Top Social

Image Slider

Showing posts with label FRUGAL TRAVEL. Show all posts
Showing posts with label FRUGAL TRAVEL. Show all posts

Essential Travel on a Budget Tips from SavingsPinay

Monday, September 5, 2016
I feel like my whole Caramoan trip opened this side of myself that loves traveling. I have hiked to mountains and got to experience a day in Pampanga and Tagaytay but have never really put much attention into the whole  me going places. After that trip I asked myself "where to next, Izza?". As a newbie wanderer, I am constantly checking Pinterest and other travel blogs for insider tips as I would want to embrace my love for exploration in the coming months. 

But the SavingsPinay founder, I still want to stay frugal and travel on a budget. I want to enjoy a vacation without ruining my finances. So if you happen to be like me, here are the Essential Travel on a Budget Tips you might want to read before your next adventure begins.




On Flights and Transportation

My very first tip is to book your next trip in advance. Air fare increases as your planned date for the vacation goes near so if you have already decided on where to go and when to go why not seal the deal by booking your flight online. Try Traveloka. This flight and hotel booking platform offers the most up to date cheap flights and budget-friendly accommodations around Southeast Asia and Asia Pacific. What's nice too is that they show the final prices already with no booking fee and no hidden costs at all making you avoid unforeseen charges.

Note. For extra on-a-budget travel tip do watch out for deals announced and published by airlines. You can follow on social media or become part of their mailing list to be automatically updated. 

It is also better to commute rather than rent a private van to get around the area. Taking the public mode of transportation will help you grasp the city well and explore better with your senses. There are hidden places, restaurants and other treasure escapade you might unleash as you either walk or follow the usual transport. Just be mindful of your belongings and as much as possible take a city map with you or have apps on your phone that can help you navigate safer. 

On Hotels and Accommodations

Next to finding cheap flights is making sure you also save on booking hotel and accommodations. Where you stay on your vacation has deep impact on how enjoyable and fun your trip will be. Not to mention you and your family or friends safety. Below are the common deciding factors when choosing a place to stay.

1. Location. It should be in the center of where your itineraries are. Glad that most hotel booking sites nowadays has a View Map functionality so you can see how near or far your hotel  is to the landmarks and activities you want to do. Also take note of its proximity to public transit. During my Pampanga trip with my eldest sister we were able to book a hotel at downtown proper situated right in the middle of where we will watch the Philippine Hot Air Balloon Festival and visit other attractions. We were able to save ton of money because of it. This was a complete opposite of what happened on my Tagaytay trip with my bestfriend Nica where in the hotel we booked was too far from the places in our itinerary. In the end we spent more time, money and effort going back and forth rather than exploring.

2. Price. Personally I don't like too expensive hotels especially if I will be on the road most the time. It is important to check the pictures on site especially the interior and see how clean and comfortable the place is. Make sure to compare prices  from the main website of the hotel to the booking website of your choice for promos and discount codes you can use.

3. Facilities and Amenities. Basic amenities like free WiFi, parking, restroom, pool etc. should and must be available to make your stay more relaxed and free from stress. 

4. Rating and Review. It is best to hear from others who have experienced what its like staying in the hotel you are eyeing. Read the online reviews and find out more information about the hotel. You will then know what to expect the day you booked your accommodation from how friendly the staffs are to whether the WiFi really works etc.

    Choosing the right hotel shouldn't be a daunting task. Just ask what's important for you. Is is the location? Your budget? The facilities and amenities available? Or reviews from others? Or consider all of the above once your budget hotel selection process starts.

    On Trips and Itineraries

    Consider the fixed-cost trips you see mostly on your newsfeed if you want to travel on a budget. They are mostly inclusive of the transportation, accommodation, tours, meals and other costs you'll have if you do it your own. There are also resort packages being released and can be a good alternative for you not to think too much on where to stay and what to do during your vacation. Group Tours are highly considerable since I've mentioned in my Ultimate Guide to Caramoan Island Hopping that the more person you are on a trip the less costly it can be.

    On Online and Offline Communication

    Thanks to technology, staying in touch to your loved ones is now cheaper and easier. Big telecomm industries offer a huge promos that have call, text and surf functionality. Hotels, hostels, villa etc. have WiFi available in rooms and/or common areas. Most places and restaurants you go to provides free internet access as long as you become a customer. 

    On Preserving the Memories

    I found that the best and the cheapest way of preserving the memories of your trip is to keep a journal or in my case a blog. It is so satisfying to keep a diary, take photos and recap what happened during the day or night. You can always go back to your entries and reminisce your memorable events and special moments for free.

    Other Money Saving Tips and Tricks when you Travel
      
    • Weekday flights are much cheaper compared to weekends. It is also better to travel off-season if you want to spend less money on air tickets.
    • Check out hotel accommodations and book in advance before going to your destination. This will give you an ample time of preparing your itinerary and budget.
    • Try backpacking inns, hostels, homestays etc. to save money on your accommodation. These type of stay are cheaper compared to hotels plus you can get a chance to really feel the ambiance of the city.
    • Eat like a local. Avoid dining on fast food chains and restaurants. Taste new dishes that locals eat for they are tastier and way cheaper.
    • Create a Budget. I have taught you how to establish a budget for beginners right? Now it is time to create one and follow one accordingly. During my Tagaytay trip I was able to keep track of all our expenses thanks to keeping a budget from day zero to the last day of our journey.

      Final Notes from SavingsPinay

      Before experiencing Caramoan, I never knew how fun traveling can be. If only I have a ton of money and I don't need to be present on my job daily then I'll probably travel to every places on my wishlist. At the moment my goal is to save a lot and find more sources of income so I can fund my travels better. 2016 is only the beginning of my whole travel-while-you-can journey.

      Next on SavingsPinay

      • Ways You Can Get Your NSO Birth Certificate Fast and Easy
      • How to Check Your SSS Contributions Online


      Al Del Rio Villa Resort Review | Budget Stay in Caramoan

      Friday, September 2, 2016
      My whole Caramoan Island experience was insane. I still can't believe I spent a weekend away from home and into the paradise of Bicol Region. It is definitely one of the (many) highlights of my 2016. And now I am super excited to create another A Look Back at 2015 post but this time wrapping up the current year.

      Going to Caramoan is something I never imagined. It's the first long trip I did in my life and the farthest destination I've been in my 22 years of existence. As I've mentioned in my travel diary, the whole trip going to Caramoan was a literal pain-in-the-butt but its all worth it. I think what makes the trip  extra special is choosing the right accommodation too. After a long island hopping all you want is a homey delicious meal to fill-in your tummy and cozy bed to sleep. Insert --- Al Del Rio Villa Resort Review | Budget Stay in Caramoan. Wondering where to stay at Caramoan?



      About Al Del Rio Villa Resort

      Al Del Rio Villa Resort is the trusted partner of TravelBook.ph during the first ever Blogger Affiliate Getaway contest. Read my winning post HERE. After about 12 hours of night trip we were greeted by the warmest welcome of Tatay Allan, Tita Rosario and Ms. Maureen of Al Del Rio. Tatay All and Tita Roserio owns the place while Ms. Mau acts as daughter/manager of the home-stay villa resort.

      Quick Facts:
      • Al Del Rio is short for "Allan" and "Rosario", owners of the home-stay inn.
      • Positive Word of Mouth has been Al Del Rio's way of invitation to adventure seekers, backpackers, travelers, company outings, outreach teams, travel agencies, couples and families.
      • If ever request Ms. Maureen to be your tour guide. She was with us on the two-day travel hopping and her energy is amazing. She will surely make you feel comfortable in your Caramoan stay.
      What to Expect on Your Stay at Al Del Rio Villa Resort

      Al Del Rio Villa Resort have this legit home-stay accommodation. By the entrance is the dining area which serves also as a common area you can do mini activities as a group. They have karaoke if you want to have a little happy hour before bidding the day goodbye. They offer unlimited coffee which is a plus for a caffeine-addict like me. Their kitchen will give you the province-feel which is nice for someone who grew up in Manila like me. 

      First breakfast after 10-12 Hour trip from Manila to Caramoan

      There are a lot of places you can seat down, relax and mingle with each other. As my first home-stay experience, Al Del Rio Villa Resort, sets the bar high in my opinion. I love that you don't feel intimidated by the aura of the house, the people are all accommodating and hospitable plus everything is prepared before hand without you raising. 

      Al Del Rio Villa Resort is perfect for families and group. Their Barkada room, where me and the girls stayed, has six beds wide enough to accommodate two persons. Other rooms have double-deck perfect for smaller group or family. Each room has a bathroom which I know is one of the first a traveler must look for in a villa. 

      Unlimited Coffee for everyone

      Included in our Al Del Rio stay is the food. I deeply appreciate the meals we had during the whole Caramoan Trip. I believe this is one big advantage of choosing a homestay rather than a hotel, you get to eat a lot of the local's finest. We had scrambled egg, spiced chicken longganisa, friend talong, tuyo for breakfast. Our lunch was spent in an island Matukad for Day 1 and Malawi Floating Cottage on the Day 2.

      Our breakfast for Day 2


      And I won't forget how the lunch match the beach adventure we were having. We had Ginataan Kamansi with Alimasag plus Fried Sal-igan Fish on Day 1 while Inihaw na Pusit and Laing (the best!!!) were our sumptuous meal on Day 2. Dinner is where all the special were served from Tinolang Manok, Sauteed Alimasag, Okra with Bagoong and Suha/Langka on Dessert for Day 1 and Bicol Express (Another the best!!!), Sweet and soured lapu-lapu and Corn Soup with Abalone and Shrimp on Day 2.

      Bicol Express!!!
      Tara, kain!!!
      Al Del Rio Villa Resort is near Bikal Port where all boats serving the Caramoan Island Hopping Adventure are located. Two minutes away is the 100-year old tree that tourist also love to stop over and have a look. And did I mention Al Del Rio have a Tree House?? Make sure to book the Tree House if ever.

      Bikal Port is about 2-3 minutes walk away only

      Karaoke for the win!!!
      Al Del Rio Package Rates

      I hope reading the above description based on my experience inspired you to book at Al Del Rio. Do tell Ms. Mau that Izza of SavingsPinay sent you, okey? If you are curious on how much the package rates are then read the rest of the post below. A huge thank you to TravelBook.ph for making the whole trip possible. 

      PACKAGE TOUR (Perfect for small to big groups)


       Number of Person2 Days/ 1 Night3 Days/ 2 Nights
      17,000/person8,000/person
      24,500/person5,500/person
      3-53,300/person4,000/person
      6-92,800/person3,500/person
      10-202,200/person3,000/person
      21 and up1,800/person2,800/person

      Included in the package are:

      Island Hopping with boat and tour guide

      Environmental and Island Fees

      Other Extra or Hidden Fees

      Floating Cottage Fee

      Room Accommodation

      Full Board Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) for the whole duration of the trip.


      NON-PACKAGED TOUR (If you just need a place to stay but want to do your own tour)

      Air-conditioned 

      Room TypeNumber of PersonPrice
      Standard Room2-4 persons1800/person
      Family Room6-8 persons2800/person
      Barkada Room10-12 persons3200/person

      *For extra person 250pesos

      Non-Air conditioned 

      Room TypeNumber of PersonPrice
      Tree House8-10 persons2,300pesos
      Bamboo House8-10 persons2,300pesos

      *For extra person 150pesos

      Food Price

      Breakfast Meal150pesos
      Lunch Meal195pesos
      Dinner Meal195pesos


      Other Fees

      Boat Rental - 4,000pesos good for 10 pax (+400/extra head)

      For Manila to Caramoan to Manila Package

      Van Rental - 25,000 

      Included in the transport package are:

      • Food for Driver
      • Room Accommodation
      • Parking 

      Al Del Rio Villa Resorts Important Details

      Address: 

      Durong-an, Baranggay Bikal, Caramoan, Camarines Sur

      How to go: 

      From Manila to Caramoan via Bus
      Ride any Raymund bus at Cuba, Sampaloc, Alabang, Turbina, Naga, or Caramoan Termaninals. Drop off point is Bikal. Fare price is 750-950pesos.

      From Naga to Caramoan via Bus
      Ride any Isarog, Penafrancia bus. Drop off point is also Bikal. 

      From Manila to Caramoan via Van
      Al Del Rio offers van package tour. Just contact Ms. Mau for inquiries. 

      Contact Details:

      Ms. Mau of Al Del Rio Villa Resorts
      09177350742/09051363319

      Do I Recommend?

      A big resounding yes!

      Rating:

      4.5 out of 5 Pinay Points

      Final Notes from SavingsPinay

      Choosing a home-stay accommodation is perfect for first-timers both local and international. You will feel the "Filipino hospitality" which is very famous trait of a Pinoy. Try to book your trip in advance so you haven't any hassle for your Caramoan Trip. Also do check out TravelBook.ph because they do offer discounts and has the biggest listing of hostels, home-stays, hotels and other accommodations in the Philippines online.

      Next posts on SavingsPinay:
      • Caramoan Island 3 Days/ 2 Nights Itinerary and Budget
      • The TravelBook Blogger Getaway Trip to Caramoan Winners
      • Weekly Notes #06 | The Best of Personal Finance Tips and Must-Reads

      Ultimate Guide to Caramoan Island Hopping Adventure

      Wednesday, August 31, 2016
      I have one the best weekend ever at Caramoan Island thanks to TravelBook.ph. If you follow me on Instagram you'll know that I was chosen to be part of the TravelBook's Blogger Getaway Contest. It was my first time to join a blogger contest and I fortunately won! SavingsPinay is a personal finance blog but I had few travel itineraries and budget as well as ultimate guides post published already. Today I am excited to share to you everything you need to know to have a successful and memorable Caramoan Island Hopping. Ready?! 

      Blog Post Updates!!!

      • Changed location of Tulya from Yupakit Beach to Bag-Ing, Baliti Island
      • Changed location of Al Del Rio Villa Resort from Caramoan Port to Bikal Port
      • Added a better mode transportation going to Caramoan
      • Removed one contact number of Al Del Rio since its not work anymore




      Ultimate Guide to Mt. Daraitan Day Hike (w/ Side Trips at Tinipak River and Underground Cave)

      Thursday, April 28, 2016


      I have shared before in post about an easy and cheap day hike perfect for beginners at Mt. Manabu. This time I will be sharing a complete guide with itinerary and expenses on my second climb this year, Mt. Daraitan. And did I mention that this is not just an ordinary climb? We also had side trips at Tinipak River and Underground Cave. If you want an adventure and relaxation in one this could be for you.




      Below is the breakdown of our Itinerary + Expenses


      4:00 am. This is our call time at Mcdo Starmall Shaw. I also had the same breakfast from my last climb as always, Sausage McMuffin.

      5:30 am. We depart at Mcdo Starmall Shaw. There are plenty of options when it comes to transportation going to Mt. Daraitan. I've read blogs that rode jeepney going to Tanay Market that costs 59pesos and then rent tricycle from the Market to Barangay Hall for 500pesos (5-6 persons already). Others shared a boat ride for only 5pesos and then tricycle for 10pesos. 
      Our travel is one way jeepney we found at Starmall Shaw. There are Kuya's who will offer a one-way trip going to Daraitan for only 200pesos each. We found this to be budget-friendly because we don't have to transfer from jeep to tricycle anymore. Plus its direct to Barangay Hall where we need to register.

      Jeepney Fare: 200pesos/pax
      Entrance Fee to Daraitan: 50pesos/vehicle that enters



      8:30 am. We drop off at Barangay Daraitan City only to find a handful of hikers as well lining up at the registration. We were told that the best time to hike is really during the sunrise so you need to be at the Barangay Hall by 3am instead. While waiting we had our early lunch. 

      Ulam from Carideria range from 40-60pesos
      Rice : 10pesos
      Bottled Water : 25pesos big size

      Tip #1. Buy your bottled water and other drinks at the stalls surrounding Barangay Hall because at the top the price doubles. 

      9:00am : Registration at the Barangay Hall. Luckily the summit is now open upon our arrival. It was closed past 7am because there are too many hikers already climbing. 

      Environmental Fee: 20pesos/person
      Headlight for the Underground Cave: 30pesos (rent only)
      Tour Guide : 500pesos Day Hike, 1000pesos Overnight (maximum of 10persons only)

      9:30am: Start Trek

      If you want to read the stories of how our trail in Mt. Daraitan went click HERE. I shared my experience as well as the lessons I learned in my second hike. 


      11:30am: Summit!!! We stayed for another 15 minutes for photo ops. There's a famous spot for great view but we didn't bother lining up already because our time is limited as its only a day hike. That's why its important to go early. Visit my personal blog IzzaGlino for more photos.

      11:45am: Trek to Tinipak River.  

      1:00pm: Arrival at Base Camp. You'll see a lot of tents here for those who came for overnight adventure. There is also a spot where you can refill your empty bottled water with the wonder of Tinipak River that's clean and sacred for the people there. A carinderia is available here so you can either eat or buy some refreshments at the sari-sari store.

      1:30pm: A little more trek going to the main Tinipak River where you can swim.

      Tinipak River Registration Fee: 20pesos


      1:45pm: Explore the beauty of Tinipak River. If you want some side stories and more pictures please visit my other blog, IzzaGlino.

      4:30pm: Trek to Underground Cave. We have to wait for our turn going to the cave. Inside you'll have a mini experience of Palawan Underground Cave with the stunning rock formations. There's also a spot for you to swim but is optional.

      Underground Cave Registration Fee: 5pesos

      6:00pm: We head back to Base Camp to eat dinner. 
      6:30pm: Start walking to Tricycle Bay going back to Barangay Daraitan City Hall.

      Tricycle: 10pesos

      7:30pm: Arrival at Barangay 

      Lessons from My Mt. Daraitan Experience

      • It is important to pack as light as possible because the trail to summit is full of assault.
      • Don't forget to hydrate
      • Everything is better the second time around
      • Hiking is highly addicting

      Mt. Daraitan has a special place in my heart. It's a cheap escape from the city and perfect for people who are looking for adventure. I do not regret going to Mt. Daraitan and experiencing this hidden gem of Tanay Rizal. I will surely be back soon.


      MORE POSTS TO READ:

      My Pampanga 2D+1N Itinerary and Expenses

      Thursday, March 31, 2016

      This post is long overdue. I have shared my travel diary almost a month ago and I am so sorry that I will only be revealing my itinerary and expenses today. March has been a very off and lazy month for the blogger in me.
      Again My Pampanga Travel Diary is live on IzzaGlino so if you are looking for what happened during my 2D+1N in Pampanga with side story on the recently concluded 20th Hot Air Balloon Festival go over my personal beauty and lifestyle blog.
      Here at SavingsPinay I will be sharing how our itinerary turned out to be as well as the how much the cost of the trip. I hope this could inspire you to relax and have your own weekend getaway. Pampanga is a very nice place to enjoy a quick and affordable vacation.  


      Our Itinerary + Expenses

      Day 1

      6:30am: Leave Manila. Our first choice was bus from Five Star Pasay but when we went to the station we were told that there are no bus anymore who will drop off at Dau. Instead we rode a Philtranco Bus which turned out to be a great option because the bus left early. 

      Bus Fare: 150pesos

      Drop Off Point: Dau Pampanga Terminal is our drop off point. It is where most bus going and coming from Manila stays.


      9:30am: Breakfast at Jolibee Dau. We left the house with empty stomachs so the first itinerary of the day is to have breakfast. As much as we like to start experiencing the Kapampanga cuisine, we were really tired and not to mention it was a humid day so we went to Jolibee Dau instead. This is walks away from Dau Terminal and you need to cross the street too.

      Breakfast: 99pesos

      10:00am: Bayanihan Park Terminal

      I mentioned on My Travel Diary that the Bayanihan Park Terminal is one of the main terminal that will help you get around Angeles, Pampanga. This terminal is near SM Angeles and Bayanihan Park. Our itinerary for Bayanihan Park is to go to the Balloon Fiesta venue. And there is an epic fail situation that happened here which I revealed on my travel diary. 

      How to Go to Bayanihan Park Terminal from Dau Terminal?

      From the side of Jolibee Dau ride any jeepney with signage SM Angeles. Tell driver to drop you off at Bayanihan Park Terminal which is evident with the big salakot. From there you can ask around for jeepneys going to Balloon Fiesta. 

      Jeepney from Jolibee Dau to Bayanihan : 8pesos

      Jeepney from Bayanihan to Balloon Fiesta: 10pesos

      12pm: Tune Hotel Angeles

      This hotel is a nice place to stay if you are planning going to Pampanga for a weekend trip. They offer a very affordable price and the place is very nice. I will be doing a review about this hotel pretty soon. 

      How to Go to Tune Hotel Angeles from Bayanihan Park Terminal

      Once you are at Bayanihan Park Terminal you need to walk a little and cross a street, Don Juico Avenue. You will see another terminal called Friendship Terminal. From there you can ride a jeep going to Tune Hotel or walk your way. We opted to walk because we wanted to sort of experience the Pampanga Downtown scene. And though its tiring I still love the experience roaming around Pampanga Downtown. Pictures here >>>


      3:00pm: Museo Ning Angeheles

      We visited Museo Ning Angeles as part of our afternoon itinerary. It was well-recommended by one of my manager in the office. We rode a tricycle going to Museo Ning Angeles which is a big no-no if you are in a budget-travel. But being the place is super sulit na din cause we had amazing time roaming around the museum and taking photos.
      Photos here >>>

      Tricycle from Tune Hotel to Museo Ning Angeles : 150pesos



      5:00pm: Aling Lucing Sisig

      I think I went to Pampanga just to finally have a taste of Aling Lucing's sisig. And no doubt, Aling Lucing has the best sisig ever! It is not oily, greasy and doesn't need mayonnaise to taste. Love it! I mean even if its already a month since I went to Pampanga I still remember the taste of the Aling Lucing's Sisig.

      How to Go to Aling Lucing Sisig?

      Aling Lucing Sisig is situated in a complicated place for me. We went there after our Museo Ning Angeles trip. We walked straight from the Museo ng Kasaysayang Panlipunan ng Pilipinas which was sadly closed when we went. We actually followed Google Map to guide us where to walk. Then we rode a jeep with signboard C-Point. 


      TIP!!! It was late for us to realized that there's a direct jeepney going to Aling Lucing's Sisig from Friendship Terminal or Tune Hotel. Just ride C-Point. 

      Jeepney: 8pesos.

      Our Orders: Sisig 180pesos
                        Tokwa 100pesos
                        Ensaladang Mangga (forget the price)

      Their menu is good for 2 by the way.

      7:00pm: Quick Stop at SM Clark

      From Friendship Terminal again you will just cross to go to SM Clark. We bought some snacks and toiletries there and had some milk tea too.

      Day 2


      5:00am: 20th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

      From Tune Hotel all you have to do is ride a jeepney going to Friendship Terminal. Now from Friendship Terminal you need to walk towards Bayanihan Terminal. Make sure to leave early because you will surely be caught in a traffic on the way.

      Jeepney from Tune to Friendship: 8pesos
      Jeepney from Bayanihan to Balloon Fiesta:  10pesos.

      To read more on my Balloon Fiesta Adventure click HERE.

      11:00am: Binulo Restaurant

      I regret dining in Binulo just because I didn't enjoy their food. This is actually the only time we spent so much for food. Our total bill over Aling Lucing is just 400pesos while here at Binulo we spent 1,200pesos ++ and we didn't enjoy at all. 


      1pm: Going back to Manila

      Then we are all set to go back to Manila!!!!  Of course we have to check out first before anything else. 

      From Tune Hotel to Dau

      Again ride a jeepney going to Friendship terminal then walk a little over to Bayanihan Terminal. You can walk your way to Dau Terminal (which I don't suggest by the way) or ride a jeep for your convenience.

      Bus going to Cubao: 139pesos.

      PS. I hope you can also read My Travel Diary in IzzaGlino!!!