Showing posts with label budget travel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label budget travel. Show all posts

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Dealing with Travel Websites for Air Fare Deals and More

Booking air fare tickets online
Photo by JESHOOTS.COM


With the advent of technology, a lot has changed. What people usually do manually may now be done in just a few clicks on the computer. With a well-functioning computer and a reliable internet connection, what we leave the house for in the past may be accomplished in a matter of few minutes and in the comfort of our homes; and that includes buying cheap flight tickets and planning tours.


In pursuit of adapting to the now-highly technical market, many travel agencies had set up their official websites. Through these homepages, they can reach out to the traveling public easier than before. Since most people nowadays are endowed with knowledge of the internet, marketing has become significantly simpler for agencies.


But with all the hoaxes roaming around the World Wide Web, many people have gone doubtful about the credibility of travel websites, particularly when money is involved. However, one just needs to conduct proper background checking to realize that legitimate travel websites are actually helpful to the traveling public.


One thing that makes travel websites of great assistance to people is that – as said – it simplifies everything. Instead of leaving the house and dealing with traffic, everything can be settled online. A few clicks, a few strokes on the keyboard; and the task is completed. Necessary proofs of the transaction can be sent through email, and there is no need to pick things up from places.


Furthermore, online transactions with travel agencies would allow people to land good deals. Usually, airline companies offer different promotions on air tickets through their partner agencies. Most of the time, these promotions are hailed as exclusive only to online customers.


If lucky, people can also spot different budget package tours advertised on the website – basically allowing them to save money without sacrificing the fun. Many travel agencies arrange tours to different wonderful places, concentrating on divulging their history, culture, and attractions to the tourists.


Dealing with travel agencies through their websites provides flexible payment options too. Aside from bank deposits and debit cards, most companies honor major credit cards; thereby assuring flexible payment options and easy transactions. As for trust issues, credible agencies do not disclose confidential details and do not do hideous scamming.


All in all, relying on travel websites would certainly allow people to land on great flights promotion. It might be a little doubtful at first, but it surely does great for the people who wish to travel the world once proven legitimate. Finding a credible travel agency is somehow easy though. Most of the time, these are those who have been in the business for years – and during that span of time have developed good professional relationships with big airline companies around the world.

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Travelling Free and Easy

Relax Traveller

The concept of free and easy tour packages was developed by the tourism industry in order to provide travelers with the freedom of designing their own itineraries while grabbing the different money- and time-saving opportunities offered by many travel agencies.

 Putting it simply, the free and easy concept exempts travelers from a schedule designed by the agency. Without restraint, people can roam around places, on their own. They can go to places they wish to visit, see things they wish to see, and experiences feats they wish to experience. There is no need to worry about wasting money due to coming to attractions that they find boring.

Just a few tips though. When availing of free and easy tour packages, it is best to plan an itinerary prior to the trip. Touring a city impulsively could disregard the advantage of getting cheap flight tickets as it would definitely require tourists to spend way beyond the supposed budget.

 Learning the language used in the city to visit will be very helpful. Conversational phrases will surely come in handy when interacting with locals when, for example, trying to find the way to the subway station or asking where the payphone is. Remember, free and easy means independence. There is no tour guide to translate things, so better learn even just a bit of the language.

Going around the city in groups will be very beneficial for those who choose the free and easy tour package. While it is exciting and challenging to tour a foreign city alone, it sometimes gets boring and scary at times. Having companies will surely lighten up the mood and will make one feel safer and more at ease. Further, it is more fun to have someone to spaz things with.

Talking about security, it is best not to avail of free and easy tours when in doubt about the security implemented in the city to be visited. Remember, touring around in big groups is way much better and safer than getting around a place in smaller factions. Consider the travel warnings, and feel secure.

To avoid danger, it is also advised that the tourists tone their selves low. Flashy outfits could attract unwanted attention. Sporting so much jewelry could tempt robbers. Carrying big backpacks could encourage pickpockets. The hotel safes are there for reasons. If it is unavoidable to leave things behind, use smaller bags.

Thursday, July 12, 2012

How to Stay on Budget when in Beijing

Beijing, China travel
Photo by Ling Tang 


Contrary to the belief of others, it is definitely not a difficult thing to go around Beijing, China without shedding so much cash. Spending a fortune and making the most out of the experience when in this beautiful city could be rendered as an option as long as you know what to do. And mind you, the list of tips on keeping your trip to Beijing low-budget and worth it does not end after you purchase cheap air tickets.

Here are the top three suggestions to make your flights to Beijing really economical:

      STAY AT BACKPACKERS' INN

Travellers
Photo by zhang kaiyv


If you can go on without too much luxury in terms of accommodation, why not grab the chance? Sure, there are a lot of opulent hotels in Beijing and each offers very tempting packages. But there are also a lot of simple dormitories and inns around the city which provide the same comfort and security. Although it would require more effort in finding nice and cheap places, at least it would save you from paying a lot for a place you would most likely see only during the night.


      SETTLE FOR CHEAPER FOOD

Street food
Photo by zhang kaiyv


First-class restaurants are abundant in Beijing; but if you want to stay on budget, skip those lavish places and resort to the clean canteens and street food stalls around the city. The presentation of the meals may not be as pretty, but the taste of food sold in those smaller establishments could totally rival those in classy ones.


      PLAN AN ITINERARY BEFORE THE TRIP

Holiday trip planning
Photo by Clay Banks



Being impulsive will surely make you spend more money. Thus, you should design an itinerary prior to your tour around the city. Plan ahead and find the places where entrance fees are cheap, if not free; and if possible, categorize these destinations according to their place so you won’t have to pay so much for transportation.



It is easy to stay on a budget as long as you want it. So buy those air tickets and do not hesitate about your trip. Just relax and enjoy.

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Affordable Adventure Travel Destinations in Asia

Budget travel destinations
Photo by Simon Migaj 

Are you the type of traveller who looks for adrenaline-pumping activities during your holiday vacation but is short of budget to afford the trip to popular adventure destinations? Travelling to Asia can be the best alternative as cheap airfares are commonly available for flights bound for different countries in Asia.

Buying online air tickets from established travel companies can be cheaper especially during promotional periods rather than going to the direct website of airline companies. Thus most travellers who are planning a trip to Asia resort to online booking to get the cheapest air ticket. Although most of the famous adventure destinations can be found in expensive-to-travel continents, Asia offers numerous places which guarantee a vacation full of adrenaline rush. Here are some of the places that promise a smashing holiday:



Bali, Indonesia

Budget travel destinations - Bali

Most travellers thought of Bali as a romantic and relaxing place to go because of its spectacular beaches. Aside from being an ideal getaway for sun and sand lovers, Bali offers adrenaline-pumping activities as well. The big waves of its beaches are a big hit for surfers from around the world. Visitors can also try ocean raft sightseeing or snorkelling for more adventures. For those who love the rapids, white water rafting in the Ayung and Unda Rivers can be the highlight of the trip.


Thailand

Budget travel destinations - Thailand

If you are planning to go to Thailand for a holiday trip but still hesitant to do it, forget the hesitation because this country is filled to the core with adventures that will surely make your blood pumping. Inland activities such as jungle treks in the Northern Mountains, mountain climbing, canopy tours and elephant rides will surely make travellers sweat while having a good workout. Other activities worth trying are cave exploration, scuba diving, surfing and kayaking.


Ladakh India

Budget travel destinations - India
Photo by Omendra Singh


Climbing the rugged mountains of the Northern Border of India can be physically demanding however it can also be a lifetime experience for those who crave for adventure. Different forms of Buddhist culture can be seen dotting the region as traveller trek along the steep mountainside of Ladakh. White water rafting is also a popular sport in this part of India. The ultimate test of courage and physical fitness will be conquering the River Azkar known for its wild raging rapids and cold waters.


Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Budget travel destinations - Kota Kinabalu
Photo by Ling Tang 



Climbing the tallest peak in Malaysia which is the Kota Kinabalu is one of the reasons why travellers search for cheap air tickets to Sabah. This activity is commonly popular for those who seek adventure during their trip. Aside from climbing the 13,400-foot peak of Kota Kinabalu adventure lovers can also enjoy camping out in the jungle and have a chance to see untamed wild animals wandering free.



Vietnam

Budget travel destinations - Vietnam
Photo by Jonathan Ouimet 


The country’s national park Cuc Phoung is famous to tourists because of its more than 300 species of tropical birds and a whopping 43 million varieties of flora and fauna. Trekking through the forests of Vietnam can bring each traveller closest to the wildlife and nature at its best.



Bhutan

Budget travel destinations - Bhutan
Photo by Adli Wahid 

Bhutan is one of those destinations waiting to be discovered by adventure lovers. An archaeological paradise, Bhutan is well-known for its magnificent monasteries and fortresses. Travellers can trek through the trails that wind past them or bike through the countryside to explore the area. Other ways of touring this place is through kayaking or rafting which is more of a challenge.


Travellers who crave an adrenaline rush need not spend a lot to have a dose of thrilling activities. With several cheap airfares available for Asian countries, adventure comes at an affordable price.

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Tourist Attractions in Bali, Indonesia: Flying off to Paradise

Bali Indonesia
Photo by Harry Kessell 

One thing which not everybody knows is that paradise can actually be spelled as B-A-L-I. For indeed, the beautiful island of Bali Indonesia is basically a preview of all the good things the heavens can offer.

Deemed a major island in Indonesia, Bali is presently hailed as one of the best tourist spots in the country. The primary attraction is its vast ocean of blue which complements the purity of the white sand on its shores. It is further emphasized by the humidity of the tropic weather. Tourists who love hitting the water will definitely find great pleasure at the mere sight of it.

Besakih Temple
Bali Indonesia
Photo by Andrey Bond
However, the island does not content one’s satisfaction with its beaches alone. It also features the thousand year-old Besakih Temple. In it, tourists who are in search of peace of mind and solitude may find the calmness they have been longing for.


Safari and Marine Park
Bali Indonesia
Photo by Megan Soule
For those who love the wildlife, taking a trip to Bali Safari and Marine Park is a strong advice. Doing so will not just improve one’s knowledge about life in the jungle and underwater. Through it, tourists may also understand how good it feels to be part of the protectors of the wild and the sea.


Bali Botanical Garden
Bali Indonesia

It is this experience which will literally awe the tourists of the different wonders of nature manifested on various species of trees and flora; with some exclusively found in Bali.

The island of Bali definitely brings forth surprises to any visiting vacationer. With its intrinsic beauty and gloriousness, it is undoubtedly a paradise in its own right. And more than anything else in the world, it is an air ticket to Indonesia which could bring one to a paradise called Bali.

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Sights to Explore in Singapore - Part 2

Photo by Janna Maica

Although Lion City is just a small country, you’ll be amazed how it maximized its land to pave the way for parks and nature sanctuaries perfect for re-charging and relaxing after a day of conquering the streets of Singapore. Botanical Garden, Bird Park, National Orchid Garden, Marina Bay, and Esplanade are some of the places where you can just sit and take a rest while enjoying the sights around you.



Marina Bay

Marina Bay Singapore
Photo by Reuben Chew

Another attraction that will be worth booking air tickets to Singapore is the Asian Civilisation Museum. It is considered the pioneering museum in the region to specialize in pan-Asian cultures and civilizations. It offers in-depth information regarding the material history of China, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and West Asia, from which the diverse ethnic groups of Singapore trace their ancestry. Paying a visit to this museum will certainly enrich one’s knowledge and understanding of the country and its people.

For those who just love to be with animals, exploring the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari will surely be an entertaining and enjoyable experience. Singapore Zoo is one of the world’s most spectacular zoos, using natural barriers like streams, rock walls, and vegetation to separate the animals from the visitor, to present an “open zoo” concept. It is home to 3,600 mammals, birds, and reptiles, including rare and endangered species.

Singapore Zoo
Photo by Wayne Chan 

Night Safari is considered the world’s first nocturnal zoo. It is among the popular tourist attractions in Singapore, housing more or less 1,040 animals of 120 species, 29% of which are endangered species. The Night Safari is an open-air zoo set in a humid tropical forest that is only open at night. Its eight geographical zones can be explored by foot or by tram.



A tour of Singapore’s outlying islands will give its visitors an experience of total contrast to life on the mainland. Offering peace, tranquility and in some cases, a traditional village lifestyle that has changed very little over the years, these small islands are perfect for those who would like to have a break from the crowded street of the city. The island of Pulau Ubin, Kusu Island, St. John Island, The Sister’s Island, and Pualu Hantu is just around the corner from the glittering skyscrapers of the CBD area and the swanky shopping malls of Orchard Road, thus making them easily accessible to tourists.


It also features varying fascinating sightseeing opportunities, fantastic attractions, and activities who would like the best destination for outdoor lovers; its strong economy attracts millions of business travelers each year; this tiny island occupies a strategic position, it has always been the gateway of the surrounding countries to the rest of the world. As one of the busiest cities in Asia, Singapore has the highest standard of hospitality to achieve the satisfaction of all levels.


Singapore always welcomes you with a promise to give you a breathtaking experience that will always last in your memories. To experience this modern island in its full strength you would need a little help and guidance to reach the island's talking points.


Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Sights to Explore in Singapore - Part 1


Singapore Merlion
Photo by Jisun Han 

Singapore is a paradise for tourists offering a unique blend of modern, historical, and natural beauty. The city has a modern transportation system, world-class hotels and restaurants, an English-speaking population, and a mix of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures. With its unique blend of cultures, reflected in its architecture, festival, and cuisine, Singapore offers a multitude of sightseeing opportunities to anyone who wishes to book air tickets to Singapore to explore the lion city.


Its tropical climate allows each visitor to have a wonderful time discovering the city’s places of interest at any time of the year. The country’s efficacy and modern technology also entice tourists in securing an air ticket. Being a small country with an area of 693 sq. Km., you can even do sightseeing in Singapore within the day or while waiting for a connecting flight to your destination. Here are some of the places commonly visited by tourists in Singapore for their significant and important role in the country’s history and development.


Chinatown Singapore
Photo by Lily Banse

Chinatown is one of the oldest Chinese settlements in Singapore. It is an ethnic neighborhood featuring distinctly Chinese cultural elements and a historically concentrated ethnic Chinese population. The Chinatown Heritage Center, Chinatown Food Street, and Chinatown Night Market are among the popular places which appeal to tourists. While exploring Chinatown, you can taste the traditional Chinese food and pick up some artistic handicrafts from the shops along the way.


Singapore's Little India
Photo by paul silvan 

The fascinating Little India is a place where one can experience Indian culture. It’s quite popular with tourists because of the authentic cuisine and an array of souvenir items that can be purchased at very affordable prices. Mustafa Shopping Centre, Tekka Centre, Tekka Mall, Little India Arcade, and Serangoon Plaza are some of the places where one can find the cheapest stuff. The temples, mosques, and churches reflecting the diverse culture and religious beliefs of its citizens are also sights to explore so be sure to have your camera with you.

Aside from these above-mentioned places where one can experience the different cultures existing harmoniously in the modern city of Singapore, a tour of the city itself will enrich the visitor’s knowledge about its humble beginnings and its greatest achievement as one with the strongest economy in Asia.

The Parliament House Singapore
Photo by Steven Lasry 

The Parliament House which is located in the Civic District within Singapore’s Central Business District is a cultural landmark that houses the Parliament of Singapore. Within the Central Area which features the tallest buildings and landmarks of the country is Raffles Place, the commercial district named after the founder of modern Singapore - Sir Stamford Raffles. Across the road is the Supreme Court building designed to represent a contemporary architectural expression of its stateliness and authority. The prism-shaped top of the building is considered a modernist take on the traditional dome.