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7 Thrifty Tips to Help You Travel in Europe on a Budget

Planning a trip to Europe but worried about your budget? Don’t fret! With careful planning and a few money-saving tips, you can explore the wonders of Europe without breaking the bank.

From affordable accommodations to money-saving strategies, we’ve compiled a list of seven practical tips to help you travel to Europe on a budget. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey while keeping your wallet happy.

#1: CONSIDER HOSTELS & LOCAL HOMESTAYS

Finding budget accommodation in Europe is easier than you might think. Hostels are a popular choice, offering not only cost-effective options but also opportunities to meet fellow travelers. Choose dorm rooms instead of expensive hotel suites to share costs and make new friends along the way. Alternatively, consider booking spare rooms in locals’ houses or apartments through platforms like Airbnb and Couchsurfing for a more authentic and economical experience.

#2: SEARCH FOR FREE ACTIVITIES

Check for grammar: Europe is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering plenty of free activities for travelers. Take advantage of free walking tours in cities, which provide an excellent introduction to the area while highlighting major attractions. You can also enjoy the scenic wonders of Europe by going on hikes, strolling along the beach, or having picnics in charming parks—all without spending a dime.

Many museums and galleries offer free admission on specific days or times, so plan your visits accordingly. Try visiting London’s National Gallery and Camden Art Centre, or Paris’ Museum of Fine Arts (Petit Palais) and Museum of Modern Art (Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris).

#3: SPLURGE AT THE LOCAL MARKET

When it comes to food and souvenirs, explore local markets for a budget-friendly experience. These vibrant marketplaces not only offer affordable prices but also immerse you in the local culture. When my husband returned home from Europe, he brought back a dreamcatcher with my name from the streets of London.

Sample fresh produce, indulge in local specialties, and discover unique handicrafts—all at reasonable prices compared to touristy areas. Engaging with local vendors can also provide insights into the region’s traditions and flavors.

#4: TAKE ADVANTAGE OF ONLINE BUNDLE PASSES

Individual admission tickets for various attractions can quickly add up, straining your travel budget. Thankfully, numerous websites offer bundle passes that provide discounted rates on hotels, amusement park tickets, airline travel, and more.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Take advantage of platforms like Google Flights, Groupon Getaways, TripAdvisor, Expedia, Scott’s Cheap Flights, and Kayak to find bundled deals that can save you significant money while exploring Europe.

#5: EMBRACE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

While travelling via cab may seem like the most convenient option, buses and trains are often cheaper and offer unique experiences. Not only do they provide cost-effective transportation, but they also allow you to enjoy scenic routes and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Consider opting for an overnight train journey to save on accommodation costs, as you won’t need to pay for a hostel for that night.

#6: EARN WHILE YOU TRAVEL

Turn your travel dreams into reality by taking advantage of working holiday opportunities. Various seasonal jobs are available in Europe, such as teaching skiing during the winter, or teaching a language.

If your work allows it, freelancing while traveling can also be an option. Earning money while you travel not only provides financial support but also offers unique cultural experiences and the opportunity to connect with locals.

#7: COOK HOMEMADE MEALS

Dining out can be a significant expense while traveling. To save money, opt for affordable lunches from supermarkets or local fresh food markets instead of costly cafes or restaurants. Take the time to explore your options before choosing a place for dinner, as the first restaurant you see might not offer the best value for your money.

Additionally, consider opting for water instead of beer with your meals to save both your wallet and waistline. If available, choose accommodation with kitchen access to cook your own meals and further reduce expenses.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Traveling to Europe on a budget is not only achievable but also rewarding. By implementing these thrifty tips, you can explore the breathtaking offerings of Europe without burning a hole in your pocket.

Sources: 1 & 2

5 top-rated hotels in Cebu, Philippines under $40/night for your National Day getaway

Time is ticking and there’s no more time to waste.

If you’ve yet to plan for your National Day holiday getaway, now’s the time to do so before prices rise further. Catch my last two posts here:

In this post, we’re still eyeing the National Day break since we’ve got a month left.

So you better hurry and submit that leave request ya.

Anyway, at the time of writing, I searched and saw a 2-way flight at less than $250 to the Philippines and hence this post.

Let’s look at some top-rated hotels in Cebu, Philippines under $40/night. Shall we?

Hotel prices reflected are based on dates selected from 9 to 12 August 2023.

OYO 187 The Maxwell Hotel

Price: $24/night

OYO 187 The Maxwell Hotel is sited right along N Escario Street. The distance from Mactan-Cebu International Airport is approximately 45 minutes. It was awarded as a top choice for Agoda travelers in 2021 so you should be in good hands. At the time of writing, there are various rooms priced at just $24/night but I would suggest going for the deluxe double room, the biggest available room with a queen-size bed.

Cebu Hotel Plus

Price: $31/night

Cebu Hotel Plus situated along Don Mariano Cui Street is about a 40-minute drive from Mactan-Cebu International Airport. You will be right in the heart of Cebu City and a 10-minute ride away from the iconic Minor Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebu. The deluxe queen room is priced at just $31/night and offers city views.

Red Planet Cebu

Price: $33/night

If you book a stay here, you will find yourself at 36 Archbishop Reyes Avenue and a 40-minute ride from the international airport. The famous Temple of Leah is a 20-minute drive away. Both the twin room and double room at Red Planet Cebu are priced at $33/night. So whether you’re traveling with a friend or your partner, there are options for you.

18 Suites Cebu

Price: $34/night

You will find 18 Suites Cebu at 18 Sanson Road, a short walk to JY Square Mall. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Mactan-Cebu International Airport. It was awarded a top choice for Agoda travelers last year with an excellent rating of 8.9 with over 1,000 reviews at the time of writing. The deluxe twin room with 2 single beds will cost you $34/night. You can also opt for the deluxe double room with a queen bed for $37/night.

Cebu R Hotel – Mabolo

Price: $39/night

Cebu R Hotel – Mabolo is located along Tres Borces Padres Street and is approximately a 30-minute ride from the airport. Fort San Pedro is a 10-minute drive away. The standard room will cost you $39/night and it even includes free breakfast for 2 and access to their humble fitness center.

If you’re planning a National Day getaway in Cebu, Philippines, and want to find top-rated hotels without breaking the bank, these 5 hotels provide exceptional value, comfort, and quality service, all for under $40/night. So book your accommodation right away before they get snapped up and have fun on your getaway on a budget!

Singapore’s Popularity Soars as Taylor Swift & Coldplay Attract Fans from Southeast Asia

With Coldplay scheduled to perform at Singapore’s National Stadium from January 23 to January 27, 2024, and Taylor Swift set to have six shows from March 2 to 4 as well as 7 to 9, 2024 fans are eagerly seeking tickets.

The popularity of Taylor Swift and Coldplay concerts are attracting travelers to Singapore. However, limited availability has sparked disappointment among locals, who believe the concerts should prioritize Singaporeans.

POPULARITY OF TAYLOR SWIFT AND COLDPLAY CONCERTS ATTRACTS TRAVELERS TO SINGAPORE

The concerts of both Coldplay and Taylor Swift are drawing in foreign visitors from the Southeast Asia region to Singapore. Coldplay has scheduled shows at Singapore’s National Stadium from January 23 to January 27, 2024.

Meanwhile, Taylor Swift will be performing six shows from March 2 to 4 and March 7 to 9, 2024 at the National Stadium, situated in Singapore’s central Kallang area. With a maximum capacity of 55,000, there are abundant opportunities to catch her performance during her only stop in Southeast Asia.

However, due to limited availability, many individuals have expressed their disappointment at having to compete with foreign fans for tickets. Some argue that the concert should primarily cater to Singaporeans since it is being held in Singapore.

RESTRICTIONS ON FOREIGNERS

Associate Professor Terence Ho, a practitioner at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, highlights the significant benefits that foreign demand for concert tickets brings to Singapore’s tourism industry. Hotels, food and beverage outlets, and other attractions all reap the rewards. Professor Ho emphasizes that implementing restrictions on foreign tickets could damage Singapore’s reputation as an events hub and reduce its appeal to top performers in the future.

PURCHASING TICKETS FOR TAYLOR SWIFT’S ERAS TOUR IN SINGAPORE

Ticketmaster Singapore sells tickets on a first-come, first-served basis until inventory lasts. Like other platforms, you will receive a one-time password (OTP) on your phone for verification. However, a Singapore SIM card is not required.

Interestingly, fans of Taylor Swift are rushing to sign up for UOB credit and debit cards following the announcement that pre-sale tickets for her 2024 show will exclusively be available to UOB cardholders. Within just 30 minutes of the concert promoter’s announcement, a Telegram channel was created to guide fans on obtaining these cards. Some fans even plan to visit bank branches to expedite the card application process.

Ms. Jacquelyn Tan, the head of group personal financial services at UOB, acknowledges the tremendous interest in Taylor Swift’s upcoming concert, given her international stature and the fact that Singapore is her only stop in Southeast Asia for the Eras Tour. UOB cardholders in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam will enjoy privileged access to the pre-sale and reserved ticket allotment during general sales. Pre-sale tickets for UOB cardholders will be available from July 5, with general sales on Ticketmaster commencing on July 7.

In contrast, fans have already purchased over 300,000 tickets for Coldplay’s concerts. Coldplay plans to release a limited number of cheaper “Infinity Tickets” at a later date, priced at approximately $20 each. These tickets will only be sold in pairs, with a maximum of two tickets per buyer.

TICKET RESELLING

Some individuals who managed to secure Coldplay tickets have resorted to reselling them on platforms such as Carousell and Viagogo. On Carousell, a seller is demanding $10,000 for an ultimate Music Of The Spheres World Tour experience ticket, which originally retailed for $1,098 on Ticketmaster. The seller mentioned receiving three offers within 15 hours, with the highest offer reaching $9,000. However, the seller will not sell the ticket until someone meets the asking price. More than 600 sellers have listed Coldplay concert tickets at prices twice or more than the original cost.

In Malaysia, scalpers demanded RM43,000 (S$12,600) for Coldplay concert tickets in Kuala Lumpur, while the original prices ranged from RM228 to RM3,088. It’s important to note that scalping activities, where tickets are purchased at retail prices and resold at significantly higher prices, are not illegal in Singapore.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Nonetheless, the police have warned against the risks of purchasing illegitimate or non-existent tickets. Concert ticket scams have resulted in music fans losing approximately $170,000 as of March 2023.

Thus, UOB emphasizes that tickets purchased by their cardholders are strictly for personal use and should not be resold.

Sources: 1 & 2

3 campervan-style stays in Melbourne, Australia from $91/night for your National Day getaway

Did you catch my last post on beachfront rental homes in Perth, Australia?

If you’ve not, you can have a read here:

4 beachfront rental homes in Perth, Australia from $87/night for your National Day getaway

In this post, we’re still eyeing the National Day break since we’ve got some time left till August so there’s ample time to request an official leave and plan your trip.

At the time of writing, I searched and saw a 2-way flight at less than $700 to Melbourne and hence this post.

And if you need a holiday with a twist, why not try these campervan-style stays from $91/night I’m about to introduce to you?

Prices reflected are based on dates selected from 9 to 13 August 2023.

Vintage caravan in a rainforest near Mount Dandenong

Price: $91/night

Step into this vintage caravan, crafted with care in the 1950s. This delightful little home on wheels stretches a cozy 12 feet, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the Dandenong rainforest. Inside, you will find a snug double bed, just slightly smaller than the standard size. This vintage gem comfortably accommodates up to two people, ensuring an intimate retreat.

The caravan also comes equipped with a heater, guaranteeing a comforting, toasty ambiance during the cooler months. Adjacent to the caravan, you will discover a private ensuite featuring a compact fridge, a refreshing hot shower, and a composting toilet.

Cute little caravan in a rural green belt in Wallington

Price: $91/night

Welcome to this adorable little caravan nestled in the serene rural green belt of Wallington. It comes with a cozy queen-size bed, complete with bedding for your utmost comfort. Power is available for essential amenities like lights and charging your phones and small devices.

Outside, a charming deck awaits, furnished with chairs where you can relax and soak in the beauty of nature. You will be equipped with a two-burner stove, grill, and all the essentials, everything you need to whip up delicious meals. When nature calls, the private outdoor shower and toilet facilities are just steps away from your accommodation.

Cozy caravan in the valley of Dandenong Ranges

Price: $105/night

This cozy caravan is nestled in the picturesque valley of the Dandenong Ranges, positioned in the lower section of the host’s hillside property. You will find a comfortable double bed adorned with high-quality linen. Bedside tables, a small wardrobe, and cupboards are available to store your barang barang and keep them organized.

You will also find a table inside the van, perfect for enjoying meals indoors. The kitchen area is well-equipped and stocked with plenty of plates, bowls, cutlery, utensils, and basic supplies, so you will have everything you need for meal preparation. Venture outdoors and you will discover a BBQ shelter complete with a BBQ grill and a picnic table, providing a delightful space for outdoor dining. For your convenience, the campsite offers a long-drop toilet, along with a separate cubicle featuring a hot water shower.

Your National Day getaway in Melbourne, Australia is waiting with these inviting campervan-style accommodations. Starting from just $91/night, these cozy havens offer a unique way to explore Melbourne’s stunning surroundings. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in the rainforest near Mount Dandenong, a rural escape in Wallington’s green belt, or a charming stay in the valley of Dandenong Ranges, these campervans provide a touch of wildness for the adventurous at heart. Book your stay today before they get snapped up!

6 plastic surgery centers in Seoul that offer English & Chinese interpretations

A journey to enhance your appearance can be both exciting and daunting, especially when language barriers come into play.

Fear not, as I’ve got you covered with this list of top-notch plastic surgery centers in Seoul that offer English and Chinese interpretation services. Selected ones even offer Bahasa Indonesia.

These clinics provide a smooth and comfortable experience, ensuring that you can confidently undergo your transformation without worrying about communication hurdles.

If you’re ready to dive in, I’m ready to show you the way.

Grand Plastic Surgery

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Website: eng.grandsurgery.com

Address: 6F, JB Miso-building, 841, Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Nearest station: Apgujeong station, exit 4

Interpretation: English & Chinese

For over 15 years, Grand Plastic Surgery has been transforming lives through the artistry of world-class surgeons and a dedication to patient care and safety. Their state-of-the-art facility opened in 2004 and is home to a team of highly skilled doctors with decades of experience.

Over 30,000 patients from around the globe have trusted Grand Plastic Surgery for procedures ranging from rhinoplasty to anti-aging and breast surgery. Your safety is their top priority, which is why they offer live CCTV footage so a guardian can monitor your procedure in real-time (upon request).

Whether you’re looking to turn back the clock or make a subtle enhancement, their surgeons will work with you to achieve results that align with your beauty goals.

HERSHE Plastic Surgery

Website: hershebeauty.com

Address: 730, Samseong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Nearest station: Cheongdam station, exit 9

Interpretation: English & Chinese

HERSHE Plastic Surgery has been South Korea’s premier destination for cosmetic enhancements and anti-aging treatments for over three decades.

Their award-winning team of surgeons knows that beauty is in the details, which is why they offer specialized procedures for delicate areas like the eyes in addition to their full suite of cosmetic services.

And with online consultations, English and Chinese interpreters on a full-time schedule, and five Korea Health Industry Awards to their name, you can trust that you will receive world-class care from start to finish.

JK Plastic Surgery Center

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Website: jkplastic.com/en

Address: 584-2 Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Nearest station: Apgujeong station, exit 4

Interpretation: English & Chinese

JK Plastic Surgery Center has been a premier destination for cosmetic procedures and medical tourism. Designated by the Korean Ministry of Health as a hospital for serving foreign patients, JK Plastic Surgery Center has welcomed visitors from over 100 countries worldwide.

Established in 1998, their team of skilled surgeons and staff have over two decades of expertise performing major surgeries like facelifts, contouring, and breast augmentation. Located in the heart of Seoul, JK Plastic Surgery Center is your trusted choice for high-quality cosmetic care and an unparalleled patient experience.

Hyundai Aesthetics Plastic Surgery

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Website: hyundaisurgery.com

Address: 2/5/6F, 114, Dosan-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Nearest station: Sinsa station, exit 1

Interpretation: English & Chinese

Hyundai’s surgeons are true artisans, having won accolades for their skill in cosmetic eye surgery.

Whether you want to refine your features with a non-invasive treatment or embark on a total makeover, Hyundai Aesthetics Plastic Surgery delivers stunning yet natural-looking results using the latest technology and techniques. Their seamless procedures in facial contouring, cosmetic eye surgery, and rhinoplasty have cemented their status as a leader in their field.

When you walk through their doors, you’re placing your beauty dreams in the hands of masters. Hyundai’s meticulous approach and passion for perfection shine through in every rejuvenated face. Beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, but at Hyundai Esthetics, it’s a work of art.

Banobagi Plastic Surgery

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Website: eng.banobagi.com

Address: 517, Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Nearest station: Yeoksam station, exit 6

Interpretation: English, Chinese & Bahasa Indonesia

Banobagi Plastic Surgery is Seoul’s premier destination for cosmetic enhancement and anti-aging treatments.

Chosen as an official medical tourism partner by the Seoul government and featured on the hit makeover show “Let Me In”, Banobagi is at the cutting edge of procedures like facial contouring and breast augmentation. Their team of medical directors has spent over two decades researching and performing plastic surgery, allowing them to achieve natural-looking results for clients from Korea and beyond.

Looking to define your facial features, restore your youthful glow, or simply boost your confidence? Banobagi provides an all-encompassing suite of services to make your ideal beauty a reality.

They are currently running a promotion, giving you up to 30% off if you book by 30 June 2023: eng.banobagi.com/may-promotions

View Plastic Surgery

Website: viewplasticsurgery.com

Address: 107, Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Nearest station: Sinnonhyeon station, exit 3

Interpretation: English, Chinese & Bahasa Indonesia

View Plastic Surgery comes with 17 years of zero accidents so you can trust them to provide you with a thorough pre-surgery examination and personalized post-surgery care to reduce swelling.

It doesn’t matter if it’s dermatology or plastic surgery—View Medical has a wide range of options available, including their specialized men’s plastic surgery solution.

There you have it—a curated list of exceptional plastic surgery centers in Seoul that cater to English and Chinese-speaking clients. These clinics not only offer world-class services and expertise but also provide a welcoming environment that breaks down language barriers, ensuring a seamless experience throughout your transformation journey. Now that you’re equipped with this knowledge, take the first step towards a more confident you, knowing that you’re in the capable hands of professionals who understand your needs and speak your language.

Grand Plastic Surgery

HERSHE Plastic Surgery

JK Plastic Surgery Center

Hyundai Aesthetics Plastic Surgery

Banobagi Plastic Surgery

View Plastic Surgery

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