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How to Save Money When Traveling Around Asia with Kids

Let’s face it, kids can be costly. From daily expenses like groceries and clothing to future endeavors like college funds, the financial responsibilities can seem overwhelming. The idea of a family vacation might make you hesitant, but don’t dismiss it just yet.

Traveling together not only strengthens the bond between parents and children but also creates unforgettable memories. After all, what’s the point of working hard if you can’t enjoy life? The good news is, you absolutely deserve and can afford that much-needed vacation. To help you make it happen, here are some practical tips on how to save money while traveling with kids!

TIME YOUR VACATION

If you have young children or are willing to take older kids out of school for a few days, you can score great deals by traveling in the off-season. Avoid peak travel times like Christmas, Thanksgiving, holiday weekends, and summer vacations. Instead, plan your trip for September, October, February, or April. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also encounter fewer crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

MAKE A TRAVEL BUDGET

Before setting off on your family adventure, create a strict budget and commit to sticking to it. Consider making an Excel spreadsheet outlining every expense, including flights, rental cars, accommodations, meals, snacks, entrance fees, and souvenirs. Having a clear overview of your expenditures will prevent any surprises and help you resist impulsive spending during the trip.

OPT FOR EXPERIENCE GIFTS

Consider giving your kids experience gifts instead of material possessions. Initially, they might not fully grasp what to expect, but once they experience the excitement and joy of traveling, they’ll cherish the memories far more than any material gifts. Trips to museums or fun outings like trampoline parks can be incredibly rewarding for everyone involved.

CONSIDER ALTERNATIVE STAYS

If your vacation involves staying at a destination for an extended period, explore accommodation options like Airbnb or Homestay. These platforms often offer weekly discounts, making them more cost-effective, especially if you’re staying for more than a week. Additionally, choosing a place with a kitchen allows you to save money on meals by preparing some at home.

Alternatively, consider staying at guesthouses or smaller hostels instead of large hotels or chains. Not only will this save you money, but it can also provide a more authentic and immersive experience of the local culture.

EXPLORE ON FOOT

Walking is not only great exercise but also an excellent way to save money while traveling. I don’t know how many times I have heard of horror stories about taxis or tuk-tuk frauds! Instead of relying on tuk-tuks or local buses, explore your destination on foot.

Walking allows you to discover hidden gems, charming side roads, and local sights that you might otherwise miss. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture and create unique memories along the way.

RIDE BUDGET AIRLINES

When traveling within Southeast Asia, consider flying with budget airlines like AirAsia, VietJet, or Tigerair. These carriers offer affordable fares, allowing you to save money on air travel. To stretch your savings even further, travel with carry-on luggage only. While checking a bag might be relatively inexpensive in Southeast Asia compared to other regions, the money you save can be better spent on exciting excursions or adventurous motorbike rides.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Traveling with kids doesn’t have to be a financial burden; it can be a rewarding and memorable experience for everyone involved. So, pack your bags, create unforgettable memories, and cherish the joy of exploring unfamiliar places with your loved ones!

Sources: 1 & 2

3 accommodations under $49/night near the beaches in Koh Samui, Thailand

On the hunt for an affordable seaside getaway?

In this post, we’re exploring some fantastic accommodations, each under $49/night, that sit pretty close to the breathtaking beaches of Koh Samui, Thailand.

Whether you’re a sun worshipper, a beachcomber, or simply a lover of stunning sea views, these picks will surely bring your vacation dreams to life without breaking the bank.

Let’s get started!

Little hideout on the third floor for 3 guests

Price: $45/night

Tucked away on the third floor, this cozy hideaway is an ideal escape for up to three guests seeking solace near the shores of Crystal Beach.

For just $39/night for 2 persons and $45/night for 3, you will enjoy a queen bed and sofa bed, access to two shared pools—including a rooftop oasis with panoramic views of the mountains—and use of an on-site gym and laundry room. The kitchen is open for your culinary adventures should you tire of the local fare.

Whether you’re in search of an affordable getaway, a secluded spot to recharge, or a home base for beachy adventures, this little gem has everything you need. Trade the bustle of everyday life for sea breezes, sunsets, and the simple pleasures of this community abode.

Studio apartment in a condominium close to Bo Phut Beach

Price: $46/night

For those seeking an ocean escape without (too much) commute, Condo Replay has you covered. This cozy studio apartment on the 4th floor provides views of both the sea and pool, away from the main road below for maximum relaxation.

Everything you need is accounted for, with a small kitchenette and utensils for cooking your choice of the day. After a dip in the sparkling pool or sweat in the gym, do your laundry with the convenient washer provided and hangers for drying your clothes.

All the amenities of the condo are open to you, from tennis and basketball courts to the swimming pool. In under 2 minutes by car, you will be strolling the shops and restaurants of Fisherman’s Village.

Editor’s note: Utilities like electricity and water are billable separately so do check with the host in advance before booking.

Spacious one-bedroom bungalow in RR Retreat

Price: $46/night

Nestled in a lush tropical garden, this spacious one-bedroom bungalow offers a secluded island escape close to Koh Samui’s Maenam Beach, W Beach, and Bo Phut Beach.

Its open-concept layout flows seamlessly from the full kitchen to the living room and out onto the front porch, bringing a tiny bit of the outdoors in. The bedroom features a king bed and ample storage, while the stylish bathroom includes a glass-partitioned shower space.

You will share a pool with fellow guests, and have access to a shared washer and dryer. A 2-minute walk takes you to Maenam’s main road lined with shops and restaurants. The closest beach is less than a 5-minute drive or a 10-minute stroll away.

Whether you spend the day beachcombing, exploring the island, or simply lounging poolside amid the bungalow’s lush tropical greenery, this spacious one-bedroom oasis offers a relaxing taste of island life.

And that’s all from us, folks. At less than $49/night, these accommodations are a steal. So take your pick from our list, book in advance, and pack your bags because Koh Samui is waiting to welcome you to its sandy beaches. Have a lovely island escape to come! 😉

3 apartments under $83/night in the ever-famous Ximending, Taipei City

Thinking about a getaway to the ever-famous Ximending district in Taipei City without spending too much on accommodation?

We’ve got you covered with these top accommodations that won’t cost you more than $83/night so you can save up for all the shopping and mouth-watering street food that Ximending is famous for.

Ready to discover places to stay in Taipei’s trendiest tourist district?

Let’s go!

Tiny rental unit suitable for solo travelers

Price: $72/night

This tiny studio is a solo traveler’s dream. Just a 3-minute stroll from Ximen Station, it puts you in the heart of the action but provides a quiet respite when you need it.

Behind the secure doors of a building, you will find a self-sufficient space with a double bed perfect for one yet snug enough for two, a curtained-off balcony, and even a washing machine to refresh your travel wardrobe.

While some rentals demand you cram into a shoebox, this thoughtfully designed unit makes the most of its petite footprint so you can live large on a small scale. For explorers alone, it’s a chance to craft your own adventure in one of Taipei’s trendiest ‘hoods—without breaking the bank or your back.

Cute little studio apartment near Ximen Station

Price: $73/night

Tucked away just an 8-minute walk from Ximen Station, this cute little studio apartment makes for an ideal home base whether in Taipei for business or pleasure.

The compact space efficiently combines sleeping, living, and cooking areas, with a queen and single bed, kitchenette for light meal prep, and a private bathroom with shower. Suitable for solo travelers or buddies, families with children under two will not be charged extra when using existing beds.

A short 25-minute drive away is Taipei 101 and the World Trade Center. Best of all, coin laundry is located in the basement so you can keep clothes clean on the go. Compact yet comfortable, this little studio has everything you need for a convenient Taipei stay.

Hotel-like open-concept apartment for two guests

Price: $82/night

Experience the luxury of a hotel without the price tag in this open-concept apartment located in the heart of Ximen.

Just a 7-minute stroll from Ximen Station, this stylish space features a queen bed and floor mattress (do request in advance) with a private balcony right next to the sleeping area, perfect for letting the light in while you sip on your morning tea or coffee.

The spacious kitchenette comes equipped with a washing machine and dryer, so you can settle in for a long stay. With all the amenities of a high-end hotel suite, this centrally located apartment offers the comfort of quality living/vacationing at an affordable price.

So, there you have it, three budget-friendly apartments in the ever-famous Ximending, Taipei City that won’t make your wallet cry. Now, you can enjoy all the city’s attractions, the night markets, the shopping, and of course, the incredible street food, without any huge travel budget worries. Just remember to book early once you’ve got your travel dates fixed because these accommodations ain’t sitting around empty waiting for the indecisive traveler. Have a terrific time in Taiwan! 😉

4 Airbnb Plus homes with stunning views under $75/night in KL, Malaysia

Ahoy, travelers!

If you’re planning a trip to KL, Malaysia, and looking for an affordable yet spectacular place to stay, then we’ve got some good news for you.

We’ve scoured Airbnb and found Airbnb Plus homes that not only fit snugly within a budget of $75/night but also offer breathtaking views of the cityscape.

These homes combine comfort, style, and a vantage point that’s hard to beat. So, if you love waking up to amazing vistas or sipping your evening tea against the backdrop of a city illuminated in lights, then keep reading.

Loft apartment with views of the Twin Towers

Price: $38/night

Step into this premium loft in the heart of Damansara Perdana, where strategic location meets tasteful design. This apartment provides a stunning view of downtown Petaling Jaya’s skyline, with the lush green hills offering a serene backdrop to the north.

The accommodation is conveniently located close to The Curve, Ikano Shopping Centre, and numerous other malls. A quick 5-minute drive or a leisurely 15-minute walk will get you to those popular destinations.

The loft is equipped with all the comforts of home—high-speed internet, a microwave, a coffee maker (with ground coffee provided), and an induction stove with suitable cooking utensils for light cooking.

It comfortably accommodates 2 people but due to its design and setup, is not suitable for young children. If you’re looking for an extended stay, feel free to message the host! At $38/night, you shouldn’t even be hesitating.

High-floor modern apartment with incredible views

Price: $47/night

Welcome to your homely suite smack in the center of the action at Bukit Bintang. This suite is fully furnished, ensuring your stay, be it for work or leisure, is as cozy and comfortable as it can be.

Your stay includes a double bed and a floor mattress (upon request) with high-quality pillows, a comforter, and bedsheets. High-speed wifi is included to stream your favorite shows or get some work done uninterrupted. For your convenience, there’s also a washing machine and dryer, complete with detergent, so you can pack light.

If you feel like taking a swim, head to level 6 where you will find a swimming pool, wading pool, and even a gym. There’s also a kids’ playground, sauna, and squash facilities. And if you’re in the mood for an even better view, check out the rooftop infinity jacuzzi pool at the North Tower on the 42nd floor.

And the best part? You will find yourself just a 3-minute walk from Pudu Sentral Station and a stone’s throw away from local restaurants and nightlife. Pavilion Shopping Centre is only a 10-minute monorail ride away.

Clean & safe modern studio great for staycations

Price: $58/night

Next up, we have this studio apartment nestled in KL’s heart, right next to the Royal Selangor Golf Course. This air-conditioned studio offers a breathtaking view of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.

As you step in, the kitchen space, equipped with a fridge and all the utensils you need for a light meal, welcomes you. The open-concept living area is roomy, featuring a cozy 2-seater sofa and a queen-sized bed for a good night’s rest.

The attached bathroom comes with a rainfall-style shower and basic toiletries. And if you’re planning to stay for a while, be glad to know that there’s a washing machine, clothes-drying rack, and ironing board. There’s also a wardrobe with hangers for all your clothes.

If you book yourself a stay here, you will find yourself just an 8-minute walk from the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX) MRT station. The Pavilion Kuala Lumpur Shopping Centre is a 15-minute walk away, and if you have a medical emergency (choi!), the nearest clinic is just an 8-minute walk across the road.

Sprawling city views from a streamlined studio

Price: $73/night

Last but not least, we have this studio which is quite the find, being larger than most 5-star hotel rooms in KL, yet priced affordably. Fitted with chic hardwood floors, textured walls, and floor-to-ceiling windows, it promises a city view that will take your breath away.

You will be greeted by a modern sofa, perfect for curling up with a book. The kitchen, decked out in soapstone, is ready for you to whip up a quick breakfast, and you can enjoy your meal under minimalist light fixtures that add a touch of elegance. But ah, remember, only light cooking is allowed, yeah.

The living area has a 3-seater sofa and a 43″ smart LED TV, perfect for a chill night in. With high-speed internet, you can work remotely or stream your favorite shows with no lag. The studio comfortably accommodates up to four guests, with a king-size bed and two additional floor mattresses.

Now, let’s talk about the facilities. You get free access to swimming pools, a gymnasium, a rooftop garden, and even a squash court (remember to book in advance). Want to have a barbeque party? You can do that at the BBQ deck (extra charges apply).

In terms of location, they couldn’t be more central. You will be minutes away from shopping and eateries. Iconic landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers and Merdeka Square are also nearby, and you’re just steps away from monorail and LRT stations.

So there you have it, folks! Four amazing Airbnb Plus homes in KL, all featuring stunning views and all under $75/night. Hard to believe it, right? It’s such a steal! Each one is unique, has its own appeal, and offers a different perspective of the city. Most importantly, they all guarantee a comfortable stay without burning a hole in your pocket. Time to pack your bags and experience KL from the skylines. See you in Malaysia! 😉

How to set up a travel budget in advance and save up for it

How many times do you just book your air tickets, pack your bags, and then fly off for the holidays without thinking how much the whole trip will cost?

And that made you end up overspending, blowing your budget, and then coming back feeling regretful and guilty?

Well, this time around, let’s be nicer to our paychecks with better planning. Setting up a good budget in advance is important to not deal with the money stress after.

So listen up… Or rather, read up.

Understanding travel budgeting

If you always end up overspending on holidays, it’s time to get serious about budgeting. A good travel budget can help you save up and avoid nasty financial shocks when you get back.

Transportation

One of the biggest costs for trips. For budget airlines, book at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance or whenever promotion knocks on your door. For train or bus, book 2 to 4 weeks ahead. If driving or renting a car, factor in petrol, tolls, and parking fees.

Accommodation

Aim for mid-range hotels or Airbnbs, booking 4 to 6 weeks ahead. If you want to save more and don’t mind sharing spaces, consider hostels, couchsurfing, or homestays. Camping is also a cheap option if you like the outdoors.

Meals

Eating out thrice a day can destroy any budget. If you have access to a kitchen, buy some groceries and DIY meals yourself. Or opt for street food, local kopitiam, or casual eateries over fancy restaurants. If dining out is a top choice, go for set meals, buffets, or happy hour promotions if any.

Activities

Save on sightseeing by walking around, and visiting free museums and attractions. Limit paid activities to 2 to 3 per trip. Buy bundled or discounted passes online in advance can help save you money rather than buying over the counter.

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Steps to set up a travel budget in advance

To enjoy your holiday without worrying about $$$, you need to plan your budget. The earlier you start, the more you can save. Here are some steps to set up a solid travel budget before your trip:

Research the cost of your destination

Check websites like TripAdvisor to see how much things cost at your destination. Find out average prices for meals, transport, hotels, activities, etc. The more you know, the more accurate your budget will be.

Estimate your travel expenses

Break down your total trip cost into categories—transportation, accommodation, meals, etc. Budget a realistic amount for each category based on your research. Don’t forget to include extras like souvenirs you would like to bring back to your favorite people!

Account for unexpected costs

Anything that can go wrong will go wrong. So be prepared for surprises like flight delays, medical emergencies, or if you suay, even theft. Add about 10 to 15% of your total budget as a contingency fund. Better to be safe than sorry.

Create a daily budget

Once you have your total budget, divide it by the number of days in your trip. This gives you a daily budget to work with. Try not to overspend on any given day so you have enough for your whole holiday. Track your daily expenses on an app or Excel sheet to make sure you stay within budget.

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Strategies to save up for your travel budget

To set up your travel budget and actually save enough for it, you gotta put in some effort. If not, when the time comes to book everything, sure panic. Here are some strategies to make saving up possible:

Set a savings goal

Once you know how much your trip will cost based on where you want to go and for how long, break it down into a monthly savings target. For instance, if going to Korea for a week will be $1,500, aim to save $125 a month (across 12 months). Put this goal somewhere you will see it often, like on your desk or your phone as a wallpaper. This will motivate you to stay on track.

Include in your budget

Treat your travel fund like any other expense in your budget. If you usually save $200 a month, add your $125 travel fund contribution to that. So you will transfer $325 in total to your savings account each month. Make it automatic if possible, so it won’t slip your mind.

Spend less on other stuff

Look for expenses you can reduce or eliminate so you can allocate more to your travel fund. Things like eating at home more, hopping onto fewer Grab/taxi rides or canceling unused streaming services. Even saving $50 to $100 more each month will help you reach your goal faster.

Make more money

If it makes sense for your soul and schedule, consider a side gig to make extra cash for your trip—sell unwanted items, pick up weekend event jobs, teach tuition, etc. Put all this “additional income” directly into your travel fund. Every little bit helps, right?

So now you know how to set up a travel budget and save up for your holiday, do it. Trust us, you will thank yourself when you come back from your trip without going broke. Setting a budget in advance helps you focus on the essentials during your holiday instead of worrying about how much you’re spending each day. And saving up extra for your trip means you have more spare cash to do fun stuff when you’re there! If you start planning and saving up early, who knows, you might even be able to afford some added luxury while vacationing.

Understanding travel budgeting

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