A resource for independent travelers
Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, is a city known around the world for its lavishness. However, serious savings are possible in this opulent city. You just need to know the experts. Here’s what our sources had to say about seeing this Middle Eastern city on a shoestring. Accommodation: The folks at Hostel Bookers know [...]
Trekking to the world’s top destinations doesn’t have to mean throwing financial responsibility to the wind. A few basic strategies can have you saving big while still enjoying world-class sightseeing opportunities. Here are a few tips to get you started. (See also: World-Class Walking Tours) Time: Extended-stay passes brought our daily rates down to a song at [...]
Along with Washington’s free museums and national zoo comes a reputation for being really expensive when it comes to food, beverages and affordable vacation lodging. For those who want to experience this national gem without wiping out their savings account, the following tips should prove helpful. (See also: Thrifty Things to Do in Quito, Ecuador) [...]
Free of automobiles and reachable by Shepler’s Ferry for a mere $22 per round-trip ticket, Michigan’s Mackinac Island is the epitome of time travel on a budget. Horse-drawn carriage taxis and delivery carts, picture-perfect period buildings and bicycle liveries abound, making for a couple’s or multigenerational family getaway you won’t soon forget. Fun: The island’s [...]
A hidden gem of the British Columbia tourism experience lies in a picturesque wonderland known as the Okanagan Valley. A myriad of boutique wineries and charming bed and breakfast establishments, combined with a noteworthy culinary scene make this a travel destination to take seriously. Here are just some of the ways this Canadian travel pearl [...]
Many people include hiking in their travel agendas when they come to New England. Because of a National Park, a National Forest, several state parks and other preserved land, there are a lot of hiking trails in the 5-state area. What people may not know is how many of those trails include waterfalls. Over 400 [...]
Searching for a scenic and unusual vacation? Wales is a winner. Accessible countryside, commanding castles and numerous archaeological attractions make this European destination worthy of your tourist time. It’s also the birthplace of poet Dylan Thomas, and home to the quirky yet notable World Bog Snorkeling Championship. Here’s how to make the most of your [...]
All eyes will soon be turning to England for the 2012 Summer Olympics. For the budget conscious, reducing accommodation costs and looking for other ways to keep expenses low while planning to visit the Olympics will help make a visit memorable but not bank busting. Photo courtesy Andy Roberts Photos
Known for its glitz, glamour and cha-ching price tag, Las Vegas tempts many a traveler to its world-famous collection of dinner shows, spas, restaurants and shopping venues. Hoping to experience Sin City on the cheap? Try these tips. Food: Happy hour deals offer a source of cheap eats for Vegas visitors. Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria and [...]
The upcoming London Olympics have many searching for sportier vacations. Park City, Utah, home to numerous high-altitude competitions during the Salt Lake games, offers a world-class getaway with an authentic Olympic vibe. Activities: Ready to relax? Align Spa’s atmosphere is part Zen garden, part Bohemian loft. Their $35 Ski Boot Revenge treatment includes a foot [...]
The Big Apple is one of the most expensive places in the world, but Lauren Fairbanks of Life Styler Mag, a New York City budget blog, knows how to tour NYC on a shoestring. Her first tip? Check out Prospect Park in Brooklyn, which has free music and dance acts during summer months. For comedy, [...]
College students and parents of school children alike must annually consider which spring break ideas they’d like to take advantage of. Needless to say that with both categories of vacation planners, budget is an issue. Here are my top picks for money-saving spring break ideas. Pitch a tent. If you’re looking to visit someplace warm, [...]
This guest post was written by Tiffany Karabaich. Our love for the many creatures of this Earth may have been ignited by our local zoos and aquariums, showing us the many different species that share our planet. But as we become older, we want more. We want to see more, do more, and really live [...]
With direct flights from a number of cities and a unique blend of European and Caribbean-style charm, Bermuda beckons its fair share of visitors. Here’s how to experience Bermuda beach travel on a budget. Activities: Free activities abound throughout Bermuda, including the skirling ceremony performed by authentically-kilted bagpipers, hiking the Railway Trail, and guided walking [...]
Sports enthusiasts, food fans and culture lovers flock to Boston for fun, excitement and fabulous dining. Failing to plan however, can result in serious sticker shock. Follow these thrifty travel tips to experience Beantown on a budget. Fees: Driving in Boston can be tedious to say the least, and relying on taxis can rapidly run [...]
Vegas, baby. Two words that inspire many to hop a last-minute plane ride to a world-famous mecca of luxury and decadence and toss their cares to the wind. While there are countless experiences in Las Vegas worth your tourist time. These four represent a few of my favorites. Blue Man Group Performing live at the [...]
This doorway exemplifies the typical architecture one can expect to see when touring Venice, Italy. Similar photo ops are possible along the various alleyways and canals throughout the city.
Known for its chocolate, waffles and beer as well as its lace and in-season mussels, Belgium brings a wealth of old-world charm to the European tour experience. Those who fear it’s out of financial reach should be pleasantly surprised to learn just how affordable the country can be for the budget traveler. Follow these thrifty [...]
Sights like the ancient city of Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and the floating islands of the Uros tribe are just some of the reasons Peru makes a picture-perfect vacation destination. Other hot attractions include the world-famous Nazca Lines, Lake Titicaca, the ruins at Pachacamac and the Peruvian National Museum in Lima. While it can [...]
When winter sets in and your soul craves sand and surf, booking a trip to the Bahamas might be just what the doctor ordered. These travel tips will help keep budget concerns at bay while still allowing you to enjoy a bit of luxury. Experiences: Dinner guests at Graycliff – an antique Bahamian mansion that’s [...]
This man in Petra, Jordan takes a break with his donkey after taking tourists for a ride along the Siq. Petra is known around the world as the ancient rose red city in the rocks.
Dreaming of a snow-draped destination wedding this winter, but fear it’s out of financial reach? With proper planning and savvy shopping, it can be more affordable than you might think. Follow these tips to save without skimping on your magical day. Activities: By arranging to have your winter destination wedding at a location loaded with [...]
This antique clock tower was photographed in the seaside town of Jaffa, Israel, which has been in existence since around the time of Noah. The town is a pleasant stroll from the city of Tel Aviv, and home to several great seafood restaurants and artists’ shops.
History, architecture and some of the most impressive artwork in the world draw visitors to Venice, Italy by the millions. A popular life-list destination, the city is considered prohibitively expensive by many travelers. However, it is possible to pinch a few pennies during your visit. Transportation: There’s no driving in Venice, so getting around the [...]
There are endless reasons why Cape Town appears on lists as Africa’s most popular tourist destination. Cape Town’s landscape, from beaches to mountains, its history, and its cultural vibe make it an unforgettable trip. However, don’t let its looks overwhelm you or your wallet. Working with a budget of $100, one can still have a [...]
With the 2012 London games rapidly approaching, many travelers are wondering how to have the most affordable Olympic experience possible. Fortunately, a number of free and low-cost options are available to visitors of this historic English city. Live Locations: Live Olympic events coverage will be provided on large, outdoor screens in more than 20 urban [...]
If you’re looking for something more than your typical community pool excursions to fulfill your family fun goals this summer, consider the celebration of science. Numerous affordable options are available. These are some of my favorites. Freebies: LIGO, the Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory in Livingston, Louisiana offers free group fieldtrips to their facility and [...]
If scenes of the Space Needle and Seattle Aquarium have you dreaming of a getaway to this seaside destination, I’m happy to report you’ll be able to vacation there affordably. Here’s the inside scoop from two Seattle experts. Food: Seattle resident Andrea Karim knows where to go for good grub. Her top picks include the [...]
This simple street scene was photographed on the islet of Sirmione, along the shores of Italy’s Lake Garda. It’s a popular destination for tourists to take a boat ride, go for a swim, tour ancient Roman ruins and catch a romantic Italian dinner.
Today’s post features Travel Blogger Ben Reed from adventureswithben.com. Ben’s blog takes a light-hearted look at travel as he discovers the most fun destinations around the world. If you could only travel to one country in the world, my pick would be South Africa. The majesty of the animals, striking landscapes and spirit of the [...]
Known for bling and Beyoncé sightings, Miami isn’t usually celebrated for its affordability. So how do you have a financially-feasible getaway in this city filled with glitz and glamour? Enjoy it like a local. According to the Miami Downtown Development Authority, it’s one of the fastest-growing urban centers in the United States, boasting an 85 [...]
The piazza in Pisa, Italy is one of the most beautiful in the world, and a popular place for tourists to picnic while taking in a little sightseeing. There are other things to see in Pisa as well, as the city has been around for generations.
Birding requires minimal equipment and suits a variety of travel budgets. From back yard viewing to international excursions, here are several tips for birding on a budget. Destinations: Choose a place that’s rich in bird life with affordable day-to-day expenses to maximize your money. For example, Uganda is home to half the bird species in [...]
This recreated lunar orbiter is on display at the Kennedy Space Center, in Titusville. It’s part of the exhibit collection at the Saturn V Center, which makes for an excellent stop on a daytrip to KSC. People from all over the world visit this venue when visiting Orlando, as the United States’ space program is [...]
This view was photographed from a castle wall near Bolzano, Italy. There are many castles in the area, as well as wineries, farm stays, ecological experiences and cultural performances. The area is also a popular destination for ski holidays in the winter.
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This Andean woman takes a break from selling her wares to socialize with tourists in Peru's Sacred Valley.
The ancient Nabatean city of Petra, Jordan provides a peek into ancient civilization and also into the local Bedouin culture, which values the social experience of drinking tea highly.
This stand of palm trees against a blue sky is located in Florida's Longboat Key, one of the islands of Sarasota. It's a popular getaway with tourists and Florida residents alike, when one wants a taste of forgotten Florida.
Exploring the world-famous archeological site of Machu Picchu takes some time. In order to make the most of your visit, it's best to arrive at Aguas Calientes an afternoon ahead of schedule and head up the mountain first thing the next morning.
This command module is part of the Saturn V rocket display at the Kennedy Space Center, which is a must-see exhibit if you only have one day at the KSC. The entire venue is right down the road from the Astronaut Hall of Fame, another fun family attraction on Florida's space coast.
This abandoned mosque in Israel lies along the shores of Lake Tiberius, otherwise known as the sea of Galilea. The view of the ancient stones and overgrown plants struck me as sort of an Indiana Jones image with a bit of Middle Eastern flair.
This resort cottage photograph was taken at the thermal hot springs resort of Papallacta, located in the mountains of Ecuador. The mist rising off of the thermal pools brings a bit of a mystical quality to the image.
