, you could stay for as little as $6US a night. If you value your privacy, or just want your own bathroom, you can expect to pay as little as $28US a night. If you’re lucky, this tariff might include a free breakfast. Beijing’s hostels also offer communal areas for watching television, checking your e-mail, and kicking back with a good book.

    China Provinces mapMany backpackers enjoy spontaneous travel, but it pays to be organized. Swotting up in advance will ensure you have plenty of hostel choices. Look to stay close to the attractions you want to see, as this will cut down on travel costs. Alternatively, make sure public transport is handy. Shop around to ensure you balance comfort, convenience, and cost.

  • Party for Less in Sydney – Australian City’s Best Free Nightspots

    We all know that Australians love to party, but enjoying an evening out in Sydney can often cost you much more than your cocktails. Hefty cover charges are instituted at many of the top nightspots, and they can put a serious dent in your vacation budget. However, with a bit of know-how you can avoid those sneaky fees and save some cash for an extra drink or two! In this article we round up some of the city’s best free club nights for partygoers of all tastes.

    They start the party early in Sydney with AND waiving the cover charge on Wednesday nights. The crowd is very young, which can get tiring if you’re a bit long in the tooth. But that junior clientele keeps the drink prices down. Hit the dance floor or lose your inhibitions in one of the karaoke booths!

    Why pay $25 to party at ARQ on the weekend, when you can do it for nothing on Thursday nights? It’s Mardi Gras all year round here with some of the best drag talent the city has to offer. Arrive early to see the amateurs strut their stuff before the main show, You Are Soul, an extravaganza of glitter and glamour!

    If you prefer something a bit more traditional you’ll find it the Lansdowne Hotel. This pub is opposite Sydney Uni, so it’s used to catering for folks living on a shoestring. It’s also the venue of choice for some of Australia’s best independent musicians. It might just become your local while you’re in town, as there’s free live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night.

    Music lovers will also appreciate the Excelsior Hotel in the trendy inner-city suburb of Glebe. The place is a local institution famous for nurturing Sydney’s talented singer-songwriters. There are free live bands from resident musicians and acoustic artists every Thursday and Friday night.

    As locals and tourists prepare to usher in the weekend, you’re spoiled for choice on Friday nights. The folks at edgy underground promotions company Niche Productions are behind Movement, Friday night’s entertainment at Bondi’s Beach Road Hotel. A revolving door of DJs pumps dubstep, future beat, and leftfield house music until the early hours.

    If you prefer something a bit more retro, step into Yo Grito! Every Friday night Sydney’s GoodGod Small Club converts its front bar into an authentic rock’n’roll mess hall. Expect an eclectic mix of guitar-driven surf music, punk, garage rock, and soul.

    If you enjoy your beats thumping, Strange Fruit at Ultimo’s Abercrombie Hotel is the place for you on Saturdays. The sound system is far from perfect, but the techno tunes sound better after a few of the bar’s reasonably priced drinks.

    Don’t confuse the Abercrombie’s Strange Fruit for the goings on at Freda’s in Chippendale. This restaurant and bar caters for a totally different crowd with its own Strange Fruit night every Sunday. It’s a much mellower affair, with calypso, jazz, reggae, soul, and other cruisy choices to help you wind down after a boozy weekend.

    Fireworks over the Sydney Opera House (Australia)
    And no matter what day of the week it is, you can enjoy free live music at the Opera Bar near the iconic Sydney Opera House. Don’t let the name fool you; the cool jazz, funk, and soul sounds ensure this place is far from stuffy. The drinks are pricy, but it’s worth paying a premium for those enviable harbor views.

  • Los Angeles’ Best Free Attractions – Entertainment in LA for Less

    No one would pretend that Los Angeles is a budget vacation destination. Consumerism reigns supreme in the City of Lights, and you don’t need to shop on Rodeo Drive or Melrose Avenue to spend big. However by following our budget entertainment tips, you can ensure your LA getaway doesn’t cost you a packet.

    You probably won’t find yourself at a celebrity party or an A-list event, but a stroll around Grauman’s Chinese Theatre can make you feel a little closer to your acting idols. You can spend hours admiring the handprints and footprints of the stars of yesteryear and modern icons. And if you’re lucky, you might even score a free ticket to a movie premiere!

    If those free tickets sound appealing, a trip to Westwood Village is a must. It’s packed with theaters that regularly host premieres, and no PR firm wants empty seats. Many television shows are also filmed here. Scoring tickets requires a bit of a forward planning, but you can request some through the websites of several live shows and TV networks.

    Los Angeles’ museums and galleries allow visitors to while away the hours without spending a cent. Iconic works from masters like Claes Oldenbury and Mark Rothko sit alongside pieces by the next generation of art pioneers at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA). Admission is reasonable at $12 for adults, but if you want to save money you can visit between 5 pm and 8 pm on Thursdays for free.

    The California Science Center is great fun for the whole family. It’s regarded as one of the best science museums in the United States for its range of interactive exhibits about the human body, aerospace, and inventions. Special exhibitions and IMAX films attract a fee, but the permanent display is always free to see.

    There are more than modern finances at the Wells Fargo Center. The museum at its base celebrates the bank’s story through the Californian gold rush and other key historical periods. The authentic Concord Stagecoach and real gold, including the famous 26-ounch Challenge Nugget, make it worth a look. It’s open on weekdays, and entry is free.

    Don’t let the modest exterior of the Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church fool you. Its art deco styled interior is breathtaking, and you can stroll through the plaza at any time without attending mass. If you’d prefer a closer look, join one of the free tours which leave from the Temple Street entrance every weekday at 1 pm.

    These days though, you don’t need a tour guide to enjoy a walking tour. Simply head to the Downtown LA Walks website and download one of their free podcasts. Each one comes with a free PDF map which will help you navigate around LA’s cultural hotspots, shopping districts, or historic sites.

    The world’s weirdest and most wonderful characters converge in Los Angeles with stars in their eyes and big dreams. That makes people watching a fabulous pastime, especially at the busy Santa Monica Pier and colourful Venice Beach. Sitting on a bench and watching the world go by can look a little creepy after a while though, so why not grab a drink or two during Happy Hour? Los Angeles’ bars have some great deals on booze and small snack plates.

    If the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles’ city streets is grating, then grab some sensible shoes and set off for a hike through the Hollywood Hills. The leafy trails from Runyon Canyon to Bronson Canyon aren’t too challenging for anyone of moderate fitness. And if you’re lucky, you might spot a health-conscious celebrity enjoying their daily workout!

    Santa Monica Beach
    Los Angeles’ famous Santa Monica Beach

    Of course, entertainment is just one getaway consideration in Los Angeles. You can only enjoy so many free samples at the city’s farmers markets before you’ll need to spend money on an overpriced meal. And while avoiding the most popular areas can shave your accommodation costs, the tariffs are still likely to bite. But by spending your days enjoying the city’s free or close to free attractions, you can enjoy a Los Angeles vacation for less than you’d expect.

  • Las Vegas Vacations for Families – Kid-Friendly Fun on a Budget

    Most travelers think of Las Vegas as a destination for uninhibited bachelor parties, quickie weddings, and senior citizen excursions. The Nevada capital admittedly offers plenty for the footloose and fancy free, but it’s also a great place for a family vacation. Indulging in the city’s wild side is costly, but its kid-friendly activities are more affordable than you’d expect. Read on and discover that it’s easier to save money in Las Vegas than you think!

    It’s expensive to stay at Circus Circus, but visitors to Las Vegas can enjoy many of its family-focused activities without checking in. This playful resort is the kind of place where you can spend as much or as little as your budget allows. The Big Top Arena hosts free live shows daily featuring trapeze acts, clowns, magic, juggling, and other circus talents. The shows change periodically, and run as often as every half hour during peak season. As the performances are free, seating is limited though. We suggest arriving 10 to 15 minutes before your show starts to ensure small children can see all the action.

    Unless you have a lot of willpower, you should probably be prepared to splash around some cash at Circus Circus. There are carnival and arcade games at the Midway and amusement rides in the Adventuredome, including a loop-the-loop roller coaster and tamer fare for tiny tots. If money matters we suggest steering clear of the Midway, as playing the individual games adds up quickly. With each ride in the Adventuredome costing up to $8, a day pass is a more economical choice for most visitors. Regular passes cost $27.95 and junior passes cost $16.95 for a day’s unlimited rides.

    Frankly you won’t be able to stay at any of Las Vegas’ prestigious resorts if you want to save money, but that doesn’t mean you need to avoid them altogether. You’ll be surprised how much fun it is to look around the lobbies! The Mirage has white tigers, an indoor rainforest, and a giant saltwater fish tank thought to be one of the most high-tech in the world. You can view the lions in the lobby of the MGM Grand from the safety of the walk-through tunnel. The Venetian’s lobby transports visitors to Venice, complete with an indoor canal and gondolas, while New York, New York brings the Big Apple to the west.

    And sometimes you don’t even need to step inside a resort. Watch the lights and magic of the Bellagio’s water fountain show from the sidewalk. And don’t leave The Mirage before you see the outdoor volcano erupting on the hour. Older children will love the spectacle at night, but all that rumbling and fire can frighten smaller kids.

    Despite what you’ve heard, there’s action outside Las Vegas’ casinos and resorts too. The hands-on exhibitions at Lied Discovery Children’s Museum in downtown Las Vegas make learning about the arts and sciences fun. A museum trip is also far less stressful for parents when children are encouraged to touch! Adult admission costs $9.50, kids cost $8.50, and babies under one can visit for free.

    Older children will be fascinated by the El Dorado Canyon Mine Tour. The site, located an hour away from the Las Vegas strip, makes a great day trip. $12.50 for adults and $7.50 for kids provides admission to the above and below ground tour, which provides a snapshot of life on the trail a century ago. If you’ve got cash and time to spare, you can rent a canoe or kayak from the tour guides and explore the nearby Colorado River.

    After all that activity, everyone will be hungry. Las Vegas has its fair share of fancy restaurants, but you can cut the costs and cater for fussy eaters at the local food courts. The ones at The Venetian and the Grand Canal Shops are some of the city’s best. Your dollar also goes a long way at The Mirage’s Carnegie Deli. One sandwich is so enormous that it could probably feed your entire family! As long as you stay away from the cocktails, a meal at Margaritaville is also inexpensive and great fun. The kids menu is comprehensive, and little ones will love the balloon-animal making skills of the pirate staffers!

    Get a Las Vegas Travel Deal

    After a busy day, the family will need a place to lay their heads. We’ve discussed plenty of hotels out of the price range of most families, but Las Vegas also has several good options for budget travelers. The Flamingo has an appealing central location, which cuts down on traveling costs, and a pool for keeping the kids entertained during summer. With a little research you can unearth some great deals for this well-placed gem. The Monte Carlo has few frills, but it’s well-kept and relatively inexpensive. The fast food focused food court will please young appetites, but you can find more substantial, well-priced meals at The Monte Carlo Pub and Brewery.

    As you can see, a stay in Las Vegas can be about much more than adults-only entertainment. Do your research and pack the kids into the car to discover a different side of Nevada’s jewel.

  • Shopping in The Philippines – A Bargain Hunter’s Guide

    The Philippines is a mecca for bargain hungry shoppers. It doesn’t have the prestigious reputation of shopping capitals like Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Paris, but it that only makes it more affordable for frugal travelers. In this article we’ll tell you where to shop, and how to get the best deals.

    Baclaran is great for bargain shoppers who love to live on the edge. Vendors illegally set up stalls along the sidewalk to sell wares for next to nothing. Where else can you get a pair of jeans and a watch to match it for less than $10? Just keep your eyes peeled for patrolling police vehicles, as you don’t want to get caught in the commotion of a raid!

    There’s a quirky charm to Quiapo. Its stores are almost equally divided between electronics outlets and shops for alternative medicines and remedies! I’m not sure whether its amulets really ward off evil spirits, but they’re a bit of fun. Make sure you get into the spirit of the place and have your fortune read by one of the many mystics!

    Divisoria is all about variety. It has several malls and sidewalk stalls selling all kinds of goods. You can score a complete ensemble including the shoes for around $10! Many of the stalls also offer hefty discounts when you buy in bulk, which is perfect for visitors searching for souvenirs to take home.

    Greenhills Shopping Center in Pasig City is more expensive than the other shopping destinations we’ve mentioned, but it offers the best value for label lovers. It’s worth noting that not everything sold here is the genuine article, but anyone familiar with high fashion should be able to spot the designer fakes. Celebrities love this mall for its big name apparel items, luxury accessories, and cell phones.

    Of course with any foreign country, knowing where to shop is only half the battle. You’ll need to learn how to shop!

    It’s recommended to take public transport to most of these shopping hubs rather than a rental car, as parking spaces are limited. Greenhills is the exception though, as public transport travels here infrequently.

    Pickpockets are common in The Philippines, so it’s important to have your wits about you. Keeping cash close to your body, in a pouch worn under your clothes or even in your bra, is a good way to keep your money safe.

    Wearing modest clothes may help you escape the attentions of would-be thieves, and get the best deals. A simple shirt and some ratty jeans is ideal. Add some comfortable trainers or sandals and leave the jewelry behind. Vendors who think you have money will never offer you their lowest price after all!

    This brings us to our next point. Haggling isn’t just common in The Philippines; it’s expected. The practice can be a bit uncomfortable at first, but you’ll soon get used to it. Aim to receive a discount of around 40% on any item, no matter what its price. This haggling also extends to the pedicabs that might get you and your brand new purchases back to your accommodation.

    piggy bank worldDon’t just jump at the first item that catches your eye. Visiting several different stores will help you get a feel for the local prices and ensure you find the best deals.

    And finally, stay alert. While most locals are friendly and welcoming, some will take advantage of tourists. Keeping your wits about you will ensure you don’t become a victim of crime.

  • Budget Vacations for Senior Citizens – Cheap US Getaways

    As we age our budgets become tighter, but that’s no reason to cloister yourself away. America has a host of vacation destinations that will keep seniors amused without draining their bank accounts.

    Orlando in Florida is a popular retirement destination, and it offers just as much to elderly tourists. Busy travelers can see theme parks like Disney World and Sea World or take cheap tours of the city. If you prefer a more leisurely stay, Daytona and Melbourne Beaches outside the city limits offer that too. Look to International Drive for Orlando’s most affordable hotels, dining, and outlet shopping opportunities. Orlando enjoys tropical weather for much of the year, so avoid the crowds and the inflated costs and travel outside the summer school vacation period.

    You’ll never be bored in Washington D.C. Many of its best attractions are free, and the ones that aren’t tend to offer hefty seniors discounts. All the Smithsonian museums are free, including the American History Museum and The Air and Space Museum, and it also won’t cost you anything to see the World War II and Vietnam Memorials. Washington D.C.’s public transport is also easy to navigate, and it’ll drop you at the door of most major landmarks. It can take some searching to find affordable dining options in the city, but you’ll find some cheap eats in the back streets.

    The French influenced feel and food of Louisiana’s New Orleans keeps guests coming back. The city is one of the oldest in America’s south, so there are plenty of historical attractions to keep elderly visitors entertained. Tours of the city will inform you of the heritage that’s all around. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, visit the opulent houses and sprawling greenery of the Garden District, or take a leisurely stroll along the Mississippi River. Make sure you try the seafood gumbo, but do it in a restaurant off the tourist track to get the best price. It’s also smart for seniors to visit outside Mardi Gras period; the city swells with tourists and the prices rise sky high.

    Most people think of Las Vegas as a place to lose money, but if you plan your stay it needn’t become a cash drain. The Nevada capital has much more than casinos to keep visitors amused. Take a trip back to yesteryear with The Freemont Street Experience, a free show which combines the pictures and music of the past. The fountains outside the Bellagio resort also put on a spectacular show at least every half hour, depending on the time you visit. While you’re in the area, it’s also worth taking a trip to the Hoover Dam. It’s located just outside the city so it makes an excellent day trip. The city hopes to entice gamblers, so Las Vegas hotel deals are common and restaurant food is generally inexpensive. If you’re a member of AAA and AARP you may find even bigger savings on accommodation and the casino shows. And if you save enough, perhaps you can even afford to have a flutter at the tables!

    Old coupleMissouri’s Branson isn’t as well known as the other cities we’ve profiled, but it’s a great spot for seniors. The discounted rates travelers enjoy in Las Vegas are also seen in Branson, but the city’s pace is much more laidback. There are antique shops and underground caves to explore and several golf courses for wiling away the hours. The area also has great entertainment tailored to the senior citizen set, including the Beatles’ themed Liverpool Legends and Western style Dixie Stampede Dinner and Show.

    Life doesn’t have to slow down because you’re getting old and feeling the financial squeeze. Treating yourself to a vacation at one of the cities above is the perfect way to spend some of your hard-earned retirement funds.

    [Image Source: Ricardo Santeugini/Stock.xchng]

  • Sydney’s Best Picnic Spots – Dine in Australia’s Parks & Beaches

    Sydney is home to many of the world’s best restaurants overseen by leading chefs like Tetsuya Wakuda, Peter Gilmore, and Neil Perry. However dining at their establishments can quickly empty your wallet. But frugal travelers need not miss out on great food and water views while visiting the harbor city. Just bring your own and enjoy some of Sydney’s best picnic spots!

    Soak up Sydney’s sun, surf, and sand with a picnic by the beach. The city has several great coastal parks that are perfect for families. Balmoral Beach in Mosman may be one of Sydney’s most famous, but it’s a reputation that’s well deserved. The Norfolk Island pine trees provide plenty of shade, and there’s a playground to keep the kids entertained. You can bring your own grub or grab some cheap fish and chips from one of the nearby takeaway stores.

    If you enjoy peace and quiet you may prefer a less popular Australian beach like Chinaman’s Beach on nearby McLean Crescent. This coastal spot is a bit of a local secret, but the residents won’t mind you claiming a piece of parkland. There’s plenty of space for enjoying a game of frisbee or Aussie cricket. And of course the water’s not too far away either. The well-protected beach has small and gentle waves just perfect for tiny tots.

    For a different kind of water view choose a spot near Sydney’s famous harbor. The Royal Botanic Gardens is a popular picnic spot for tourists and locals alike. The outlook is incredible, and the shady lawns, rose gardens, and fountains create an incomparable atmosphere. Admission to the gardens is free, and exploring them is a great way to work off your lunch.

    The Royal Botanic Gardens can get crowded when the weather is fine though. If you’d prefer to stray from the tourist path, take a trip to Wendy’s Secret Garden in Lavender Bay. The whimsically named spot was created by Wendy Whiteley in memory of her husband, the late Sydney based artist Brett Whiteley. The large fig trees offer plenty of shade and a home for the resident parrots, kookaburras, and other birdlife.

    Sydney is built around its waterways, but some of the city’s best picnic spots aren’t by the water at all. Centennial Park acts as an oasis in Sydney’s bustling inner east. With 189 hectares of space there’s plenty of room to spread out near the duck ponds and flower beds.

    Picnic in Sydney's Royal Botanic Gardens
    Picnic in Sydney's Royal Botanic Gardens

    Things are a bit quieter at Lake Parramatta Reserve in North Parramatta. It’s a shade smaller at 73 hectares, but there’s still plenty of space for a family picnic. There are native birds and wildflowers for nature lovers, and rock shelters decorated with the hand-stencils of Sydney’s first indigenous inhabitants.

    So who wants to sit inside a stuffy restaurant? A picnic in a park by the beach or the harbour is a much better way to soak up Sydney and save money!

    [Image Source: Freddy Rhoads/Flickr]

  • Affordable Adventure in Bali – Best Extreme Sports in Indonesia

    In her bestselling book Eat Pray Love, Elizabeth Gilbert painted a picture of Bali as little more than a sweet place to fall in love. While this might have been the writer’s experience, it doesn’t tell the whole story of this Indonesian island. While Gilbert was seeing little more than the bedroom, she was missing out on the unique experiences Bali offers. While she might not have met her match, she’d have made some great memories tackling the tropical region’s affordable adventurous activities.

    Bali’s island location means many of its best adrenalin sports happen on or near the water. If you really want to get the blood pumping, then grab a board and hang ten at Kuta. The offshore winds make the waves powerful, but don’t let that scare you. It won’t be long before a local is offering to rent you a board, and teach you how to use it. They expect you to haggle on the fee though, so never accept their first quote!

    If riding waves sounds a little too intense, perhaps scuba diving or snorkeling is more your speed. The clear waters of Nusa Lembongan are great for both, and scuba divers are also well catered for at Amed, Gili Selang, and Bali National Park. And if all those fish and coral reefs are starting to look the same, make sure you grab your scuba gear and head to Tulamben. The shipwrecked USAT Liberty is a stunning sight.

    While splashing about in the water is lovely, you’ll get a better view of the island from the air. While Bali has several helicopter tours these are very expensive (many cost $1000!) and quite cruisy. You’ll get more thrills for your dollar when you parasail. For around $20US you’ll soar 100 feet above your speedboat and Bali’s waters. You can try your hand at parasailing at Nusa Dui, Tanjung Benoa, and a few other Bali beaches.

    Walking around Bali’s jungles doesn’t sound like an extreme activity, but the monkeys at Mandala Wisata Wanera Wana provide the added spice. The Balinese Macaques are very cute, and it’s impossible to resist them as they greet you enthusiastically looking for treats. But these adorable critters are very naughty and prone to mood swings, so it’s worth keeping your wits about you. They might attack you, or steal your wallet! There is a small entrance fee of around $1.50, but this helps the Padangtegal Wenara Wana Foundation maintain the park and run educational programs.

    For a hiking experience minus the monkeys grab your best walking shoes and head for Bali’s summits. There are challenging trails around Mount Batur, Mount Agung, and Mount Batukaru. You’ll probably want to stay off the peaks during the wet season though. The relentless rain coupled with the high humidity can make the six-hour hikes very unpleasant. You’ll enjoy the best trekking conditions between April and October.

    A Balinese Macaque monkey
    A Balinese Macaque monkey

    We’ve all heard of horse riding, but what about camel riding? Bali offers the unique chance to saddle up one of these humped animals. These beasts can be pretty smelly, but the experience will give you one of your quirkiest vacation snaps for as little as $20.

    So why spend your time lazing around Bali’s day spas and eating too much padang? You’ll make more heart racing memories, and likely return home with more Balinese rupees in your pocket, if you get active in on the Indonesian island.

  • See The Greek Islands for Less – Budget Tips for Mediterranean

    An escape to the Greek Islands sounds like the sort of indulgence that’s out of the reach of frugal travelers. But it needn’t cost as much as you think. By following our Euro saving tips it’s possible to see this picturesque corner of the Mediterranean on a budget.

    Unfortunately unless you’re already in Europe, the plane fares probably aren’t an area that you’ll save. While the occasional deals pop up on discount websites like Kayak, the flight is likely to be your biggest expense.

    In some cases it may be cheaper to fly to another destination in Europe or Northern Africa first. If you’ve got the time to spare, it could be a great opportunity to spend some time in Egypt or Germany. Enjoy a layover and then hop a budget airline carrier to your island destination.

    While some airlines fly directly to the Greek Islands during summer, services are limited, and in the off season virtually nonexistent. The ferries that leave the Athens’ port of Piraeus travel to the Greek Islands regularly. Many of the same services also travel between the isles, which is perfect for island hoppers. Expect to pay around €35 for a trip from Athens to the islands, and €15 for a trip from one island to another.

    Planners will find several great deals on accommodation in the Greek Islands online, but if you can resist the temptation to lock yourself in you may save even more. Often the cheapest accommodation is booked on the day of check in. Hotels, hostels, and serviced apartments all have rooms to fill, and they’ll discount them significantly to do it. Don’t be afraid to haggle a bit to drive the price of your room even lower. With the right attitude you could spend as little as €25 a night on a great suite for two. Look out for rooms with kitchenettes and refrigerators, as eating in can save you from the high prices the region’s restaurants typically charge.

    The Greek Islands’ quiet roads make them perfect for exploring tourists. Groups can rent a small car for around €35 a day, while singles can save and hire a scooter for just €10 a day. Regulations generally aren’t strict, but you’ll need a motorcycle license to hire the two-wheelers in Milos. Hiring transport gives you the freedom to explore the Greek Islands at your own pace, without being at the mercy of the region’s notoriously slow buses.

    It’s easy to spend money indulging in gourmet culinary tours, seeing the Greek Islands’ sights from a yacht, or partying until dawn, but the Greek Islands also have several inexpensive ways to amuse its visitors. In fact, many of them are free.

    It costs nothing to wile away the hours on one of the region’s many beaches. If you love spending time on the sand, make sure Milos is on your itinerary. There are 70 different beaches on this tiny isle. That’s impressive for a spot that’s only 14 miles wide, and 8 miles high! Sarakiniko Beach is regarded as one of the most beautiful coastal spots in the entire Aegean Sea. You can certainly relax on the sand soaking up the atmosphere, but if you’d prefer to get your blood pumping why not try cliff jumping? Pahena Beach offers big waves and more privacy than most of the island’s beaches. It’s such a well kept secret that you’ll often find less than ten sun lovers spending time here on a clear summer’s day. Perhaps all of the people are at Paleochori Beach, a family friendly spot that has umbrellas and sun chairs for hire and cliffside cafes just a stone’s throw away.

    For a bit of culture consider the churches of Mykonos. Locals claim there are 365 different chapels on the island, one for every day of the year. It’s not likely you’ll see them all, so make sure you don’t miss the most famous, the Church of Paraportiani. It was built slowly between the 15th and 17th century, so it serves as an excellent representation of Greek architecture through the ages.

    Amphoras at Knossos, Crete
    Amphoras at Knossos, Crete

    A history lesson doesn’t cost a lot in Crete. The fascinating Minoan people lived here from the 27th to the 15th centuries BC, and they’ve left a real imprint on the island. The ruins of Knossos are thought to be one of the greatest historical finds in Greece. The site of King Minos’ rule features ancient architecture, artworks known as frescoes, and artifacts including the king’s throne. While historian Arthur Evans found it in disarray, it’s been partially rebuilt four tourists. See it all for between €4 and €6. If Knossos has given you the history bug make sure you stop by the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, which also holds several Minoan treasures. Admission is a shade more expensive than Knossos, but still not exorbitant at between €6 and €10.

    Whether you want to relax on a beach or take journey to the past, you can do it in the Greek Islands for less than you might expect!