There are so many tips and words of advice about how to save
money when you’re on holiday, but sometimes it feels as if these money-saving
ideas take the fun out of what’s supposed to be a good time. Aside from essentials
like insurance and foreign currency considerations, there are ways to prevent
your holiday savings from turning into holiday debt, without turning your trip
into an exercise in penny-pinching.
Destination
Did you know that in summertime in Greece, a cappuccino that
would normally cost a couple of pounds is pushed over five pounds? Popular
destinations are always more expensive and so why not consider somewhere less
popular where everything is not only cheaper but less crowded.
If you want a Mediterranean beach holiday, don’t think
Spain, Greece or the French Riviera, instead consider countries like Malta and
Croatia that have some of the most beautiful coastlines in the world.
Everything from accommodation to food will be cheaper in the places that aren’t
on the top of everyone’s list.
Food
Food and drink is always a big part of travel expenditure.
The best advice when looking for places to eat whether you’re in London or Rome
is to get off the main streets. Go for a walk down the alleyways and quieter
roads and you’ll always find not only better but cheaper food. Tourist traps on
the main drag are always a let down. Save money and have a better meal in
out-of-the-way trattorias, cafes, bistros and canteens.
Seek out the local market and hot spots for street food. In
some countries, street vendors provide the best food in town. You’ll get local
treats made by experienced cooks for very little money. It’s the best way to
enjoy local food and atmosphere particularly in Asia, the middle east and even
parts of Europe.
To keep costs low and prevent the boredom that often come
from eating out at every meal, why not dine out only for evening meals?
For breakfast you can grab a coffee and pastry, or keep a
loaf of bread or some yoghurt and muesli in your room. Make sandwiches and take
packed lunches with you. Find a place where you can get a load of fresh fruit
for snacks and fill your own water bottle every day. Remember, every meal doesn’t
have to be an occasion.
Ways of seeing
Forget coach tours and organised groups. These options are
expensive and almost always over crowded, meaning that you end up hearing and
seeing not much at all.
Seek out walking tours. These are often cheaper and done in
smaller groups and will take you to places that might not see on a big tour
with a tour guide who really loves what they do. Hire a bike and take your city
guide with you, or set up a guided tour with a local through a website like
Vayable.
If you catch trains and taxis everywhere, chances are you’ll
miss all of the interesting things in between. Walking or riding through a city
or town is the best way to see a country. You’ll make discoveries off the
beaten track and see the real way of life for the residents.
Accommodation
Just as more walking will help you to see more, the same can
be said for staying just a little further out of town. You could see it as a
money-saving exercise, but why not treat it as an intrepid choice to ensure a
more authentic experience?
Hotels should be the last on your list for places to stay.
There are so many other options for the savvy traveller. With a bit of research
you could stay in a cosy cottage, a room for rent, or even swap your house with
someone else. Apartment living is more cost effective because you’ll get access
to amenities like a kitchen and laundry which can help keep costs down.
Apartments are usually cheaper and more comfortable and situated in parts of
town that aren’t over-run by hoards of tourists.
Instead of seeing these tips as ways to save money while on
holiday, see them as ways to ensure a better holiday. By following these
guidelines, you’ll see and experience more varied and authentic sites and
you’ll eat better and stay healthier by making smart food choices; saving money
is more like a happy by-product of these top travel tips.
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