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Tag: budget travel

  • Spend Less in New York – Budget Tips for NYC

    With its Broadway shows and high-end department stores, a vacation in New York City can be a drain on your finances. But you needn’t spend a fortune to enjoy your time in the Big Apple. In this article we look at frugal entertainment options in The City That Never Sleeps.

    Everyone wants to see the Statue of Liberty, but you needn’t spend money on a tour to do it. Just hop on the Staten Island Ferry for free for a great view of Lady Liberty and Upper New York Bay.

    You can’t always rely on free travel in New York City, but you can get it for less. Using the city’s affordable public transport during off-peak hours can save you more than 60%. If you’re making several trips that can still add up, so an unlimited day pass may be your best bet.

    If you want to see more of the city, why not join a tour? This sounds like another expensive proposition, but it doesn’t have to be if you know where to look. If you plan ahead you can use the services of Big Apple Greeter, an innovative non-profit group which matches tourists with locals keen to show off their city. Each tour is completely free, and there’s a no-tipping policy.

    If you haven’t booked a Big Apple Greeter, you can still see the city for nix. The Times Square Expose Free Walking Tour sets off at noon every Friday from the Times Square Visitor’s Center. It takes walkers to heritage theaters and brand new buildings and offers a real insight into this busy Manhattan hub.

    If you prefer to take things at your own pace then visit AudioSnacks, a website with plenty of audio tours that you can download straight to your MP3 player. With this kind of tour you can simply pause the recording to take a better look at the areas that interest you, or skip past the dull parts. Not that there are too many dull parts of New York City!

    There are also plenty of free shows and concerts around the city, particularly during summer. In the warmer months you can see films every Monday in Bryant Park, or take in a rock band or Shakespearean play in Central Park. Things slow down during winter, but the local street press should help you sniff out something at any time of year.

    You haven’t really seen New York until you’ve seen some of its finest museums. While entry to The Guggenheim and Museum of Modern Art is on the expensive side, there are plenty of museums that only require a small donation. It’s poor form to only offer your silver, but a dollar or two can buy you a morning’s entertainment at the American Museum of Natural History, The Cloisters, The Sculpture Center, the Museum of the Moving Image, and more.

    Statue of Liberty
    The Statue of Liberty

    But a tourist can’t exist on entertainment alone. While you’re sightseeing your tummy will inevitably start to rumble. Steer clear of those fancy pants restaurants with their Michelin stars and opt for more modest fare. New York City’s delis are famous for their great bagels and sandwiches, and the first class coffee. Or if you feel like something a bit naughtier, indulge in a hot dog from one of the many street vendors. Both options should give you change for a fiver, leaving plenty in your wallet for a tacky souvenir or the subway ride back to your hotel.

  • Seven Ways to Enjoy Meaningful Vacations on the Cheap

    Saving money on vacation doesn’t mean you have to skimp on the experience. Read on to discover ways you can conserve your finances and enjoy an enriching trip.

    1. Spend More Time in Fewer Locations
    Many travelers want to cram as many locations as they can into their vacation, but this approach isn’t necessarily the most enjoyable, or the most economical. You won’t have time to really immerse yourself in your destinations, and you’ll spend a lot of money in transit. When you slow down and smell the roses you’ll start to shift from acting as a tourist to one of the locals. You’ll learn about a city’s true beauty. You might even earn a discount for staying in your accommodation longer!

    2. Talk to the Locals
    Talk is indeed cheap. In fact, it’s free! Chatting to the locals is one our guilty pleasures when we’re vacationing. It’s a great way to discover the best restaurants and other hidden gems. You might even make a new friend! Asking someone for their advice or directions is a great way to break the ice. If you’re traveling abroad, make an effort to learn a few key phrases too. Even if your pronunciation is off, the residents will respect your attempts!

    3. Try the Local Food
    Life is best lived when you get out of your comfort zone. You can have meals from global takeaway chains any old time. You’ll save money, and perhaps even discover a new favorite, if you eat the local cuisine. What you’ll find on the tourist strip is likely to be a watered down, tourist-pleasing version, so make sure you dine a couple of streets away from the main drag. Street food from local markets and vendor carts is another great option. These affordable dishes are cooked right in front of you, so they’re always fresh and delicious.

    4. Get Up Early
    Many of us feel that sleeping in is part of a vacation, but when you do you’re not getting bang for your buck. Becoming an early riser ensures you make the most of your time away. You’ll get the jump on the other tourists and enjoy your destination without the crowds. Gentle early morning light is ideal for travel photography, and a sunrise is always a little more beautiful than a sunset!

    5. Walk Your Way Around a City
    You can miss so much en route to tourist attractions and other local sites. Setting out on foot ensures you don’t miss the pieces in between. It’s a great way to absorb a city’s atmosphere, find new places to explore, and it’s always free! We love to set out without a plan and see where our legs take us.

    6. Travel Light
    Traveling light doesn’t just help you avoid excess baggage fees. It also allows you to travel without feeling weighed down. It’s liberating! When you save some space in your suitcase, you’ll also have room for a few affordable souvenirs and gifts for family and friends back home.

    Tourists7. Make it a Working Vacation
    A working vacation allows you to stay in your destination longer and really become a part of the community. You’ll get to know the locals and their culture, and you might even some learn some new skills you can use later in life. Making a wage doesn’t just give you the luxury of time. It also frees up a bit more cash so you can feel more comfortable making the occasional splurge.

    As you can see, traveling frugally isn’t just for misers. It’s also for tourists who want to get the most from their vacations.

  • 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!

  • 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!

  • Plan a Staycation – Enjoy a Frugal Vacation at Home

    Taking that fishing trip to Alaska or tour of the Greek Islands sound like wonderful ways to spend a few weeks, but if your wallet is bare you may need to curb your aspirations. If you’re desperate for a holiday but you don’t have the finances to fund it, a staycation may be the solution.

    Staycation is the latest buzz word to describe playing tourist in your own town. The practice encourages you to forget the mounting piles of dishes and your regular responsibilities in favor of living it up in your community. And best of all, you needn’t worry about uncomfortable hostel beds or weak motel showers!

    The key to a great staycation is to put yourself in the tourist mindset. There are bound to be tourist attractions you’ve never visited, parks you’ve never stopped to appreciate, and restaurants you’ve never frequented. When we’re caught up in the daily grind we forget all about the fun to be had in our own backyard.

    Just like any tourist, you’ll get the most from your staycation when it’s researched. Visiting your local tourist information center and online travel guides can point you in the direction of attractions and events you might otherwise overlook.

    As you’re playing tourist close to home, you can afford to leave your car in the driveway. You’ll certainly save on parking fees, you’ll burn some calories, and you’ll likely discover a few places you never knew existed. Those second-hand stores tucked away in alleys and small back street restaurants are the hidden gems that give cities their character.

    piggy bank worldWhile you can discover the area on your own, don’t overlook local tours. You might feel like you know your local area, but guided tours offer more insight into a city’s history than most residents possess. Whether it’s a tour around a local museum, or a cruise around your city’s waterways, you’ll emerge with a fresh perspective on your community.

    And while it might seem silly, don’t forget to take your camera along with you. A staycation is still a vacation after all, and you’ll still look back on your happy snaps with fondness!

  • Money Saving Tips for Europe – Make Your Euro Go Further

    No continent screams luxury travel like Europe does. While it’s certainly possible to spend a small fortune on a lavish European getaway, frugal travelers needn’t abandon their dreams of a historical tour of Athens or a lazy beach holiday on the French Riviera. With a few clever choices and our insider advice you can have a great time in Europe and return home with a few Euros in your pocket.

    Most travelers naturally assume Europe’s efficient public transport system is the best way to get around. But if you’re staying for a month or more, leasing a car can be a surprisingly affordable option. Many of the big European car companies, including Peugot, Citroen, and Renault, offer long-term leases. It can cost around $50 a day, but if you’re traveling with a large group of mates or the family that can be less than you’d spend on public transport. Hiring a car also gives you the freedom to venture off the beaten track, which is excellent way to avoid the crowd and discover some of Europe’s often overlooked villages. These smaller townships also tend to offer cheaper accommodation and dining, so the savings can really add up! The websites Drive Travel and Holiday Autos are great starting points for organizing a long-term rental car.

    Whether you’re hiring a car or relying on the continent’s own transport it’s worth seeking out those underrated countries. Italy, Greece, Germany, and France are so popular that hoteliers, restaurateurs, and tour operators can charge the big bucks. So why not take the path less traveled and see Turkey, Latvia, or Moldova. And if you needed further convincing, they sell beer for less than water in Slovakia!

    Camping might seem like slumming it to the travel snobs, but it’s worth being open minded. You may want to avoid the practice during winter, but in summer the weather is perfect for appreciating the great outdoors. Many campsites are also cleaner than the European hostels, and unlike many countries they’re often conveniently located in the city. European camping grounds charge for your tent, the number of people staying there, and your car park. As a guide those charges tend to run between $12 and $20 a night, depending on your campground’s country and location.

    Once accommodation and travel are taken care of, you’ll need to consider what you’re going to do in your chosen destinations. Entry fees to tourist attractions can get pricy, so it’s smart to plan ahead. Bulk sightseeing passes including the London Pass and Paris Museum Pass give travelers entry to a large number of attractions at a big discount. There are also plenty of free things to see in most major European cities, including the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. Make sure these are on your itinerary, and research the other freebies in your local guidebook. Seeing them is a great way to spend time without spending a cent.Keyboard with three money keys

    Then you’ll need to think about what you’re eating. It’s all too easy to spend a fortune at those Michelin Star restaurants. If you’re camping or staying in a hotel or apartment with a kitchenette you can save a lot of money by cooking your own food. If you are venturing out, try and eat as the locals do. By venturing off the tourist path you can discover some wonderful hole-in-the-wall restaurants that serve amazing food, without the high overheads.

    And finally, please brush up on the language. If you make an effort to speak with the locals in their own dialect you’re much more likely to enjoy a bargain on your European vacation!

  • Travel to New Zealand in the Off Season – Save Money in Winter

    New Zealand is a natural paradise, with its unspoiled landscapes and adrenalin sports that take advantage of the great outdoors. However it’s on the opposite side of the world to most keen travelers, and the flights can get expensive. You can save yourself some cash by avoiding the peak times and traveling over winter.

    It might seem crazy to abandon the Northern Hemisphere’s summer for chilly conditions in the South, but the significant savings on flights and accommodation should sweeten your decision. And New Zealand isn’t a bad place to brave when the mercury drops. The South Island comes alive from June to August, when its ski fields are filled with Kiwis keen to test its slopes.You’ll save even more money if you frequent one of New Zealand’s ski clubs, rather than the commercial ski resorts.

    If you’re not a snow bunny don’t despair. Much of New Zealand is free of the white stuff and just as busy during winter. The North Island is warmer than the South; its major cities including Auckland, Hamilton, and Rotorua enjoy pleasant conditions during winter. Rotorua’s hot mineral pools can warm you up if the temperature dips, Auckland has several indoor tourist attractions, or you could cheer on the New Zealand Warriors or All Blacks at a sporting match.

    New Zealand money and calculatorNew Zealand also continues to party right through winter. There are events throughout the country to celebrate the Maori New Year, or Matariki, in June. Visit in August and you can indulge in some of the country’s best cuisine at the Coromandel Scallop Festival in Whitianga.

    Traveling to New Zealand in the off season is an appealing proposition for any travelers who want to avoid the usual tourist crowds and save some cash.

  • Books and Magazines for Frugal Travelers

    Let’s face it. Frugal traveling takes work. You need to research the best options so that you can get the most bang for your buck.

    Luckily, there are many good references out there to help with this process. Here are some suggestions of books and magazines that will guide you along your journey as a frugal traveler. All of these titles are available on Amazon or many of your other favorite online bookstores. Books Travel Happy, Budget Low Susanna Zaraysky (2009) With over 160 websites and 200 trips, Travel Happy, Budget Low helps international travelers discover how to travel on the cheap in planes, trains, and buses, how to find inexpensive meals, and how to book inexpensive hotel rooms or stay for free with locals. How to Travel Practically Anywhere Susan Stellin (2007) New York Times contributor Susan Stellin provides readers with timesaving tips to navigate their travel planning, including how to negotiate fare prices or how to resolve issues when you are unhappy with your accommodations. A must read for 'cheap' travelers looking to get the most out of their travel experiences. The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget Rough Guides Series (2010) This multi-contributor volume contains tips for finding the best deals while traveling through Europe, including transportation( by InterRail, Eurail or bus) tips, ideas for what to see and do in each country, current descriptions of the best hostels and budget hotels in Europe, bars in Europe, cafes, cheap restaurants, and European shopping and festivals. This guide is a must read for frugal travelers planning a European vacation. In general, the Rough Guide books tend to be full of great ideas for travelers on a budget. The Little Budget Travel Book David Ning (2009) [caption id="attachment_5136" align="alignright" width="199" caption="These books and magazines will give you plenty of tips on how to make the most of your time and money while traveling."][/caption] A concise guide, jam-packed with general tips for stretching your dollar while traveling. Even if you’ve been traveling frugally for a while, this is worth a read. Live Your Road Trip Dream: Travel for a Year at the Cost of Staying Home Phil White (2008) Phil White gives readers helpful tips for planning the trip of a lifetime on a shoestring budget. A must read for frugal travelers looking to embark on an epic voyage. Secret Hotels: Extraordinary Values in the World’s Most Stunning Destinations Erik Torkells and the Editors of Budget Travel (2007) From the editors of the magazine Budget Travel comes an array of breathtaking lodging options at reasonable prices (most listings are under $200 per night). In general, the Let’s Go series also offers great advice for travelers on a budget. For more information, visit the company’s website at http://www.letsgo.com/. Based in the UK, the graphically appealing Vice Travel Guides offer advice on off-the-beaten path travel destinations. For more information, see http://www.viceland.com/guidetotravel/. Magazines Budget Travel One of the best-known budget travel magazines on the market, Budget Travel provides readers with up-to-date tips on budget transportation, hotels, restaurants and activities in a variety of international locations. For more information, visit the magazine’s website at http://www.budgettravel.com/. Afar Magazine Though not specifically about budget travel, Afar provides suggestions for alternative travel (humanitarian travel, volunteer travel, eco travel) and inspiring articles that will help to shape your travel philosophy. For more information, visit Afar’s online community at http://www.afar.com/.

  • Important Indulgence in Beijing – What’s Worth the Splurge in China

    As with most of the world’s capital cities, it’s very easy to spend money in Beijing. But travelers should resist the urge to be too frugal in the Chinese capital.

    See also: China on a Budget. A little extravagance can be the best way to enjoy your Beijing vacation, and stay safe. Food and drink are two areas where it pays to splurge a little. Scrimping could compromise your health, so be careful when buying from street vendors. When in doubt, you can generally rely on restaurants. The safest meals are piping hot, as the cooking process kills any lingering bacteria. Raw vegetables and unbottled water should be avoided. Even bottled water should be approached with caution; if its seal is broken, its quality cannot be guaranteed. Beijing's hectic pace can also make public transport difficult to navigate, particularly for anyone who doesn't speak the language. Taxi drivers can get you where you want to go, and in most cases they'll charge a reasonable price. If you aren't fluent in Chinese, make sure you ask your concierge to write your destination in Chinese on the back of your hotel business card. You can reuse this card at the end of the day to return to your accommodation. [caption id="attachment_2731" align="alignright" width="150" caption="The Great Wall of China"]The Great Wall of China[/caption] And finally, don't be so stingy that you miss out on the world famous attractions on Beijing's doorstep. While you can see the Great Wall of China for free, it's worth spending money on the cable car in Badaling. It'll save your time and feet, and you can capture some breathtaking photos of the wall from the air. And don't let the small entry fee stop you from seeing The Forbidden City. The majesty of the palace, Imperial Garden, and Halls of Heavenly Purity and Supreme Harmony are worth more than the cost you'll pay to see them.