A traveler’s constant urge to explore is usually satisfied by feeding one’s soul with new experiences. The problem is that this normally comes with a hefty price tag. But what if I tell you that there could be some ways to experience more and pay less? Well, let me enlighten you…
How to Experience More and Pay Less?
The more I traveled, the more I’ve mastered the art of experiencing more and paying less. And from my very humble point of view, there are 5 ways in which you could do so. I’ve learned them during my travels and here I am sharing them with you. So, here we go!
#1 Don’t stay at a hotel
The key factor to new experiences is interaction, human interaction. Engage with locals and other travelers to get to know them. And the best way to do that is by staying with them. Crash a local’s couch via Couchsurfing, rent a room at a family house via Airbnb, or meet new international travelers in a hostel dorm. Those accommodation options will save you more money and will help you engage with others.
Useful Reads:
- My Favorite Hostel Picks in Europe I Highly Recommend
- How I Traveled to 3 Cities in Europe With Less Than €260!
#2 Walk more often
This is highly recommended especially in small cities and towns. I remember walking a lot in places like Milan, Prague, or Amsterdam. If you’re a photographer like myself, you’re going to enjoy saving a few euros spent on buses and metros in return for some artsy shots. Also, walking is your means to stumbling upon hidden gems or street performers.
#4 Go on city tours
There are super cool city tours in a lot of cities around the world. Free walking tours are pretty common. Also, Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours are common as well; they’re cheap and make a lot of stops at important sites.
#4 Eat at local restaurants
Local cuisine tells you A LOT about the country you’re visiting. Avoid restaurants in touristy areas and go for those hidden in side alleys and street food carts. They’re 10 times cheaper and way more authentic.
#5 Befriend the locals
Those know best. Some people may waste a couple of days; or an entire trip, on figuring out where to go or stumbling upon hidden gems by chance. Meanwhile, if you make some local friends, they’ll save you all the hassle. They know better when it comes to unnecessary sightseeing, authentic diners, hidden gems, and off the beaten track activities. Also, if you have a local friend, you’ll get to know a lot about the culture first-hand. It’s even a plus because the possibility to be scammed will be much lower if you’re hanging around with locals.
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Nadine is an Egyptian curly-head who decided to quit the norm because it just doesn’t suit her. She ditched her 9-5 as a magazine editor to pursue her dream of becoming a full-time digital nomad and to inspire aspiring travelers to embark on their own solo adventures.
