subject: Cheap and Proud of It! [print this page] Cheap and Proud of It! Cheap and Proud of It!
To enjoy travel does not require "X" amount of funds, instead you need:
An open mind
Lots of energy
Infinite patience
To be open to embracing the unfamiliar
Money cannot buy any of the above attributes.
You can find cheap deals in any city. Strategies for finding bargains and reducing costs are the same whether you are in Manila or New York:
Prioritize that which is most important to you. Once you decide whether lodging, food, shopping or visiting museums is most highly valued, you can set aside money for that and then skimp on elsewhere.
Being guided by friends can save you money and make a trip more enjoyable. Consider emailing everyone in your address book prior to visiting a particular city asking if they know anyone in that city. Another approach may be to use Facebook. Regardless, often a friend of a friend may live in a city you are visiting and might be willing to show you around and/or give you some tips.Remember you don't just have to pick between five star hotels and budget lodgings that do not look attractive. Be open to new experiences.
Do not over schedule while on vacation. Trying to accomplish too much on a vacation is often expensive and ultimately unrewarding. Enjoy each moment, relax, stroll aimlessly through a city and wait for another day to visit an expensive museum.
Remember, before making any reservations check out one of the major travel Internet sites, such as Cheapfares.com, Expedia.com, or Orbitz.com, to view a wide selection of potential travel options as well as find great travel deals.
