Top 10 things to do on a budget in Malibu

While Malibu may be know for its upscale vibe, there is plenty to do on a budget. The stunning coastline and breathtaking scenery mean there’s plenty to do without breaking the bank. Here’s a list of 10 budget-friendly activities to enjoy in Malibu:

1. Hike in the canyons

Two of my favorite hikes are Solstice Canyon and Escondido Falls. They offer easy to moderate hiking trails, and while exploring you’ll catch glimpses of the coast. All trails are free to access.

2. Enjoy local beers at Malibu Brewing Company

Located in Trancas Country Market, the brewery is one of my favorite places to stop and grab a bite and a flight of locally-brewed beer. While you’re waiting for your table, you can window shop at some of the funky boutiques in the shopping center.

3. Spend a day at the Getty Villa

Despite its grandeur, admission to the Getty Villa is free, although you’ll have to make reservations in advance. The Getty Villa is a gorgeous location, modeled after the great villas of Europe, featuring Greek, Roman and Etruscan artifacts. But one of the best parts of the museum is just taking in the beautiful architecture and the museum grounds.

4. Relax on world-famous beaches

Malibu is famous for huge swaths of light sand beaches and picture-perfect surf. Some of my favorite beaches are Zuma Beach, El Matador Beach, and Point Dume State Beach. All of these beaches are free to access if you park on the Pacific Coast Highway, or you can pay a small fee for parking. Spend the day just relaxing, swimming, or taking in the sweeping southern California coastline. El Matador is known for its tidepools, Point Dume has an easy to access bluff where you can do a small hike to get a bird’s eye view over the gorgeous coastline.

5. Explore Malibu Pier

While there’s a small fee for parking, visiting the pier is completely free. It’s a great pit stop to enjoy the sea breeze and people watch.

6. Window shop in Malibu Country Mart and Malibu Lumber Yard

Malibu’s outdoor shopping areas are great places to hang out and take in the Malibu vibes without the cost. These developments are part open-air boutique, part park. There’s plenty of outdoor space to just hang for an afternoon.

7. Explore Malibu Creek State Park

Enjoy hiking, picnicking and wildlife watching at Malibu Creek State Park. A network of trails will keep you busy all day if you want, and you can see beautiful landscapes, including the filming site of the old TV show *M*A*S*H*.

8. Visit the Malibu Farmer’s Market

If you’re in the area on a Sunday, don’t miss the farmer’s market. It’s a great place to browse local artisan goods, enjoy live music, and sample local produce. It’s completely free to enter and take in the relaxed Malibu atmosphere.

9. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

Drive the world-famous “PCH” which will take you past views of the ocean, coastal mountains, and cliffs. Be sure to plan pit stops along the way at lookout points and beaches.

10. Watch sunset at Paradise Cove

To round out your day in Malibu, head to one of Malibu’s most famous beaches known for its beautiful sunset views. There’s a great little cafe there serving tropical drinks. Parking can be pricey but there are nearby public lots where you can park for cheap. If you’d like to spend the day there, nearby Escondido Beach is one of the best places in Malibu to stand up paddle board.

These activities can help you experience the beauty and charm of Malibu without spending a fortune. Whether you’re into nature, culture, or just soaking up the sun, there’s plenty to enjoy on a budget!

How to Have a Holiday on a Budget

With the rising cost of living impacting households across the UK, many people are looking to enjoy a holiday without breaking the bank. However, budget constraints shouldn’t mean sacrificing the joy of travel. Whether you’re looking for a staycation or planning a trip abroad, you can have an enjoyable holiday while keeping costs under control.

This guide will show you how to plan a memorable getaway on a budget, from choosing the right time to travel to finding affordable accommodation and activities.

Choose off-peak travel times

Airlines and hotels often hike prices during school holidays and peak summer months. Opting for ‘shoulder season’ (just before or after peak periods) can result in significant savings. So, if you can, travel outside school summer holidays or Christmas or Easter when prices are higher.

By being flexible with your travel dates and choosing off-peak periods, you can save substantially on holiday flights, accommodation and even attractions.

Look for last-minute deals or plan in advance

Planning your trip several months ahead can lock in early-bird discounts, particularly for flights, trains and package holidays. Many travel providers offer incentives for booking early, allowing you to get the best prices.

Taking the opposite approach, if you’re flexible with your destination or dates, last-minute deals can be a great way to snap up a bargain. Travel websites frequently feature discounted holidays and hotel deals for those who can journey at short notice.

Consider alternative accommodation

By embracing alternative accommodation, not only do you save money, but you can experience your destination from a more local, authentic perspective.

For an affordable accommodation option try house-sitting. Platforms like TrustedHousesitters allow you to stay in someone’s home in exchange for looking after their property and sometimes pets.

Other sites allow you to rent a flat or house which can be more affordable than hotels, especially for families or larger groups. Plus, having access to a kitchen means you can save on eating out.

Hostels and guesthouses are no longer just for backpackers. Many hostels offer private rooms at lower rates than hotels, and guesthouses are a great way to stay centrally for less.

The UK has a wealth of campsites that provide affordable accommodation. For those who need more luxury, glamping is an upmarket alternative to traditional camping and often costs less than hotels.

Budget-friendly activities and meals

Keeping an eye on activities and food expenses is essential for staying within your holiday budget. Luckily, there are free or low-cost activities available in many destinations in the UK and abroad.

The UK’s National Parks have hundreds of miles of natural beauty that are free to wander at your leisure. For an urban break, many UK cities offer free entry to major museums and galleries, such as the British Museum or the National Gallery in London. But even the smallest towns and villages have markets and museums to enjoy, so check local listings for free cultural events or festivals.

Eating out is a big holiday expense but if your accommodation includes a kitchen, make use of markets or shops to buy your food. This cuts costs and allows you to try local ingredients. Avoid tourist restaurants and seek out off-the-beaten-track local eateries where prices are often lower and the food more authentic.

Additionally, using a budgeting app like TravelSpend can help you track your spending in real time, ensuring you stay on top of your holiday budget.

Use public transport and discount cards

Another way to keep costs down is by making use of public transport rather than renting a car or relying on taxis. Many cities offer travel cards or passes that provide unlimited travel for a set period, making it easier to get around without spending a fortune. If you plan to visit several attractions, look for discount passes or city cards, which often bundle popular activities at a reduced rate. By planning your itinerary around these deals, you can experience more while staying within your budget.

Travel with a group

Group travel can further lower costs by splitting expenses such as accommodation, food, and even transport. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, sharing rental homes, hiring a car together, or bulk-buying groceries can make a significant difference. Some attractions also offer group discounts, so it’s worth checking when planning your activities.

 

 

8 Practical Financial Planning Strategies for Travelers

Want to go on your next trip, but the last time you went on one, your finances took a significant hit? This article can help you by showing you some financial planning strategies that any traveler can apply. Let’s start.

1. Determine the costs of your trip

If you’re going on a trip, you should make sure that you determine the costs of your trip first. That’s one of the most critical parts of financial planning for your travels.

By forecasting your main costs for the trip, it will be easier to allocate funds for it. You’ll also be able to figure out whether a trip is something you’re financially capable of taking on or not.

You don’t want buyer’s remorse after returning from your vacation. You can extend the joy and relaxation you get from your trip if you determine the costs of your trip in advance. That way, coming back from your trip won’t be full of regrets, and you won’t feel like you’re financially walking on a tightrope after returning from your trip.

When you determine the main costs of your trip, you can also correctly plan for unexpected costs. You can see your limits for unplanned expenses so that you don’t mindlessly spend your money on random things just because you’re traveling.

2. Create a budget before the trip

Once you know what your costs will be for the trip, it will be easier to create a set budget for it. You can’t assume the spending limits for your trip without checking out what costs will be on average for your trip. Here are some of the significant costs that you should account for in your trip budget:

  • Accommodations
  • Flight Tickets
  • Meals
  • Souvenirs
  • Planned Excursions/Tours

After you’ve plotted out these significant costs in your budget, you can easily accommodate some of the more unexpected costs you might encounter for your trip.

Just ensure that you have emergency funds as part of your budget and not as something you assume you won’t need as part of your trip funds.

Having a budget is fine and dandy, but there’s no point if you don’t have the discipline to follow it. So, it’s good to be realistic with your budget and understand your spending habits. Accommodate your spending habits, but also learn to confine yourself in the right places with your budget plans whenever possible.

3. Book budget-friendly accommodations

Many travelers on a strict budget are willing to compromise on critical aspects of their travel expenses. When a traveler is looking at possible aspects of their trip that they can lower, one of the things they start to look at first would be their accommodations.

Since accommodations are on a per-night payment basis, you would want to reduce that cost as much as possible. After all, the longer you stay in a place, the more your costs stack with your accommodations. Thus, the more you can reduce the price, the lower your expenses will be for your trip.

For many avid travelers, their favorite choice of accommodations would be hostels. The compromise would be that many facilities would be shared with other people staying in the hostel, but it would be one of the cheapest accommodations.

4. Choose travel-friendly debit and credit cards

Planning can make it easier to figure out how to pay off some expenses that require you to pay in advance. For example, your accommodations and some tour bookings need advance payments. In this case, you might be tempted to pay directly with your credit or debit card.

One issue, though, is that not all debit or credit cards provide the same rate when you pay for things outside the country. Ideally, it would help if you looked into travel-friendly debit and credit cards that won’t tack on a higher fee for your travel costs outside the country.

Additional fees might be inevitable, but ideally, you should shop around until you find cards with the lowest rates possible.

5. Set up a dedicated travel fund

If your trip is way in advance, it might be a good idea to set up a dedicated travel fund separate from your dedicated savings account.

When you put your travel funds into a separate bank account, you can avoid spending your dedicated travel funds during your day-to-day. That way, you won’t be working with a lower budget on the day of the start of your journey.

Ideally, you should create an account with a higher interest rate, which will be harder for you to pull money from, like through an ATM. It would make it less tempting to get money from that.

Even if you haven’t scheduled a trip, having a separate travel account will still be helpful, especially if you travel often.

6. Buy travel insurance

Travel insurance can be beneficial during emergencies as you’re on your trip. Some people opt not to get travel insurance. However, if you’re going to be on a long journey or you’re going to do something that might not be the safest, then additional protection by spending a little on travel insurance can be a great choice.

There is some affordable travel insurance out there already. Sometimes, your credit card might offer deals that offer cheaper premiums on your travel insurance with just as good of a coverage for your travel needs.

7. Automate your finances

Automating some aspects of your finances can help ensure you don’t forget some of your bills, especially when you’re out and about.

To ensure that you’re not touching the budget you have dedicated for things like debt payment, for example, you can use software for that, like a Money Max Account. Just look at Money Max Account reviews to see if this software is the best tool for your needs.

You can also automate bill payments so you don’t forget to pay off your bills while you’re out on a trip.

8. Use budgeting tools

Earlier, you should have already created a budget for yourself. Now, one way to help make budgeting easier would be by getting tools specifically dealing with budget management.

Luckily, plenty of budgeting apps are out there, so you can quickly bring them and use them on your phone. It would be more convenient to track your expenses through those apps as you track them throughout your travel every time it happens using your phone.

Conclusion

These financial planning strategies should help you enjoy your trip, no matter how long your journey will take you. These strategies ensure that at the end of your trip, you return home without compromising your financial stability.

Next time you plan a trip, consider these financial planning strategies for a thoroughly enjoyable trip that won’t destabilize your finances when you return.

How To Explore New York As A Budget Traveler

Who hasn’t daydreamed about wandering through New York’s bustling streets and imagined themselves amidst the iconic skyline, soaking in the lively atmosphere, and munching on that perfect slice of pizza? Yet, for many of us, the very thought of expenses sends cold shivers down our spine. Fear not, fellow traveler! We’re about to dive into some insider tips to experience NYC’s magic without emptying your pockets.

Let’s Talk About Getting There

A major part of the trip expense? That flight ticket! But with some clever hacks, you can snag a deal:

  • Seasons Matter: Consider flying during spring or late fall. Not only are there fewer tourists, but the fares are often more forgiving. Bonus: Experience NYC’s winter wonderland post-New Year and enjoy slashed ticket prices.
  • Be an Early Bird: It’s no myth; booking your flights a few months in advance often guarantees better prices. So, mark your calendar!
  • Stay Alert with Price Alerts: Enroll in those price drop notifications. They’re like your little birdies telling you the best time to book.
  • Layovers – The Unsung Heroes: Direct flights? Convenient, yes. Economical? Not always. Embrace layovers, and maybe you’ll have a mini-adventure in a city en route.
  • Know Your Route: Specific routes have their nuances. For instance, if your departure point is Frankfurt, you can check FlightRoutes.com to find flight specifics for the Frankfurt-JFK route, which could save you some extra bucks.

Your Cozy Corner in the City

Once you’ve landed and the excitement is uncontrollable, you’ll need a place to recharge:

  • Beyond Hotels – Hostels & Guesthouses: NYC isn’t just about fancy hotels. Many hostels now offer private rooms, and, hey, you might make a new travel buddy.
  • Home Away from Home: Platforms like Airbnb sometimes offer that homely comfort and come without a hotel’s price tag.
  • City’s Hidden Gems: Ever considered staying in Brooklyn or Queens? They’re vibrant, closer to real NYC life, and often cheaper.
  • Old Contacts, New Memories: That old college buddy or distant cousin in the city? Perhaps it’s time to rekindle those ties – and save on accommodation.

Feasting in the City of Dreams

NYC and food – it’s an epic love story:

  • Pizza on a Penny: Dollar pizza slices are almost a rite of passage. Dive in!
  • Diverse Markets: Ever heard of Smorgasburg in Brooklyn? A food haven without those upscale restaurant checks.
  • Happy Hour – Happier Wallet: Beyond drinks, happy hours often mean discounted appetizers or meals.
  • Streets are Gold (Culinary Gold): Korean BBQ tacos or iconic bagels, street food is where the city’s heart beats.

Experiences Without the Extravagance

Some of the best things in NYC come free (or cheap):

  • Community Vibes: Keep an eye out for free local events – from concerts to art shows.
  • The Brooklyn Bridge Serenade: Take a walk across, and the views? Priceless and free.
  • Museum Hacks: Some museums, like MoMA, open their doors for free on specific days.
  • Breathe in Nature: While Central Park is the star, don’t miss out on other gems like Riverside Park or Washington Square Park.

Roaming NYC: Travel Smart

Grand Central Station in New York

Grand Central Station in New York

Exploring New York efficiently requires some savvy transport tips. Here’s how:

  • Metro Magic: Staying for a week? The weekly MetroCard is your golden ticket to unlimited rides.
  • Step by Step: Walking isn’t just economical; it’s the best way to discover hidden NYC treasures.
  • Pedal Power: With bike-sharing programs, you can easily cycle your way around, saving both money and the environment.

Pocket-Friendly Pointers for the Smart Traveler

Navigating NYC’s nuances can influence your budget. Here are some everyday tips:

  • Dress Smart: NYC’s weather loves surprises. Layer up to avoid unexpected shopping sprees.
  • Discount Detective: From students to seniors, many discounts are waiting to be claimed.
  • Stay Connected: If you hail from overseas, a local prepaid SIM card might be a savior against those scary roaming bills.

Uncovering Hidden Gems

Hanging out in Central Park

Hanging out in Central Park

New York isn’t just about the Empire State Building or the Statue of Liberty. There’s so much more awaiting the eager explorer:

  • The High Line: This elevated linear park is made on a historic freight rail line. It’s a unique blend of nature, art, and urban views, and the best part? No entry fee.
  • Neighborhood Explorations: Don’t just stay in the touristy parts. Explore areas like Harlem, Astoria, and the Bronx for an authentic taste of New York life.
  • Street Art Wonders: Brooklyn’s Bushwick neighborhood is a canvas of vibrant street art. Take a leisurely stroll, snap some pics, and witness the city’s artistic pulse.
  • Waterfront Views on a Dime: Fancy a view of Manhattan without the ferry fees? The Brooklyn Heights Promenade offers scenic vistas for free.

Budget-Friendly Entertainment & Nightlife

New York City by Night

New York City by Night

New York buzzes with life all night, but you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy:

  • Off-Broadway Shows: Experience the magic of NYC theater without Broadway prices. These shows might be smaller in scale but not in talent or creativity.
  • Comedy Clubs: Some comedy clubs have minimal cover charges or even free entry nights. Laugh your night away without lightening your wallet.
  • Live Music: Keep an eye out for local bands performing in parks or small cafes. The experience is intimate and often costs way less.

Shop Like a New Yorker

If you’re hoping to shop without regrets:

  • Thrift Stores: Places like Beacon’s Closet or Housing Works Thrift Shop offer trendy clothes at a fraction of the price. It’s eco-friendly and budget-friendly.
  • Street Markets: Check out the Union Square Greenmarket or the Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market. Unique finds without the hefty price tags.
  • Discount Cards: Some attractions, shops, and restaurants offer discounts if you have certain city tourist cards. Look into them before your trip.

Connect with Locals

The true essence of a city lies in its people:

  • Community Gatherings: Keep an eye out for community events or workshops. They’re often free and a great way to mingle with locals.
  • Local Apps: Download apps or join local groups on platforms like Meetup. These can guide you to lesser-known events or group activities in the city.

Hidden Cultural Spots: Free and Insightful

Culture in New York isn’t just about the big-ticket museums. Dive deep into the city’s heart:

  • Public Libraries: The New York Public Library system is a wonder, with historical documents, grand architecture, and, of course, millions of books.
  • Community Theaters: Local theaters host free or low-cost shows. They’re a window into New York’s vibrant arts scene.
  • Street Performers: From Central Park to subway stations, you’re bound to encounter incredible talent. Enjoy, and maybe drop a dollar or two as appreciation.

Relax and Refresh: Quiet Corners in the Big City

Amidst the hustle, every traveler needs a break. Here’s where to catch your breath:

  • Community Gardens: Tucked away in various neighborhoods, these green oases are perfect for a calm afternoon.
  • Hudson River Greenway: A quieter counterpart to the bustling East Riverside. Perfect for a serene bike ride or walk.
  • Local Cafes: Skip the chains and duck into a neighborhood cafe. Great for people-watching and recharging.

Savor Local Events: Be a Part of the City’s Beat

Engage with New York in the most authentic way – by joining the locals in celebration:

  • Block Parties: A true NYC experience–music, food, dancing, all with a neighborhood vibe
  • Free Workshops: From dance to crafts, there are always community classes happening.
  • Flea Markets: Not just for shopping. They’re mini-events with food, music, and local crafts.

Boutique Strolls: Off-the-Beaten-Path Shopping

In the midst of NYC’s massive shopping avenues lie hidden alleys of boutique charm:

  • Vintage Shops: The East Village and Williamsburg house vintage treasures waiting to be rediscovered.
  • Artisanal Crafts: Discover local artisans showcasing their crafts in weekend markets and tucked-away boutiques.
  • Independent Bookstores: Escape the hustle and bustle with a unique find from indie bookshops scattered around the city.

End Your Day Right: Sunset Spots and Evening Chills

As the sun dips, New York takes on a golden hue, both literally and metaphorically:

  • Rooftop Bars: Not all come with a hefty price. Some offer affordable drinks with priceless skyline views.
  • Piers and Riverfronts: Hudson and East River spots are ideal for sunset gazers. Bring a snack, sit back, and soak it in.
  • Neighborhood Strolls: As the city lights come up, neighborhoods like Greenwich Village become magical mazes of history and charm.

Safety First: Navigating NYC with Peace of Mind

Stay safe while you’re exploring and ensure a worry-free trip:

  • Stay Informed: Local news apps or sites can keep you updated on happenings.
  • Avoid Empty Subway Cars: Especially late at night, it’s safer to be where people are.
  • Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your gut and move to a safer location or situation.

New York on a Budget – Final Thoughts

New York City, with all its grandeur, is surprisingly accessible even if you’re watching your pennies. With some planning, a sprinkle of insider tips, and a spirit ready for adventure, the city’s treasures await you. So, pack those bags and chase those NYC dreams without the financial nightmares!

Getting Paid to Travel the World 

The world is full of so many things to discover. So much so that it can feel almost impossible to see it all in one lifetime. This is why you might as well get paid doing it. You can find many job opportunities alongside traveling on job sites like Jooble. They can let you travel the world and do important assignments. You can get paid to traverse many countries as a travel blogger and write about their unique cultures. One could travel and teach overseas to learn new languages. There will always be a place for good skills in any part of the world. Here is how you can do just that:

Influencer

Companies out there will happily pay those to advertise products overseas. You can find many different ways to promote a product by studying the target audiences of other countries. Being an influencer means you can use the most advertised platform there is. Social media is by most of the world’s population. You can use social media connections to find people from all over the world and find out where to travel next. Learning how people use social media in different countries can help elevate your skills in using the apps.    

Affiliate Marketing

If you speak for a company and become its voice, you can create a global network of contacts. You can always find places where certain products or services can fare a lot better. By joining several organizations across the world, there will always be a target audience ready to service. For instance, you can share sales from America to the UK. Find a product in Brazil that someone in Spain might enjoy. Connections are an essential part of any business. Joining affiliate programs allows you to expand your business more than ever before.    

Photography

Sometimes, professional-quality photos can be the next best thing for those who cannot travel. So if you have skills in photography, try to get that job to provide those pictures for people. Magazines, websites, and travel agencies will happily take photos from exotic locations to advertise holiday destinations. It won’t just be hotels or cities you will be taking pictures of. You may find yourself in a deep jungle with a gorgeous waterfall. You may find a hard of animals traversing across a desert. Magical moments are there waiting for you to capture them and show them off to ordinary people.    

Destination Marketing

Knowledge of certain countries can provide people with valuable insight into how to sell products. It won’t just be learning where to deal but how to sell them. Some companies can pay you to write about your experiences traveling to a different country. They may want to know about the food, the customs, the hot spots, and so much more. You can discuss how you interacted with the locals and recommend some behavior patterns. 

Display Adverts

Big brands such as Google use advertising platforms that involve unique displays. These types of adverts can benefit significantly from having a more global network. The adverts themselves can become more relevant to the society of that country. You can earn your income with more people who interact with these ads. If you can make them more specific to what people in that country are looking for, it makes it even better. They can also integrate well with YouTube videos if you plan to use other social media platforms for the adverts. Make sure the display is adapted to the different formats you could use. 

A Public Speaker

If you become a successful blogger, this may involve traveling to conferences around the world. If that is the case, then be prepared for some public speaking. You may wish to learn different languages and behaviors to be a more effective speaker in whatever country. You can use this as a great opportunity to meet more people and develop your global contacts. The more experience you have in speaking, the greater you will come across. This experience can lead you to even bigger opportunities if you impress potential investors.    

Travel Writing

As mentioned before, running your own blog is a good excuse to get you to travel. Some so many people feel confined in their own country. Your blog could be an excellent opportunity to look at a whole new culture or nature. You can write about all of the exciting things you have learned, the sights you have seen, and the fantastic people who have come to speak with you. You can either write about your own experiences or write about the customs you have grown to learn. Speak about the culture insightfully and respectfully to offer a real peek at the country’s inner workings.   

Tour Giver

Once you have learned a lot from your travels, you can put it to good use through tour guides. Most people love traveling just for the fun of it. You can travel to make money by giving these free-loving tourists a more intimate walk through the country. Either you provide a guide on the local hot spots or take them through the whole landmark. You can offer your insight into the country or read off the latest exciting facts. Make your tour guide entertaining to convince people to keep on traveling and discovering new things.  

Selling Books or Courses

If you wish to earn income on the go, you can turn your current experiences into something that can be sold. Something more physical that people are willing to buy. Writing a book on how to travel is not the only example. You could give people a course on saving up money and any security tips needed for safe travels. You can write a book on all of the best parts of each country you have visited. Perhaps you can convince more people to travel by talking about the most favored destinations.  

You can use job sites to find any travel-related profession, such as travel blogger. Usually, these openings will include that the requirements will include travel in their information text. If there is incomplete information, don’t hesitate to ask the employer directly for more details on the matter.