Discover Rome on a Budget: Unveiling Affordable Wonders

Discover Rome on a Budget: Unveiling Affordable Wonders

Rome is known as a place of famous sights and a city full of thousands of years of history, culture and culinary delights. From the remains of the Roman Empire to the vibrant streets full of life, there is something magical in every corner. But that doesn’t mean it has to make a dent in your bank account.

Let’s dive deep to discover cheap places to stay and places to visit for free:

Colosseum

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Rome at the legendary Colosseum, an ancient amphitheater renowned for its gladiator contests and grand spectacles. Plan your visit efficiently with combined tickets for the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, offering an immersive experience at a single price. Don’t miss the chance to witness this iconic symbol of Rome’s past, steeped in centuries of captivating tales and architectural marvels.

Roman Forum

Adjacent to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum beckons with its sprawling archaeological wonders, including ancient government buildings, temples and basilicas. Discover the secrets of Rome’s past as you stroll through this historic site and submerge yourself in centuries-old civilizations and architectural wonders. Like a journey through time, it reveals the essence of ancient Rome, rich in stories just waiting to be unearthed.

International travel without the hassle of manual money conversion!!
When traveling, going to the money changer is often hectic and the question always arises as to how much should be exchanged. If you convert more, you’ll lose money by converting it back to your local currency, and if you convert less, you may have to pay ridiculous amounts later. But Wise is here for you. You will receive the amount you see on Google (not possible with physical money changers) for a very small fee. Simply convert the amount you need and calculate it back again. You can sign up here* and make your trip even more enjoyable by eliminating this unnecessary additional burden 😉

Pantheon

Experience history at the Pantheon, a meticulously preserved ancient Roman masterpiece now serving as a captivating church. Marvel at the impressive dome, showcasing ancient engineering prowess. Best of all, admission is free, offering a budget-friendly chance to explore this architectural marvel. Uncover the secrets of the Pantheon, a must-visit for those exploring Rome’s vibrant streets. Engross in the atmosphere of antiquity as you roam the halls and corridors of this iconic landmark, soaking in centuries of history with every step.

Trevi Fountain

A stunning Baroque jewel, the Trevi Fountain captivates visitors and invites them to take part in the tradition of flipping a coin for a guaranteed return to Rome. Uncover this historical wonder full of legends and charm, all without entrance fees. Become part of this timeless tradition and take part in this iconic ritual of countless travelers while enjoying the splendor of one of Rome’s most beloved landmarks, where history and legend merge to create an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

Spanish Steps

Experience the charm of Rome at the Spanish Steps, a famous meeting point in the heart of the city that leads visitors to the historic Trinità dei Monti church. There is no entry fee and it is a journey full of history and splendor. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of one of Rome’s most popular landmarks. From cultural riches to architectural wonders, it is a gateway to unforgettable experiences in the Eternal City.

Piazza Navona

Explore the charm of Piazza Navona, a picturesque square with three enchanting fountains, especially the famous Four Rivers Fountain. The lively ambience amidst a plethora of dining options serving delicious treats is a unique experience. What’s more, entry to this fascinating place is completely free, so you can enjoy its splendor for free. Piazza Navona is a must-see gem in the heart of Rome’s historic countryside. With its rich history and stunning architecture, it promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Trastevere

Explore the allure of Rome’s historic quarters, adorned with quaint streets, medieval structures, and vibrant vibes exuding from numerous cafes and eateries. Engage with the local culture and absorb the lively energy of the bustling surroundings – all while keeping your budget intact. Embark on a guided stroll through this captivating locale, where each turn presents a fresh opportunity for exploration. Get ready to delve into the heart of Rome’s charm and create unforgettable memories amidst its timeless beauty.

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Limitations of Google Flights: A Beginner’s Guide

Limitations of Google Flights: A Beginner’s Guide

Google Flights is an amazing tool that helps finding a really good deals on your next vacation. But this feature is not really helpful for most of the people and you should avoid using Google Flights if:

You’re not flexible in terms of dates:

Google Flights is beneficial to people who are flexible in terms of dates. If you’re an employee like most of us, you won’t have the luxury to choose the time and would have to inform your employer about your vacation well in advance. Also, it’s highly possible that the dates suggested are not ideal for example beaches in winter months (Dec-Jan).

You’re not flexible in terms of place:

People can benefit the most from Google Flights when they don’t have an exact destination in mind. Most of us have a bucket list of places we want to visit but it’s highly possible that cheaper options provided by it doesn’t contain any of the places from our list.

International travel without the hassle of manual money conversion!!
When traveling, going to the money changer is often hectic and the question always arises as to how much should be exchanged. If you convert more, you’ll lose money by converting it back to your local currency, and if you convert less, you may have to pay ridiculous amounts later. But Wise is here for you. You will receive the amount you see on Google (not possible with physical money changers) for a very small fee. Simply convert the amount you need and calculate it back again. You can sign up here* and make your trip even more enjoyable by eliminating this unnecessary additional burden 😉

You’re not able to travel visa-free: 

Many of us would require a visa which can be an overhead if you don’t hold a passport of one of the strongest countries with require you to travel visa-free. It’s highly possible that the destinations suggested by Google Flights fall into one of those categories.

You’re ok with limited cancellation and change policies:

Cancelling or changing flights booked through Google Flights may be a hassle as the policies completely depend on airlines and/or third-party agencies.

You’re ok with not the best price and lack of customer service:

Although, Google Flights can be used as a comparison tool, it doesn’t guarantee the best prices. It’s still advisable to search for more options like Skyscanner. 

Google Flights doesn’t have a dedicated customer service. So, if you face any issues with your booking, you’ll have to contact the airline or third-party agency directly.

Although, Google Flights has the above mentioned disadvantages, it also has many advantages and is a good place to start organizing your vacation. It serves as an amalgamation of some sites and would give a boost in initial planning.

* It’s an affiliate link and I’ll get a referral bonus with no additional cost to you.

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Christmas in Paris

Christmas in Paris

Originated in Germany, Christmas markets are found in many countries today. These markets are usually held in the town square to celebrate the 4 advent weeks. They offer food, drinks and sometimes rides as well.

There are some well known markets in Paris and in this blog we’ll guide you through them with one bonus place to visit in the end:

Eiffel Tower

The first one on the list is near Eiffel Tower. Stalls can be seen on both sides of the Pont d’iena right in front of the Eiffel Tower. The only disadvantage is that it’s open and quite crowded due to the traffic. The one at Avenue de New York is in closed space and is relaxed, with places to sit and containing some rides as well.

Tuileries Garden

This is the biggest one that I’ve seen and is my favorite as well. It contains Ferris Wheel, Dodge’em cars and other fun activities for families along with many delicious food options including waffles, crepes and churros. It also contains a wide variety of drinks to choose from.

International travel without the hassle of manual money conversion!!
When traveling, going to the money changer is often hectic and the question always arises as to how much should be exchanged. If you convert more, you’ll lose money by converting it back to your local currency, and if you convert less, you may have to pay ridiculous amounts later. But Wise is here for you. You will receive the amount you see on Google (not possible with physical money changers) for a very small fee. Simply convert the amount you need and calculate it back again. You can sign up here* and make your trip even more enjoyable by eliminating this unnecessary additional burden 😉

Galeries Lafayette

Each year, a giant Christmas tree is placed in the middle of this shopping mall. It contains many luxurious brands like Hugo Boss, Louis Vuitton, Rolex, Dior and Prada to name a few. You can also go on the rooftop from where you can see Paris including the Eiffel Tower. You can also take a picture with this sign which literally translates to Paris, I love you. Also, during Christmas, window displays show an animated story which is attractive for kids.

Hotel de Ville

During the Christmas season, the Hotel de Ville is beautifully illuminated with festive lights, transforming the iconic building into a dazzling spectacle. The lights add to the festive atmosphere of the area.

Unfortunately this one was closed when we reached there but it is the cutest one amongst all in my opinion. You can walk through and still see the decorations along with the lights at Hotel de Ville.

Notre Dam

Over the centuries, Notre Dame has been the site of numerous historic Christmas celebrations and served as a center for religious customs and cultural traditions in Paris.

With its Gothic architecture and historical significance, Notre Dame Cathedral remains a symbol of the Christmas spirit in Paris, embodying the religious and cultural traditions associated with the holiday.

This is also a small one with limited food stalls and mostly containing the arts and crafts stalls.

* It’s an affiliate link and I’ll get a referral bonus with no additional cost to you.

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NYC Free Flow: Budget-Friendly Escapes

NYC Free Flow: Budget-Friendly Escapes

Located on the East Coast of the United States, this diverse and multicultural city is known for its skyscrapers, vibrant culture, and never-sleeping city. The streets are full of taxis, food stalls and pedestrians. Here are some of the things you can do in New York for FREE!!

Highline

Elevated linear park created on the former railway line in western Manhattan. Built on the former New York Central Railroad site, this 1.45-mile-long park offers 360-degree views of NYC. Abandoned for decades, the elevated railway was repurposed into a public park. The first section opened in 2009, followed by additional phases. It showcases over 500 species of plants, including perennials, grasses, and trees, creating diverse habitats for birds and insects. There are multiple access points along the High Line’s route, providing entry and exit to and from different parts of the park.

Vessel

As a symbol of the revitalization of the Hudson Yards area, Vessel has become an iconic landmark in New York City’s ever-evolving skyline, offering panoramic views of the cityscape. Comprising 154 staircases and nearly 2,500 individual steps, this masterpiece was built to enjoy the different perspectives of the city. Vessel is accessible to visitors with disabilities, featuring an elevator for those who cannot use the stairs.

Although it is temporarily closed (at the time of writing), it is still visible from below.

Brooklyn Bridge

Unique combination of suspension and cable bridge. It connects the boroughs of Manhattan with Brooklyn and stretches across the East River. From here you can enjoy the spectacular views of some famous landmarks such as Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, the Chrysler Building, the Empire State Building and the Manhattan skyline.

Central Park

At 2.5 miles long and about half a mile wide, this park offers hiking tours and family events. You see people skating and playing tennis. It is the fifth largest park in the city and the most visited urban park in the United States (at the time of this writing).

Times Square

This tourist attraction is known for numerous 24-hour billboards and serves as a commercial center and entertainment center. People also gather there to celebrate events such as solstice and New Year’s Eve. Located within Times Square, the Theater District is home to numerous Broadway theaters hosting world-class shows, musicals, and plays, drawing theater enthusiasts from around the globe.

Staten Island

One of the 5 boroughs of New York. Borders New Jersey and is home to New York’s only outlet mall. The ferry to and from the island is completely free and runs 24 hours a day.

Little Island

A free public park that opened to the public in May 2021 features more than 300 species of flowers, trees and shrubs. There is also an amphitheater with 687 seats (chargeable), but you can also go there with your family to spend the day surrounded by greenery.

International travel without the hassle of manual money conversion!!
When traveling, going to the money changer is often hectic and the question always arises as to how much should be exchanged. If you convert more, you’ll lose money by converting it back to your local currency, and if you convert less, you may have to pay ridiculous amounts later. But Wise is here for you. You will receive the amount you see on Google (not possible with physical money changers) for a very small fee. Simply convert the amount you need and calculate it back again. You can sign up here* and make your trip even more enjoyable by eliminating this unnecessary additional burden 😉
* It’s an affiliate link and I’ll get a referral bonus with no additional cost to you.

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The ULTIMATE GUIDE to Free Experiences in Los Angeles

The ULTIMATE GUIDE to Free Experiences in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, the home of Hollywood, fascinates many people as it is the entertainment capital of the world. Where dreams are born and pursued and films are made. This city is not just about glamor and celebrities, but also about fascinating beaches along the Pacific coast and the diversity of its neighborhoods. Los Angeles looks expensive when you think of Beverly Hills (celebrity district), but there are also things you can do for free.

Below is the list for you:

Griffith Observatory

If you are interested in Astronomy and would like to know more about the universe, Griffith Observatory is the place to be. The panoramic view from the top including the LA skyline, the Pacific Ocean and the Hollywood sign is breathtaking and the entry is completely free. One of the most iconic things to do is to observe the celestial events by Zeiss refracting telescope. There are many astronomical events held throughout the year.

You’ve multiple options to reach there.

By hiking:

Depending on where you start, it could easily take between 1-3 hours.

By public transport:

Take the Red line and get off to Vermont/Sunset station. Take the DASH Observatory bus.

By car:

This would be the most convenient option but you’ve keep in mind the parking fees1.

Hike to Hollywood

Depending on the path you choose, it would take somewhere around 2-4 hours but it’s definitely worth it. Don’t forget to wear good footwear as there is uneven terrain and take a Water Bottle with you as the bottles on the trail would be twice the normal amount. You can get relatively close to the sign but keep in mind that trespassing and climbing on the structure itself is illegal.

International travel without the hassle of manual money conversion!!
When traveling, going to the money changer is often hectic and the question always arises as to how much should be exchanged. If you convert more, you’ll lose money by converting it back to your local currency, and if you convert less, you may have to pay ridiculous amounts later. But Wise is here for you. You will receive the amount you see on Google (not possible with physical money changers) for a very small fee. Simply convert the amount you need and calculate it back again. You can sign up here* and make your trip even more enjoyable by eliminating this unnecessary additional burden 😉

Beverly Hills

The symmetry of palm trees and cleanliness of this glamorous and lavish city, provides a very good vibe. It’s a hotspot for famous celebs for decades and if you’re lucky, you can also meet one of your favorite person. The city life can be completely forgotten by making a visit to the well maintained parks and gardens. The architecture over there is just amazing from modern houses to mega mansions.

Venice Beach

Vibrant Boardwalk is a famous thing at this beach. A diverse mix of people can be found walking on this beach and also performing different activities like skateboarding, bodyboarding and beach volleyball. Muscle Beach is another attraction spot for visitors where people can be found doing workout in public. You can also visit the Gold’s Gym where Arnold Schwarzenegger trained for Mr. Olympia. Last but not the least, watching sunset over Pacific Ocean creates a magical ambiance. As the sun sets, the evening activities like live music performances and bonfire can be seen.

Santa Monica Pier

Over the years, it has become the symbol of Southern California’s beach culture but unlike other piers, it is famous because the renowned Route 662 ends here. Throughout the year there are numerous events hosted and live performances can be enjoyed there. Santa Monica Pier Carousel is a historic attraction that dates back to 1922 which contains the painted horses and intricate details of classic merry-go-round. To ride the carousel, a small fee is required.

Farmer’s Market

This one is known to be the original Farmer’s Market as it was started in 1934. It’s a nice place to be if you want to have some organic food directly from the farm. There’s no middle man here so it’s a bit cheaper than the stores. You can try free samples and also hold conversations with the locals.

* It’s an affiliate link and I’ll get a referral bonus with no additional cost to you.

1 $4 an hour at the time of writing.

2 Route 66 is the biggest highway in US that starts from Chicago and ends in Santa Monica.

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