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.

Flight prices are taken from Skyscanner and are the cost of cheapest return flight prices. Hotel prices are from Booking.com and Airbnb and are shown as nightly rates. All information is based on travel in the month of February but will still provide a helpful guide for other months.

Flying From Europe

These 6 cheap exotic holiday destinations are for people who are starting out near or in Europe. In particular, the information laid out here is if you were flying from London, but even if you’re not, you’ll still be able to get a good idea.

1. Morocco

Average temperature: 21°C / 70°F

Lose yourself in the bustle of Marrakesh medina or take time to reflect at Casablanca’s glorious Hassan II Mosque. Explore the strikingly colorful streets in the capital’s Oudaias Kasbah or get in touch with the real Morocco in Fes old town. You’ll never be short of things to do in this ancient, sun-drenched country.

One of the main reasons people travel to Morocco is to experience and tour the Sahara Desert. What’s better, is that Morocco is even quite safe to travel to as a solo traveler.

Flights from: $47 per person (although beware of hidden costs).

Hotels from: $10 per person for a dorm room in Marrakech; $10 for a twin room in other areas.

2. Cape Verde

Average temperature: 25°C / 77°F

The islands of Cape Verde, off Africa’s west coast, has enjoyed a boom in tourism in recent years, thanks to incredibly beautiful places and low prices. Surf off the white sands of Santa Maria beach, float in a sea even saltier than the Dead Sea in Pedra Lume, or discover the local Creole culture around the islands.

Cape Verde has an incredible volcanic landscape, enjoys the sun all year round, and is extremely accessible to get to too!

Flights from: $299 per person.

Hotels from: $18 per person for a dorm room; $22 for a twin.

3. Thailand

Average temperature: 28°C / 82°F

An old favorite for backpackers and luxury seekers alike, Thailand’s booming cities, lush jungle habitats, gorgeous street food and immaculate beaches means it’s always a popular spot. Visit an elephant sanctuary, go white water rafting on the Mekong river, scuba dive with an array of tropical fish, or bounce from temple-to-temple. The list of options is almost endless.

One could also visit Bangkok too, Thailand’s capital. This is a massive city of over 8-million people and offers so many unique attractions and foods. It can also be done on a budget too—even better!

Flights from: $350 per person.

Hotels from: $10 for a small double room in Krabi or Surat Thani; $6 for a dorm room or $11 for a twin in Chiang Mai.

4. Puerto Rico

Average temperature: 25°C / 77°F

After walking the streets of colonial old San Juan, whale watching at Rincon and splashing through the waterfalls of El Yunque National Forest, you’ll be ready to flop down on the beach and relax in the sunshine. When the time comes, find your secluded tropical paradise on Culebra Island.

Puerto Rico has an exceptionally diverse landscape meaning you won’t get bored easily traveling it. It also features beaches that glow at night called “bioluminescent bays.” These bays can be found at either La Parguera, Mosquito Bay in Vieques, or at the Bioluminescent Bay located in Fajardo.

Flights from: $368 per person.

Hotels from: $44 for an apartment on Airbnb.

5. New Delhi

Average temperature: 17°C / 63°F

India’s capital is a buzzing, pulsating, slightly chaotic kind of town. The Red Fort, the city’s most imposing building, finds its antithesis in the tranquil architecture of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib–Delhi’s most important Sikh temple. Once you’re done with New Delhi’s many attractions, why not make an onward journey to the incredible “pink city” of Jaipur, or get some beach time down in Goa?

Flights from: $370 per person.

Hotels from: $8 for a basic double; $12 for a comfortable double.

6. Uganda

Average temperature: 29°C / 84°F

Elephants, giraffes, lions and other big game can all be seen in Uganda—a much cheaper alternative to Kenya and Tanzania. So if you’re looking for cheap places to travel to in Africa, this is it.

You can go white water rafting on the Nile at Jinja, canoe on Lake Victoria, and, for those whose budgets will stretch, go mountain gorilla trekking at Virunga National Park. All good reasons Uganda should be on every travelers wish-list.

Flights from: $410 per person.

Hotels from: $18 for a comfortable double.

Flying From America

These next 6 cheap exotic holiday destinations are for people who are starting out near or in the Americas. In particular, the information laid out here is if you were flying from New York, but even if you’re not, you’ll still be able to get a good idea.

1. Martinique

Average temperature: 25°C / 77°F

Martinique is dripping with French-Caribbean charm. Hike up the active volcano of Mount Pelée, explore the island’s many beautiful beaches—of which Les Salines is perhaps the highlight—or spot rare hummingbirds in the botanical gardens of Fort-de-France.

Like French food? Of course you do. Martinique is blessed with a wonderful mixture of French food, fresh seafood and Caribbean spices. So if you like fine food, rum, sun and nice beaches, this is the place for you.

Better yet, Martinique is not even that touristic, and it’s very possible to have whole beaches just for yourself!

Flights from: $160 per person.

Hotels from: $50 for a good double.

2. Cancun & The Maya Riviera

Average temperature: 24°C / 75°F

One of those cheap places to travel internationally, Mexico features the Maya Riviera which is packed with attractions for every type of traveler. Cancun has the nightlife and the sprawling beaches, Cozumel has a laid-back vibe and some world-class dive sites, whereas Playa del Carmen offers amazing snorkeling in Xel-Ha lagoon.

Throw in a couple of Mexico’s most iconic Mayan ruins—Chichen Itza and Tulum—along with some natural swimming in breath-taking cenotes, and you can’t ask for much more.

Flights from: $200 per person.

Hotels from: $18 for a double in Cancun; $25 for a double in Cozumel.

3. Dominican Republic

Average temperature: 31°C / 88°F

Probably the cheapest country to visit in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic also happens to be a luxury holiday destination. It has a wealth of beaches to enjoy and offers the best of the Caribbean…but for a fraction of the cost.

Go kite-boarding at Cabarete, unwind in Punta Cana or go looking for Humpback Whales off Samana. If its thrills you’re after, consider canyoning or ziplining in the jungled interior. Also, make a visit to buzzing Santo Domingo and pick up some larimar jewelry—a semi-precious stone that is only found on this island.

Flights from: $236 per person.

Hotels from: $15 for a double in Santo Domingo; around $20 for a double in coastal resorts.

4. U.S. Virgin Islands

Average temperature: 26°C / 79°C

If you’re looking for a winter break where you can sip piña coladas beneath swaying palm trees, then look no further than the US Virgin Islands. With tonnes of happy hour specials and live bands, St John is the place to go if you want to party it up. With only three ferries traveling to Anegada per week, this is the place to go if you simply want to get away from it all.

Flights from: $248 per person.

Hotels from: $50 for an apartment on Airbnb.

5. Colombia

Average temperature: 18°-28°C / 64°-82°F (depending on region)

Despite a troubled recent past, Colombia is back in business as a major tourist destination. It could be the cool, picturesque city of Medellin that captures your heart, or perhaps the rolling coffee plantations of Eje Cafetero.

Maybe you’ll fall in love with the beaches of Tayrona National Park, the kaleidoscopic colors of Caño Cristales, or gravity-defying Las Lajas sanctuary? Whatever it is, we’ll bet that one trip is not enough.

Flights from: $266 per person.

Hotels from: $12 for a comfortable double.

6. Costa Rica

Average temperature: 27°C / 81°F

Nesting turtles are the star turn here, and although February is not the best time of year, it is still possible to see them on Costa Rica’s Pacific coastline. Other attractions include diving with hammerhead sharks off Cocos Island, the brilliant-green caldera lake at the summit of the Irazu Volcano, and the Spanish colonial buildings of San Jose, the nation’s capital.

What’s more, Costa Ricans are—perhaps—some of the friendliest people in the world. If you make a friend in Costa Rica (which is very possible), they’ll be sure to make your trip as enjoyable as possible.

Flights from: $285 per person.

Hotels from: $11 for a dorm; $23 for a twin.

We hope this helped you track down some cheap exotic holiday destinations to travel to this Winter.

Also, because we can sometimes run out of ideas of cheap places to travel, if you have any more cheap destination ideas for this Winter, feel free to share them below with other readers!

Suggested next reading: 10 Cheap & Warm Countries Perfect For People Who Hate The Cold

The post 12 Cheap & Exotic Countries You Can Actually Escape To This Winter 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.

If you love nature, hiking, taking photos, and spontaneous road tripping amongst various and unreal landscapes, then Iceland is perfect for your dream vacay. You’ve likely seen some #icelandroadtrip breathtaking pics on the interwebs, but nothing compares to seeing Iceland’s nature in person. You need to touch it, smell it, drive it, and hike it all for yourself!

Be it solo travel, with friends, or with that random stranger you meet while buying discounted booze at the duty-free shop in the airport, an Iceland road trip will offer an ultimate adventure to remember!

I was fortunate enough to venture solo on an Iceland road trip. I didn’t have much planned besides driving around and winging it. It was a breeze to run into random sights and go to places I had read about all while jamming to 90’s CDs in my cute little blue car. When the sun finally dipped down for a few hours each evening, I snoozed in campground parking lots to refresh myself for the following day’s adventures. It was perfect!

But looking for things to do? Here are 7 reasons to hop out of your car during your Iceland road trip:

1. Walk around Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city, will remind you of a 500 piece puzzle you put together at your grandmother’s house as a child. It is an adorable picturesque town where one-third of the 330,000 Icelandic residents live. It’s a perfect place to relax and wander about for a couple of days as you put together the final touches on your Iceland road trip itinerary.

You’ll find the small town of Reykjavik easy to navigate. Even if you don’t stay in the city center, it’s easy to get around by foot or pop into your car for a quick drive.

One of the first things you should do upon arrival is sign up for the free walking tour to learn a bit about Iceland’s history and culture. This tour will be guided by a vibrant local whose name will have too many syllables to remember. Make sure to ask your guide about Icelandic name culture! The tour is also a great way to meet other travelers and snag a new friend who wants to join in and split the cost of fuel on your Iceland road trip.

You can also head into the gorgeous glass convention center on the water, go for a pricey brew—because you deserve one—at one of the many pubs, and pop into a tourist office if you need any last minute advice for your Iceland road trip.

2. Save $$ and camp

With many campgrounds speckled around Iceland, it’s a breeze to find a place to sleep. You will find camping to be very efficient and affordable compared to snagging a dorm bed or guesthouse.

In Reykjavik you can either rent a tent, camper van, or sleep in your car. Camping across Iceland makes it easy to decide on the spot where you want to get your beauty rest or scout out the northern lights. Although the weather can be unpredictable, camping is a common way for road trippers to see the country. If weather conditions worry you, opt for a camper van rather than a tent to make sure you have a comfortable experience.

Depending on if you are in a national park or not will determine the cost of camping. I stayed for both free and very low prices while sleeping in my car with an extra warm sleeping bag.

3. Bathe in the many hot springs

The natural pools around Iceland, which will warm you up amongst the chilly weather, are perfect for any season. Iceland, being a bit of a colder vacay destination, makes sure to keep everyone happy by offering beautiful warm pools.

Less than an hour from Reykjavik is the famous Blue Lagoon. It’s worth a look if you’re ok with paying loads of cash and getting the same selfies everyone else already has. Not to say you shouldn’t go; but there are many more options that are actually affordable or free!

Seljavallalaug Pool is located in the south amongst a gorgeous backdrop of mountains. Although it can get busy, it’s a perfect place to relax, soak in the tubs, and wonder if this entire trip is all real life.

Reykjadalur hot springs take you on a mild hour-long hike up into a hillside valley. The hike may take longer as you’ll want to snap pics the whole way. Once you make it to the river, you’ll see pop up decks and changing areas and be able to soak in the mountains.

As we can go on for pages and pages raving about Iceland’s hot springs, you’ll have to check out the best ones for yourself! With over 250 geothermal areas across the country, you’ll have to go out of your way to not stumble upon a few of them.

4. Go hiking

What better way to see the beauty of Iceland by foot? Although your cozy car will give you stellar views, you will need to get out and stretch every now and then. Beware the weather and pack layers!

Whether you’re in areas just off of the ring road such as Skaftafell National Park, weaving your way up through Fjaðrárgljúfur, or completely lost in nature near Westfjords Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, you can find a hike right up your alley. You don’t have to be a pro hiker to enjoy Iceland’s nature by foot.

But make sure to pack correctly, leave no trace, and to get out of the car every now and then to truly immerse yourself into nature.

My favorite hike in Iceland was during a late afternoon near the southern town of Vik. If you look just north of the city, you see towering plateaus and a church on the hillside. Behind the church is a trail that extends vertically onto what seems to be the top of the mountain.

I was interested in seeing where it would take me. I ended up traversing the cliff sides as the sun was setting. There was not a soul in sight for the duration of my five-hour hike.

I spied on the town below and the views from the top were mindblowing. The sea to the south and neverending valleys and glaciers to the north. The serenity and peacefulness on that hike was a feeling that everyone needs to experience while traveling.

5. Snap some photos of the waterfalls

As you’re driving, you’ll be gazing at the hillsides and see waterfalls every few minutes. “Look there! Look there!” You’ll catch yourself saying out loud. Iceland promises gorgeous waterfalls all over the country. In fact, more than 10,000 waterfalls drip from the high mountains—you can’t miss them.

It’s definitely worth stepping out of your car and take advantage of that photo op. There is no selfie shame while in Iceland!

While some of those amazing waterfalls, like Gullfoss, Skogafoss, and Seljalandsfoss are busy with tons of tourists year round, you can also find many others along your trip that are worth a look.

6. Picnic at the beaches

You may not be sunbathing amongst the warm seas, but that doesn’t mean you should pass up Iceland’s beaches. With summer weather peaking at a possible high of 70 degrees (25°C), you may get just a teeny glimpse of possible swimwear weather. However, the array of the unique nature of the beaches makes them perfect for visiting even in the winter. Beaches in the tropics don’t compare to the unique beaches in Iceland.

The Black Sand beach near Vik has columns of basalt rock formations. Diamond Beach and Jokulsarlon are both Insta-worthy. There’s also the remote Red Sands beach in the Westfjords that will not be overrun with partying tourists. Regardless of your itinerary, beaches will be with you the whole way.

“But I really wanted to surf!” Guess what; you can! Surfing the crisp waters surrounding Iceland may not be everyone’s dream, but if you’ve got the chance, go for it!

7. To top off your Iceland road trip: binge on hot dogs

Iceland is not well known for its delectable cuisine. Honestly, the most efficient way to stay fueled during your Iceland road trip is to BYO-stuff. If you can load up your bag with granola bars, trail mix, dried fruit, and snacks, you’re set. The food in Iceland is fairly expensive.

If you are on a budget, you should stop at the mini stops where you will fuel up and chomp on Icelandic hot dogs. “Wait what?!” You ask. Well, Iceland’s hot dogs are a thing! Everyone loves them and can afford to buy them. Those cheap, free-range, grass-fed, organic, lamb-meat, delicious hot dogs will sustain you throughout your Iceland road trip.

“Will those sustain you for breakfast, lunch, AND dinner?” you ask. Welp, worked for me! Now give it a shot.

Pack your hiking boots, swimsuit, and jacket because it’s time to book that ticket for your ultimate Iceland road trip! The drive alone will offer various dashboard views of glaciers, sunsets, fjords, and greenery you’ve never seen before. You can read all about it and scroll all of the pics online, but it truly is worth visiting in person and taking it in yourself.

The country is easily accessible if you have a car or are brave enough to hitchhike. It’s safe, fun, friendly, relaxing, and great for those who need some adventure.

Suggested next reading: 10 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Going To Iceland

The post 7 Ways To Make Your Iceland Road Trip A Truly Magical Experience appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Where You Can Go On Holiday In March That’s Hot

Let’s now go into more details about each location to help you work out the best places to go on holiday in March for you.

1. Dominican Republic

If you’re looking for where is hot and cheap in March, the Dominican Republic is it. With average daily temperatures of about 26°C / 79°F in Punta Cana, the city at the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic.

It is basically the best of the Carribean for cheap with incredible beaches around the towns of Cabarete, Samaná and the island of Cayo Levantado. Other fantastic places to visit include Santo Domingo, which was founded by Bartholomew Columbus in 1496 and is the oldest inhabited European settlement in the Americas.

It is also a great spot for honeymooners with the romantic town of Punta Cana being a great option to visit if you’re looking for a memorable time.

2. Mexico

With an average temperature of 25°C / 77°F in March in the city of Cancun (located in its easternmost side), Mexico has SO much to offer in terms of cheap fun in the sun.

From incredible beaches such as Tulum, Cancun, or Playa del Carmen, to wondrous sights such as the Yucatán Peninsula or the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, there is a huge range of things to do.

Another thing: the food.

You won’t just be warm in the sun but you’ll be feasting on the delicious fiery food of Mexico. Delicious tacos will be costing you less than a dollar and you’ll have plenty of change to munch on Mollettes and huevos rancheros.

Another thing: the people.

Friendly, charming, expressive, vibrant and Catholic, what could be better? And the music too is a treat…Basically, Mexico is one of the best places to visit in March for you.

3. Thailand

The hottest month of the year in Southeast Asia is April so March really is an ideal time to visit. For example, the average temperature for Bangkok during March is around 30°C / 86°F.

Known for being ridiculously cheap, you can sleep in double rooms with a fan for about $7–$10 per night, dorm beds for about $4-$7, and quite luxurious hotels for only around $70.

You average street food meal will cost you around $1-$2, with nicer restaurants costing about $2–$7 per person.

Also, Thailand has so much to offer from its many islands, great beaches, scenery, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, National Parks, and super cities such as Chiang Mai.

4. Philippines

Pretty much everything that has been said about Thailand above can also be applied to the Philippines. It is a little bit cooler than Thailand in March with average daily temperatures in Manila being around 28°C / 82°F, but this might actually suit some people.

The benefit of the Philippines is that they usually have cheaper domestic flights on offer, meaning you can explore it more for cheap. The Philippines also pips Thailand in terms of natural beauty and scenery.

It can be a bit of a toss-up between whether to choose Thailand or the Philippines! If you’d like more info on this interesting debate, check this post out.

5. Laos

Another Southeast Asian country that has warm weather in March, the average daily temperature in Vientiane (Lao’s capital city) is around 29°C / 84°F.

Lao has been dubbed Asia’s “sleeping beauty” and is known for its coffee culture, green surroundings, gorgeous sunsets (see picture above), waterfalls, and great food.

There are many interesting things to do, such as taking the slow boat, visiting the charming little town of Luang Prabang (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the slice of heaven that is Vang Vieng (pictured), the Plain Of Jars, and so much more.

6. Nepal

In Kathmandu, Nepal‘s capital, the average daily temperature sits around 26°C / 79°F, making it another great option if you’re thinking about where can I go on holiday in March that’s hot.

Nepal is rugged, untamed, beautiful and is a wonderful place to visit if you like hikes. But hikes isn’t all it has to offer, from jungle walks to biking, rafting, kayaking, and seeing the Himalayas, Nepal is a great option for adrenalin junkies who want to visit somewhere completely new and fresh.

7. Brazil

Huge, colorful and vibrant, Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro is around 26°C / 79°F during March—the same as Kathmandu in Nepal. So not too hot, but not too cold either!

Whether it be dancing Brazilian style, checking out great sights such as Iguaçu Falls, Christ the Redeemer, Corcovado, Sugarloaf Mountain, or seeing why their beaches are to die for, or relishing in the fact that Brazilians love tourists, you won’t get bored.

After all, it’s such a big country (the 5^th largest in the world) that there are a plethora of things to do. And, moreover, great things to do on a budget! Like all the other countries in this post, Brazil is surprisingly affordable.

You can have nice Brazilain breakfasts at local cafés for about $2.50-$8 and taking the subway is your cheapest way to get around costing only about $1. Of course, prices vary depending on where you go and what you do, but with a bit of planning Brazil can turn out to be one of the best places to go on holiday in March!

8. Tenerife (Spain)

One of the best places to visit in March in Europe (well, at least culturally Europe), Tenerife is actually a Spanish island with an average daily temperature of 20°C / 67°F that lies just off Northwest Africa.

Bursting with marine life from orcas to bottlenosed dolphins and sperm whales, you’ll have lots to do if you love the sea and diving. Also, the Catalan and traditional Spanish cuisine only enhance the experience of sitting in the sun and enjoying the sea.

On that note: Tenerife is known for being sunny all year round so, in March, it’ll be a safe bet and a cheap escape since flights to Tenerife can often be ridiculously low (at least if you’re flying from Europe).

Basically, if you’re based somewhere in Europe right now and wondering where you can go on holiday in March that’s hot, Tenerife is a great option since it isn’t too geographically far away from Europe and, in a sense, is in Europe since it’s a Spanish island and so feels quite European.

9. Morocco

With the average daily temperature in Marrakesh (Morocco’s capital) being around 17°C / 63°F, Morocco might just be the perfect getaway if you’re a pasty European (like me) who is itching to fly somewhere exotic and unique, yet only on the short haul.

The unique blend of Arabic, Berber, and French culture in Morocco will charm you, and if you’re an architecture buff, you’ll LOVE Morocco. From the Mosques to the tombs built for royalty, to even great archeological sites, Morocco boasts so many interesting spots for architecture.

Check out Chefchaouen, the blue painted town, or trek the Atlas mountains, or go on a desert tour. If you’re looking to travel on a budget, then check out the city of Fes—which tends to be cheaper than Marrakesh.

Furthermore, if you plan to travel to Morocco on your own a female, be sure to also check out our tips for you.

10. South Africa

With Cape Town’s (the capital of South Africa) average temperature of 21°C / 69°F in March, South Africa is another perfect option for those looking for the best places to go on holiday in March.

Go on a safari, check out Kruger National Park, relax on Boulders Beach, all while enjoying the rays. Not to mention its also a gorgeous country.

South Africa is becoming known as one of the go-to places for adventure travel, so get out there and kayak with crocodiles, check out all the wildlife such as hippos swimming in dams, turtles laying eggs, and finding the world’s smallest lizard.

Even better yet, what most tourists remark on when visiting South Africa is how cheap everything is!

So, if you were that person who was saying to themselves, “where can I go on holiday in March that’s hot?” I hope this answered your question! Please let us know how you get on, and also feel free to comment if you have any other suggestions for our readers!

Suggested next reading: 10 Cheap & Warm Countries Perfect For People Who Hate The Cold

The post Where Can I Go On Holiday In March That’s Hot? appeared first on Modern Trekker.

By myself, I’ve visited over 60 countries on 6 continents. I did everything from cruising in the Mediterranean, scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef, shopping in Paris, to climbing Kilimanjaro. I’ve almost always stayed in hostels, worked in exchange for room and board, or traveled carry-on only to avoid baggage fees on budget airlines.

I am no stranger to budgeting for travel. But then we had our son.

We didn’t want our travel lifestyle to change, but we needed to make some adjustments for our baby and to better suit our situation.

I’ve put together a list of my favorite ways to travel cheap with kids. Take a look to see if your family can benefit from any of these tips!

1. Travel Cheap With Kids While They’re Young

My little guy is under 2 which means most of what we do is no more expensive than if I was doing it by myself. We do pay a little extra for international flights, even as a lap child, but it is a fraction of what we’re going to pay after his second birthday.

On our most recent trip, we traveled from Texas, stopped in Boston, and visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Estonia. I paid $75 for my baby. That’s it.

Besides food (which we would be buying no matter where we were), I paid $0 for a ferry from Helsinki to Stockholm, $0 for hotel rooms (because they count per person in most hotels), $0 for activities, $0 for public transportation. The only money specifically for him was for the international flights.

2. Sign Up For Travel Deal Alerts

These sites are great for looking up the best-priced hotel and flight deals. They also give you the ability to sign up for deal alerts so you get information right into your inbox.

My favorite way to use this is to set a few alerts on Skyscanner for different routes or trips I’m thinking of taking. It alerts me to trends in prices, and I can see how they are changing daily. This helps when I want to hold off on buying in the hopes of price drops.

Here are some websites for you to check out:

• Skyscanner
• Groupon Getaways
• Travelzoo
• Living Social Escapes
• hotels.com
• booking.com
• Dealbase
• Airfare Watchdog
• The Flight Deal

3. Start Travel Hacking

Travel hacking is the art of accumulating points by patronizing travel companies (like airlines and hotels), using credit cards to gain more points, and finding great deals to redeem said points for hotels or air travel.

It’s definitely not for those in a shaky financial situation and shouldn’t be taken too lightly. The best place to start is to sign up for every reward program for each airline or hotel chain that you stay with. Just patronizing those companies help gain you points that can be used later.

However, the real “money” comes in when credit cards get involved. There are sign up bonuses on cards that will maximize your return. You’ll gain points for every purchase you make (1 point/mile per $ is standard but some get 2/$ or special 5x deals). There are other perks that come with cards like priority boarding, complimentary upgrades, and lounge access.

Check out The Points Guy online for guides and advice that I’m still learning from myself.

4. Stay In An Airbnb Or Similar

While some Airbnbs can be extremely expensive, there are plenty out there that will save you money in the long run. Not only will you be more comfortable as a family, as opposed to a one-room hotel, but you’ll have access to a kitchen and laundry facilities.

You can shop for groceries and cook meals at home instead of eating out every meal. Laundry facilities will help save on expensive hotel laundry services and will allow you to pack less, possibly saving on baggage fees on airlines.

5. Avoid The Busy Season

This is harder the older children get because of school and other activities they might be involved in, but steering clear of school holidays is essential when trying to travel cheap with kids. Flights, hotels, and activity prices all increase with demand.

You can travel during the week, instead of Friday to Sunday, when most travelers want to get away for the weekend.

For typical family trips like Disney, there are calendars that mark the most popular days. Visiting those areas in low-season will save on hotels and transportation. Other high-demand times are any school holidays like summer, Christmas or Easter. Even choosing to travel a week outside those times might save you, while still being able to appreciate the season or weather typical during those days.

6. Set A Budget For Every Day

To truly travel cheap with kids, you can’t just cut costs for travel. By setting a budget for everyday expenses like food, you’ll be able to increase your travel fund to either go on more trips or add some wiggle room for more expensive activities.

Try cutting out things that aren’t essential. We don’t have cable, instead we choose to use Netflix and save a ton every month not paying for a TV we wouldn’t really need. We also rarely buy clothes (except for my child who seems to need a bigger size every day), live in a home well below our budget, don’t spend a ton on home decor, and just generally try to save for travel.

Start by looking at your finances and cutting out things that you’re not getting your money’s worth with. Start shopping at less expensive grocery stores, use coupons, and plan meals to avoid food waste. Set up a separate account, or piggy bank, to store any money that you save and watch as your travel fund grows.

7. Be Flexible

As parents you know that things don’t always work out. How often have you left home with your kids thinking one thing was going to happen, but your kid had other ideas? It’s the same with travel.

Be open to the possibility of traveling to not-so-typical places or on routes that aren’t ideal. Usually, the cheapest option isn’t the easiest but having an open mind will let you still experience the world while saving a ton.

Look into traveling to less expensive locations. Southeast Asia might be far from home, but hotels, food, and transportation in the area are a fraction of the cost of similar locations in Europe. Your dollar will go further and you will be able to experience some amazing places along the way.

8. Travel Close To Home

Travel doesn’t always have to mean long-haul flights, weeks away, and exotic locations.  Travel can be a weekend away in the city a few hours from your home. It could be a small road trip camping in state parks. It could also be a week at the beach near where you live.

If you can’t work a trip to Europe into your budget today, there’s no shame in planning a weekend away to experience what your area has to offer. We often travel to cities around Texas. We aren’t originally from here, so we make it a point to visit as many places as possible.

You’ll save on flights, time away from work or school, but can still get away from home to create some new memories.

Try out a few of these tips so that you can travel cheap with kids and explore the world as a family. Good luck!

Suggested next reading: Fun Places To Take Your Kids This Summer In The U.S.

The post How This Family Is Actually Able To Travel Cheap With Kids 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.

Sure, you might immediately be daydreaming of Paris or New York, but these cities start becoming increasingly cold from October and so your mind should drift further south for warm countries.

Many countries that are warm this time of the year are located in the Southern Hemisphere (I’m looking at you South America!) where it is now almost summertime and there is a warm climate.

Besides being warm, it’s important to book a trip to a cheaper country. That way your money gets stretched further and more fun can be had.

The Best Cheap & Warm Countries To Visit

1. Mexico
2. Colombia
3. Thailand
4. Indonesia
5. Argentina
6. South Africa
7. United Arab Emirates
8. Portugal
9. Croatia
10. Bolivia

1. Mexico

Located in between North and Central America, Mexico is the ideal country to escape to for whatever cheap fun in the sun action you are searching for. Whether it be the ideal beaches of Tulum, discovering the beautiful old town of Mexico City, or seeing the temples of the Yucatan Peninsula.

While it does have some incredible destinations, the real star of the show may be the food that Mexico offers. From tacos to huevos rancheros to mollete, Mexico has great food to offer any visitor. Considering a taco can be had for less than a dollar, you’ll have plenty of change left over.

Going to Mexico always means escaping to some of the best beaches in the world. With Isla Holbox in Quintana Roo, Playa Los Cerritos in town of Todos Santos, or Playa la Ropa in Zihuatanejo, Mexico has so many beaches on offer!

2. Colombia

A country that is in the midst of a comeback, Colombia is deserving of its place as one of the best warm countries to escape to. Whether you want hot sun in Cartagena or year-round spring-like weather in Medellin, Colombia has plenty to offer.

The real treat is visiting the country’s Coffee Triangle, where a large percentage of the world’s coffee is grown. You can taste some of the best coffee you’ll ever have straight from the source…a tour and coffee are only $10.

Also, there are some truly impressive historical sites to check out such as the Walled City of Cartagena, or La Popa Monastery located on top Mount Popa.

Colombian food also deserves a mention. Treat yourself to some traditional (and yummy) foods such as Bandeja Paisa or Chicharrón, and don’t be shy in trying out the street food. Arepa with cheese is a classic type of street food in Colombia that only sets you back about $1. So eat away without worrying about the cost!

3. Thailand

Thailand has exploded in popularity among visitors in recent years. It’s actually become a favorite destination for digital nomads and it seems like every day you see pictures of someone’s friends heading over for a week or two.

From Chiang Mai’s mountain ranges to Bangkok’s chaotic beautifulness to Koh Phi Phi’s party beaches, Thailand is just waiting to be discovered.

I recommend going rogue and renting a motorbike to explore all of the harder to reach spots. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at the prices. Food, rent, and entertainment are all a third of what they would be back home.

Thailand is just waiting for you to explore its beautiful varied regions.

4. Indonesia

Unfortunately, Indonesia has recently been in the news for natural disasters that have pounded the island country. Now, it’s even more important to go visit the country and support it any way you can.

Many opt to go to Bali, but since you are a real trekker, you’re more likely to go off the beaten path to a spot like Maluku Islands or Tanjung Puting National Park.

Considering you can eat like a king for only $7 USD or go on a full day trip to go see endangered Orangutans, I’d say Indonesia is a great, warm weather country that’ll make your money go far.

5. Argentina

I bet you weren’t expecting to see Argentina on this list, but considering that summer is coming and the exchange rates are quite favorable at the moment, it’s a great time to go explore all that the country has to offer.

While the Argentine Peso is lower than usual, it’s a nice time to go visit the Patagonia region and do some incredible hikes.

Of course, no trip to Argentina would be complete without first visiting the Paris of South America (Buenos Aires). With its small streets, incredible street art, and delicious food, Argentina is a great fall or winter getaway.

6. South Africa

Speaking of warm Southern Hemisphere destinations, South Africa is a country that’s becoming more and more popular among travelers. The country has big cities, nature, lively culture, and tons of history.

In terms of prices, it’s actually one of the cheapest in Africa. This is due to the fact that other countries on the continent have converted their prices to USD whereas South Africa has kept their currency.

It goes without saying that the wildlife in South Africa is pretty incredible all around, but especially in places such as Kruger National Park.

Moreover, there are great opportunities for hiking with Table Mountain or the Cape of Good Hope, and also wonderful beaches such as Boulders Beach that features a penguin colony!

Take advantage of South Africa’s affordability before the secret is out.

7. United Arab Emirates

When you think of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, what do you think of? If oppressive heat comes to mind then you’re not far off! Luckily, October is when the temperatures start to drop to a more reasonable average (around 86°F/ 30°C).

In terms of cost, you might think of Ferraris driving around Dubai, but for a visitor, the costs are pretty reasonable. A good meal should set you back about $15 USD and a museum pass costs about $1 USD.

There are also some colossus feats of architecture in the United Arab Emirates. From impressive mosques to palaces, you’ll be constantly admiring the architecture.

Being closer to the desert too also adds the benefit of opening up more opportunities for thrill-seekers. Go on a desert safari tour in the Liwa Desert, try some dune driving, or see the desert by quad bike. Maybe even try sandboarding. (Yes, that is a thing!)

If you can, try to avoid Abu Dhabi or Dubai to cut down on costs and get a more local view of this incredible country.

8. Portugal

This Mediterranean country is now on many travelers bucket list and is one of the best warm European countries to escape the cold.

I remember when I visited in 2014 and many of my friends were confused about why I would go to Portugal and not Spain first…I changed their minds when I came back with some incredible pictures of Portugal!

This country has every modern comfort and is easily accessible from the rest of Europe and North America (5 hours flight from the East Coast of the US and Canada.)

Portugal has a bit of everything too: castles, beaches, mountains, beautiful scenery, lakes, cool cities, and great architecture. You’ll get that vintage European feel while basking in the warmth and not breaking the bank.

9. Croatia

With daily highs in fall of 72°F/ 22°C and lows of 59°F/ 15°C, fall or winter is an ideal time of the year for a vacation in Croatia. It also is way less crowded than in the warmer summer months. With fewer visitors means cheaper prices for tours and other tourist related activities.

Be sure to take advantage of great deals on cruises around the Croatian coast and check out some of the islands. Croatia really has some of the best beaches Europe can offer!

But not to forget to also mention, with it being a Balkan country, it offers more than just Mediterranean culture. You really feel something different and unique here.

It’s also a diverse country in that it offers many opportunities for adventurous types. Go check out the wonderful national parks such as Plitvice Lakes National Park, or try hiking, diving, snorkeling, or sailing.

As you can see from the photo above too, there are so many beautiful towns in Croatia! You won’t be short of options to explore.

Note: Although one of the warm countries in Europe, depending on which part of the country you’re in, Croatia can start to get a little bit cooler in deep winter…but only very rarely will drop below 41°F/ 5°C.

10. Bolivia

This South American country is often seen as a pass over for many going to visit Peru, but you are missing so much by not spending time exploring Bolivia.

Sure, it’s not as cheap as people originally assume, but you can easily live as comfortably for way less than back home.

Be sure to take one of the cheapest jungle tours on the continent, but be wary there are many shady companies. La Paz is also a lovely city to spend some time and has a large expat community.

Sucre is a city in the southern highlands that has a subtropical climate meaning its hot in the summer and not too cold in the winter.

The Historic City of Sucre with its incredibly well-preserved 16^th Century churches like Santo Domingo and San Lázaro showcase a blending of old-world European architecture and new-world American architecture. This is part of the reason why the History City of Sucre is actually a UNESCO world heritage site!

With it also being the prettiest city in Bolivia, I’d say its a good option to visit!

Bolivia is one of those warm countries that deserve to be a part of your next trip.

Other Questions:

What Is The Warmest Country In Europe?

There are multiple winners of the “warmest country in Europe” competition, some of them cheap enough to arguably deserve a place on this list! These countries include Cyrus, Malta and Greece.

What Is The Warmest Scandinavian Country?

Scandinavia is certainly not known for being warm this time of year, but perhaps you just LOVE the Nordic countries and you’d like to know what the warmest Scandinavian countries are anyway? These answers may surprise you, but we’d like to nominate these places.

• Røst in Lofoten, Norway

In the Arctic North of Norway (wait, what?!) is our first recommendation. Despite being pretty far north in Norway, it is sat right in the middle of the Gulf Stream meaning there is barely ever snow here. In fact, the average temperature of Røst is a bit over 0°C / 32°F all year round. So, if you want stunning views, and don’t mind it being just slightly chilly, go here!

• Iceland

Despite its misleading name, Iceland is actually one of the warmest Scandinavian countries during winter (at least in the south of Iceland). It’s warmer than Minnesota this time of year and its a country that has become really popular recently. It has some of the most dramatic and beautiful scenery in the world.

• Denmark / southern Sweden

Our last recommendations for the warmest Scandinavian countries are pretty obvious. Denmark is the southernmost Scandinavian country, and south Sweden has the same latitude, therefore this is your more traditional answer for what is the warmest Scandinavian country.

Do You Live Longer In Warm Climates?

Warmer climates are usually more enjoyable for people, so there is something to be said in believing that mental health can improve by spending some time in a warmer climate.

But in regards to physical health, it is a pretty well-documented trend that more people die during the winter than summer. Summer tends to be a time where people drink more water, eat healthier foods, and receive more Vitamin D from the sunlight.

So, in a sense, yes warmer climates can help you to live longer and be healthier—but mainly because of the way it changes our lifestyles for the better.

So after reading my list of warm places to go, what do you think of it? Will you fly off to one of the countries with the best weather in the world, or will you just accept the cold weather and travel somewhere colder?

Let me know how you travel and we can share tips on how to experience the best climates in the world all year round. Happy travels!

Suggested next reading: 12 Cheap & Exotic Countries You Can Actually Escape To This Winter

The post 10 Cheap & Warm Countries Perfect For People Who Hate The Cold appeared first on Modern Trekker.

But does that mean we should stay at home?

Definitely not.

Let’s take a look at ten places to visit in Winter where both experiences and true value can be found:

1. Banff – Alberta, Canada

Banff may be somewhat of a tourist town and the hotels might be a little expensive but the truth is, this can also be one of the cheapest places to visit in Winter. After all, you don’t need to stay in Banff itself and Calgary is just a short drive away where you will find many affordable options for accommodation.

Located in the middle of a glorious National Park, Banff is admittedly a touristy town but once you venture into the mountains, everything opens up. In other words, you can feel alone and one with nature up here and this is certainly true when driving between the immense snow-capped peaks.

Just up the road, you have Lake Louise and Moraine Lake while the waterfalls and walkways of Johnston are a suitable option for a leisurely stroll even in spite of the snow.

Needless to say, Banff is known as one of the most beautiful Winter destinations for good reason but you don’t have to ski, snowboard or stay at fancy hotels to witness this majestic wonderland.

2. Slovenia – Europe

Slovenia is fast becoming one of the premier hiking destinations in the world. However, this is also an incredibly cheap place to travel in Winter and Lake Bled is arguably the hidden gem that you need to uncover.

Located in the middle of the Julian Alps, Lake Bled has a beautiful little island where equally small houses and a church make up a delightful community. Life seems to stand still here and for many people, it can feel like a step back to a time when life was a lot more simple.

With a pristine yet frosty lake, the scenery is nothing short of breath-taking at this time of year. What’s more, there is a ski resort close to the lake but nearby Vintgar Gorge is another option, where visitors can visit pools, caves and waterfalls, at absolutely no cost!

3. Iceland

Okay, Iceland is super expensive and there’s no denying that the hotels and restaurants are overpriced. But when you factor in the ridiculously low cost of airfare, you’ve already made up the difference on the accommodation.

More importantly, most of the “activities” in Iceland are outdoors and as a rule, completely free. That is to say, most people venture outdoors on one of the many hiking trails and there’s no cost or fees involved with any of these areas.

As mentioned, WOW Air and Iceland Air are offering insanely good deals to the island and if you opt for hostels over hotels, this incredible destination can be a reasonably cheap option for Winter.

4. Krakow – Poland

You can visit many stunning outdoor regions and attractions from Krakow such as the Zakopane mountains or Wieliczka Salt Mines. However, there is also Auschwitz concentration camps nearby which is the most visited landmark by visitors to Poland.

Either way, there is so much to do when you stay in Krakow and the city is extremely vibrant during Winter. For example, on the main square you can find the Winter markets where hearty food and mulled wine is served for no less than two whole months.

What’s more, Krakow is one of the cheapest places to visit in Winter and you are sure to leave having received more than enough value for your investment.

5. Jackson Hole – Wyoming, United States

While most ski enthusiasts will opt for Aspen or Lake Tahoe for the winter months, Jackson Hole is often a much better and cheaper destination. Situated in Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole is a stunning valley which receives a very healthy and reliable dose of snow each year.

As for the actual ski resort, this is may not have the glamour of other famous resorts in America but in recent years, it has become just as popular.

Surrounded by rugged mountains and blessed with a beautiful little town, Jackson Hole also features some fantastic bars and places to eat some wholesome warm meals at the end of the day.

6. Stockholm – Sweden

As with Iceland, the cost of living is quite high in Sweden and many tourist attractions are priced accordingly. However, there are still affordable options in Stockholm and you can travel to Sweden for next to nothing from almost any corner of the world.

For example, round trips from the east coast of either Canada or the United States are typically priced less than $350. As if that’s not enough, during Winter, you can find excellent prices on hotels in Stockholm with many top class options for less than $100.

Needless to say, the infamous Northern lights and stunning vistas make this one of the greatest places to visit in Winter, and this is especially true for those who venture up north on a road trip.

7. Chicago – United States

We all know that New York is one of the most exciting and popular places to travel during Winter. At the same time, we also know it’s super expensive. With this in mind, Chicago offers an inexpensive alternative.

The truth is, flights to Chicago are much cheaper than New York and the same can be said for hotels. More importantly, Chicago can also be a bit of a Winter Wonderland at this time of year and can be a truly atmospheric city to explore.

Even though there are many attractions such as the Shedd Aquarium or the Art Institute, this is a fantastic city to indulge in some bargain basement shopping and the endless cheap eats around town.

8. Berlin – Germany

Berlin is another great place to visit in Winter and extremely cheap to reach from most parts of the world. In fact, if you find a decent airfare, this can be an incredibly cheap option as the cost of living is relatively low here.

Hotels should be priced for less than $100 and attractions such as the Planetarium of National History Museum only require a small entry fee.

That being said, the best thing about Berlin is to explore the many historic sites around the city from World War II. From the famous Berlin Wall to Brandenburg Gate, there are many remnants of the war and most of them are entirely free.

9. Newfoundland – Canada

Most people head off to Whistler or the above mentioned Banff during the winter months, but Newfoundland offers a very different experience. That is to say, you will not find tourist crowds or busy attractions in Newfoundland. Instead, this charming landmass offers encounters with nature and incredibly friendly locals.

As if that’s not enough, Newfoundland is slightly more affordable than mainland Canada and flights to St. Johns are usually quite cheap. In case you might be asking yourself, this is because St Johns is a common stopover for flights traveling from North America to Europe and vice-versa. Hence, you will often find cut-price deals from anywhere in either destination.

10. Edinburgh – Scotland

As you know, London is highly expensive but if you take a trip up north to Scotland, Edinburgh offers one of the best places to visit in Winter. In fact, Edinburgh is more popular during Winter than at any other time of year.

Featuring a stunning castle and a beautiful medieval center, this is a great city in which to take a stroll but also to explore the surroundings. After all, you can take a day tour to from Edinburgh to Loch Ness, home of the notorious Loch Ness Monster.

Alternatively, there are also trips to be taken into the mountains where nature lovers are sure to be impressed by some of the most rugged, unspoiled landscapes in the world.

Interestingly, this is also where many scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed so fans of the television series can visit the north and see that the legends are true—Winter is Coming!

As you can see, even some of the more expensive destinations can be visited on a rather small budget.

But wait, where have we missed? Do you have any favorite places to visit in Winter?

The post 10 Great & Cheap Places To Visit For People Who Love Winter appeared first on Modern Trekker.