Bagan, Myanmar : Tips To Save Money On Your Bagan Trip

Bagan has been made famous by its large concentration of pagodas, stupas, ruins and Buddhist temples scattered all over the city. What makes these structures look romantic is its process of aging, where the stucco coating of the pagodas and temples reveal bricks that are rather rusty, reddish and golden brown. Indeed, the sight is magical and you need to be there to appreciate this unique beauty even more.

I came to Bagan on a solo trip last July of 2016 and spent two days exploring the temples and stupas. This city has been on my bucket list since that day I first saw it in photos. In fact, I’ve prepared my itinerary long time ago, about a year before my actual trip. And I’m glad I did. Being a budget traveler, I find Bagan to be a bit expensive compared to other Southeast Asian cities, and especially since I am going there alone and have no one to split the cost. Nevertheless, with only $100 in my pocket, I was able to enjoy this lovely city in 2 days. Here are tips to save money on your Bagan trip.

Siquijor, Philippines: A Week long Budget Vacation In This Mystical Island

Siquijor is a small island in the Philippines that is an ideal destination for those looking for a serene island with a laid back feel. If you find Boracay or Palawan to be crowded, then Siquijor is definitely the best place to be.

One of the best things about living in the Philippines is that we’re surrounded with scenic beaches and several unspoilt paradise. Although Siquijor is just a bus and ferry ride away from where I live, it’s a shame that I have not actually had the chance to visit this beautiful island, until last July when I decided out of the blue to go explore Siquijor all by myself.

At that time, I’m no longer working in a 9 to 5 job so I took the opportunity to be away for a week. I booked a charming resort with a Japanese-inspired resto that overlooks the sea, packed my things and the next thing I know, I’m already frolicking in a beautiful beach and even have the entire resort all to myself most of the time!

The charming resort where I stayed in Siquijor.

Image Credit: Sigma Photo

With a resort as beautiful as this, you might think that I spent a fortune for this trip. But the truth is that the entire trip costs me less than PHP 10,000 ($200) only and that already includes my beautiful villa, food, tours, etc.

Here are tips on how you too can go on a week long budget vacation in Siquijor and stay in a charming villa without spending a lot.

Penang, Malaysia : Exploring the Charming City In a Budget

If I have to describe Penang in one word, it would be “charming”. Indeed, Penang is a charming city located in the Northwest coast of Malaysia, where it’s capital city, George Town, is part of the Unesco World Heritage List.

Upon arriving in George Town, I was greeted with the lovely views of British colonial buildings and other interesting sights, but my favorite of all are the street arts, which are scattered all over the city!

In my 2 days in Penang, I’m proud to say that I’ve only spent a hundred dollars, which already includes my one night accommodation, train fare from Kuala Lumpur and food. If you’re a budget traveler like me, here are some tips to help you in discovering this charming city in a budget.