A Vacation to the Bahamas

Already wishing you could trade in your cold weather hat and mitts for a hammock swinging softly in a warm ocean breeze, a bathing suit and maybe even a colourful fruity drink at your side this winter? Look no further than The Bahamas.

This collection of 700-plus islands, cays and islets sprinkled across the Atlantic Ocean lies just 50 miles off the coast of Florida.  The country welcomes about 6 million tourists a year, and it’s easy to see why.  Sun, sand and miles of coastline bathed by the clearest water on the planet await you! And the archipelago is an ecological oasis – the world’s third largest fringing barrier reef (The Andros) is home to many species of exotic ocean life.

The best part: you can soak up the Bahamian sun, enjoy the tropical metropolis capital Nassau and even take some unforgettable adventures on a modest budget.  Here are our best tips based on our personal experiences and research about this perfect year-round destination.

Take public transportation

Once you touch down at one of several airports  or step off your cruise ship, you’ll have different transportation options depending on the island you’re headed to. There are 57 airports and airstrips across the islands, many of which have port of entry status. You could take the national Bahamas Air airline, an air-conditioned Bahamas Ferry, or perhaps a mailboat (essentially, slower ferries). You can also charter a yacht or flight.

From there, you’ll also want to consider your options for getting around the island you’re staying on. Most likely, you’ll end up on Nassau of New Providence, Paradise Island or Grand Bahama. Here, options are for the most part similar to what you’d see at home. Take a public bus (also called jitneys), taxi, or rent a car. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can even rent a scooter or take a horse carriage ride. Bermuda Attractions has a great guide to getting around the island, as does bahamas.com.

Stay in Nassau to save cash

As for where to stay in Nassau, you’ll find there are a range of options even on a budget. Rent an Airbnb to save cash on a hotel room, or find a good deal on a nearby hotel or villa. The Towne Hotel and Nassau Palm Hotel in the heart of downtown Nassau, along with Sunrise Beach Villas, are all close enough to the action that you’ll save on transportation costs.

Discover Nassau and Paradise Island

When you venture outside to explore Nassau Paradise Island, you’ll discover it lives up to its name. Whether you’re looking to dive to the water’s depths to meet some of the beautiful marine life, search for handmade treasures in locally owned shops or indulge in a decadent night out, it’s all here. Learn more about what you can do for free in Nassau.

Tip: No need to switch your US currency to the Bahamian Dollar before you take off; the two are almost the same in value.
Source: Everything Everywhere

Waterparks

Though Mark found The Bahamas to be Americanized, he did discover some attractions worth checking out, including the massive 141-acre Aquaventure Atlantis Waterpark. As the Caribbean’s largest water-themed attraction, it draws international attention for its grandeur; you’ll find pools and beaches galore, one of the world’s largest open-air, man-made marine mammal habitats at Dolphin Cay, luxury accommodations, restaurants, fitness and sports facilities, and much more.
<blockquote"We didn't have the time, as this is a vacation on its own, but if you aren't going to visit Aquaventure Atlantis Waterpark at least take a cruise around Paradise Island,"

You’ll probably get to see homes of a few high-profile celebrities, including Nicholas Cage and Oprah.

And the Rum Punch served onboard the island cruises is a must.

Dining out

Tip: Try some Bahamian cuisine – shellfish, lobsters, crabs, and tropical fruits are popular. Pineapple tarts and fruitcake are among your delicious choices for dessert.

Source: Everything Everywhere

Craving a little taste of home? You’re in luck – there are Burger Kings all across the island to satisfy your appetite.

Excusions

For a one-of-a-kind experience, you’ve got to visit The Exumas, a chain of islands that stretches just south of Nassau. You’ll be greeted by miles of soft sparkling white sand beaches, turquoise waters and wondrous aquatic life, including stingrays and pigs – yes, pigs! Wild swimming pigs can be found near Staniel Cay on Big Major Cay, and you can even jump in the water with them. More about that (and a few other things to do while you’re there, here and here).

Planning that dream trip

As we’ve discovered, The Bahamas is an unspoiled paradise of immaculately clean beaches, blue waters, sublime resorts, and an entire ecosystem of marine wildlife to experience up close – all of which you can see on a budget.

Are you about to make your first visit to The Bahamas? Returning to a  favourite vacation spot? What are your best tips when it comes to saving for vacations? We’d love to hear what you’ve planned, or any tips we missed! Share your story in the comments.

Where else does Caddle recommend?

Australia

Germany 

New York

The United Kingdom

France

Learn more about traveling in The Bahamas

exumabahamas.org

Official home of the swimming pigs – bahamas.com

Best things to do in Atlantis Resort Bahamas – Diana’s Healthy Living

Travel to The Bahamas – Everything Everywhere

The Big Apple

Looking at pictures of New York City, you expect to explore a metropolis bustling with millions of people from all around the globe, a world-class stage for arts, fashion, and culture, and a never-ending selection of unique experiences for the most discerning foodie.

NYC saw a record-breaking year for tourism in 2017 , welcoming more than 13 million international visitors (an all-time high) and 62.8 million visitors in total who come to the city year-round. With numbers like that, you might think this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip that’s likely to empty your wallet. But we’ve found that even if you’re traveling on a budget, it’s possible to enjoy much of what the city has to offer – if you plan ahead and know where to look for deals. We’ve compiled our best tips based on our personal experiences visiting the city that never sleeps.

Take public transit

In New York, you can always find something to entertain and delight you whether you’re browsing the street markets in Times Square, taking in an unforgettable Broadway Show, touring the city’s iconic infrastructure, or just satisfying your appetite with a heavenly slice of pizza.

Since the transit system is phenomenal, there’s no need to drive. In fact, Mark strongly discourages the idea. “We drove to New York City and found that once we got there, our car was practically useless unless we were headed out of the city,” he remembers.

“The transit system is amazing and while it can be confusing taking the subway and walking when we could (or taking a cab when we couldn’t), it was much easier and less stressful. The time wasted getting lost and the cost of parking simply aren’t worth it.”

Save time and money

Travel blog Contented Traveller suggests taking a flat rate taxi from JFK airport, which will come to $59 US, including the Manhattan Bridge toll and the shuttle for $50 or the Super Shuttle if you’re coming from Newark. Depending on traffic, you can walk or grab a taxi from Penn Station or the Port Authority.

Taking the subway to get around the city is also a great money saver, or if you want to fit in a lot of activities, grab an hop-on, hop-off bus tour ticket, which gives you the flexibility to see the city’s famous attractions at your own pace.

Getting yourself a seven-day MetroCard for $29 and taking the subway is also a great money saver.

Find affordable rooms

With so much to see and do in New York, you probably won’t be in your room very much during your trip. Why pay full price? Accommodations may go for a premium in the Big Apple, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend all your cash here. Check into Airbnb. Prefer hotels? You can find reasonable rooms in Manhattan and near Times Square.

Once you’ve dropped your luggage off, one of the first things you’ll want to do is discover a few of the iconic sites you’ve probably only seen in the movies or on your laptop screen, up close.

See Macy’s

Some of the best shopping opportunities in the world await! First, go browse Macy’s flagship store in Herald Square, a “must-visit for shoppers!” says Mick.

If you’re in the city close to the holiday season, stop to appreciate the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center – “a picture of holiday cheer.”

Times Square

Of course, we can’t forget Times Square, one of the most iconic urban hubs in the world. Sometimes referred to as “The Crossroads of the  World”, it’s home to a tourist destination, arts and entertainment district, shopping and of course, stunning digital billboards and ads. About 50 million visitors pass through here annually. You simply can’t visit New York without taking a visit to this mecca in Midtown Manhattan.

Other big draws in the city that are free to visit include the Guggenheim Museum, Central Park and the Bronx Zoo. You can also catch a live taping of The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon or Saturday Night Live.

Grab some pub food

By the end of the day, you’ll probably have worked up an appetite, so stop by Long Hall Pub & Grocery for a glimpse of what a true traditional Irish pub looks like. “What is rarely exported is the fact that many Irish pubs traditionally served as both the grocer and the publican,” Mick explains. “The Long Hall maintains this tradition in NYC, and you can purchase all sorts of goodies.”

With more than 40,000 restaurants in the city and 12,000 street food vendors, there’s something for your taste buds around every corner, whether you’re looking for a tried-and-true hot dog vendor, comfort food (think mac and cheese) or something more adventurous, like falafel and shawarma, or even a delicious Mexican taco.

Take in a Broadway show

Have a theatre aficionado in the family? They’ll be in heaven on Broadway, which puts spectacular performers on stage in the heart of the city. Take them to see any one of the breathtaking plays or musicals and you’ll both be happy, as Mark discovered.

“The production value was quite impressive, and it was quite an experience overall,” he said, cautioning hopeful theatre goers to book a visit in advance as shows sell out quickly. “If there is something you had in mind or you are picky, definitely plan ahead.”

“If there is something you had in mind or you are picky, definitely plan ahead.”

In the mood for a summertime escape? Take a trip up the coast to Rhode Island.

“Depending on the season, this is a beautiful drive with many stops along the way. It is a great way to spend a day or two outside of the hustle and bustle of the city.”

Providence

Three hours away, Providence boasts some amazing food and scenery. Tour its distinctive neighbourhoods or take the kids to the Roger Williams Park Zoo. In the winter, you can even ice skate downtown. If you’re up for it, take a scenic, comfortable ride on the Long Island Ferry back to the city.

There’s a dizzying array of things to do, places to see and experiences to try during your visit to New York City. Whether you stay in Manhattan or venture out to Providence and Rhode Island, traveling affordably is doable if you stick to public transit and take advantage of the many free-to-see attractions.

Travelling to New York

Are you travelling to New York for the first time? Returning to a favourite destination? What are your best tips when it comes to saving for vacations? We’d love to hear what you’ve planned, or any tips we missed! Share your story in the comments!

Where else does Caddle recommend?

Australia

Germany 

The Bahamas

The United Kingdom

France

Learn more about traveling in New York

New York on a budget – How to enjoy New York with very little money – Arzo Travels

Best cheap hotels near Times Square in New York – Postcards from Ivi

20+ Things to do in New York City that won’t cost you a penny – To Europe & Beyond

The most iconic movies filmed in each state – Mashable 

New York City on a budget: 50 free and low-cost tips – Solo Traveler 

Saving for a Goal

Whether you’re looking to freshen up a room or gut an entire house from top to bottom to transform it into your perfect oasis, home renovations are exciting – and tricky. After all, you’ve probably got contractors to schedule, materials to pick out, money to allocate, and designs to pore over.

To make your renovation project a success, you’ll first need to identify which room(s) to start with, depending on your budget and timeline (and tolerance for stress!)

Meet Jaime

We caught up with Jaime, our Customer Success Manager at Caddle to tell us about her experience. Since moving back to Niagara in 2016, she’s been putting all her extra savings toward house renovations.

“We bought a house with 1,000 little projects and after gutting and renovating the main floor, we are saving up to completely re-do our second floor into the dream master suite and guest bedroom,” she says, adding every dollar saved helps, especially since unexpected repairs and expenses can eat away at a savings budget.

The appeal of St. Catharines

The former Toronto resident had lived in Canada’s largest city for eight years before moving back to Niagara in favour of higher property values and a smaller city vibe. The vineyards, breweries, and array of fantastic hiking spots sweeten the deal.

“We (also) have a good group of friends that have either never moved or have moved back from Toronto and it’s a quieter lifestyle (here),”

The excitement of renovating spurs Jaime and her partner to do the hard work of bringing their vision to life.

Home Renovations

“I LOVE renovating – new stuff! Fresh paint! Making a vision come to life and making our home uniquely ours,” she says. The couple has already highlighted some of the great features in their century-old house.

“I LOVE renovating – new stuff! Fresh paint! Making a vision come to life and making our home uniquely ours”

On the flip side, though, there are some less-than-stellar realities of renovation.

“I do hate the mess of renovation and having to wait, or when something is delayed. It can feel like you’re living in limbo for months (especially if you’re living in the space you’re renovating), and progress takes time. It’s worth it in the end, but I’m always anxious for things to be completed.”

Tips for home renovations

1) Plan and stick to a realistic budget.

Before you lift a hammer to start demo, get a grasp on a specific dollar amount you’re able to spend, then price out each item on a  budget line. For example, what about tile, fixtures, materials, paint, etc.? Don’t forget to allow for taxes and unexpected expenses (some advise building in a contingency fund of 10%). Source: 15 ways to save money on a home renovation – A Beautiful Mess 

2) Planning a DIY (Do It Yourself) fix?

Learn what you can do yourself versus tasks you’ll need a professional for.  This is another area where you’ll need to strategize. While you may be able to purchase your own materials, do some light demolition, and make cosmetic changes, you’ll probably want to leave serious structural repairs, asbestos removal, and major gas, plumbing or electrical work to licensed, experienced professionals.  Source: DIY vs. professional renovation: What to tackle yourself and what to leave to the pros – Curbed

3) Understand why you’re renovating, and look for deals.

Are you renovating with the intent to sell or to set down roots and invest in your forever home? That will influence how you spend. For example, home renovation blog Real Homes advises that an easy way to save on a kitchen is to purchase cheaper units and invest in good-quality work surfaces and tiles to add a luxury feel. Shop around for appliances, compare prices and don’t be opposed to looking at auctions or architectural salvage yards, or to buying products on display. Source: Cut renovation costs: 15 clever ideas – Real Homes

Now that we’ve told you our best tips for saving for a home renovation you can’t wait to show off, we want to hear from you! What was the first room you’ve ever renovated? Did you DIY, hire a general contractor, or both? What’s your next big project? Share your story and your best savings tips with us!

Exploring Italy

Whether you’re enjoying a view of the sunrise above a Tuscan hillside from your luxury villa, savouring the fresh vegetables you picked at the local market or discovering the Mediterranean waters along the Amalfi coast, Italy is an enchanting destination you won’t want to pass up.

Culture

It’s no wonder the country is the fifth most popular international tourism destination, with 58.3 million international tourist arrivals in 2017, according to UNWTO.  Dotted with world-famous cities, famous cultural hotspots and about 100,000 historical monuments, Italy continues to attract everyone from wide-eyed nomads to experienced globetrotters.

If you’re looking to travel to Italy on a budget, you’re in luck – we’ve put together some tips based on our personal experiences visiting this world-renowned destination.

Keep an eye out for savings while booking online, exploring the Italian coast or sitting down to a scrumptious meal at a restaurant in town. It’s possible to save cash while immersing yourself in everything this country has to offer.  Options include strolling through the historic city centre of Naples and exploring ancient cathedrals to marvelling over Renaissance art.

Travel in groups

Mick found traveling in a group and visiting the local market for food offers an authentic Italian experience and saves everyone cash.

“You can get outrageous deals on Airbnb for luxury villas in scenic areas. I love this experience – going to the local markets, preparing local food right in your villa – it’s a huge cost savings, and the only way to truly experience Italy, in my opinion,” he said, adding that keeping your phrasebook with you can come in handy at most grocery stores on the Amalfi coast, where a fruit and veg attendee will pick the produce for you.

Book excursions in advance

After you’ve enjoyed a delicious home-cooked lunch, it’s time for some adventure! Here’s where planning ahead can save you considerable cash.

“Book any excursions (in advance) online, as you can find sales or discounts if (you purchase them earlier), and it may be worth it to pay a little extra to bypass the massive lines at certain iconic areas,” says Ajay.

Tip: Don’t pass up an opportunity to explore iconic sights like the Leaning Tower of Pizza, the Sistine Chapel, Coloseum, Amalfi Coast and Herculaneum.

“Look out for the City Pass – most include many restaurant discounts, free transport and discounts to many top sites in the city. Always worth the price!”

As for where to venture first, Ajay recommends Venice, Rome, Milan and Florence.

“I tell everyone, one day I want to retire in Venice (a long time from now) because of how simple life feels by the water, but I would highlight the city pass used in Rome – which included the Skip-the-line for the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel, which was jaw-droppingly beautiful. The most iconic area I visited would have to be the Colosseum, just envisioning the gladiator battles and the different time and way of life people used to live. Needless to say, it was a trip of a lifetime with some close friends.”

Amalfi Coast

Looking to explore the picturesque Amalfi coast? Take a boat tour. Although traveling by road can be difficult on the Italian coast, hopping on a boat and visiting a few ports is an excellent way to see multiple towns in one day.

If traveling on four wheels is more your speed, rent a car with front and side sensors – worth the extra cost.

“The roads on the Italian coast are extremely narrow, so to keep your car safe, it’s worth having the best available collision prevention technology in your rental vehicle,” says Mick.

Tip: Italy’s currency is the Euro. But skip currency conversion desks and head to an ATM to save money.

Save on transit

Another option: the hop-on hop-off double-decker bus tours.

“They’re basically taxis (that take you) around the entire city (and) drop you off at the biggest destinations, and they’re a great way to see the whole city on a budget,” says Ransom, who also swears by train or public transit whenever practical.

“(Take) the high-speed Rail Europe train or public transit whenever you can, and (look) for cheap inter-European flights, like Ryanair. We flew from Belfast to London for 1 pound!”

Costs to travel in Italy

Here’s what you should budget for major expenses while in Italy:

Accommodations: $70 to $400 (CDN)/night depending on location and amenities (Airbnb)

Transportation: See Rail Europe for destinations, times and ticket prices

Meals: Budget in the range of $70 daily for lunch and dinner.  The food is amazing and you will want to eat.

Social norms

• When greeting friends and family, kiss both cheeks, starting with the left
• Expect Italians to arrive 15 to 30 minutes late for dinners and parties
• Italians appreciate openness and sincerity. Maintain eye contact when speaking to someone

Visit local eateries

Ajay also suggests going to restaurants off the beaten path.

“The ones on the main strips are typically way more expensive – they have to pay through the nose to be there – and the quality of the food is typically lower,” he explains, adding downloading the latest travel food app can help you hunt down the best places to eat that blend quality and value. Choose from a wide variety of dishes, from traditional pizza to pasta dishes like…, and local wines and cuisines.

“Milan was where I had the best Pizza in Italy (in the shape of a star), each star tip had a different flavour of crusted pizza,” says Ajay. “I can’t begin to describe the food I tasted in Italy.  We’ll just say pasta or gelato has never tasted the same since I’ve returned to Canada.”

Tip: It’s customary to tip your tour guide €10 per day, but don’t worry about tipping other service people such as wait staff, bartenders, taxi drivers or baggage handlers.

Exploring Italy

You can explore Italy on a modest budget and enjoy the country’s vibrant culture, historical attractions,  and the spectacular Amalfi coast.  If you plan ahead, look for deals and ensure you are willing to forgo expensive tourist restaurants for more local favourites.

Is this your first trip you are planning?  Returning to a favourite destination? What are your best tips when it comes to saving for vacations? We’d love to hear what you’ve planned, or any tips we missed! Share your story in the comments and tell us what destinations are on your wish list.  Our team love saving for holidays and we hope to inspire our members with exciting suggestions to spend your Caddle money.

Mick Higgins, our CMO and resident Irishman here at Caddle, is no stranger to traveling on a budget. He frequently returns home to Ireland, and over the years, he’s had quite some experience getting to know the best ways to get travel deals.

Now, to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this week, Mick is sharing his Ireland travel tips with our Caddle users!

If you’ve always dreamed of going to the homeland of Guinness and visiting the historic Dublin Castle, now is your chance to get insider tips and advice.

Check out Mick’s advice!

Price Watching

Any frequent traveler knows the value of price watching when it comes to your flight. But it’s hard to know when the best opportunity for the best deal is. That’s where technology comes in.

There are many apps out there that can help you keep track of your trip. Here are two main apps Mick says he can’t travel without.

Hipmunk: This app will track flight, hotel, and car rental prices for you and let you know when the best time to purchase is. Just input your travel information and let it track for you.

Hopper: On this app, you can watch and track your flight to see when the price changes.

Skyscanner: This is a great one for adding alerts for the dates you want to keep track of. You will receive an email when the price changes so you don’t have to check in to get the best price.

Plan to Visit Attractions Accessible by Public Transit

In Ireland, public transit is the most efficient way to get around, and many attractions and destinations can be located this way.

Check out some travel websites to figure out where you want to go during your trip.

Discover Ireland has popular tourist attractions, and Lovin Dublin as a good mix of local hangouts and must-see landmarks. These sites have attraction recommendations and information about how to get to each one, so you can plan your bus or train route.

A Hop On Hop Off bus tour is also a great way to see as many attractions as possible with travel ease. You just pay for a pass, then you can jump on the bus and get off at whatever stops you want, at your own pace.

Pick an Area Based on Your Travel Needs

There are a few main forms of transit that are used in Ireland. Check out their websites to see which routes to take. Then, plan to stay at accommodations that are located on those routes and can be easily accessible this way.

• Luas: Dublin’s streetcar system, named after the Irish word for “speed.”
• DART: the Dublin Area Rapid Transit system, which is an electric rail service.
• The Dublin Bus: the city’s main bus system.
• Larnród Éireann: in English, this is known as “Irish Rail” and it’s the city’s other rail system.
• My Taxi: Uber is super popular in Canada, but in Ireland, it’s not the only option! For the more popular Irish equivalent look at My Taxi.

Don’t forget about currency! In Ireland, they use the euro, so make sure you account for this in your travel budget.

Searching for a Hotel

When it’s time to book your accommodations, think about weighing your options. This is when travel websites make a huge difference on your savings.

Try out Airbnb, where you can find some really nice accommodations at decent prices.

If you’d rather stick to a hotel chain, try out Expedia or Travelocity to compare hotel deals and get the best price.

Claiming the VAT

You’re probably wondering what the heck a VAT is. VAT stands for value added tax, and in Ireland it’s 23% of your purchases.

In Ireland, you can claim a sales tax refund on the purchases you’ve made during your trip when you leave.

If you sign up for a HORIZON card, you can swipe it as you make purchases and it will automatically tack them as you go, so you won’t have to keep track of a bunch of receipts.

At the Dublin and Shannon airports, there are FEXCO kiosks set up where you can present your HORIZON card. You’ll also need your boarding pass, passport, and credit card information.

Download Caddle to Earn Extra Cash For Your Irish Getaway

Caddle rewards users for their purchases, feedback, and engagement. You can earn cash quick just by saving your receipts and taking our user surveys.

It only takes seconds to start earning- less than the time it takes to choose your favourite Snapchat filter.

New offers come out every week with more opportunities to save and earn, so keep checking back!

Travelling in France

Picture sunning on the beaches of Nice, peering up at the infamous Arc de Triomphe, or enjoying a brilliant glass of vino over brunch with your special someone.

It’s all within reach when you book a few days in France. The world’s most popular international tourism destination drew 86.9 million international tourist arrivals in 2017, according to UNWTO, the World Tourism Organization. While its capital city, Paris, is the third most visited in the world, there’s much to discover beyond the well-known centre, from charming French villages and the Chateaux (castles) of the Loire Valley to the stunning mountain ranges of the French Alps.

You’d be forgiven for thinking you’d need to save for half a lifetime or win the lottery to truly enjoy France’s decadence and historical beauty, but it is possible to travel here affordably. We’ve compiled our best tips based on our personal experiences visiting this country famous for its history, culture and romance.

Plan ahead, travel with friends and pack picnic lunches

Pre-planning your transport and destinations for the day is one way to save.

“Purchase your Eurorail pass and pre-book all train trips – France has limited seating for Eurorail pass holders, and you don’t want to be stuck in a city not able to move to your next destination!” cautions Whitney.

Tip: With its plethora of seaside spots, beaches and ski resorts, France is a fantastic year-round destination, but travel website Wandershare advises avoiding the summer mid-July to August rush. It also attracts hordes of skiers, so you’ll want to miss the mid-February to mid-March window.

Jaime encourages would-be visitors to go with friends. “Book an Airbnb to save a bit extra, then you get to live like a local.”

Her group would often grab lunches and drinks (including wine) at the corner store to enjoy on a leisurely outing. Unlike in Canada, in France the legal age for buying alcohol is 18, and  you can legally drink in public. Just don’t forget to bring your ID.

“You can sit anywhere – parks or gardens – and enjoy whatever snacks you have, and you can drink wine anywhere!”

“You can sit anywhere – parks or gardens – and enjoy whatever snacks you have, and you can drink wine anywhere!”

Passionate about horticulture? You’re in luck – the French Ministry of Culture has classified more than 300 Jardins remarquables, or Remarkable Gardens of France, that can be found across the country. From a small, private English “secret” garden in the village of Plobsheim to a romantic landscape park with views of the ruined castle of Ottrott, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to stop and smell the roses and countless other types of flowers.

Enjoy France’s intricate transit system

Take advantage of France’s exceptional transport and travel network, which offers a number of options for different time and budget constraints. If you rent a car, be prepared for toll booths on major expressways, drive defensively, and avoid driving in major cities. Car traffic is even banned altogether in many Italian city centers, such as Rome, Naples, Florence, and more. See Rick Steves’ Europe blog for more driving tips and road rules.

As another option, trains are a fantastic way to get around. France’s state-owned rail company operates four main rail services, including High-Speed (TGV), Intercité, Regional/Local and International. The Savvy Backpacker has an excellent train guide to answer all your questions.

Discover world-renowned history and architecture

There is no shortage of stunningly beautiful museums, villages, parks and other attractions to explore throughout France. In fact, the largest country in the European Union has more than 40 sites on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

After you’ve had a chance to settle in, travel website Wandershare recommends getting back to nature and exploring the architecture France is renowned for. Hike through the forest of Fontainebleau or see how our ancestors used to communicate at the Grotte de Lascaux Cave Paintings. There’s also the world famous Arc de Triomphe in western Paris (which honours those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars), the Louvre Museum and the awe-inspiring Notre Dame Cathedral.

Hoping to indulge your senses and learn some cooking tips in a land acclaimed for its mouthwatering dishes? Sign up for a cooking class.

Another option if you’re craving a romantic meal for two or a night out with friends while travelling in France: venture out to one of the restaurants in town.

Tip: Paris’ Latin Quarter boasts an array of cafes, restaurants and bars to spend your evenings.

Shauna still raves about the beef bourguignon she had for dinner.

“The dish is a stew made of beef braised in red wine, beef broth and seasoned with garlic, pearl onions, fresh herbs and mushrooms. It was really good.”

“The dish is a stew made of beef braised in red wine, beef broth and seasoned with garlic, pearl onions, fresh herbs and mushrooms. It was really good.”

Looking to indulge in a guilty pleasure? Try a familiar favourite with a delightful twist.

“Everyone has heard about how the French love French fries and mayonnaise, but you may not have heard of French fries and samurai sauce – ridiculously delicious, but sooo bad for you,” laughs Mick.

Shop ‘til you drop and relax on the beach

Beyond the capital, the cities of Toulouse, Strasbourg, Bordeaux, Nantes and others attract curious visitors indulging their lust for culture.

If you’re hoping to go hat shopping, you’re in luck, says Mick. “France is a great country to buy a hat. They love a good chapeau, and you should be able to find a hat store on any high street.”

For entertainment and tech lovers, there are also large retail electronics stores such as FNAC.

After all that shopping, you’ll probably be ready for a day of sun and fun. The must-see French Riviera, a stretch of coastline along the France-Italy border that’s “a slice of sweet, Mediterranean heaven” (according to travel website Happy to Wander), welcomes millions of tourists to the Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur region every year.

France is doable on a tight budget – if you plan ahead, visit at the right time of year, and are open to creative ideas for fun and entertainment. The country’s world-renowned arts, history and culture, not to mention its breathtaking landscapes, all factor in to why it’s the world’s most popular destination for tourists.

Are you traveling to France for the first time? Returning to a favorite destination? What are your best tips when it comes to saving for vacations? Share your story in the comments!

Download the Caddle app.

Learn more about traveling in France

France Travel Guide – Nomadic Matt

20 Things to Do in Paris on a Budget Infographic – This World Rocks

Hidden Paris: 10 Secret Spots in Paris You’ll Love – Solo Sophie

Incredible Destinations in France for Your Bucket List Besides Paris – Happy to Wander

French Riviera – France.fr

Travel France by Train – Trainline

Where else does Caddle recommend?

Australia

Germany 

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Travelling to Costa Rica

If you’re into taking outdoor adventures, seeing wonders of nature and getting an up close and personal experience of a lively culture, Costa Rica should be on your shortlist for your next vacation.

With all its natural wonders, the country has become a mecca for eco-tourists, welcoming more than 1.7 million visitors per year,   according to the Costa Rican Embassy in Washington, DC.

If budget is your number 1 factor for a vacation to a sunny destination, you may want to look elsewhere; For Two, Please cautions that Costa Rica is one of the most expensive countries to visit in North America. It cites tour costs of about USD $100 per person per day and gas prices at USD $1.07 per litre. There’s hope: visit during the rainy season (May to November) and you’ll see some savings. It’s also still lush and beautiful during this time of year.

If you’re looking to travel on a modest budget, read on – we’ve got some helpful tips based on our personal experiences visiting this tropical haven.

Book an Airbnb and rent a car or hop on a bus

As for where to stay, as of October 2018 you could rent an Airbnb for anywhere from $62 for an apartment in downtown San Jose to $236 per night CDN for the award winning private Pura Vida Ecolodge near the South Pacific Coast.

Want to stay at a traditional resort? Take Brian’s glowing recommendation and book a room at Riu Palace, an all-inclusive hotel in Guanacaste where he stayed with his wife and some cousins in 2017. He especially appreciated the staff’s attentiveness and kindness. http://www.riucostarica.com/

“The Riu Palace was really nice,” he says. “I found the staff to be super pleasant. The cleaning staff left the most wonderful pillow and towel decorations each time they cleaned the room. One of the most interesting was the swans.”
<blockquote"I found the staff to be super pleasant. The cleaning staff left the most wonderful pillow and towel decorations each time they cleaned the room. One of the most interesting was the swans.”

You’ll never want for anything here – on its website, Riu Palace promises four swimming pools, jacuzzi, gym, sauna and a wellness centre where you can get a relaxing massage. You can also enjoy sports and activities like windsurfing and beach volleyball, and entertainment for children and adults. At night, venture out to the discotheque an casino. Chefs dish up a variety of dishes from classic to the most exotic.

Carry enough Costa Rican currency to get by

The colón is Costa Rica’s national currency. U.S. dollars are accepted in Costa Rica, so there’s no reason to exchange money in advance, according to travel website Costa Rica Guide. You’ll just want to bring $20 American bills or smaller, since there are often problems with counterfeit bills in larger denominations.

To avoid losing your cash to exchange costs, pay for items priced in U.S. dollars with American money, and those priced in colónes with colónes. Canadian dollars and Euros are not accepted in Costa Rica.

Try the local cuisine

Popular dishes in Costa Rica include Chifrijo, fried plantains, casado, tamales, vigoron, pozol corn syrup, arroz con leche and of course, the local coffee. Luckily, it’s not customary to tip your waitstaff or your bartenders.

Tip: When you’re ready to leave a restaurant, you must ask for your official bill, which will likely include a service charge.

Rent a car or take a bus

Once you’ve arrived, you’re going to need a cheap way to get around. Travel blog Mytanfeet recommends renting a car for the freedom to go where you want, when you want. Their Important Tips for Renting a Car will tell you what you need to know.

Tip: Costa Rica doesn’t have traffic control measures like you’d see in North America, and driving in the country can be scary. Locals tend to tailgate and not signal, so reconsider driving if you’re not used to being on four wheels in a foreign land.

Source: Mytanfeet

Don’t want to deal with driving in a new country? Take a bus . Although it’s slower, Uneven Sidewalks says it’s also a cheaper option (and safe and comfortable to boot), and you can explore hidden gems away from the main tourist areas.

Take a tropical outdoor adventure

From strolling through lush tropical rainforests and watching Capuchin monkeys leap between branches to picking up a bit of Spanish during a trip to the busy, vibrant capital of San Jose, you can pack a lot into your time in Costa Rica.

The country has strived to develop sustainably and protect its unspoiled landscapes from destructive agricultural practices while reaping the benefits of ecotourism. With 26% of its 19,730 square miles dedicated to national parks, wildlife reserves and protected lands, nature & animal lovers, photographers and adventure seekers alike will love this verdant paradise.

As an adventurer, Brian found lots to entertain him.

“We went without an agenda, and with absolutely no schedule,” he remembers, adding the area he and his group visited was rural, with a large agricultural base.

“I didn’t plan to stay on the resort the whole time, and we didn’t. Being the more adventurous type – perhaps due to having been in the Army – I wanted to do extreme things,” he says, adding he appreciated the advice from the locals on which attractions to try and which to avoid.

Thanks to a guide they met on the beach outside their resort, Brian and his wife took a number of day trips. One of the most memorable was the Riu Guanacaste Canopy tour that had him zip lining over part of the jungle. He then went horseback riding along the ocean.

“This was a pretty good experience, even though the horses almost looked wild and yet, malnourished.”

Excursions

Any excursion can be transformed into an unforgettable experience you’ll remember forever, thanks to Costa Rica’s technicolour natural wonders. The couple behind travel blog Uneven Adventures recommends heading to the capital city of San Jose, swimming in the pools near La Fortuna Waterfall and hiking through Manuel Antonio National Park  (where white-faced Capuchin monkeys do gymnastics in the trees).

Volcanoes dot the landscape in this part of the country, and Brian took full advantage of this as he relaxed in warm waters and a sauna, which naturally heated by a volcano, before hiking through hilly terrain, which features many cool volcanoes. It’s also worth setting your alarm to watch the Costa Rican sun rise.

“I really enjoyed waking up early and watching the sun rise, and staying up late to watch it set on the ocean,”

Famous Coffee

Costa Rica is also famous for its coffee, and you can see the harvesting and roasting process for yourself at Hacienda Espíritu Santo’s facilities in Naranjo, just outside San Jose.  It’s just one of the 6 best Costa Rica Coffee Plantation Tours, according to Costa Rica Experts.

If you do your research, spend wisely and are willing to avoid peak traveling times, you can travel in Costa Rica affordably. It’s a country full of tropical delights, including rainforests, waterfalls, volcanoes, exotic wildlife, dazzling beaches, and more.

Are you travelling to Costa Rica for the first time? Returning to a favourite destination? What are your best tips when it comes to saving for vacations? We’d love to hear what you’ve planned, or any tips we missed! Share your story in the comments!

Learn more about traveling in Costa Rica

• The Adventurer’s Guide: 16 unforgettable things to do in Costa Rica – For Two, Please
• 10 mistakes to avoid traveling in Costa Rica – Mytanfeet
• Top 5 reasons why vacations in Costa Rica are great – Costa Rica Vacation Online
• The ultimate guide to Costa Rica with kids – Parenthood and Passports
• How to rent a car in Costa Rica – Costa Rica Guide

Where else does Caddle recommend?

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