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Money Matters: Fly, Drive, Travel Cheap
Cheap options for local travel
In getting around your new city it can be easy to fall into a habit of taking taxis
everywhere. Although they are often plentiful and relatively inexpensive, their use can
add up quickly. Consider alternatives, like biking, walking, or public transportation.
Yes, public transportation can be extremely intimidating in a new country where you
don't understand the language, symbols, or even directional symbols, but get a local
friend to show you the ropes and help you buy your first ticket and you'll soon be
hopping on and off buses all around the city like a pro.
In a few countries, especially in the Middle East, petrol (gasoline) will be so inexpensive
that it might now make sense not to drive. But this is the exception rather than the rule.
Outside the Middle East, if you have no choice but to drive, try to carpool when possible
to share the cost of petrol.Be careful of parking rules as well and find out in advance where you can and can't park,what permissions you need, and how to purchase the requisite tickets in advance.
Travel Smart - Cheap options for long distance travel
Reconsider flights back to your home country for every vacation or holiday! Depending on how far awayyou are from your home country this can quickly render you penniless.
Expats have gotten good at spending home country holidays with each other, their
adopted family members. From Americans' Thanksgiving to Christmas morning, you canspend it with your new friends and it will still be special.
When you do fly home, be sure to take advantage of frequent flier programs and accrue
miles for free flights. Along the same lines, if you own a credit card make sure it is one
that allows you to earn frequent flier miles on your airline of choice.The good news is that most countries have low-budget airlines that offer cheap flights incountry.Ask around to find out what they are, or search the internet for whatever the local
language terms are for "cheap airlines in _(your country) " or "cheap airfares in _(your
country) ". Travel agents might also be able to help you find cheap airfares.
Have some time to kill? Consider taking a bus or a train to your destination. If you are
going with a group, if your country is safe enough, and if it has reliable roads, consider
renting a car together.
If you bring your own car you'll also be able to enjoy the convenience of having your
own transportation once you arrive.
Just watch the cost of petrol, remember that gas stations are often fewer and further
between; and when driving at night, be aware that petrol stations are not 24 hour
operations and often close before dark.
In addition, be sure you have an up-to-date map, or better yet, a GPS system to help you
find your way. You don't want to find yourself lost in the mountains of Kazakhstan in the
middle of the night!
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