FrugalMonkey Discount Travel News

Category: Trip Locations

  • Walk from Bondi to Bronte – Beautiful Beach Trail in Sydney, Australia

    As the weather cools, and the ocean too, tourists are beginning to steer clear of Sydney’s beautiful beaches. However, you don’t have to take a dip or catch a few waves to appreciate this natural resource. The coastal walk from Bondi to Bronte is a frugal way to spend time in Sydney, and one of the best jogging trails in Australia.

    A walkway takes you four kilometers from Ben Buckler Point to Waverly Cemetery. If that distance sounds daunting you can walk the two and a half kays in the middle between iconic Bondi Beach and the lesser known breaks at Bronte. Either way it’s not a particularly challenging walk, with paved paths guiding your journey. You should allow an hour for the shorter walk, and twice the time if you’re taking the extended journey.

    No matter what the season, the ocean views are picture perfect. Along the way you’ll see rock structures and cliffs shaped by the waters and winds over thousands of years, and the famous Bondi Icebergs ocean pool. You can drop in to the Bondi Icebergs club for a schooner of cleansing ale, or take a dip if the cold water doesn’t faze you.

    Girl jogging near Bondi Beach
    Girl jogging near Bondi Beach

    Sydney’s temperature rarely drops to the point of unpleasant, so while the sea breeze can be brisk you shouldn’t be uncomfortable on the walk. However, don’t let the chilly weather make you complacent. Australia’s UV rays are more powerful than you may think, so you should wear sunscreen and a hat on your walk. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must. While the paved path makes it an easy journey, it’ll seem like a much longer adventure if you’re wearing heels. And finally, don’t forget to pack your camera. No doubt you’ll want to snap a few shots of the Sydney landscape to show your friends back home!

    [Image Source: Ernst Moeksis/Flickr]

  • Five U.S. Natural Wonders You Should Visit

    I am an advocate of U.S. road trips as a cost-effective and adventurous way to spend one’s summer vacation. One of my favorite things to do while I’m on the road is to enjoy the variety of “natural wonders” the U.S. has to offer. Here are some of my top picks for you to check out the next time you find yourself on the road and in search of some natural beauty. Many lodgings in these areas fill up quickly for the summer months, so I recommend planning your natural getaway in advance.

    Grand Canyon National Park (North Rim), Arizona

    Grand Canyon National Park, visited by more than five million people each year, is considered one of the seven natural wonders of world and is a World Heritage Site. The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is much less touristy than the South Rim, which is why I prefer it. During the summer months rooms are hard to come by at the Grand Canyon Lodge (they bill themselves as the only lodging on the North Rim, however there are some smaller options nearby), so book early if you’re interested in staying here. The North Rim features exposed geologic formations from the earth’s four eras of geologic history. Information at look-out spots and the North Rim Visitor’s Lodge teaches visitors about the formation of the Canyon (it was carved by the Colorado River over a period of six million years) and biological diversity.

    The expansive Grand Mesa (view from the western end).

    Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico

    Since I first visited them as a kid I’ve been enthralled with the Carlsbad Caverns, over 117 underground caves that were formed when sulfuric acid dissolved the surrounding limestone. The well-designed visitor’s center provides information on these unique geological formations as well as schedules for the variety of cave tours available. Whatever you do, make sure you’re at the “bat cave” at dusk where you can watch hundreds of Mexican free-tail bats fly out of the cave and over your head.

    Redwood National Forest, California

    Redwood National Forest is comprised of the official Redwood National Park and Redwood State Park and located in northern California. It runs along 37 miles of northern Californian coastline. Of course, the Redwood National Forest is best known for its “stars,” massive redwood trees (in height and girth) that cause most visitors to drop their jaws. However, this diverse ecosystem is also home to expansive prairies, oak forests and over 35 miles of savage coastline. The forest is also a protective area for various threatened species including the Northern Spotted Owl, Brown Pelican, Tidewater Goby, Bald Eagle, Steller’s Sea Lion, and the Chinook Salmon.

    Yosemite National Park, California

    Located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range of Central California, Yosemite National Park encompasses a variety of breathtaking sights including waterfalls, valleys, meadows, and giant sequoias. The park spans 1,170 square miles and ranges in altitude from 2,000 feet to over 13,000 feet above sea level. Nearby cities include San Francisco, Los Angeles and Reno.

    Grand Mesa, Colorado

    The area commonly referred to as Grand Mesa is a combination of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests, all located on the western side of the Colorado Rockies, an area that lies south of the Colorado River and west of the Continental Divide. The three forests together span over 3,161,912 acres and vary in elevation from 5,800 feet above sea level (in Roubideau Creek Canyon) to 14,309 feet (on Uncompahgre Peak). Highlights include Bridal Veil falls, the over 300 lakes  in the Grand Mesa, and the Alpine Tunnel.

  • Weasel Coffee in Vietnam – Asia’s Unusual Delicacy

    Most of us love to start the day with a stiff cup of joe. But while you’re vacationing in Vietnam, why not be a bit more adventurous and bypass the espresso for a cup of weasel coffee?

    It’s best to get this out of the way first; yes, this Vietnamese delicacy does have something to do with weasels, or more correctly the weasel-like Asian Palm Civet. Coffee growers feed their beans to the beast, and collect them once they pass through. That sounds disgusting, granted. But once you can get past its origins, you can enjoy this smooth, musky drink.

    If you’re starting to get squeamish it’s worth noting that most cups of Vietnamese weasel coffee, or café Chon as the locals call it, aren’t made with any animal interference. Clever Vietnamese coffee growers have actually perfected a chemically simulated version, called Legendee. The growers use a synthetic process to mimic the effects of the beans’ weasel journey. Many sensitive tourists prefer this alternative, especially as it’s much kinder on the hip pocket. It’s generally still called weasel coffee though, despite the lack of weasels involved.

    Coffee BeansThe country’s upscale cafes have begun to sell weasel coffee, but it’s just as good and much cheaper at Vietnam’s street tea stalls. Just make sure you don’t fall for the imitations. It’s not uncommon for enterprising Vietnamese traders to pass off the chemical version as the genuine article, complete with the high price tag! You should be able to find Legendee beans for between $10 and $15 US for 500 grams, while the same quantities of the real café Chon will cost around $70.

  • On the Buses – New Zealand’s Affordable Public Transport

    Most travelers to New Zealand tend to rent cars to get about the North and South Island. However utilizing the country’s easy-to-use bus system is a much more affordable option for your New Zealand vacation.

    Several coach companies ferry tourists between New Zealand’s major cities. The largest is InterCity Coachlines, a national organization which travels to more than 600 New Zealand cities. Its network is not quite as expansive, but the Naked Bus is the cheapest way to travel around New Zealand. Fares start from just $1, and escalate as the bus fills up. Alternatively you can buy a Naked Passport, which offers discounted travel on a minimum of five trips. Atomic Shuttles is another low cost alternative, although it only operates in the South Island. Most Kiwi coach companies offer online discounts, so it’s worth planning your itinerary and booking your seat before you leave.

    For shorter journeys within a city you’ll need to rely on the local public transport system. Auckland has its free Explorer bus servicing major tourist attractions, and other paid bus services if you want to travel outside that route. It’s best to allow plenty of time to reach your destination though, as Auckland buses are notoriously tardy. It’s not uncommon to experience delays of 15 minutes before your ride arrives.

    Wellington’s buses are much more reliable, and a great way to explore the city. You’ll find free bus maps at various locations, which make it easy to find the city’s bus stops and routes. Travelers are best served getting an all-day central bus pass, which allows for unlimited journeys.

    The Explorer Bus in Auckland
    The Explorer Bus in Auckland

    Sadly though, bus services are limited in some Kiwi tourist towns, including Rotorua, Christchurch, and Queenstown. You’ll find some buses of course, but their small number of routes and infrequent service means you may need to consider alternative transport to reach your destination.

     

  • Gold Coast’s Best Hostels – Budget Accommodation in Queensland’s Beach District

    The beautiful beaches, big surf, and pumping nightclubs lure tourists from all around the world to Australia’s Gold Coast. The high rise resorts may unnerve some frugal travelers but rest assured, there’s plenty of high quality hostel accommodation if you know where to look.

    The first step is deciding exactly where you want to stay. The Gold Coast is a collection of Queensland beach towns, each with its own personality. One of the most popular, and most active, is Surfers Paradise. Cavill Avenue is the city’s epicenter, with great shopping opportunities during the day and plenty of Aussie pubs and clubs to keep you entertained once the sun goes down. Islander Backpacker Resort is the pick of the local hostels, as it’s conveniently located within walking distance of the beach, shops, restaurants, and clubs. No doubt you’ll spend plenty of time out and about, but if you do feel like kicking back you can take advantage of the hostel’s tennis court, spa bath, steam room, barbecue area, and bar. These facilities make the Islander feel like anything but a budget accommodation choice. Just remember that everyone in Surfers is looking for a party, so if you like your peace and quiet you may prefer another town.

    Southport is regarded as the Gold Coast’s business center, and the local suits make it a bit quieter than Surfers. However it’s close enough to the action that you needn’t feel you’re missing out on the Gold Coast experience. The friendly folk at Southport’s Aquarius Backpackers make it one of the area’s best budget accommodation options. You’re sure to make friends over the pool table, bar, or swimming pool. The hostel also runs a free shuttle bus throughout the night to ferry its guests to the Gold Coast’s hottest night spots.

    australia gold coast beaches photo
    A beach on Australia's Gold Coast

    Coolangatta is another laidback option particularly popular with surfers and aspiring grommets. The great surf beaches aren’t the only appeal though; its streets are lined with excellent restaurants and it’s a stone’s throw from the airport. Kommune Resorts has a boutique hotel vibe but its rooms cost little more than hostel dorms, despite their beach views. I doubt you’ll spend a lot of time in there though. The outdoor movie lounge and pool and party area are too much fun!

    Australia’s hostels and budget hotels have come a long way since the days of roach infested rooms in rough neighborhoods. Instead they’re a great way to make your money go further on the Gold Coast.

  • Fast Affordable Travel on Japan’s Shinkansen Bullet Train

    Whenever we’re traveling long distances, most of us prepare to board an airplane. We arrive at our destination in a timely fashion, although our bank balance tends to suffer. However there’s a better, and more affordable way to travel around Japan. Tourists in the know prefer to stay on the ground, and on the Shinkansen Bullet Train.

    The Shinkansen is the crowning achievement in Japan’s very efficient rail system. It’s renowned for being punctual, safe, and incredibly fast; all factors which have helped it become one of the most popular long distance transport options in Japan.

    Since their inception almost four decades ago, the bullet trains have carried more than six billion passengers. The trains travel at more than 300 kilometers per hour, yet they have never been involved in a serious accident.

    Tickets are available from ticket machines or counters at bullet train stations. The platforms are marked with carriage numbers so you’ll know exactly where you need to board. The entire process is very simple, and far quicker than boarding an aircraft.

    Up to ten bullet trains run each hour between the two most popular stations of Tokyo and Osaka. If you miss one train it can be as little as three minutes before the next one comes along. The trains also ferry tourists to other major cities including Kyushu, Nagoya, and Fukushima.

    The bullet trains are very comfortable, with lots of leg room, modern toilets, and a choice of smoking and non-smoking carriages. A snack service allows patrons to purchase food, soft drink, and alcohol, or you could grab something from one of the train’s vending machines.

    Shinkansen Bullet Trains
    Shinkansen Bullet Trains

    Sometimes airlines discount their fares, and this can make air travel a more affordable option. However, beware of nasty taxes and charges that push the price up. And then there are the other factors, including the bullet train’s comfort and the convenient location of its stations. When all is considered, it’s easy to see why the Shinkansen Bullet Train is such a popular way to get around Japan.

  • See Butterflies for Free at Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium

    There’s something magical about spending time with butterflies, and in Thailand you can do it for free at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium.

    The butterfly garden is an enclosed space, so at any one time more than 500 butterflies may be fluttering about your head. Some of the most spectacular varieties include the large Golden Birdwing, the delicate Siam Tree Nymph, and the Giant Silkworm Butterfly.

    It might seem a bit cruel to keep butterflies cooped up for their short lives, but this spot is so beautiful I hardly think the insects mind. The 1100 square meter enclosure is decorated with rockeries, flowers and ferns, and even a cascading waterfall for them to play in. The plants are labeled with their names in English, Thai, and Latin, so no one need miss out.butterfly

    You’ll learn plenty watching the butterflies at play, but an informative indoor display complements this. The exhibition charts the life cycle of the vibrantly colored insects and offers other interesting facts.

    You’ll find Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium inside Rot Fai Park, next to Thailand’s Chatuchak Markets. Catch the subway to Chatuchack Park, and it’s just a short walk down Kampaengphet IV Road. The sanctuary is open every day but Monday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

    [Image Source: Honey-bee/Flickr]

  • Asia’s Best Lunches – Affordable Local Traditional Dishes

    During a busy day sightseeing in Asia, lunch often tends to be an afterthought. Too many of us resort to Western-style junk food and overpriced meals at tourist attractions. They’re not just costly; they’re also unsatisfying. A much better option is to eat like the locals do and enjoy some of the Eastern continent’s best meals on the go.

    Singapore’s chili crab doesn’t sound like the best meal to eat on the run, but this Asian delicacy is not to be missed. The mud crab is cooked in a thick tomato chili sauce. This certainly gives the dish some heat, but the sweet crab meat ensures it’s not overpoweringly spicy. The sauce makes the dish a bit messy, but it’s so good that most tourists won’t mind a stained shirt. Crab is generally an expensive meat, but the competition between hawkers and kopi tiam at the East Coast Seafood Center keeps the prices reasonable.

    While in Vietnam make sure you try the country’s famous noodle soup, pho. The rice noodles are traditionally served in a broth with beef or chicken, and a variety of traditional Asian vegetables and spices. Most Vietnamese restaurants serve pho, but you’ll save money buying it from street vendors or market stalls.

    Japan’s bento boxes have come a long way over the last century, with the original lacquered lunch boxes giving way to more modern, disposable versions. The philosophy remains the same though, with each one containing an organized meal of rice, meat or seafood, and vegetables. You’ll find this balanced and affordable Japanese lunch at the country’s convenience stores, bento outlets, and train stations.

    Pho noodle soup
    Pho noodle soup

    And finally in Bali they have padang, a traditional curry sold at local market stalls. You’ll find a variety of padang in Bali, from classics like beef and tapioca leaves to the more adventurous fish head variety. Each one is served wrapped up in a banana leaf to help you eat it on the run.

    So next time you’re thinking of settling for a burger and fries in Asia, why not be a bit more adventurous and sample some of the local cuisine? Your stomach and wallet will thank you!

    [Image Source: Rob Sinclair/Flickr]

  • Australia’s Best Camping Grounds – Memorable Oz Holidays on a Budget

    Camping isn’t just an affordable way to see Australia; it’s also an ideal way to get back to nature and enjoy the rugged beauty of one of the most picturesque countries in the world. If your budget doesn’t extend to glamping, here are some wonderful, and affordable, places to lay down your swag.

    Victoria’s Cowes Caravan Park boasts an enviable beachfront location. This sheltered cove won’t suit surfers, but its gentle waters are ideal for families with small children. The park is only 10 minutes drive to Phillip Island, which is famous for its fairy penguin parade. This nightly event, where fairy penguins emerge from the waves and waddle to their nests, is also a big hit with kids.

    There are more beach vistas at Tasmania’s Swansea Holiday Park. This caravan park at Jubilee Beach, two hours from the capital city of Hobart, is in a beautiful park of the world; you can walk from your powered site to the ocean and see out to nearby Great Oyster Bay. Visitors are spoiled with a heated swimming pool, outdoor barbeque area, fully equipped kitchen, and playground for the kids.

    And there’s more sun and sand in South Australia at Victor Harbor Beachfront Caravan Park. As its name suggests, this family-friendly park is right on the beach. Children are going to spend plenty of time frolicking amongst the waves, but if you can drag them away there are plenty of other nearby attractions including the Cockle Steam Train and whale watching tours.

    australia travel mapBut not every special Australian campsite is on the beach. Gemtree Caravan Park in the Northern Territory is a great place for enjoying the Outback. With its wild Eastern MacDonnell ranges location, the park feels a million miles from civilization. If you love that sort of thing you can opt for an unpowered site, but there are also powered sites and air-conditioned cabins for travelers who enjoy their creature comforts. Given its name, it’s not surprising that you can also try your hand at fossicking for gems here. Novices are best joining one of the garnet and zircon tours, but if you feel like going it alone you can try your luck at Garnet Gully.

    Whether you have a frugal family vacation in mind, or a recession-friendly romantic getaway, Australia’s camping grounds are an excellent base for your Aussie adventure.

  • Cheap Shopping in Japan at 100 Yen Stores

    If you want your yen to go further in Japan, you shouldn’t miss the country’s 100 Yen shops.

    There are several different 100 Yen store chains in Japan, including Daiso, Watts, Seria, and Cando. Each one offers a hodge-podge of products, all selling for the bargain price of just 100 yen. That’s only a little more than one US cent!

    As you can imagine, we’re not talking about high end goods here, or items of exceptional quality. That old saying that you get what you pay for often holds true. However, the range of apparel, home wares, toys, and stationery is impressive. You’ll find dirt cheap travel essentials, including batteries, toiletries, and snacks. The 100 Yen stores are also great places for stocking up on Hello Kitty and Pokemon goodies and other cheap Japanese souvenirs for friends and coworkers back home!

    Just be aware that your purchases will generally be subject to a consumption tax of around 5%, to be applied at the cash register. But even with this additional cost, the stores’ goods are still bargains!

    Look for 100 Yen stores in Japan’s shopping malls and arcades, and near subway stations.