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Tag: hostels

  • The World’s 5 Most Unusual Hostels

    Taking a frugal vacation doesn’t mean you need to face another boring, bland hostel. Read on to discover some of the weirdest and most wonderful backpackers’ stays on the planet.

    ArkaBarka Floating Hostel in Belgrade, Serbia

    Backpackers can’t ask for better water views than those offered by the ArkaBarka Floating Hotel in Belgrade. This unusual hostel actually floats on the Danube River! All the rooms offer those enviable river views, but the balcony is also a great place to soak up the scenery.

    The ArkaBarka Floating Hostel is far enough away from the action to offer peace and quiet, but it takes just 20 minutes to walk to the city center. It’s also close to Usce Park, which is a popular spot for cycling and roller blading. Rates start at 15 euros for a bed in a shared room and breakfast.

    Kadir’s Tree House in Olympos, Turkey

    Relive your childhood at Kadir’s Tree House in the Turkish coastal city of Olympos. This striking hostel sees guests bunkering down in a real tree house! It’s far more sophisticated than the one you played in as a kid though; Kadir’s has three bars and a nightclub on site! Its staff members also organize plenty of outings to help you make the most of your stay, including treks through the Lost City, sea kayaking excursions, and fishing expeditions.

    Dorm rooms are very reasonable, with prices starting from $16, but they jump up to $29 a night if you want your own room.

    Carbisdale Castle Youth Hostel in Culrain, Scotland

    If you thought staying in a real castle was out of your price range, think again. Scotland’s Carbisdale Castle is a real historic castle that was originally built for the Dowager Duchess of Sutherland! It might be a hostel now, but it hasn’t let itself go. It boasts a large art collection and an array of Italian marble statues. It’s also set in immaculate grounds overlooking the nearby River Kyle.

    It’s not the place to stay if you’re at all superstitious though, as several ghosts are said to haunt the manner. Look out for a lady in white, fallen soldiers, and the former gardener roaming the grounds hunting for his long lost daughter. If you don’t mind the spectres, you can enjoy a dorm room from $20 or a private space from $25.

    Hostel Celica in Ljubljana, Slovenia

    It looks like any other hostel from the outside, but there’s more to Hostel Celica than meets the eye. This hostel proudly bears the tell-tale signs of its heritage as a military prison. Cell bars on the doors and windows of all guest bedrooms remind visitors what it must have been like to be locked up.

    Thankfully Hostel Celica is a much more entertaining place now than it was then. There’s an art gallery on site, and the hostel also hosts concerts, workshops, and poetry readings. It’s also conveniently located right next to the Metelkova party district, and a ten-minute walk to the city center. Expect to get a dorm room for a little as $18, and a private one for $24.

    Hedonisia Eco-Hostel in Hawaii, United States

    Kadir's Tree House in Olympos, Turkey
    Kadir’s Tree House in Olympos, Turkey

    You’ll feel a little like Tarzan when you stay at Hedonisia Eco-Hostel, a sustainable backpackers’ stay nestled in the tropical rainforests of Hawaii’s Puna region. This area is far quieter than tourist traps like Honolulu and Waikiki, so it’s well worth exploring. And few other hostels boast a giant volcano crater, a guava hut, and a remodeled schoolbus all on site! This hostel is also perfect for eco-conscious travelers, as everything you’ll find at Hedonisia is made from recycled or locally-sourced materials.

    As with so many green travel options though, Hedonisia is a bit pricier than your average hostel. You can stay in one of the shared indoor tents in The Barn for around $34, or upgrade to a private room for around $62.

    So why stay at another forgettable hostel? This is just a taste of the affordable establishments that have upped the ante.

    [Image Source: Elena Pleskevich/Flickr]

  • 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.

  • Stay for Less – Affordable Accommodation Options for Your Next Vacation

    Accommodation is one of the largest expenses for any vacation, so it’s important that you consider yours seriously. We all want to save money on our room, but basing your decision solely on price can lead to a miserable vacation. In this article we examine a range of affordable accommodation options to help you find the best place to lay your head.

    Hostels are an obvious choice for many budget travelers. You’ll find more than 5000 backpackers motels in around 70 countries around the world, and rooms often cost as little as $8 a night. They were once commonly known as youth hostels, and still attract many young tourists. However these days hostels are gaining popularity amongst more mature holidaymakers.

    When considering a hostel stay, it’s vital to consider your preferred travel style. Dormitory-style accommodation can suit young travelers who want to meet fellow globetrotters and spend little time in their room. However private rooms are often favoured by families and older travelers. You’ll typically pay more for in-room bathroom facilities, but many holidaymakers find this creature comfort is worth the splurge.

    It’s important to learn what your hostel accommodation includes before setting off. You may need to leave room in your suitcase for a towel or linens, as these are often not included in the tariff. If you’re planning to visit many hostels, consider joining an organization like Hostelling International. Membership incurs an annual fee, but will ensure you get the best rates on hostels and attractions around the world.

    If the communal living of a hostel stay isn’t your cup of chai, a vacation in a charming bed and breakfast or pension hotel may be more your speed. These establishments are typically set up outside the city, so they offer a peaceful alternative to urban digs. The rooms are private, although you may need to share your bathroom facilities. While bed and breakfasts can be expensive in the United States, they can cost as little as $20 a night abroad. Make sure you eat your fill at breakfast time to see real value. A hearty fry-up can often keep you satisfied until the evening!

    If the rural air and warmth of a bed and breakfast sounds appealing, perhaps you should try a farm stay. Farm stays first became popular in Europe, and now properties in the United States, Australia, and New Zealand are following suit. The experiences are diverse though, so make sure you do your research. Some are essentially country retreats, where guests can do as much or as little as they like. Others house guests in simple dorm rooms and insist visitors put in a full day’s work, no matter the weather! You could pay as little as $10 to pitch a tent on a property, or spend several hundred on a luxurious suite. Rates typically include breakfast and dinner, which is always farm fresh and delicious! Some farms even offer free accommodation in exchange for hard work. Look to a website like World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms, or WWOOF, to sniff out these free farm stays.

    piggy bank worldIf you favor functionality over frills, staying in a monastery or convent could save you serious cash. While the historic buildings are beautiful and impeccably clean, facilities are modest and rules can be strict. Don’t be surprised to learn alcohol is forbidden, attendance at religious services is compulsory, and evening curfews are stringently enforced! Some rooms have private bathrooms, but most often you’ll need to share. Single beds are also the norm, so they’re best suited to solo travelers. Some monasteries and convents charge as little as $20 for their rooms, while others will gladly accept a donation. If you’re happy to prepare meals, welcome pilgrims, and take on other household duties you might even score a room for free!

    So don’t get stuck in the hotel rut when planning your next vacation. Trying a new accommodation style could broaden your holiday horizons and save you some serious cash.

  • Australian Hostels in Europe – Affordable Aussie-Themed Backpackers Accommodation

    Many Northerners long for the warm weather and knockabout charm of an Australian vacation. But even with the affordable accommodation offered by Australian youth hostels, the airfares alone put a journey Down Under out of the reach of many frugal travelers. Yet you needn’t starve yourself to afford a little piece of Oz, with many Australian themed backpackers popping up all over Europe.

    When most Europeans think of Australian style hostels they think of Wombats.  No, not the stocky marsupial, but the chain with locations in Vienna, Berlin, and Munich. Despite its Australian animal inspired name, the Wombats company isn’t owned by Aussies. However there’s a touching story behind that moniker. It came about when Germany’s Sascha Bock and Marcus Praschinger met charismatic local John “The Sucker” O’Sullivan while traveling in Oz. John dreamed of owning a hostel named after his favorite marsupial, but died before he ever got the opportunity. This budget chain is a tribute to him, and a realization of his goals. Something tells me John would approve of these lively establishments, with their famous womBars.

    Latvia seems an unlikely place for dinky-di digs, but the country’s capital Riga actually has a couple of Australian themed backpackers’ hostels. Aussie ex-pat Frank turned the city’s medieval castle into Friendly Fun Frank’s. This cheery hostel offers views of the picturesque Daugava River and the equally appealing good looks of its stunning female staffers. No wonder male travelers can’t resist stopping here! The convenient location, just a stone’s throw from Riga’s clubs and pubs, probably doesn’t hurt any either. And if you don’t feel like stepping out, you can always down a few cleansing ales at the hostel’s 24-hour sports bar.

    Riga is also home to the Australian themed Argonaut. It’s run by a former Aussie army officer, but the atmosphere is anything but rigid. This place is all about getting out and experiencing all that life has to offer, just as the Aussies do. Hostel employees organize hot-air ballooning tours, shooting excursions, snowboarding and skiing adventures, and even skydiving. While the rooms are basic there are some real perks, including free WiFi in every dorm and complimentary breakfast each morning. The hostel is located on one of the city’s best shopping streets, far away from the capital’s infamous striptease clubs. That might disappoint some male travelers, but this up market neighborhood should give skittish travelers some peace of mind.

    Continue your Australian experience in the Baltic region with a stay at Croatia’s Ravnice Hostel. Its owner Vera Pesjak was born in Zagreb, but lived in Australia during the 90s. While she’s returned to the place of her birth, her hostel ensures her adopted homeland isn’t too far from her thoughts. Pesjak’s warm hospitality helps to make up for the location, which is far from Zagreb’s city center. A tram will take you to the heart of town, but it’s a bit inconvenient for a night out. The suburban location means the Ravnice attracts a more subdued clientele than the average hostel. It’s a great place for chilling out and making some genuine connections in Croatia.Australia globe

    So Europe’s Australian themed hostels might not always offer the most reliable representation of life in Oz, but there’s a certain appeal to their kitschy homage to the Land Down Under. They’ll never be a true substitute for a trip to the Southern Hemisphere, but they’re a fun accommodation alternative for a budget European vacation!

  • Etiquette for Backpackers – How to Behave in Hostels

    Backpackers have a reputation for being smelly, loudmouthed layabouts. Outsiders might assume that there are no rules in these frugal accommodation establishments, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, no one wants to be painted with this very wide brush, or risk infuriating their fellow hostel dwellers. By following these simple tips you can make the most of your hostel stay, and ensure you’re not the backpacker people are whispering about in the halls.

    Hostels aren’t equipped with the lavish wardrobes of resorts and bed and breakfasts, so most backpackers will end up spilling their stuff onto the floor. Moderation is the key here. It’s acceptable to dump a travel bag and the occasional item of clothing, but ensure you don’t encroach onto the territory of others. They need that carpet space too!

    Showers are also in short supply at hostels, so it’s important to respect the queues. Treat them as you would a public bathroom. Get in, do what you need to do as quickly as possible, and get out of there. Save those shower sing-alongs and lengthy grooming routines until you’re back home, and away from easily irritated holiday makers.

    Kitchen space is also limited, so resist the urge to play Emeril Lagasse. The pots, utensils, and appliances are intended for everybody’s use, so stick to the basics and make sure there’s enough to go around. Also remember to clean up when you’re done. No one wants to be greeted by your pile of dirty dishes.

    Backpackers are not, as a rule, early risers. Interrupt their sleep in at your peril. If you must wake early to move on to your next destination or join a guided tour, do so quickly and quietly. Pack as much as you can the night before so you can make the speediest of getaways, or risk some disapproving stares.

    Just because hostel dwellers appreciate the value of a sleep in doesn’t mean they’ll love the snooze button. No one wants to be woken every ten minutes until you can rouse yourself. If you need the extra zees simply set the alarm later.

    Backpackers are also reputedly serious drinkers, but that doesn’t mean that everyone is indulging. Party with the money you’re saving on accommodation by all means, but don’t bring the celebration back to your room. No one will want to join in your revelry if they’ve been woken from a dead sleep by bright lights and loud chatter.

    Being woken by a snorer can be just as irritating. I’m sorry snorers, but you’ll need to spend extra on a private room or risk being smothered in your sleep. It might sound like discrimination, but your fellow frugal travelers will not be as forgiving as your main squeeze.

    Hostel_Celica
    Staying in a hostel is a great way to save money and meet other frugal travelers.

    Speaking of matters of the heart, couples are often tempted to save a few dollars by choosing a dorm. However lovebirds really should stick to the double rooms. No one wants to witness your heated make-out sessions, sickening exchange of pet names, or lover’s tiffs. Unless you’re vacationing with friends who agree to the arrangement, keep your relationship behind your own private closed door.

    Vacationing in a hostel can be a great way to spend a break, without spending a lot of cash, so long as you remember to mind your manners!

  • 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.

  • Making the Most of Your European Hostel Experience

    There’s no quicker way to eat up your European vacation budget than by booking an expensive hotel.

    Luckily, there are plenty of inexpensive alternative lodging options in Europe, the most popular of which are the many hostels found in most major (and some smaller) European cities. “Hostel culture” varies from city to city and establishment to establishment, but most hostels offer sparse, comfortable accommodations (and sometimes even a continental breakfast thrown in) for reduced rates. After all, why should you spend the big bucks on a deluxe hotel room if you will be out and about sightseeing most of the time anyways? Here are some guidelines for finding and booking hostels, as well as making the most of your European hostel experience.
    • Start your search early. As is the case with reasonably priced hotels, hostels fill up quickly, especially during the high tourist season. Although I do have a lot of friends who “hostel it on the fly” (booking accommodations a day in advance as they go), I would suggest reserving a bed in advance to give yourself some peace of mind. Helpful websites for finding hostels in Europe include: www.europeanhostels.com,  www.hosteleurope.com, www.hostels.com and www.famoushostels.com.
    • Read reviews, ask around. Before booking your hostel, try to find reviews of it online (the sites mentioned above have reviews for most of their listings). Even better, ask if any of your friends have stayed in hostels in your destination city and ask them for recommendations. There are some hostels that look great on line, but are unsanitary or unsafe in reality. It’s best to avoid this unpleasant experience by doing your research ahead of time. [caption id="attachment_5344" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Staying in a hostel is a great way to save money and meet other frugal travelers."]Europe hostel photo[/caption]
    • Find out the specifics regarding the accommodations. Each hostel is a little different, so it’s important to know exactly what you’re getting yourself into before you commit. Most hostels offer individual rooms with shared bathrooms (located in the hallway), double rooms, quad rooms or “dorms” that sleep 8 or more. Of course, the fewer people to a room, the more expensive the rates are, but sometimes it’s worth it for the guaranteed privacy. Some hostels provide linens (sheets, towels, etc.) and some don’t, so it’s a good idea to ask (especially if  you’ll be traveling from afar and don’t want to or can’t bring your own linens with you. It’s important to understand exactly what you’ll be getting for the price.
    • Find out about the area surrounding the hostel. As is to be expected, most hostels aren’t located in the “swanky” parts of the city. Do a little research on the area in which the hostel is located to make sure that you will feel safe when you’re walking to and from the hostel at night. This is especially important if traveling alone.
    • Enjoy the hostel culture. Hostel “dwellers” are a diverse group, and most are excited to share their travel knowledge if asked. If you’ve just arrived, strike up a conversation with a friendly looking traveler and ask him or her about his or her experience in the city. You’re sure to learn a lot and perhaps even make some friends who will make your trip even more enjoyable. Some hostels have bars or cafeteria-style restaurants attached to them. Hang out in these public places to meet new people and enjoy the hostel culture.
    • When you get home, review the hostel online. Throw fellow travelers a bone and review your hostel experience online. Remember to be honest and include the good, bad and the ugly.

  • Auckland’s Best Backpacker Accommodation for Travelers on a Budget

    New Zealand is a haven for adventurous young tourists who’d prefer to spend their travel budget on the next big thrill than accommodation.

    Thankfully the major metropolitan center of Auckland offers plenty of great value hostels for the visitors who'd prefer to save their pennies. YHA Auckland Hostel was called one of the country’s best by Frommers, and many of the 50, 000 guests who check in each year. There’s a lot to like about this place, from the location (just five minutes’ walk from the city center) to the features. Guests can choose from basic share rooms to private twins, doubles, and ensuites. The lounge area has a pool table and SKY TV, and you can stay in touch with WiFi access. Beds start at NZ$23 and private rooms start at NZD $82. City Garden Lodge is located in Parnell, on the city's fringes. There are private rooms and share accommodation, including the ladies share option for girls who don’t want mixed company. You can walk to local restaurants and retail stores, and the Link bus service is close by if you want to get to the centre of town. Prices range between NZD$28 and NZD$68 a night.newzealand-money-calculator If you'd prefer to get out of the city altogether consider Verandahs Backpackers Lodge in ritzy Ponsonby. This suburb is pretty exclusive, but rooms here cost between NZD$23 and NZD$50 a night. Add an extra $2 onto the bill if you need to hire towels. The family-run business offers an alternative to the rowdy hostels of the city, with dorm rooms and private suites catering for the "peace seeking traveler." The lodge has two separate villas, each with their own lounge area equipped with a book exchange and computers with internet access. Pentlands Backpackers in Mt Eden offers beds at a comparable price. The standard range of accommodation costs travelers between NZD$28 and NZD$58 a night. Pentlands is another family owned business set in a renovated colonial homestead. While the setting has an old world charm, it offers plenty of modern conveniences including internet access, heated rooms, a video and book library, and a comfortable lounge area. It’s located three kilometers from the city, but Mt Eden has a shopping center if you’re in need of a quick retail fix. These backpackers hostels are the district’s most popular, but they're just the tip of the iceberg. Visit AucklandNZ to discover more of the city's affordable accommodation options.

  • Backpacker’s Guide to Vietnam – Budget Traveling Around Asia

    Backpackers hoping to enjoy the real Asia without the frills should definitely consider a trip to Vietnam.

    The country’s tourism industry is relatively new, so it offers visitors a more authentic experience than many Asian nations.

    These are also not publicized as well as they might be in other countries, so a Vietnam guidebook is a good investment for making the most of your stay. Vietnam is a very affordable destination, with one American dollar equaling approximately 18, 475 Vietnamese Dong (VND). It's easy to find meals for around 15, 000 VND, so travelers can easily eat on in Vietnam for a week for less than $20 US. The biggest temptation for travelers is shopping. While there are bargains to be had, it's easy for them add up once you get started! Vietnam has accommodation to suit all budgets, from luxury resorts to hostels. These hostels offer the best value for backpackers who don't mind forgoing some creature comforts. Hostel Vietnam is a useful website for backpackers researching hostels near their chosen destinations. Another affordable alternative is Hill Tribe living. This authentic Vietnamese experience takes travelers to remote communities to live with the locals. The basic accommodation makes the hostels look luxurious, but tours with companies like Handspan Adventure Travel offer backpackers an unparalleled cultural experience. Vietnamese people are very friendly to tourists and happy to speak English if they can.
    However, it's worth learning a few basic phrases, especially if you're planning to visit the villages. In these rural communities many people do not speak English, so some simple sentences are helpful for communicating. This website has an excellent and comprehensive guide detailing basic phrases and more specific words for food and drink, getting around, and other relevant areas. The cities should not be avoided though as they do offer plenty for tourists looking to meet other travelers. Nightclubs and cafes are ideal for meeting other people, as are internet cafes. To learn more about the best places to go, consult the staff in your hotel or hostel.

  • Budget Travel Destinations Worldwide

    In today’s economy travel is a luxury many people cut back on. But really, you don’t have to! FrugalMonkey offers travel deals and advice that allows vacationers and backpackers to travel without having to worry over money issues.


    By picking cheap or discounted airfares, finding reasonable hotels and hostels and by planning your vacation the right way, you don’t have to miss out on the perfect vacation. Instead, you can be living it!

    Europe has been a popular travel destination for years. Backpackers and luxury travelers alike have been bouncing in and out of Europe to see its multitude of cultures, vast landscapes and to experience life in some of the most beautiful and interesting countries in the world. Lately however, travel in Europe has lulled as a result largely due to issues in the economy. Travel companies and airlines however, are now offering very reasonable flights from the U.S. to Europe during the winter months – a great time to indulge in some traveling. Many of these deals are featured in newspapers, an excellent place to look for budget travel deals and discount vacation packages. While a large deterrent in traveling to Europe continues to be the dollar’s value against the euro you can easily cut down on travel expenses by purchasing a EuroRail Pass. These passes, which come in a variety of availabilities, allow travelers to move easily between Europe’s many beautiful countries. It is perhaps the most economical way to travel in Europe and will save you potentially thousands in rental car fees and flights.

    Thailand is another very popular tourist location and is steadily increasing in popularity. The beauty of the country and the exoticness of the people and landscape are hard to pass up. However, in light of recent airport closures and political issues in the region, it is losing its allure to these travel annoyances.


    These issues taking place in Thailand are very concentrated in only a few specific areas and can easily be avoided by planning trips that avoid these travel ‘hot spots.’ However, while these travel pitfalls and fears are very easy to avoid it has slowed tourism to Thailand, a country where the economy relies heavily on the money and attention foreigners who travel bring to the area. As such there are some excellent travel deals emerging from Thailand where airfare and hotels can be found at practically a steal! While travelers need to always keep in mind the possibility of airport closures and other travel annoyances, there is a serious silver lining to be taken advantage of as a result. Put frankly, there are plenty of open airports in Thailand as well as surrounding areas and this region is a world traveler’s must see. Take advantage of these deals now!

    Aside from going overseas travelers look at the many beautiful places that can be found on U.S. soils as well. Hawaii is one particularly popular travel location that is a favorite among U.S. citizens and world travelers alike. Not only known for its pristine beaches and beautiful locale the Hawaiian Islands, until recently, have been known for being a rather expensive vacation spot; hardly a haven for the budget traveler. However, with its recent slow in tourism hotels in Hawaii are now offering hotel-packages way below normal prices! This practically never happens and is the perfect time to see a place budget travelers would otherwise not be able to afford. FrugalMonkey has an entire section dedicated specifically to travel in Hawaii; an excellent place to learn more about travel and savings in this beautiful and famous travel friendly location.

    Check back each week for more travel and budget friendly advice from FrugalMonkey!