The sheer beauty and comforting tranquility of a winter landscape and the shrill thrill of snow in their hands are what most people from tropical countries are dreaming to see at least once in their lifetime. However, for people who have lived most of their lives in winterized areas, they would rather forego another white Christmas for a chance to spend the holidays in another area in the globe, in a tropical island perhaps, basking in the sun instead of shivering from the cold.
This time of the year, people could get good bargains from travel destinations across the world that would usually cost more during their peak seasons, particularly during summer time or during local
festivals.
1 The following are recommended international destinations for would-be travelers, who would like to have an adventure of a lifetime this winter season – on a budget.
Bangkok, Thailand
The city’s three climactic levels: cold, hot, wet – would all seem relatively warm for a person who is used to cold spells and winter nights. November to February would be the best time of the year to visit this
majestic city,
2 as the rains brought about by tropical depressions are soon mellowing down. You may find some marked-up prices during
December 3 as more tourists come in, but in this amalgam of international brand names and hundred-year-old relics, one could still find it cheaper than most international markets.
A traveler who only stayed in Bangkok during the winter holidays can avail of a refund of the 7% value-added tax (VAT) that are imposed on goods and service. However, you can only get this at approved stores with a blue and white refund sticker. Just get a tax refund form and invoice from the shop and get your refund at VAT Refund desks found at major malls and at the
airport.
4
Cairo, Egypt
Traveling to Egypt during the winter season would be more cost effective than scheduling a tour during the summer season. Most expenses associated with travel like hotel rooms, airfare, food and tours are much more affordable during the off season, except during the last week of December where prices would peak up due to a surge of winter vacationers from
Europe.
5
Traveling on a budget to Cairo does not mean you have to go on your own, independent from tours and cruises, and work your way through the streets and destinations alone. Although one can actually do that if he prefers to, but traveling on a budget or economy tour can give as much savings with packaged discounts and readily available transportation.
5
Eating at hotels in Cairo can drain your budget, even if these are only three-star or four-star establishments. If your budget allows for it, you can dine in restaurants and food corners in markets and get almost the same quality as these hotels. However, if you really want to maximize your savings, get drinks, sandwiches and cigarettes in local supermarkets and you’re all set.
5
Munich, Germany
Travelling to Munich during the Oktoberfest could be a lot of fun but could also put a heavy strain on your budget. Going there after the festivities could give you bigger discounts in hotels and shops, and you could still savor the good beer, fantastic food and great shopping
destinations.
6
Nightlife in Munich is generally great and packs a lot of fun, particularly in the large beer halls or beer gardens found throughout most of the city. Party animals can go to Kultfabric where a large array of bars and clubs can be found that is unmatched in Europe. It gets wild during the weekends, but people can still enjoy clubbing there during the weekends together with the
locals.
7
Rome, Italy
With the current foreclosures crisis hitting the United States and some other parts of the globe, many are contemplating of moving to other places where they can find budget homes at really excellent locations. Italy is one of the few favorites retirees are
aiming for.
8
But for those who just want to spend their winter in a great travel destination, the city of Rome in Italy is one of the best places to go anywhere around the world. On top of the historical and cultural landmarks in this city, people can get good authentic Italian food at reasonably low prices that would be very easy on the budget. Eating breakfast or lunch in an outside table can provide a romantic ambience that is also romantic for your
wallet.
9
Venice, Italy
Another great Italian getaway is Venice. This wonderful city, rich in culture and majestic sceneries appear to cost a fortune as a destination that only your rich neighbor can afford. However, going there during off-seasons, particularly after the Christmas holidays can really give you a good deal without putting a big strain on your wallet.
To maximize your trip, do not go with the crowd and visit places that most tourists flock to. Visit the pubs, bars, and shops that locals go to, usually the narrow Venetian streets that are away from crowds of tourists. You could discover great bargains from shops and have a chance to mingle with the locals and taste what the real Venice is all
about.
10
Boracay Island, Philippines
If you really want to get out of the cold and sprawl on a magnificent beach, with white sand as fine as sugar caressing your skin, then Boracay Island in the Philippines is the perfect destination hideaway. Ranked #7 in May 2007 among the top ten beaches in the world by the Chicago Tribune and the New York Newsday, Boracay usually peaks during the summer, but is an excellent vacation spot during the cold months of November to February.
Aside from the great hotels and budget lodgings, great food and memorable nightlife, visitors who come to Boracay would never forget the special treatment and Filipino hospitality that they get from the locals who would go out of their way just to please visitors. In the Philippines, where there is no such thing as an uninvited guest, visitors can’t get this much pampering from anywhere else in the
world.
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REFERENCES:
Δ Winter Budget Destinations
Δ Lonely Planet: Introducing Bangkok
Δ Winter Budget Destinations
Δ Lonely Planet: Bangkok – Practical Information
Δ Budget and Independent Travel in Egypt
Δ Articles on Munich
Δ Articles on Munich – Night Life
Δ Serious About Moving to Italy
Δ Eating on a Budget at Rome
Δ Top Sights to See in Venice
Δ Boracay Budget Travel Tips
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Peter Allan C. Mariano
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