Many people will nod and say that the best time to travel is during college, since you have all the time in the world to head off to an adventure. The only hiccup in this fantasy? Money. As the years progress and you are now a full time employee and bills to pay the situation reverses, you now have some money, but little time. It seems absurd that society is governed by money and any pleasurable activity comes with a price tag attached to it. So, if you’re a student, don’t be discouraged by the lack of funds, instead find new ways to gain the funds and resources to travel to any destination that suits your fancy.
Obtain a scholarship
The ideal way to travel is when you’re a student and not just for the tidy student discounts you gain along the way. Have a look at the exchange programs your university may have with other institutions around the world. Of course, if you want to be seen as a potential candidate, you need to work hard on your grades.
Save, save, save
If you really want to travel then you really need to save. Yes, you may roll your eyes but those outings and dinners with friends can seriously make dent on your plans. You need to make sacrifices in order to achieve your dream trip. Map out your expenses and be more careful with your money. You will groan and moan but it’ll be all worth it once you arrive to your destination.
Alternative forms of transportation
There are plenty of options out there for traveling. If you know other people are heading to the same place, you can do a car pool and everyone can pitch in.
Plan ahead
If you plan your holidays, then you’ll have a better idea of how much money you will be spending and in what activities.
Avoid hiring a tour
Taking a tour is the best way to travel to a destination you feel unsure about, but it can also be very frustrating and expensive. Those package deals that promise to be all inclusive can be very limiting and offer a glimmer of the real place. The internet is a vast expanse and all your questions can be easily answered.
Hostels and B&B are the way
The first step is to remove from your mind the idea that an all inclusive hotel is the best option. Be open to different options, and in doing so, you’ll be able to savor the traditions and customs of the place. If you wish to become a seasoned traveler, then go for the local hostels and B&B; they are far cheaper, and they promote the local economy of the region.
Travel during the off season
If you are planning on finding great discounts and promotions by big hotel chains and transportation companies, you must travel during the off season. September is said to be the greatest month to travel because around the world tourism is on a low.
Where local wat, you eat as well
The restaurants at the hotel may boast that they have the best local dishes, but you never see the locals actually dining there. Instead, go to the local markets and ask the people for their favorite dishes and restaurants. Not only will you find great food, but also at a reasonable price.
Travel in big groups
If you plan your trip with your friends it will not only be much more fun, but the costs will decrease considerably.
Transportation, food, and lodging will be cheaper if you divide it up among your friends.
At the end of the day, what remains with you in life are the experiences and memories of a lifetime. As you read these small pieces of advice on a tiny screen, look out the window and see the potential out there. A life is a series of twists and turns and you alone hold the reins.
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Illustrations by Mr. Tokki
