If you’re planning your summer getaway for this year then consider visiting Southeast Asia. There’s a plethora of choices when it comes to beach destinations. If you are into beach parties, shopping, island hopping tours and more, you may want to consider the popular spots such as Bali in Indonesia, Phuket in Thailand and Boracay in Philippines.
These islands have established themselves well and have available infrastructure that caters to the needs of visitors in all budget segments. You will find luxury hotels, mid-range accommodations and also backpackers hostels. Since these are very popular destinations, there’re also tons of world-class restaurants and Affordable local eateries that serve great local and international dishes.
Photo Credits (Flickr CC): Tanah Lot by Juan Antonio
If you have chose Bali as your summer destination this year, check out my article about some tips for an Affordable Holidays in Bali.
Book Ahead
File your vacation leaves ahead of time and take advantage of cheap airfare promotions being offered by various airline companies. Some of the cheapest airfare promotions are available for those who could plan their vacations at least a year ahead.
Use Budget Carriers
If you’re in Southeast Asia, then you already know that we have plenty of choices when it comes to budget carriers. Some of these airlines that fly cheaply to Bali include, Cebu Pacific Air and Air Asia. Don’t expect much but you’ll surely get to save a lot of money when you fly with them and even more if you take advantage of their online promotions.
Stay in Affordable Hotels
Like what I have mentioned above, there are plenty of accommodation choices in Bali. If you have the money to splurge, then you could definitely go for luxury accommodations. But if you’re on a tight budget, don’t worry as there are plenty of mid-range hotels such as Sun Island Hotel Kuta.
Photo Credits (Flickr CC): Teggalang Rice Terraces by Joanet
Eat at Local Restaurants
One of the perks of travelling is having a chance to try a variety of local cuisines in places that you go. Eating delicious local food does not need to be expensive. Walk around and sit at one of the restaurants and ask for their specialty dish.
Join Group Tours
You have an option to rent your own car in Bali and visit various popular places or if you’re on a budget, then I highly suggest that you join group tours. The costs of the transportation will be split among your group and this will definitely lower your holiday expense. This is also a great way to meet fellow travelers.
Rent a Motorbike
If you know how to drive a motorbike then renting one will definitely save you money and will give you a more pleasant experience of seeing the island for yourself. You could visit various tourist places on your own pace. One of the downsides of group tours is that time in each places that you visit is limited but when you rent a motorbike, you could spend more time in these beautiful places.
Photo Credits (Flickr CC): Infinity Pool in Bali by Shurav
Stay Longer in Bali
If you stay longer in Bali, then you could have the option to stay in apartments instead of hotels. This will definitely lower your accommodation cost. Most apartments for short-term lease are equipped with kitchenette. You could also cook your own food if you’re not in the mood to go out.
Try Homestay
Homestay is very popular in Ubud. This is a great way to learn about the Balinese culture. Balinese are very welcoming and very hospital and also, doing homestay is a little cheaper than staying in hotels. When I last visited Bali, I stayed in a local’s house and was invited in various community related events such as a wedding, a funeral and some local gatherings.
Join Classes and Learn Something New
Bali has a big expat and frequent visitors community and there are various classes about a variety of interest being held in this island. You could join art workshops, cooking classes and more. This will definitely be cheaper than taking these classes in your home country (especially if you live in the West). This will also be a great opportunity to network especially if you’re planning of having your own business in the future. It’s like hitting multiple birds in one stone. You get to visit this beautiful island, learn something new and meet new people.
Photo Credits (Flickr CC): Sunrise in Bali by Rnugraha
Do you have additional tips for an affordable holidays in Bali. Feel free to leave your suggestions and tips o the comment section below.
Ten Tips for an Affordable Holidays in Bali is a post from: FlipNomad.
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