FrugalMonkey Discount Travel News

Category: Trip Locations

  • Spa Vacations for Less – Pamper Getaways on a Budget

    A long soak in a jacuzzi and a luxurious massage sounds like the sort of vacation experiences out of the reach of frugal travelers. But why should budget conscious tourists miss out on all the fun? This article introduces you to several spa resorts that cost a lot less than you’d think.

    If you’re looking for a cheap spa vacation, it’s worth taking a trip to Asia. Indulgence is a way of life here, and it doesn’t cost a lot. In Japan they even offer spa experiences in their hostels! You’ll find Spa Hostel Khaosan in Beppu, a friendly Japanese city renowned for its natural hot springs and picturesque beach. The shared dorms and private rooms are pretty plain, but chances are you’ll spend most of your time winding down in the hostel’s own hot spring bath. That natural pool is definitely worth the measly $33 US you’ll pay for the cheapest room.

    For a little more money you can stay at Banpu Resort and Spa, an idyllic spot located on Thailand’s Koh Pu Peninsula. The word resort makes us think of big bucks, but its log cabins start at just $40 US a night. If the sea and garden views aren’t enough to relax you then try taking a dip in the pool. You’ll pay a little extra to indulge in the Thai massages or reflexology sessions, but your muscles will argue they’re worth the splurge.

    More expensive again but still not unreasonable is Febri’s Hotel and Spa in Bali. Its rooms start from $77 US, but your dollar buys a lot including access to the Jacuzzi, steam room, and sprawling swimming pool. If that calm water feels a bit tame for you, the famous South Kuta Beach is only a short walk away.

    Asia really has the market cornered on affordable spa experiences, but Samai Center Hotel-Spa in Ecuador is a great option for anyone wanting to stay a little closer to home. From $70 a night you can experience all the good vibes that radiate from this eco-friendly resort. Its wooden lodges are made from organic materials, and its restaurant serves local seasonal fare, including many items grown in the onsite veggie garden. The resort runs many workshops designed to give you a new lease on life, from Feng Shui classes to meditation programs.

    Spa Foot SoakAnd finally, if you can afford the flight it’s worth checking it to Spa Lodge Backpackers in Rotorua, New Zealand. Just like Spa Hostel Khaosan, this friendly hostel makes use of the hot springs its city is famous for. The natural geothermal spa will do wonders for your aching muscles, especially after an action packed day of extreme Kiwi adventures! Dorm rooms start at around $20 US, and the hostel even offers discounts for weekly visits in winter!

    So don’t dismiss that spa getaway out of hand. If you do your research and plan ahead, it could cost a lot less than you think. Just remember to consider the costs of the treatments, as they can add up quickly!

  • Affordable Accommodation in Great Britain – Stay in UK for Less

    The United Kingdom is steeped in history and culture, but it’s also known for its steep accommodation! However a stay in Old Blighty doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. Trade the Old Dart’s big city hotels and luxury highrises for these more affordable British accommodation options.

    There are few places that offer better British hospitality than its bed and breakfasts. Prices vary wildly depending on the standard of the B&B, but you’ll generally pay less than a comparable hotel. Your hosts typically operate their business out of their own home, so they tend to go the extra mile to keep the residence in peak condition. They also tend to be more accessible and knowledgeable about the local area than the average hotel employees. Don’t be afraid to ask them about affordable tourist attractions and restaurants in the UK. These tips are the kind of insider knowledge that’s never printed in the guidebooks.

    After a good night’s rest you’ll be treated to a traditional English breakfast. Think freshly baked scones, bircher muesli, poached fruits, and a traditional fry-up with eggs, bacon, sausages, and black pudding. This morning meal is usually generous, so don’t be surprised if you’re still full when lunch rolls around.

    It’s important to familiarize yourself with the house rules before you book in to any bed and breakfast though. While hotels invite you to come and go as you please, many bed and breakfasts are a bit stricter. It’s not unusual for B&Bs to lock their doors in the evening, so they may not be the best choice for party animals!

    If you want more freedom then camping may be the way to go. It’s a perfect way to soak up the country’s glorious countryside and save a bundle of cash. Pitching a tent in The Grampians, The Cambrian Mountains, or The Midlands will generally cost you less than a tenner. If you’re a fan of camping you already know its downsides, which you might even see as advantages. While it can seem romantic to sleep under the stars, the weather can turn bad without warning. The facilities are also shared, which can mean lengthy waits or an opportunity to make friends. It all depends on your point of view.

    If roughing it in the wilderness doesn’t sounds like your cup of English breakfast, then glamping may be a good alternative. This new trend is like camping but with more of the “glam” creature comforts of home. The tents are much more luxurious, with couches, plush beds, and even functioning bathrooms inside. Many glamping grounds do away with tents altogether and instead use revamped camper vans or traditional Yurt huts. They’re still a bit rustic, but they provide enough indulgence to satisfy city slickers.

    Holiday cottages are the perfect option for groups of friends or large families. Renting a house in Cornwall or Northumbria sounds lavish, but it’s a lot more affordable than you might think if divided between all parties. And remember that the money buys you the privacy and freedom rarely afforded on vacation.

    The UK's most famous clock, Big Ben
    The UK's most famous clock, Big Ben

    Remember though that unlike other accommodation options, in a holiday cottage you’ll need to fend for yourself. There are no friendly hosts to cook your breakfast, and no maids to make your bed or scrub out the shower. Tending to those domestic duties can put a damper on any vacation. However cooking meals is a great way to cut those holiday costs.

    So where will you stay in England? It’s smart to do your research before you set off to decide which affordable accommodation option will best suit your needs. Whatever you decide, it’s great to know that a vacation in Great Britain doesn’t have to cost the earth.

  • Cockroach Racing in Queensland – Unusual Australia Day Celebrations

    As the world is winding down after the festive season, Australia is looking forward to its next celebration. The country marks Australia Day on January 26, the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet of British settlers in 1788. Events take place all around the country, but none are as colorful as Queensland’s cockroach races.

    It’s not as glamorous as the Melbourne Cup, but a day at this offbeat sporting event will also cost you far less than taking in Australia’s premier horse race. Spectators at the Story Bridge Hotel swap their champagne for schooners of beer and dress in shorts and thongs, or flip flops if you prefer, rather than cocktail dresses. The races have been run at this pub just outside Brisbane since 1981, a year when legend says Daz, Hawthorne, and Igor, or Gor to his mates, were arguing about whose suburb had the largest cockroaches. Bringing their insects to the pub was the only way to settle the matter, and racing the roaches seemed like the next logical step.

    Make sure you’re there at 11 am to get a prime viewing position amongst the 7000 strong crowd. A gold coin donation will secure you a spot in the tiered seating around the track. It might seem strange to start drinking before noon, but this is Australia after all. A few cleansing ales are just what you need to appreciate the spectacle of the sport. The actual races are run on a vacant plot next to the pub. There a four-meter wide square with a circle within it serves as a miniature race track for the cockies. Their stable is a big bucket, and names written on their back help the punters keep an eye on the action. Once the creepy-crawlies take to the track they can cross the circle in any direction they please, and the first to do so is declared the winner.

    There are usually 14 races on the day, and you can BYOR (that’s bring your own roach) or buy one at the pub for a fiver. If your six-legged stallion is one of the first three to cross the line you’ll win a trophy and prizes. There’s a charity component to the event as well, with funds raised benefiting Variety, a non-profit group that works tirelessly for sick, disadvantaged, and disabled children.

    While most champions are celebrated there’s no joy for the winners of this sporting event. Just like the rest of his competitors he’s unceremoniously sprayed once the race is run. However his name will live on as part of the Cockroach Hall of Fame, alongside other champions like Osama Bin Liner, Cocky ‘N’ Bullwinkle, and Crawl Keating, named after former Prime Minister Paul Keating.

    cockroachThe races are the centerpiece of the celebrations but there are still plenty of other activities to entertain locals and tourists alike. The title of Miss Cocky isn’t quite as prestigious as Miss Australia, but it nets the winner a $200 pub voucher, which will go a long way towards the evening’s drinks. The stakes are even higher for the Best Stable Costume Comp. Teams wearing their wackiest getup have the chance to win a $2000 party at the Story Bridge Hotel. There’s a $10 registration fee, but if you take out the title it’s worth the initial outlay. Bands and DJs are also on hand to entertain the masses, and there’s a dunking machine if the Queensland heat gets too much for you.

    The party lasts well into the night, as all good Australian parties do. You’re likely to wake with a fuzzy head but also some great memories of one of the most unique sporting events Down Under.

  • Free Attractions in Greece – See Mediterranean on a Shoestring

    We were all dreaming of a white Christmas, but now the holiday is over the chill of winter is beginning to grate. So why are you putting up with it? A vacation in Greece is a great way to escape the cold, and with plenty of free attractions it won’t cost as much as you think.

    Admittedly Greece does have a little ice and snow during winter, especially near the mountains. But the country’s Mediterranean climate ensures you’ll enjoy a mild heat along the coast. Rainfall is also minimal, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to soak up some sunshine and see all the country has to offer.

    Fine weather is ideal for exploring the Monastiraki Flea Market, which runs every Sunday. The city’s flea market is famous for its curious mix of fresh produce, jewelry, and handicrafts. It’s the perfect place for finding presents for loved ones and souvenirs to remember your stay. Just remember that while it’s free to browse, those purchases can add up! Visit before 11 am in the morning to avoid the swarming crowds.

    Leaving the markets so early will also give you time to see the changing of the guard ceremony at the Greek Parliament building in Syntagma Square. At 11 am sharp every Sunday you’ll see the Evzone guards come from their camp at Irodou Attikou Street and take their place at the building. There they’ll stand motionless as they protect their president.

    While you’re enjoying some culture it’s worth taking in some of Greece’s free museums. Athens has some of the best, including The War Museum and the quirky Popular Musical Instruments Museum.

    It wouldn’t be a trip to Greece without visiting its historical sites, but admission fees to these key attractions can add up. However popular sites like The Acropolis, The Roman Agora, Kerameikos, and Olympeion offer free admission on special days. Visit on March 6, April 18, May 18, June 5, Sundays between November and March, and Greek national holidays to see the sights for nix.

    While you’re at the Acropolis don’t forget to check out Plaka, the oldest region in Athens. Cars aren’t allowed to drive down its streets so they’re perfect for strolling. It’s also refreshing to dine at an al fresco café without hearing the rumble of engines!

    If a lazy stroll doesn’t sound challenging enough then consider hiking to the top of Lycabettus Hill. It can be tough going, particularly when the sun is at its hottest, so it’s a trip best made early in the morning or as night falls. The 360-degree view of Athens below makes the challenging walk feel worthwhile. Just remember to take your camera with you for some snaps of the vista!

    Greece has several beautiful beaches, but unlike many countries some are private and charge an admission fee. However if you know where to go you can still enjoy your sun, sand, and surf for nothing. Vouliagmeni and Kavouri, both located on the Attica coastline half an hour’s drive from Athens, are some of Greece’s best. Make sure you stay until dusk to watch the sun setting over the sparkling Aegean Sea.

    piggy bank worldGreece loves a party, but a night on the town can drain your finances, especially if you’re indulging in cocktails. For a quieter alternative consider spending an evening at Mars Hill, or Areopagus as the Greeks call it. Religious tourists make a pilgrimage here to see the spot St. Paul the Apostle preached. In later years it was the site of meetings by The Council of Nobles and the Judicial Court. Today it’s a great spot for admiring the lights of the Parthenon as you share a bottle of wine al fresco.

    So why spend a lot of money in Greece? These free attractions should keep you busy on your Mediterranean vacation!

  • Spend Less in France – Budget Tips for Europe

    When we think of France we immediately imagine sipping expensive glasses of champagnes, dining in Michelin-star restaurants, and shopping for high end couture. But a journey to this European hot spot doesn’t need to clean out your bank account. We recently wrote about affordable Parisian experiences for couples in love, but with this article we’ll examine the ways anyone can save in this romantic country’s capital and beyond.

    France has some of Europe’s most beautiful hotels, but using them will cost you a pretty penny. Make your Euro go further by choosing hostels instead. Some are the dirty and rowdy establishments many people think of when they hear the term, but you’ll find value at those that are part of the Youth Hostel Association Network, or FUAJ. These hostels have clean and modern rooms and most even offer complimentary breakfasts. Those establishments don’t skimp either; you can likely look forward to nutritious yogurts and flaky croissants. Dormitory-style rooms are the cheapest, and a great way to make friends. However if you value your privacy and space you can always indulge in a private couples or family room. Alternatively you can find camping facilities at some of the regional hostels. What a great way to commune with nature and save a few bucks! A FUAJ guidebook will help you find the network’s hostels whether you’re in France’s cities or enjoying the countryside.

    France’s SNCF trains are reliable but fares can add up without some careful planning. Look out for Europasses and other discount travel cards to avoid costly tickets on the day of your journey. Day tickets are another good alternative if you’re planning a lot of short trips. These passes allow you to catch all the buses, metros, and trams you like in a 24-hour period.

    With transport sorted it’s time to see the sights. If you’re under 26 you can see them for less with an international youth travel card. Prices for the card vary according to your country, but it’s generally equivalent to the cost of a movie ticket. It’s worth that initial outlay to enjoy discounted entry to big attractions including the Eiffel Tower. Young people can also enjoy cheap student tickets to concerts and operas. A city guide or some searching online can also tip you off to free gigs, festivals, and open-air concerts.

    The Eiffel Tower, Paris
    The Eiffel Tower, Paris

    After a busy day of sightseeing you’ll need to fill your belly. While those gourmet restaurants are alluring, frugal travelers know they can enjoy a great meal without spending a lot of money. Steer clear of the touristy eateries and look for the places that locals frequent. Keep your eyes peeled for places with wise old waiters and without English menus.

    And never underestimate a picnic. You can find baguettes, cheeses, and other gourmet delicacies for less than you’d expect at a French farmer’s market or grocery store. Take your swag to one of the country’s beautiful parks and soak up the atmosphere. It’s probably better than the vibe of a stuffy restaurant after all!

  • See Lisbon for Less – Affordable European Vacation in Portugal

    A summer getaway to a European city with stunning views and Mediterranean weather sounds heavenly, doesn’t it? And expensive. But it doesn’t have to be. Forget Rome and Spain’s Basque Region; your Euros will go much further in Portugal’s capital, Lisbon.

    Strolling about the city’s winding back alleys, its quaint museums, and majestic Gothic cathedrals, you’ll wonder why more people don’t make the journey. The city is a bit of a European secret, with all the history and culture of the other capitals without the hefty prices.

    Lisbon is easily accessible by air road, sea, and rail. If you’re short on time, flying is the best way to travel. You’ll find the cheapest rates to Lisbon Portela Airport using one of the many flight comparison websites. The airport is just four miles north of the city, so it’s easy to reach your hotel once you touch down. If you’ve got more time up your sleeve you could enjoy the countryside from an Intercity train or your hire car. International cruise ships also dock in Lisbon, but that option will leave a nasty hole in your bank balance.

    Once your travel arrangements are sorted you’ll need to think about where to stay. So many frugal travelers book the cheapest place they find, but if you’ve got a little extra money it’s worth doing your research. Often the difference between a one-star hovel in the old town and a four-star room in the chic Marques de Pombal district is as little as $25US. If you’ve been slumming it in hostels around Europe, a plush bed in Lisbon can feel like heaven!

    Lisbon’s taxis are also reasonably priced when compared to the rest of Europe, but those fares can still add up. The city’s public transport systems are both affordable and efficient. Buses and trams criss-cross the city, taking tourists to the city’s main attractions. If you don’t mind feeling like a sardine in a can you’ll appreciate the speed and low fares of the metro. And you’ll enjoy the scenery as you cross the Tagus River on the ferry.

    Walking is always the cheapest option though, and Lisbon is small enough to make this feasible in most cases. Many locals also speak English, and they’re so friendly that they’ll point you in the right direction if you lose your way. The city is quite hilly though, so you might want to work on your fitness before you leave. The challenging trails are perfect for burning the calories from lunch though!

    When money matters, leave Via Augusta behind and head to the back streets. The restaurants here are much more affordable than the ones you’ll find along the main tourist strip, although you’ll still need to watch for sneaky extras. Waiters will often put bread and cheese on the table, but these tempting tidbits aren’t free. They look delicious, and the cheese always is, but resist the temptation if you want a cheap meal. If you’re not very hungry forget the restaurants and cafes and head to a bakery instead. These eateries offer an array of affordable and tasty savory snacks.

    Once the essentials are sorted it’s time to have some fun. Lisbon has plenty of free and close to free ways to occupy your time. It doesn’t cost a lot to soak up some culture at the city’s museums. While admission is always affordable, you can visit the Museum of Ancient Art and National Tile Museum for free on Sunday mornings. If you’d like to do things more leisurely, the Gulbenkian Museum has free admission on Sundays from opening to close.

    Admission to the National Palace of Sintra is also free on Sundays. This 13th century castle is the best preserved in the country. You don’t need to be an architecture buff to appreciate the Moorish mosaics, the majestic domed ceilings, and some 72 coats of arms. And if you haven’t had your fill of breathtaking buildings you can take in the Jeronimus Monastery and Belem Tower.

    I can’t promise you won’t spend money, but it’s free to browse the Feira de Ladra. This famous flea market is held on Tuesdays and Saturdays near St Vincent de For a Church. It’s fun to peruse the eclectic mix of items, and a great place to find affordable souvenirs.

    The National Palace of Sintra, Lisbon
    The National Palace of Sintra, Lisbon

    And it’s always free to spend time lounging on the beach. You’ll find several stretches of sand along the coast between Lisbon and Cascais. Guincho has an international reputation for enviable surf, while Carcavelos is family friendly. If you travel a little further from the city center you’ll find secluded Adraga Beach, regarded as one of the best in Europe. It’s worth the journey to soak up the romance of this unspoiled paradise.

    So whether it’s sun and sand or a cultural adventure you’re after, you’ll find it for less in Lisbon.

  • Romance in Paris on a Budget | Cheap French Experiences for Couples

    Paris is the known as the city of love, but you won’t feel as smitten once you empty out your bank account. If you want to keep the love affair alive skip the escargots and in-room massages and try some of our romantic, and budget-friendly, Parisian experiences.

    The Bois de Boulonge is a green oasis hidden on the western outskirts of the city. Its parklands are perfect for a picnic lunch, and woodlands ideal for exploring. You can also hire a row boat for just a few Euros and wile away the hours on the water.

    For more greenery, stop off at Luxembourg Gardens. The 25-hectare space can get a bit crowded when it’s warm, but it’s always relaxing to admire the flowers and fountains. Once you’ve worked up an appetite visit one of the left bank’s chic cafes for coffee and cake.

    Resist the temptation to jump on one of the luxury boats that sail the Seine. You’ll have almost as fun staying on dry land and walking by the river’s banks. Make sure you visit near twilight, to see the mood enhancing sunset and twinkling city lights.

    The Ile Saint Louis near Notre Dame is another great spot for walking. This tiny island is home to charming boutique stores, great restaurants, and hip nightclubs. If you can’t afford to splash out on a meal you can fill the gap with Berthillon, an ice cream treat that’s not found anywhere else in the world.

    The Sacre Coeur Basilica must be romantic; its name means sacred heart after all! The views from the top of this beautiful 19th century building should be enough to set anyone’s heart fluttering. Visiting around lunchtime gives you an excellent opportunity to stop off at Montmartre when you’re done. This village’s quaint cafes serve up simple but delicious food for less than you’d pay in the capital.

    A night at the opera or theater is quintessentially French, but also expensive. For a more frugal option consider an evening at the movies. Paris has plenty of historic movie theaters which take you back to Hollywood’s golden age. In summer you can also catch a romantic open-air screening of a cult classic or new blockbuster at the Parc de la Villette.

    The Eiffel Tower, Paris
    The Eiffel Tower, Paris

    And of course no article about Paris’ most romantic parts would be complete without mentioning the Eiffel Tower. Sure it’s clichéd and overexposed, but you’ll forget your inner cynic when you’re taking in the views. You can save money by opting for the stairs over the lift and choosing to stop at the second floor. Visit around sunset and marvel at the views as Paris changes from day to night.

  • Vacation for Less in Majorca – Affordable Spanish Island Getaway

    With Europe’s finances in tatters, tourists around the globe are enjoying rock bottom airfares. However once you set foot on the continent you may be in for a rude shock, as many European cities are still as expensive to experience as they ever were. But you needn’t strike the continent from your vacation wish list just yet. The Spanish island of Majorca offers all the glamour and culture of Europe for far less than you’d expect. It’s sadly seen as the poor cousin to neighboring Ibiza, but it’s a reputation that’s undeserved. The Spanish port is just as beautiful by day, and just as exciting by night.

    The best things about Majorca really are free. There are worse ways to spend a day than lounging about the island’s pristine beaches and frolicking in the Mediterranean Ocean. The coastline’s sheltered underwater coves will delight divers with their unique variety of marine creatures.

    If you begin to tire of the wet stuff the sprawling Tramuntana Mountain range is perfect for exploring. Serra de Tramuntana as the locals call it has earned UNESCO World Heritage status for its breathtaking natural beauty and cultural significance. While the highest peak Puig Major is not accessible to the public, driving down the R710 from Andratx to Pollenca is a great way to see the sights. If you prefer to go it on foot there are some beautiful hiking trails around Lluc, Soller, and Pollenca.

    Visiting the capital city of Palma can drain your finances, but it costs nothing to explore the streets of the Old Town and soak up the atmosphere at bustling European marketplaces. You can also take in works by Salvadore Dali, Pablo Picasso, and more at the acclaimed Museo d’Art Espanyol Contemporani and see the historic Arab Baths for free.

    If all that activity doesn’t tire you out, Majorca’s nightlife certainly will. Magaluf’s bars and nightclubs often host internationally renowned DJs like David Guetta and Judge Jules. You can generally purchase a ticket for a night out, including all alcoholic drinks, for less than €25.

    If the thumping clubs aren’t your scene, head to Puerto Pollensa Marina. This picturesque waterfront spot is a great place for enjoying Spanish food and wine, with a side order of romance.

    Eating in Majorca is a great pleasure that need not empty your bank account. In the Franco years the Generalissimo declared that Spain’s working class should enjoy at least one substantial and affordable meal each day. In this tradition local restaurants offer a menu del dia at lunchtime, generally consisting of three courses and a glass of vino to wash it down. Expect to pay around €10 at a basic restaurant, or €20 at a high-end eatery.

    By filling up at lunch you won’t need to eat too much in the evening. That makes it the perfect time to try tapas, which are small dishes designed to be shared. This style of dining provides a great opportunity for trying unfamiliar dishes including the rustic paella called arros brut, the spicy pork sausage sobrassada, and the roast vegetable salad called tumbet.

    If you’re spending time in Palma, resist the temptation to hire a car. Buses are plentiful, and their fares cost a lot less than the city’s parking fees. Alternatively you could rent a bike and soak up the city and it’s surrounds at a slower pace. Hire cars are useful if you’re spending time out of town though as public transport in less common.

    Majorca’s temperate climate means there’s never really a bad time to visit, although if you’ve got your heart set on time spent on the beach you may want to avoid winter. While it’s never incredibly cold, even in June and July, the ocean can get a bit chilly. Affordable airfares are available all year round, although you’ll enjoy a discount if you fly in the evening or during the week.

    A small street in Palma, Majorca
    A small street in Palma, Majorca

    Once you’re there you’ll find a diverse range of accommodation from hostels to five-star resorts. As with most international destinations, accommodation in Majorca costs the most in the high season. If you insist on staying from April to October you may need to stay a little further from the beach or book a package holiday to see value for money. Many frugal travelers will be impressed with the number of all-inclusive hotel deals available for less than €20 a night.

    The savings in Majorca will ensure you have more to spend on your next European vacation port, if you can bear to leave!

  • Save Money in Thailand – Frugal Travel Tips for Thai Vacation

    Thailand lures thousands of frugal travelers to its shores each year. They enjoy the country’s weak currency, wile away hours on its pristine beaches, and head back to their relatively affordable lodgings once the sun sets. A vacation in this Asian territory will never break the bank, but with a little local knowledge you can return home with even more baht in your pocket.

    Thai hotels are much cheaper than those outside Southeast Asia, but unless you’re staying for a night or two they don’t represent the best value. Hostels and guesthouses are much more economical for a mid-length stay. If you’re holidaying for more than two weeks, consider renting an apartment. Thailand has many vacation rentals, and that competition ensures they’re not too expensive. They give you all the comforts of home, so you can also cut down on meal and laundry costs.

    Thailand offers all the delicacies of the Western world including hamburger joints and pizza parlors. However it seems they’re simply there to tempt the tourists with their overpriced dishes. Eating local Thai cuisine is much more affordable, and culturally enriching. Indulging in exotic aromatic noodle and curry dishes certainly doesn’t feel like dining on the cheap. Resist the urge to tip too, as this practice is not a Thai custom.

    After a big feed, tourists are typically tempted to knock back a few cleansing ales or cocktails. However anyone wanting to save money in Thailand should give alcohol a wide berth. Avoiding this indulgence will help you save some serious coin. It’s not quite as exciting, but I recommend filling up on water. It’s free in many locations, including Thai banks and Buddhist temples!

    Thai business owners can smell a tourist a mile off, so it’s important to have your wits about you to avoid local scams. Everything seems affordable here compared to the Western world, so it’s not unusual for taxi drivers, street vendors and tour operators to quote their services at several times more than their real value. Seek out locals or expats to clue you in to expected prices, and prepare to haggle with businessmen inflating theirs.

    And finally, plan your trip carefully. Choosing which Thai locations to visit and when could make all the difference to your budget. Thailand enjoys a spike in travel between November and February, but it’s just as pleasant to visit outside these months. While you’ll likely encounter some rain in the wet season from May to November, you’ll also enjoy warm weather and blue skies. In fact, the showers can cool the country down a little and make conditions more pleasant! Traveling during the low season will help you save on airfares, accommodation, car and motorbike rental, and other holiday services.

    A Thai temple protector
    A Thai temple protector

    The idyllic Thai islands of Phuket, Koh Samui, and The Similans are very popular with tourists, but these locations are much more expensive than those on the mainland. I don’t suggest skipping them entirely, but you may want to limit your island time. Koh Lanta should make any frugal traveler’s shortlist. It’s not as popular as some of the other islands, so it’s quieter and cheaper. However its beaches and coves are just as serene, and its local sea gypsies add some real color.

    While you’re planning your vacation budget, remember to save something for a good travel insurance policy. There are many areas to save money in Thailand, but this isn’t one of them.

  • Save Money in London – Cheap Eats & Attractions in the UK

    London has a reputation as one of Europe’s most expensive cities, and quite rightly so. Most Brits have had to leave the city’s lights for the suburbs, and if they can’t afford to live there what hope do us poor tourists have? The good news is that a short stay in the English capital needn’t clean out your bank account. This article gives you a few frugal travel tips for passing your time in this famous city.

    If you want to see London, forget the taxis and hop on The Tube. The locals complain relentlessly about the Underground, bitching about signal failures, faulty trains, and strikes. But the truth is, The Tube’s actually one of the better public transport systems on the planet. Before you set off you’ll need to buy an Oyster card, a plastic alternative to those old paper tickets. The cards start from £10, including preloaded credit, which you can use on The Tube, national rail services and the Dockland Light Railway, the Overground, and local buses and trams. That initial outlay entitles you to the best value fares for the journeys you intend to make.

    The Oyster card will also allow you to ride the number 23 bus for free. This route takes in some of London’s hot spots including Portobello Road, Oxford and Regent Streets, and Trafalgar Square. If you sit up the front of the upper level you can enjoy the sort of views that most visitors are paying tour companies for!

    Once you’ve got your transport sorted you’ll need somewhere to go. As with many cities, London’s museums and art galleries offer a free way to pass a few hours. The British Museum is one of the city’s best, with big draw cards like the Rosetta Stone, a hall of Egyptian mummies, and sculptures from The Greek Parthenon.

    The British Library sounds like a snorefest, but it’s not your typical library. While there are books and more books, some 14 million of them, there are also some fascinating artifacts on display at its Sir John Ritblat Gallery. I’ll bet your local library doesn’t have the Magna Carta, John Lennon’s handwritten lyrics to “A Hard Day’s Night,” or original manuscripts from Mozart!

    The Tate Modern provides a refreshing change from some of London’s stuffier galleries. Many of its works are pretty wacky, but they’ll challenge your ideas about what is art, and what isn’t.

    It’s also free to stroll around the Columbia Road Flower Market. You needn’t have a green thumb to appreciate the spread of roses and tulips, or the colorful characters who try to sell them. It runs every Sunday, and it’s just a short walk from the number 23’s Liverpool Street stop.

    All that sightseeing will make you hungry, but don’t be too hasty to pull out your wallet. Instead take a stroll by London Bridge to the Borough Market. Food producers sell their wares here from lunchtime to twilight every Thursday and Friday, and all day on Saturdays. Of course they want you to buy, but there are enough free samples here to fill you up. The fresh pastas and gourmet cheeses are likely to be the tastiest things you’ve eaten on your frugal vacation!

    If you turn up every day the stall holders may start to get suspicious though. London’s restaurants are expensive, but you can fill your tummy for a fiver with a kebab from a greasy takeaway store, a slice of pie from a pizzeria, or a bagel from the famous Brick Lane Beigel Bake.

    As the day wears down there are a few places you can go for free entertainment. The Notting Hill Arts Club has great free live music between 2 and 8 every Saturday. Entry is also free at Islington’s Big Chill Bar, and if you can’t afford a pint you can spend less on half of one! If you feel like a few laughs, get yourself to one of the free comedy shows at the Queen’s Head in Piccadilly.

    The UK's most famous clock, Big Ben
    The UK's most famous clock, Big Ben

    Before you leave London you’ll need to stop by its big sites to take the prerequisite vacation snaps. The good news is though, you need not step inside the attractions to really appreciate them. The best parts of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey are all at the front door. One exception is St. Paul’s Cathedral, the place where Prince Charles and Princess Diana exchanged their vows. Ordinarily you need to pay £14.50 to see more than the modest St. Dunstan chapel, but if you attend the Evensong service at 5 pm on Fridays you can enjoy the full glory of the church for nothing. If you pass by Buckingham Palace at 11:30 most mornings you can also enjoy the changing of the guard for nix. All those happy snaps should be enough to fool anyone you’ve enjoyed a lavish London vacation!