Stretching Your Travel Budget

Asia is a popular destination for budget holidaymakers, and indeed, if you want more value for you buck, you will spoiled for choices of destinations here in Asia where you can really streeeetch your dollar. But if the budget's real tight, you still might be able to pick up some ideas from these 13 secrets for stretching your travel dollar. I'm quoting the main points here, followed by some comments of my own, but go and read the entire article for more info.

1. Be mentally ready - identify a target budget, or at least make a mental note of how much exactly you are willing to spend for the trip,
2. Fly to cheaper horizons - fly to Asia!
3. Grocery shop - I do this all the time for drinks, snacks and toiletries! Why pay 5x more at the hotel or resort?
4. Flea for free - perfect and more interesting source of souvenirs!
5. Skip the bar - don't be lazy and antisocial; go to pub down the road.
6. Phone home - who hasn't heard of Skype?
7. Coffee - does it really have to be a java brew everytime? do try out the local coffee blends, too!
8. ATM - most bank accounts now allow withdrawal from ATMs worldwide in the currency of your location. they may be charges incurred, but the exchange rates are often more favorable than in the banks, or worse, in the hotels.
9. Pass on room service - see my comment in #5 above
10. Go to the dives - here's one tip: look where the locals go.
11. Say no go to the show - choose which shows, which events are worth going to.
12. Included - not only are they more convenient to book, but often travel packages do turn out cheaper. I prefer buffet breakfasts though, rather than all meals included.
13. Book early - 'nuff said.