Many forget that New York is also one of the most expensive cities in the world. With so much incredible culture, people, and energy packed into such a tight area, it makes sense there is only so much room to build on.

For visitors, New York can be extremely rewarding, but it can offer some unique challenges if you are on a tight budget. Luckily, we’ve come to your rescue. Here are some ways to see New York City on a shoestring budget.

1. Staten Island Ferry

This is one of the best-kept secrets in New York City! When most visitors come to New York, they want to get a great view of the Statue Of Liberty.

If it’s a clear day, it’s easy to get a great picture from land, but if it’s a nice day, I highly recommend taking the Staten Island Ferry and getting up close and personal with Lady Liberty.

While many cruises sell tickets for up to $200 for a cruise around the island, you can see the Statue Of Liberty for free!

The Staten Island Ferry is a commuter ferry that runs 24 hours a day (Yes, you can even get pictures at night!) from the tip of Manhattan to Staten Island. The ride takes about 25 minutes one way, so for a round trip, you can plan to be gone for an hour.

Be sure to stand outside on the top deck to get the best views of New York’s most recognizable landmark. If you have time, walk around Staten Island for a bit as they have a free botanical garden that is worth checking out.

2. High Line

The High Line might be my favorite thing to do on a budget in New York City. The 1.5-mile long railroad turned greenway was one of the first of its kind in the world.

It is a great example of how cities are converting their former industrial spaces into functional 21st Century destinations.

The former railroad used to be owned by the New York Central Railroad and used to transport meat from the various warehouses in the Meatpacking District.

It was abandoned in 1980 and it wasn’t until 2006 that the city of New York decided to convert the area into a green space. It was finished in 2009 with another section opening in 2011.

The park now welcomes 5 million visitors each year. Today, visitors are lead along the path and get to discover various parts of High Line’s past. There are various murals, works of art, and plaques that pay homage to the former railroad.

Grab a coffee and get ready to explore one of New York’s most exciting urban projects.

3. Central Park

If you’re looking for what to do in New York City on a budget, then taking a stroll around Central Park should be on your weekend’s bucketlist. Originally built in 1857 on over 700 acres of land right in the heart of New York, Central Park is one of the only green spaces in the city.

It’s massive size is hard to cover in one day. In fact, you could do a whole trip just visiting Central Park with all of the activities you can do in the park itself.

From boat rides and picnics in the summer to ice skating and sledding in the Winter, there is so much to do. Any season is great for visiting, but I recommend going in Fall when all of the leaves start changing colors and the air is crisp.

No matter when or what you want to do in Central Park, it is waiting for you to come and discover the park… The best part about it is that you can save your money for a well-earned drink afterward.

4. Self-Guided Street Art Tour

While street art has been around for a while, it has only come into mainstream media in the last several years. New York being the diverse and cosmopolitan city that it is, attracts some of the best artists in the world to come and leave their mark on the city.

While you can easily find street art on every inch of the city, the best neighborhood to explore for street art is in Bushwick. The area has undergone a massive transformation within the last decade and is now one of New York’s hottest neighborhoods.

It is also home to one of the best outdoor street art galleries on Earth thanks to the Bushwick Collective, a group of talented artists both locally and globally that wanted to make Bushwick beautiful.

While there are many organized tours that will take you around and explain the stories behind each mural, you can easily walk around and do your own self- guided street art tour.

If you happen to be in the area in June, be sure to look up the date of the free annual Bushwick Collective Block Party.

5. Improv Comedy Shows

Looking for a secret that no local wants you to know about? Then you have to check out Upright Citizens Brigade!

They are a local improv company that now has expanded to a few different US cities. The company has been the starting place for many comedians that have eventually moved onto other shows such as Saturday Night Live.

They currently have two locations in New York in the East Village and Hell’s Kitchen. Each location has nightly shows that have something for everyone’s tastes.

Be sure to check out their midnight show on Saturday, but you really can’t go wrong with whatever show you go to.

Not only are the shows entertaining and completely hilarious, but they are also extremely affordable. Most shows will set you back $5 to $12.

Considering this is world class comedy in the heart of the city, I’d say seeing a show at Upright Citizens Brigade is a must for anyone’s New York City bucket list.

6. Get Up High On A Rooftop Bar

Considering that most of the time in New York you’re craning your neck to look at all the tall skyscrapers, it can be refreshing to turn the tables upside down and look down on the city.

The only problem is, doing that can cost a lot! With places that allow this such as the Empire State Building costing quite a fair amount.

Solution? Find a rooftop bar, get a drink, and sip away overlooking the whole of New York.

A cheap rooftop bar I’d recommend is Rare View, which is located on 152 West 26^th Street. It serves fantastic drinks, is in a prime location to see the city, and also offers a great bar and grill if you’re feeling peckish. It usually opens late afternoon.

There are other cheap rooftop bars too such as Cantina Rooftop (605 West 48^th Street) which serves Mexican drinks & food.

7. The New York City Explorer Pass

Want to see lots of attractions? Then you should opt for the New York City explorer pass. This is definitely the best way to enjoy a weekend in New York City on a budget while still seeing lots of stuff.

On the pass you’ll save up to 50% on top attractions. Attractions include all the “touristy” stuff such as museums, Empire State Building, Madame Tussauds’ wax museum, and other cruises and tours.

A similar option is the standard CityPass. You pay around $120 / £90 and get access to 6 top attractions.

If you really want to see all the tourist stuff, these passes are awesome ways to enjoy a touristy weekend in New York City on a budget.

8. Find The Best Cheap Spots To Eat

Here are some awesome (and cheap!) places to eat some good food in New York City.

• Levain Bakery (167 West 74^th Street) for some AMAZING cookies.
• Pisillo Italian Panini (97 Nassau St) for some incredibly fresh Italian sandwiches served fast.
• Los Tacos No. 1 (229 West 43^rd Street) for some authentic Mexican street food.
• Fiore Deli of Hoboken (414 Adams Street) for some awesome Italian deli.
• Frisson Espresso (326 West 47^th Street) for some of the best coffee in New York.

Check out more great, cheap places here. If you do, you’re doing it right!

Other Money-Saving Tips For Your Weekend In New York

• Skip the cab at the airport and instead use the Air Train and then jump on the A train-line (the longest line in New York’s subway system).
• Buy an 7-day unlimited metro card for around $32 / £24 for unlimited local bus and subway rides until 12am.
• Travel to New Jersey if you want to shop a lot (try shopping at Newport Centre or Westfield Garden State Plaza in particular).
• Walk! This city is great, skip the public transport and soak in the city.
• Try to eat at home about once-per-day. (There are many places to buy fresh ingredients).
• Use CouchSurfing or AirBnb to sort out accommodation. Hotel chains are more expensive and less authentic.
• If you’re looking for where to stay in New York on a budget, places in New Jersey, Queens or Brooklyn are considered cheaper areas.
• Look out for the 99¢ pizza signs to eat large and delicious pizza on the go!
• Carry your own water bottle and refill it. New York’s water purification system is top-class.
• Look for coupons online before booking. Groupon, LivingSocial or DestinationCoupons are good options. Or download the Honey extension for your internet browser.

How Much To Budget For Your New York Trip

All things considered, and following these budget tips, we think it’s definitely possible to enjoy a weekend in New York spending around $80 in total per day for the conscientious, and around $100-$150 for the average joe.

If you’re looking to spend a weekend in New York City on a budget please share any other tips you know about in our comment section below. Happy travels!

Suggested next reading: 6 Must-See Places You Absolutely Have To Experience In New York

The post How To Best Enjoy A Weekend In New York City On A Budget appeared first on Modern Trekker.

As Scotland is such a popular tourist destination it can also be quite expensive, particularly during certain times and in certain areas. There are, however, a lot of reasonably priced options for you to choose from and things you can do to make it as easy on the bank as possible. You just need a bit of travel advice, and especially if you’re traveling to Scotland for the first time!

Here’s how you can travel Scotland on a budget:

Getting There

Depending on where you’re traveling from it can be really expensive to travel to Scotland, however, a lot of the budget airlines travel there from European countries.

Even if you have to fly into another part of Scotland, Edinburgh and Glasgow tend to be the cheapest options, and getting a bus at the end to your actual destination could be a lot more cost effective than paying extra for a second flight. Megabus is a brilliant method for cheap travel in the UK, so they are worth a look.

Travel Whilst You’re There

Although travelling around Scotland by car is a lot of fun (check out this awesome Scottish road trip here), if you’re working on a tight budget, stick to public transport.

Taxi costs will add up to a very expensive trip, as mentioned above use Megabus to travel from city to city, but when you’re in those cities use their buses, trams and undergrounds instead of spending a fortune on other travel options, I would even suggest going to a travel center and getting a travel bus pass in the places that provide it (such as Edinburgh) as they also give you discount options for restaurants and attractions.

If you go when there is warm weather you could even rent a bike, it works out much cheaper than any other transport option.

When heading to the islands like Orkney or Shetland you’ll probably find yourself traveling by boat, it’s an amazing experience traveling to these islands and I would 100% recommend it. This can be slightly more expensive than the options listed above, but if you book ahead you’re likely to find a better deal.

When To Go

Generally, as with most holidays, you’re better to go when the schools are in term (see when the Scottish schools are in term here). All your travel, accommodation and general price options will be cheaper due to them not expecting as many people traveling during that time.

This rules out the Summer, which could work in your favor if you’re not a fan of crowds, but still enjoy doing the more touristy things. Bear in mind though that if you’re visiting the bigger cities in Scotland you are likely to encounter a lot of tourists, especially in places like Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness.

August/September time in Scotland tends to be hectic because of the Edinburgh Fringe. Unless that’s the reason you’re traveling to Scotland, avoid those months because even the cities outside of Edinburgh get a higher level of tourists at that time and all the accommodation options skyrocket.

I’d say the best time to go if you’re looking to save money is from January to April time. If you travel in the Spring you’re likely to get nice weather, avoid the crowds and save your money.

Where To Go

There are many bargain breaks in Scotland. These are usually the lesser-known cities (i.e. not Edinburgh, Glasgow or Inverness) and include Aberdeen, Perth and Stirling (which has actually been shown to be the cheapest city in all of the UK!)

In general, Northern Scotland is cheaper than Southern Scotland since a lot of the tourist attractions there are free. You will also usually find that the food is a bit cheaper too.

Accommodation

Avoid hotels. This is something I always recommend when traveling because they cost so much. If you are looking to save look at Bed-And-Breakfasts or Hostels in bigger cities as a cheaper alternative.

Often bed-and-breakfasts are a great way to connect with the local community and they are sometimes run by locals to the place they’re in so they can give you the best advice for things to do around the city/town etc.

Hostels are a brilliant option, and no you don’t have to be a young backpacker to use them, nor do you absolutely HAVE to share a room. They have private rooms available in most hostels, and although you’d have to share your bathroom and kitchen area it could be a viable option if you’re planning on traveling to Scotland for quite some time. You’ll meet a lot of amazing people, share travel stories and save money whilst doing it.

Another option for the more adventurous is to go wild camping, this is possible because, in Scotland, they passed the “Freedom to Roam” act in 2003. This will save you a lot of money on accommodation.

Finally, another option would be to do a house sit. This is a great way to save money and you’re also helping other people out! You can check out available house sits here.

Food

Don’t bother with the large chain restaurants if you want to save money. Scotland is really good at pub food at a decent price and you can definitely find a Wetherspoons (£5.99 for a meal and a drink—bargain!) in almost all the bigger places. This also gives you a good feel of Scottish culture.

If you’re visiting a smaller place try and find a small independent restaurant as they don’t need to hike their prices up the same way that chain restaurants do.

If you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen, find a supermarket and get your own food in, not every meal when traveling has to be an outing, although it might be nicer to go out, it will eat into a large part of your travel budget.

However, the food in Scotland is great, so if you REALLY have to spend a bit more on the food here, we’ll let you off!

What To Do

It might be tempting to visit the zoos, paid castles and museums, but Scotland offers so many free options. Find the free museums, art galleries and visit castle ruins.

If you really want to do one of the touristy things then budget for it and put money aside at the start of the trip so you don’t touch it.

There are so many beaches, waterfalls, and cliff walks in Scotland, seek them out as they are free and the views are absolutely breathtaking. Scotland offers free walking tours in many places, they normally take a couple of hours and will give you a better insight of the history, culture and architecture of Scotland. Once again, these are mostly available in the larger cities.

Look For Vouchers And Book Ahead

When you’re booking your travel, accommodation or thinking about where to eat, turn to the internet. One of the best things the internet can provide you is money off the things you do.

If you find an online voucher but don’t want to use up your data, almost everywhere you go has free WiFi available, however in certain areas you might not have any way of reaching them, so ask locals where you can print it off. This can be especially helpful when booking accommodation and travel options though.

If you do want to do any of the big touristy things I would book ahead, especially if you see a deal. A lot of these places have special deals you can only get by booking online.

Booking ahead also means that all the money you have with you is yours for food, drink, presents and emergencies.

How Much Does It Cost To Go To Scotland For A Week?

We calculate that a trip to Southern Scotland for a week (minus plane tickets) will cost around £250-£400 (which is about $325-$520).

This is assuming that you are visiting the tourist options, going sightseeing, using Airbnb, hostels or Bed-And-Breakfasts, and eating out at a few restaurants and cafés.

Northern Scotland will be a bit cheaper since, as already mentioned above, a lot of the tourist attractions there are free.

You probably could do it even cheaper than this, but this should give you a general guideline to a Scotland trip cost.

Ready to travel Scotland on a budget? Go for it! Know any more budget travel tips? Comment below! I hope you found this blog useful!

Suggested next reading: 8 Magical Places In Scotland Totally Worth Visiting

The post How To Travel To Scotland On A Budget (Written By A Scot!) appeared first on Modern Trekker.

But let’s just be clear, Ireland is an expensive country. Though as I’ve said, it is indeed very possible to enjoy your time in Ireland on a budget. In fact, I think you can even stick to a travel budget of 40 Euros a day.

With a good amount of trip planning and willingness to sacrifice comfort for saving some money, it is possible to make Ireland affordable. Luckily, we’ve gone ahead and done the homework for you. So sit back, relax, and take notes on how to travel Ireland on a budget.

Transportation

Ireland is not a massive country like the US or Russia so it is possible to drive from one end of the country to the other in one day.

I recommend renting the smallest, most affordable yet dependable car possible. Book well in advance to ensure you get the best pricing for your rental car. This is where traveling with a friend or partner comes in handy because you can split the cost of the car and make it even cheaper.

Like anything else, the longer you have the car, the further the daily rate goes down so if you do choose to rent a car, try to have it for at least 5 days or a week.

The second option I’d recommend for transportation would be to cycle across Ireland. This option is considerably cheaper, but definitely more of an adventure and you must have much more time to travel around Ireland.

The final option which is definitely the cheapest way to travel around Ireland is using your own two feet and walking! I know this sound crazy, but according to Google Maps, if you walk from Dublin to Galway, it would only take you 42 hours. You could realistically walk the country in one week.

Of course, this is assuming that you are doing this walk in summer. Along the way, you can discover the charming Irish countryside and stay in smaller towns.

Accommodations

Speaking of where to stay, there are various budget-friendly options you should know about as you’re planning your own trip to Ireland.

The first is to bring your own camping gear and stay in camping sites. This low-cost option involves more planning to make sure you have all of the right equipment but can be extremely rewarding waking up in Ireland’s lush, green hills. There are plenty of camping sites that are specifically designed for travelers with all of the amenities you need including showers.

Be wary of camping outside of these sites, as it is considered illegal. Make sure you get the express consent of landowners before pitching your tent somewhere.

The next option for budget travelers is to stay in hostels. While in major cities such as Dublin, you will pay a premium, outside of these cities, hostels get considerably cheaper. You can expect to pay 15 Euros a night with many including breakfast in the price. A nice bonus part about hostels is that it is easy to meet fellow travelers and maybe you can even hitch a ride to the next town.

Dining

As a traveler that does plenty of sports when I travel, I struggle the most with not spending a fortune on eating out. Luckily, I have found some methods that work anywhere in the world to save some money on food.

The best way for eating in Ireland on a budget is to determine how much you are willing to spend daily on food. For example, maybe you only want to spend 15 Euros a day on food, you have to do your research and look for any restaurant specials you can find.

Something that has helped me tremendously, however, is not eating out at restaurants. I always try to find local markets or grocery stores. In Ireland, large supermarkets such as Tesco, Dunnes, Asda, or Sainsbury’s offer the most affordable food.

I look for any discounts, coupons, or specials that the store currently has. I usually stick to basics such as protein, vegetables, and fruit. I never regularly buy sweets or sodas that don’t add any nutritional value to my meals and just add costs to my budget.

The final piece of advice that I would recommend is to try to cook your own meals whenever possible. Besides being healthier for you, you can save a lot of money by buying the raw ingredients yourself and cooking a nice meal.

If you are traveling with friends or your partner, you can split the costs of the meal to further reduce how much you are spending. If you are staying at a hostel, invite others to have dinner with you and most are more than willing to return the favor the next night.

Sightseeing

Of course, you traveled to Ireland to see the country and there are a ton of places to see! Like many countries, tourism is a massive industry in Ireland and they charge a premium for this service. Have no fear though, if you come prepared and plan ahead, you’ll be able to see everything you want to see without spending a fortune on admission.

One of the best-kept secrets in Ireland’s tourism industry is called the Heritage Card. It costs 90 Euros for two adults and is well worth the cost if you plan on seeing more than 7 historical sites across Ireland. You can easily stop by 8-10 historical sites in a week and each site costs about 13 Euros so the card starts paying for itself quite quickly.

The card works throughout Ireland and looks like a credit card. With the Heritage Card, you’ll have access to over 97 sites within the country. However, be aware that the Cliffs Of Moher is not included on the card and it charges its own rate.

Another little-known piece of advice to take advantage of is that most sites have Wednesdays when entry is free. On these days, each historical site becomes extremely crowded so if you want to go, I’d recommend that you go at the opening of the site to make sure you get in without any problems.

Know any other tips to travel Ireland on a budget? Please feel free to share them below in the comments section!

Suggested next reading: 15 Gorgeous Towns In Ireland You Need To See

The post The Perfect Guide On How To Travel Ireland On A Budget appeared first on Modern Trekker.

The northern lights are a phenomenon visible only during the winter every year and this show occurs when particles from the sun crash into particles in our atmosphere, giving off energy as colored light. They are unpredictable and can be easily missed.

If you want to see this stunning spectacle this year or next, here are 15 things you need to consider when planning a trip to see the northern lights.

1. Timing

It is incredibly important to time your trip right if you plan to see the northern lights, and there are certain times of the year where the lights won’t show up like they do in others.

The winter season from November to February has to be the best time to see Aurora Borealis because the nights are much longer. This gives you more time to see the lights dancing in the sky before the sun comes up.

Despite common belief, coldness has nothing to do with seeing the Aurora Borealis. People only suggest winter because that is when it is darker longer.

2. Choose The Right Countries

Deciding where to see the northern lights could be a make or break decision in successfully seeing them. This is because some locations are better than others for seeing the northern lights. Some simply have more dramatic light displays while also being in areas where they happen more frequently.

These best places include Iceland (e.g.  Reykjavik), Greenland (e.g. Kangerlussuaq), Russia (e.g. Murmansk), Norway (e.g. Tromsø), Finland (e.g. Rovaniemi), Sweden (e.g. Abisko), Alaska (e.g. Elim), and many parts of Canada (e.g. Yellowknife, Northern Saskatchewan, Torngat Mountains National Park, etc.)

More on this topic here.

3. Check The Forecast

Like other activities such as surfing, there is a northern lights forecast available which predicts how active the northern lights will be each and every day. Before you head out it is a good idea for you to have a look at this forecast to see if you will be in for a good show or not.

Ideally, you will want the number on the scale to be Kp=3 or higher for the best chance of a great light show when the sun goes down.

4. Stay Around 5 Days

If you really want to see the northern lights, it’d be a good idea to stay in the area for around 5 days to increase your chances of seeing them.

Often the northern lights will appear for up to 3 nights in a row and then not show for a number of days, thus staying around 5 days increases your chances of seeing them in case you happen to arrive on an off-day.

5. Plan For Winter

Because the northern lights are much more visible during the winter months of the year, it is important to take the time to plan your trip and be ready for the cold weather.

It is always a good idea to check the sunrise and sunset times if you are planning a self-drive tour of the lights because driving at night in a snowy country can be pretty dangerous.

6. Self-drive?

One of the decisions you will want to make for yourself when you choose to go and see the northern lights is whether you will find a dedicated Northern Lights tour operator to join for the trip, or if you will instead simply drive yourself to the spot where you think you’ll be able to see the lights best.

It is totally a matter of personal preference and you can always think of different ways to make the most of your own northern lights trip. Of course, if you do choose a tour guide they will know the best spot to see the lights, but it is still up to you if you would rather go it alone.

If you do choose a northern lights tour, Bubble Tour and Blue Lagoon can be a good place to stay.

7. Book Ahead Of Time

If you’re traveling with someone else, then you’ll want to make sure that you get the best chance to see the northern lights together by booking your stay ahead of time.

It is always super important for you to take the time to book your holiday ahead since it will allow you to take more time to prepare for the trip, as well as ensure that you can save yourself some money on the tickets.

8. Check The Weather

The weather when you are about to go away will have a massive impact on the trip you have and your ability to see the northern lights. It stands to reason that if the sky is covered in cloud or it is raining that you won’t be able to see the lights very well, if at all, and this can be a huge annoyance.

Try to pick a day which will be clear and this will give you the best opportunity to enjoy the lights in all of their glory.

9. Expect Different Colors

The northern lights can appear in a spectrum of colors, including grays. Which means that if there are clouds in the sky, it may be hard to spot the lights if they show up as gray.

Although green is the common color, don’t be surprised to see a few others too. Now you know what to look out for!

10. Face North

Ok, so you’re already in the northern part of the world, so why bother facing north? Can’t the lights just start anywhere if you’re already north? Not necessarily.

You’re more likely to see the northern lights if you’re facing north. So, since you’ve already traveled a long way north to get there, why not just face north too?

11. Bring Snacks, Lots Of Snacks

The day will be long for you if you decide to take a walking tour of the lights through the mountains. Because of this, it is super important for you to bring along some food and some drinks to keep you healthy and energized for the hike.

When you set off for a hike you can always think about something which is high in sugar such as a Kendal mint cake or something which has a lot of protein such as a nutbar. Also, make sure you drink water in small increments to keep you hydrated but to stop you needing the restroom every few minutes.

12. Layer Up

The day and nights are going to be incredibly cold for you when you head off for your trip, and because of this, you’ll need to make sure that you bring lots of layers with you for the trip. It is a good idea for you to visit an outdoor clothing store to gather up things such as sturdy boots and socks, thermal under layers and thick pants and coats for the walk.

Don’t forget to bring items to cover your eyes and face because it can get pretty freezing in these northern countries.

13. Prepare For Walking

It is always a good idea to get away from light pollution when seeing the northern lights, and so you may need to trek a few miles away from cities to best see them.

If you haven’t walked for a while and you want to go and see the northern lights, it’d be best to practice a little bit before going. Walking in your local area and in the mountains in your own home country is a good way to get used to the idea of walking and to build up your stamina a little too.

14. Take A Camera

This one should be a no-brainer when planning a trip to see the northern lights, but don’t forget to bring a camera and a tripod! You’ll want to capture and treasure this sight forever.

Be sure to set your camera to long exposure capture to take the best shots.

15. Go For The Destination As Well As The Lights

The northern lights can be unpredictable, sometimes the aurora forecast can be at a Kp=4, but you’ll still not see anything. Moreover, sometimes you won’t even see the northern lights at all. If you were to just plan a trip to see the northern lights and that was all, this would be a huge disappointment!

To lower the potential disappointment factor, make sure the country you’re visiting to see the lights is also one you’re interested in.

Without sounding too pessimistic, plan a bulletproof holiday itinerary that doesn’t include seeing the northern lights so that, if the worst were to happen, you’d still have a good time and wouldn’t feel too short-changed.

If you’re in the middle of planning a trip to see the northern lights, we hope these 15 tips were helpful for you. Let us know how you get on and share more tips below!

Suggested next reading: 6 Best Places In The World To See The Northern Lights

The post 15 Expert Tips For Planning A Trip To See The Northern Lights appeared first on Modern Trekker.

However, when packing your bags, you don’t think of what you might do to prepare for the beauty you encounter, perhaps aside from bringing a camera or notebook with you. But you must prepare for something you hope never happens, and that’s become in proximity to danger.

Of course, we’re not talking about anything outlandish, such as walking into a warzone territory or having to save the world from an evil genius (but if you do that, more power to you.)

No, it’s the practical, daily realities of world travel that we most need for personal safety while traveling. Doing so can give you the tools to enjoy your best travels, and to make the memories you most wish to curate. For that and more, please read these 11 safety tips for travelers.

1. Medication

Of course, heading abroad can be a stressful time, but one that’s worthwhile if you have everything you need close to hand. Aside from food and water, there’s arguably nothing more important than bringing along your necessary medication with you.

Depending on where you’re going, you might need a range of vaccines in order to immunize yourself against certain issues taking root in the country you hope to visit. This should be taken care of ahead of time.

It’s also essential to bring with you medication that you might hope you never need, or medication to help you through a problem you might contract. For example, malaria tablets could be one of these important items, because contracting it is likely not on your bucket list.

Remember to bring secure compartments filled with the items you might need, such as blood pressure tablets, insulin injections, and simple painkillers. Also, bring with you a humble first aid kit, because you never know when this being at the bottom of your bag could potentially save a life.

Medication matters, and it can help you to no small degree. Make use of your planning, or be sure to carry odds and ends matched by whoever you’re traveling with. And as always, be sure to consult with your doctor before you leave to go abroad.

2. Safety & Funds

It is essential when traveling to another country to keep hold of your money. Travelers cheques can help you convert your money correctly when you head to another country, as they are in your name and can be only redeemed by you even if stolen.

Protective pouches with hidden zips in your bag or belt can help you hide a decent amount of money if anything is stolen from you, helping you out if your belongings are stolen. Also, bringing a fake wallet with you including some old cards you don’t need and a paltry sum of money can help you if you are mugged or pickpocketed abroad.

Another option is using a banking app such as Revolut to store your money wirelessly, giving you access to your bank account, and also providing the best exchange rates on the fly. Not only if this safer (since the card that comes with these apps can be frozen from your phone if lost), but it’ll also save you money because of better exchange rates.

Of course, it’s unhappy to be wary of everyone in a country you hope to enjoy, but sometimes tourists can be targeted for their lack of carefulness, and you should hope to do everything you can to avoid being one of their number.

3. Groups & Street Smarts

While solo travel might have a certain allure to it, it isn’t the wisest option for someone not well versed in a particular region, or perhaps not as traveled as they like to think.

Heading with someone or a group you trust can help you stick together, explore places with the protection of numbers, and ensure that anyone looking to victimize tourists are discouraged by your group looking out for one another.

Also, learning a little fragment of the street smarts in a location can help you avoid issues as they might arise. For example, learning where the areas of poverty are might help you avoid them, or perhaps if a street is known for some kind of gang activity, you might wish to avoid that area too.

You can learn this information from online resources, or from asking the locals depending on where you are. An information tourist board might also help you learn some of this information.

4. Inspecting

Now and then, just give your body a once-over. Make sure nothing has been slipped in your bag, that you’ve had anything taken from you, or that you’ve lost your map. Simply keeping aware of yourself can be the most important thing to keep in check when abroad.

5. Share Your Details With Those You Trust

Don’t leave to go on holiday without first giving your loved ones a detailed itinerary of where you’re going, what you’ll be doing, and your contact details such as phone number, email address, and other social media profiles.

Ask them to contact you every other day or so to ensure you’re still ok. If you don’t reply within a certain number of days, let them know beforehand what they can do to alert the right people and authorities.

6. If You’re Traveling Alone, Don’t Tell People

If you’re traveling alone try to refrain from telling people that you are traveling alone. Seriously, even if they seem trustworthy, it’s better just not to risk it. Talk to people who travel solo and this is often one of their top holiday travel safety tips.

7. Blend In

Dress modestly and appropriately, wear a wedding ring (especially if you’re a single woman), try wearing clothes the locals wear, do a bit of research beforehand on your destination so that, in short, by the time you get there, you’ll know how now to stand out so much!

I know some of these safety tips for travelers may seem a bit paranoid, but they will actually go some way in helping you to immerse yourself in the culture. You’ll enjoy yourself even more this way!

8. Smile!

Probably one of the easiest tips on how to stay safe on holiday, it is so important that you smile! Looking anxious, worried, or nervous might actually attract the wrong sort of attention.

If you’re confident and relaxed you’ll give off the impression that you’ve been there before, and not phased by your surroundings.

9. Learn The Language Basics

Another essential international travel safety tip is to learn how to say the basics of the language including phrases such as, “No thank you”, “my friend/husband is just around the corner” and “I will call the police”, and any other essential phrases that might ward off any unwanted attention, or diffuse awkward situations.

10. Make A List Of Emergency Contact Details

Write down the number of the local police and other emergency services in the country you’re traveling to. Check out your local embassy if you have any concerns or want some more advice on good emergency contacts to be aware of.

11. Download Maps Offline Beforehand

Such as important tip on how to stay safe while traveling alone. 200 years ago this advice would have been, “don’t forget to bring your maps and compass”. These days, however, you are able to download maps to your phone which can be used offline.

That way, once you get to your target country, your phone can direct you whenever you get lost, no data will be used on your phone since you’ll be able to use your maps offline. Also, make sure to bring a power pack in your rucksack that can charge your phone up in case your phone battery dies.

Of course, this article makes travel abroad sound like a battlefield. It isn’t. But it’s always better to be safe than sorry, and we hope these safety tips for traveling abroad will help you know how to stay safe on holiday.

Have any other safety tips for travelers that have worked for you that you’d like to share with our readers? Please comment below!

Suggested next reading: 10 Smart Tips To Stay Safe When Traveling Alone

The post 11 Essential Safety Tips For Travelers You Need To Know appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Answer: Generally yes, you can leave the airport during a layover.

But! Can you leave the airport during a layover on an international flight? And can you leave the airport during a layover in the US? Are there other questions you should consider? Here are 13 things you really should consider first!

1. Is It A Domestic Flight?

Yes, you can leave airports during domestic layovers. For example, if you’re a US citizen on a layover within the US, then you can leave the airport legally and safely. (Just make sure you’re back in time!)

Another thing to know is that if your domestic layover is more than an hour, you’ll probably have 2 boarding passes. So just make sure your 2^nd boarding pass is printed off or downloaded on your phone before you leave the airport. You can usually print them off at airport counters.

2. Is It An International Flight?

This is the answer to the question of whether you can leave the airport on a connecting flight while traveling internationally.

If the country requires visas in order for you to visit, leaving the airport without a visa will get you into trouble and you will be violating the layover flight rules. However, you won’t need a visa for that country if you’re just passing customs to board the next flight. But remember, the moment you step outside of that airport you’re technically a visitor and so will be expected to have a visa if required.

So, if you have a visa (or your connecting country doesn’t require one), then, yes, you can leave the airport during a layover on an international flight. If you need a visa but you don’t have one, then you can’t leave the airport during an international layover.

3. How Long Is Your Layover?

If your layover is just a few hours then don’t get off the plane during a layover. Don’t risk it. You’ll need that time to pass customs and do other essential things. Also, if you leave the airport and come back in again, you’ll have to go through security again. Do you really have time for that?

Although it can be tempting to want to see as many countries as possible, just think about how bad it would be potentially getting stranded in a foreign country or having to fork out more cash booking a new flight last minute.

4. Does Your Ticket Allow You To Leave The Transit Area?

A “transit area” is a place travelers are allowed to visit without going through customs. A few tickets don’t allow people to leave transit areas or airports during layovers (airports count as a transit area). In this day and age it is much less common, but it might be a good idea to check with your airline before planning on doing so. Send them an email a few weeks before your trip.

5. Is Your Layover In A Safe Country?

Luckily most countries are safer places these days, but if your layover happens to be in a place prone to terrorism, you might want to stay inside the airport during a layover.

And, unfortunately, women traveling alone need to be extra careful. Is the country that your layover is in known for being safe for women? If the answer is no, it’d most likely be a bad idea to leave the airport during a connecting flight.

6. What About Your Luggage?

Even walking around a city with a carry-on would be a massive nuisance, but what about your main luggage?

If you booked two separate flights then you’ll be collecting your main luggage during your layover at the baggage claims. You’ll then have to check-in your luggage again for your next flight, but some airlines don’t allow this if its too soon before your flight.

If that is the case, you’d then have to find a place within or near the airport to store your main luggage (and your carry-on) before leaving the airport to explore.

If your flights were booked together then this wouldn’t be an issue since your airline would keep hold of your main luggage until you arrive at your final destination (even if you spend the night in your layover country). But you’ll still need to find a place to store your carry-on if you leave the airport during transit.

When storing your luggage, make sure you take out your ID, money and other essentials to carry around with you in person—not doing so could cause big problems in trying to return to the airport or getting your luggage back!

7. What Time Of Day Is It?

Not only is exploring a city at night on your own probably unwise, but they’ll also not be much to do anyway. If its dark outside, find a safe and comfortable place to try and catch a nap within the airport. Some airports even have sleeping areas!

8. How Far Away Is The Airport From Anything?

Most airports are quite a distance away from the center of cities or from interesting places. Be sure to check out how far away your airport is from anything good before you decide to leave the airport during your layover. You wouldn’t want to spend a fortune on taxis or spend all your time on just getting to the place you wanted to explore!

9. Do You Have A Backup In Case You Get Lost?

What if you get lost exploring? Make sure you have maps or a GPS to guide you back to the airport in case you get lost. Carry a portable battery charger so that your phone can remain charged up.

10. Is The Place A Tourist Trap Or Expensive?

Is the country your connecting flight is in known for being a tourist trap or expensive? Be careful how you spend any money, you won’t want to blow your budget for the country you’re actually intended to visit!

Moreover, don’t forget you may need some of the local currency that could be different than the currency of the country you’re traveling to. Not everywhere takes card, so this might make you want to stay in the airport during a layover.

11. Is There An Airport Organized Tour You Should Go On Instead?

Some airports feature organized tours that are designed for passengers with long layovers. So if want to leave the airport during transit, it might be best to do it through an organized airport tour. They’ll make sure everything is sorted out for you!

You could even plan to stay in your layover destination for a couple of days based on what kind of packages the airport tour offers! So, how about taking two vacations instead of one?

12. Would You Even Enjoy It Anyway?

The idea of exploring a new country might sound great when you’re not tired, sweaty and drained from traveling, but travel can take it out of you! Will you even want to leave the airport anyway?

Furthermore, isn’t there something to be said about seeing a country properly? Perhaps your perspective of that country will be negative by rushing it and seeing it whilst being tired or mildly stressed out?

13. Do You Know What To Do If You Miss Your Connecting Flight?

We’re assuming this won’t ever happen since you’ll have already read all our warnings, but on the off-chance that it does, do you know what to do if you miss your connecting flight?

The airline won’t owe you anything if you miss your next flight because of your own fault. Miss one leg of your flight and all the rest of the legs will be automatically canceled and will need to be rebooked.

Some travel insurances may help cover some of those costs if you do miss your layover, but the moral of the story is just to not miss your connecting flight.

If its the airline’s fault they should book you in on the next available flight and book you into a nearby hotel if its nighttime.

So, can you leave the airport during a layover?

Absolutely! But, if you want to leave the airport during a layover on an international flight or domestic flight, just be sensible about it.

Suggested next reading: 9 Clever Tips That’ll Actually Make Your Long Layover Worthwhile

The post Can You Leave The Airport During A Layover? (13 Things To Know!) appeared first on Modern Trekker.

In case you might be asking yourself, Tết is short for “Tet Nguyen Dan” which translates into Sino-Vietnamese as “feast of the first morning on the first day”. For locals, this important period is a time to look forward with hope and leave the troubles of the past behind. As you can imagine, this also means that locals all over the country return home to spend time with their families during the New Year in Vietnam.

But what exactly happens during Tết?

Let’s take a closer look at this vibrant period and what you need to know before traveling to Vietnam for the celebration.

Celebrating Tet & The New Year In Vietnam

Tết follows the very same calendar as China which means that New Year in Vietnam coincides with that of the Chinese New Year. At the same time, there are some unique nuances with celebrations in Vietnam to look out for. For example, hooting owls are considered very unlucky during Tết, while dogs barking is considered a sign of confidence and hence, this is encouraged by locals.

In preparation for Tết, most locals begin cleaning their homes, organizing their finances and picking up new clothing for the celebrations. Simply put, this is a time when Vietnamese people actively try to rid their lives of “bad fortune” and fill this void with hopes of prosperity.

Vietnamese locals also lay on an impressive feast for their friends and family during Tết. You will find that gifts are exchanged during the New Year in Vietnam and everyone will visit a place of worship and possibly one of the many public parades.

As a rule, the first few days are supposed to be spent with family, with friends, and friends of friends being welcomed into the circle as the celebrations progress. Interestingly, locals are often found burning gold leaf paper to “the Kithcen God” as a means of appeasing this god for any of their wrongdoing. This is also a time for locals to pay their respects for their deceased relatives.

But what does this mean to you, the traveler?

What Does New Year In Vietnam Mean For Visitors?

Well, even though Tết is very much a local celebration, visitors are always welcomed to join in with the festivities. You see, at midnight on Tết, the Vietnamese welcome the New Year with some extraordinary firework displays. Meanwhile, drums and chants fill the air as a very vibrant atmosphere takes over the streets.

Also, you must understand that this is a time of grace and giving, as Vietnamese people believe that what happens during Tết is a sign of what will happen in the upcoming year. Similarly, most households also believe that the wealth of the first visitor through their front door on Vietnamese New Year will determine their own wealth in the year to come!

Moral of the story: Vietnamese people will be more than happy to see you during Tết!

Now, here’s a quick overview of the best places to visit for Tết and celebrating the New Year in Vietnam.

Activities & Things To Do During Tet

Hue, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh are the most popular places to visit for New Year in Vietnam and where many events, fireworks and celebrations are common.

1. Hue

As you can imagine, the former capital of Hue is a focal point of celebrations where a “Tet Pole” is raised on the grounds of the Hue Imperial Citadel. This happens on the very first day and interestingly, the “Cay Neu” in Hue Citadel (traditional bamboo plant) is also the largest one you will see during the celebrations.

2. Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Som Temple and Quan Su pagoda are some of the best places to visit during the New Year in Vietnam. Also, many events are held at the Hanoi Opera House and, unless you want to avoid the crowds, this is the best place to witness a huge fireworks display.

3. Ho Chi Minh

Tết is the only time of year when a floating market takes place in Ho Chi Minh—Binh Dong Floating Flower Market in District 8. However, there are many more pleases to join in the festivities around HCMC such as the ornament street in Hai Thuong Lan Ong (Chinatown) or Nguyen Hue Boulevard where the street is lined with endless colorful flowers.

5 Tips For Travelling To Vietnam For Tet

Finally, here are some simple tips for spending the New Year in Vietnam:

1. Hotel Bookings

Each of the above destinations gets incredibly busy during the New Year in Vietnam, so make sure that you book hotels well in advance. Also, expect that prices will be higher during this period.

2. Reserving Transport

Tết is a time when locals are traveling all over the country to return home, so keep in mind that even the transport requires advance reservation.

3. Stores and Supplies

For the first three days of Tết, many stores are closed. With this in mind, remember to pick up shampoo and basic supplies in the days leading up to the celebrations.

4. General Security

Vietnam is generally a very safe place but Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi are places where crowds and unsavory characters can go hand in hand. In other words, watch for pickpocketers and leave your valuables in the hotel whenever possible.

 5. Learn Some Vietnamese

It should go without saying that locals always appreciate when a visitor takes time to learn some of the language. However, this is especially true during Tết when you have the opportunity to greet locals in their own language.

Tết takes place on February 5^th in 2019 and if you want to travel to Vietnam for the celebrations, now would be a good time to get everything booked so that you don’t miss out on all the fun!

Suggested next reading: The Unbelievable Mud Cave In Vietnam You Have To See To Believe

The post Celebrating The New Year In Vietnam: Everything You Need To Know appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Trans Mongolian Railway, and what you can do to make the journey as pleasant as possible!

Choose Your Train:

Passenger Trains

Passenger trains are the basic kind, slightly cheaper but slightly older and definitely not as comfortable.

My Chinese train from Irkutsk to Ulan Bator to Beijing was one of these; the bunks were solid, the carriage was old, the toilets were dirty with no toilet roll, you couldn’t buy snacks or water and the only plugs were in the hallway and didn’t work, but it is good enough and is sometimes your only option!

Firmenny Trains

Firmenny trains are slightly more expensive, but they will be a much more pleasant experience for longer journeys.

Your carriage attendant will do a good job at keeping the toilets clean and stocked, they can offer snacks and drinks, sometimes you’ll get fed, you’ll find plugs to charge your phone by each bunk and the carriages are generally newer and well looked after.

Choose Your Class:

First Class

First class is very expensive, but you get two single beds in a room. It’s perfect for couples with a bigger budget, or you can sometimes choose female-only compartments for women going solo.

Second Class

Second class means four bunks in a compartment and is significantly cheaper. Just remember, you can’t choose your bunkmates so you might be stuck with some weirdos, but it’s good for couples or groups, you can also sometimes choose female-only compartments.

You have a choice of the bottom bunk which doubles up as a sofa, you’ll be sharing this with your bunkmate during the day, but you have access to the table, plus storage under your bed. Top bunk is also great, room enough to sit up and a little bit of storage for your personal items.

Third Class

Third class is an open carriage with 52 bunks, like being in a big dorm room, and it’s the cheapest. Although there is no privacy, it’s also more sociable and fun to people watch, a great option for male or female solo travelers.

Third class bunks are like second class without the privacy, plus the extra “lateral” bunks running along the side of the carriage. The bottom lateral bunk turns into a table and two chairs, so you’re sharing it with your bunkmate during the day, but if there’s no one above you it’s all yours.

The top lateral bunk has to be the worst, it’s as cramped as the others (you can’t sit up in third class top bunks) but less private because you’re basically lying in the corridor, and you’re at the mercy of your bunkmate because if they want to make their bed, you’re stuck in yours.

Note for solo travelers: I’d recommend either the top or bottom bunk in second class, or the bottom lateral bunk in third class.

Seating

Seating is an option on some trains, I wouldn’t choose this for an overnight journey but it’s comfy and spacious and perfect for shorter trips. The seats recline, some carriages have a toilet, and even TV’s playing old school Russian movies.

Trans Mongolian Railway Tips:

Book Tickets Online

If you wait until you get to Russia and try to book at the stations, you might struggle to find a decent bed or it could even be sold out. You can use an agent like Real Russia, but they charge a high commission. I recommend downloading the Russian Railways app, once you’ve signed up you can easily view and book tickets online.

Note: you can’t book tickets between countries online, so you’ll need to either pay an agency to do it for you, or do it at the train station when you arrive.

Always Download The Ticket

Once you’ve booked through the app make sure you download the ticket because it disappears from the app once the train departs and they might check it again before you leave the station.

Check Out The Route

When booking the ticket you can see the route, plus the length of each stop. Screenshot this, keep your phone on Moscow time and you can plan which stops are long enough to get off and stretch your legs, but don’t wander too far, and take your valuables with you. It’s also listed in the carriage.

Wear Comfy Clothes

You’ll spend most of the time sitting around and watching the world go by. I saw one guy spend two days on the train (including sleeping) in jeans. No thanks. Be as comfy as possible.

Bring A Change Of Clothes

After even a day, you’ll start to feel a bit grimy. Have a comfy outfit to wear during the day, and something even comfier to change into at night. Don’t forget clean underwear!

Bring A Pair Of Flipflops Or Slippers

You aren’t really allowed to walk around in bare feet, and you wouldn’t want to. I bought a pair of slippers (I forgot to pack my flipflops) for $2 and it was a very good investment!

Bring Something To Keep You Busy

Sometimes you’ll find yourself too busy socializing to get anything else done, or staring out the window at the scenery, but sometimes the train can be really boring.

Pack a Kindle, a journal, coloring books, download movies onto your phone, or even bring your laptop… But don’t expect any power unless you’re on a Russian Firmenny train, make sure you bring a power bank!

Bring Something To Help You Sleep

Whether it’s earplugs to block out the snoring, a sleep mask to block out the lights, or green tea and a hot water bottle, do what you gotta do.

Pack A Small Toiletries Bag

Wet wipes will be your best friend. You could also bring dry shampoo, or perfume to hide the smell of cheesy feet. Don’t forget your toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant!

Pack Some Food

Although there’s a restaurant car, it’s expensive and limited. You can hop off and buy food on the station platform at the longer stops, or from your carriage attendant, but it’s not a great choice.

You want food that doesn’t need refrigerating or can be cooked just with hot water. A big part of the experience is sharing food with your bunkmates, so bring a little extra!

Most people eat noodles for every meal but you can get creative. Bread, salted butter, jam, honey or spread (I brought Marmite from home), cheese slices or hard cheese, cured meat, noodles, cuppa soup, instant mash, fruit, crisps, biscuits, crackers, chocolate, the list goes on.

I would also recommend bringing some sort of container to cook and store food in, I bought a large plastic soup cup with a lid and handle and it’s been a lifesaver! Some cutlery is also essential.

Bring Some Water

While there is an unlimited supply of boiling water on board, there is no safe drinking water. I brought a two-liter bottle and my own one-liter bottle, you can buy small bottles from the carriage attendant or larger bottles for cheaper on the station platform whenever you stop.

Have you ridden the Trans Mongolian Railway? Share any tips you have in the comments below!

You can also follow the adventure on Facebook and Instagram!

Suggested next reading: Train Travel In Myanmar: What I Wish I’d Known

The post How To Survive On The Trans Mongolian Railway appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Unfortunately, many think of the region still being war-torn, but those times were well over 20 years ago in the 1990s. Today, Dubrovnik is becoming a hotspot for travelers. With its beautiful architecture, friendly locals, incredible seafood, and laid back way of life, it’s no wonder that Dubrovnik is high on any travelers bucket list.

Most visit during summer, but I’d recommend heading there in either early Spring or in Fall when the crowds calm down. You’ll be able to get so much out of your experience in the “Pearl Of The Adriatic”.

Here are the 5 best things to do in Dubrovnik:

Old Town

When people think of Dubrovnik, they immediately think of Old Town. The UNESCO World Heritage site was originally built in the 13^th Century and made Dubrovnik an important port on the Dalmatian coast.

The Old Town was damaged by an earthquake in 1667 and a lot of the town had to be rebuilt. The war in the 1990s also destroyed parts of the Old Town, but you would never know it today. The interesting part about this area is that it features many different architectural styles such as Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque.

The city today is looking at ways to reduce the number of visitors coming to this part of Dubrovnik. Still, if you have a chance to visit Dubrovnik, you have to walk around Old Town. Be sure to take an after-dinner stroll, it is magical.

Lokrum Island

This ancient island was first mentioned in writing in the year 1023, but has always been in the background of Old Town. Today, however, the UNESCO World Heritage site is now having its moment in the spotlight.

Only a short 15 minute ferry ride away or a longer kayak ride, Lokrum has plenty to offer those that visit. One of the first things you’ll notice when you arrive on the island is the peacocks that greet you. They were brought onto the island well over 100 years ago and now they are all over.

Be sure to see the ruins of the old Benedictine Monastery that was originally built during the Medieval period. They are a little difficult to find, but if you walk around long enough, it’s impossible to not run into them. The flora and fauna are protected so that’s why you’ll notice that nothing is trimmed or cut.

Overall, Lokrum Island is a fascinating day trip to take from Dubrovnik and is certainly not to be missed.

War Photo Limited

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Unfortunately, many people think that Croatia is a war-torn country. Sure, it had its issues over 20 years ago, but today, you’d have no idea when you visit.

The political situation in the Balkans is extremely complicated so I’d recommend that everyone take a visit to War Photo Limited to learn more about the history of the region. Starting with the end of Yugoslavia, you’ll learn why Balkans entered a war and how it got to where it is today.

While most museums have a lot of reading to do, War Photo Limited walks you through the history using pictures. They currently have a fascinating exhibit on how Kosovo won their independence and what that means for the world.

Beyond the breakup of Yugoslavia, War Photo Limited explores other wars from around the world. They do a great job of objectively explaining the conflict and what the current situation is in these regions.

Be sure to stop by for an afternoon and soak in the work from some of the best photojournalists on Earth.

Hike To The Peak (Mount Srd)

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Once you’ve properly explored the smaller streets of Dubrovnik, it is time to get a bird’s eye view of the city. Mount Srd looms over the northern part of Dubrovnik and is the tallest peak at 412 meters (1,315 feet).

Depending on how active you want to be getting to the top, there are 3 ways to access the peak. The first way up is via cable car that leaves from Petra Kresimira Street and takes a few minutes to reach the top. The second way up is with a car. The final (and best way up in my opinion) is to walk up.

The hike takes about 90 minutes but offers stunning views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea below. The path starts at Jadranska Cesta so you’ll have to walk a good bit just to get to the trailhead.

I would recommend doing this trail earlier in the morning since the second part of the trail offers no protection from the sun. Be prepared with sunblock, water, and a hat if you choose to hike it in summer. At the top is Fort Imperial, which offers incredible views as your reward.

If you have time, be sure to check out the Museum of Croatian War of Independence. The museum walks you through how Croatia achieved its independence during the 1990s and houses over 500 different pieces from its history.

Mount Srd is well worth the trip up and is so much more than just incredible pictures for your next Instagram post.

Trsteno Arboretum

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If you haven’t had enough nature yet, be sure to head to the oldest arboretum in the world. Located just 30 minutes north of Dubrovnik city center, Trsteno Arboretum was built in the 15^th Century by a local family who wanted sailors to bring back seeds and plants with them from their travels.

Some of you might recognize it from a little show called Game Of Thrones as it has served as one of the many filming locations in and around Dubrovnik. Among the plants from around the world, there are beautiful sculptures and works of art.

After you’ve had enough of walking around the gardens, take a dip in the sea and cool off. In my opinion, there is no better to watch the sunset than at Trsteno.

Suggested next reading: The Best Croatian Islands You Need To Visit

The post 5 Perfect Ways To Get The Most Out Of Dubrovnik appeared first on Modern Trekker.

1. Save money on booking your flight to Europe

Let’s start off with booking your flight to Europe, as this would take a huge chunk of your budget.

Start hunting for flights at least 6 months before you take the trip. The same rule applies to all international flights. The reason for this is that international flights are few and prices are more influenced by availability. As the seats fill up, the ticket prices increase.

Now, compare the rates and don’t commit to anything yet. Use flight search websites such as Skyscanner or Kayak to get an overview of the prices. After you’ve done your own due diligence, book directly with the airlines. This saves you a few bucks and prices will be without commission from any 3rd party sites. In addition to that, you can address any concerns directly to the airline.

Lastly, never book a round-trip ticket if you’re visiting several countries. There’s no point trekking back to your starting point again after your last country. That’s time-consuming and inconvenient. There are certain dates in some countries that’ll land you the cheapest flight deals. So it helps to be flexible with your location and dates.

2. Exchange currency beforehand

The biggest mistake that many travelers make is to exchange money at the airport. Even though it is enticing to see on the signage, “No Commission!”, just ignore it. They offer unbelievably low rates. The best place to exchange money is at your local bank. If you do forget to exchange euros before boarding your flight, your best bet is to withdraw money at a bank within Europe or at a currency converter outside the airport.

3. Avoid the red bus!

That’s right…I mean the popular “Hop on, Hop off” red bus. This bus is mainly for convenience if you want to go sightseeing. But it comes with a hefty price. If your goal is budget travel, the best option available to explore a new city is local transportation. In Europe, city passes are way cheaper than the HoHo bus. And a city pass might offer free entry to some museums or at a discounted rate. So, your first stop should be the tourist information to buy the relevant city passes that you’ll need.

4. Skip the taxi at the airport

For budget travel, an obvious step to take is skipping the taxi at the airport. But it could be tempting to take this option if you arrive at the airport late at night, and especially if you know that your hotel would require some lengthy walking to get to.

Not everyone is keen on walking around town trying to find their hotel with their luggage and, if they’re traveling as a family, with their kids who’ll most likely be complaining! The best alternative would be booking airport transfers in advance. These are prepaid taxis that you can book online that offer reasonable rates compared to taxis. It saves you from queuing at the taxi stand and getting ripped off (which happens every now and then).

5. Cash is king and cards are queens

Not all countries in Europe are avid fans of cards, and most European buses don’t accept them at all. Credit cards can’t be used everywhere and you don’t want the feeling of not being allowed to board the bus, right? Don’t miss the opportunity to visit your travel attractions because of zero cash.  Also, most of the best food bazaars offering the best local food take cash only. Cards, however, can be handy when making a large purchase like paying for a hotel room. But do check with your bank if they charge any international fees. Although technically this is not a budget travel hack, this is sure to be a lifesaver!

6. Grab some snacks before the flight

One last word regarding your flight. Just like other places in the world, Europe can be pretty expensive when it comes to airplane snacks. There’s a reason why jokes about airplane foods are so prevalent; the food is just that bad. Rather than buying snacks on the plane at over-inflated prices, stop by the small shops around the airport and get some food you can take on the plane. Even if you aren’t hungry before you get on the plane, you’re bound to be after sitting on the plane for several hours.

7. Eat on a Budget

Eating out each and every night is going to get pretty pricey. There are a few things you can do to keep your food budget down and to look after your wallet. Start by eating at less fancy and popular restaurants and find the mom and pop diners. If not, find the places the locals go. Your best bet to accomplish this is to find restaurants away from tourist locations. You can also try venturing into the food courts in shopping malls to check out their prices. The cheapest option would be cooking food yourself if you’re staying at an Airbnb.

8. Check Your Cellular Plan

Perhaps the most overlooked Europe travel hack is cellular data roaming. Not everyone is willing to invest in a Roaming plan because they have the impression that it is just another expense.

Trust me, it’s worth the investment. You can go places in any city spontaneously. And most importantly, when you’re lost and the locals don’t speak that much English. This can be a life-saver. Believe me!

Give your mobile carrier a call to make sure that you’ve got an extended data coverage in place and won’t be hit with roaming charges when you leave the country. If it’s going to be expensive to use your mobile data plan abroad, then you can pick up a pay-as-you-go phone for a cheap price in your destination country at the airport. If not, there are lots of international SIM cards that you can order online.

9. Avoid traveling in the summer if you can avoid it

Traveling to Europe (and generally to most other places) during the summer will not only be less satisfying—locals go abroad, everywhere is booked up and crowded, etc.—but will also be more expensive. If you’re able to, traveling to Europe during the winter can save you enormous amounts of money, and especially with hotel bookings. You should also try to avoid traveling in December if you can.

10. Be open to ride-sharing

Sharing a long distance ride with a complete stranger has become quite a common thing within Europe now. There are several companies that offer this, with the most famous one being BlaBlaCar. This is a great way to save money on travel within Europe if you’re comfortable with the idea.

11. Take the Eurail/Interrail

(Eurail for non-Europeans and Interrail for Europeans)

Sometimes it helps to compare the rates between flights within Europe and the Eurail. Most of the time taking the train is cheaper and saves you the trouble of checking your luggage at the airport.

12. Stay somewhere near the city center

I’ll probably get a bit of backlash for this tip, but in my experience staying central has paid off. It is true that you can save a few euros staying on the outskirts of the city, but the long commuting time and costs just aren’t worth it. You’ll want to cherish every moment and take your time walking along the cobbled-stone streets downtown, or leisurely exploring in search of hidden gems and those types of pleasant surprises that only travel can offer. In addition to that, everything is within reach around the central area; think about that short minute walk you’d only need to take to grab that late night snack, or not having to worry about when the last bus or train leaves the city so you can get back to your apartment. If you think staying at the city center is expensive, think again! Sure, it may take a bit of effort and planning beforehand, but booking a decent, central place to stay at a reasonable rate is always possible and shouldn’t be ruled out by default.

13. Choosing cheaper destinations

Some of the cheapest countries in Europe include Bulgaria, Romania, Greece (except Santorini), Portugal, Turkey, Hungary, Croatia, Latvia, Serbia, and Poland.

Suggested next reading: 10 Of The Best Things You Can Do In Berlin On A Budget

The post 13 Budget Hacks For People Who Really Want To Visit Europe appeared first on Modern Trekker.