Level Up Your Travels! Swapping Domestic for International Trips

Many people have a mental block when it comes to international travel. They assume that it's going to be expensive.

However, this is not always true. 

It often amazes me how people spend so much money on domestic travel when they could have a better experience traveling internationally. 

Let's take an example: if you live on the East Coast and you're planning a trip to San Diego, you could easily end up spending around $500 on a flight.

But guess what? With that same amount, you could book an international flight to Dublin and have an even richer cultural experience.

I'm a mind reader because I already know what you're thinking.

"But Andrew, I save so much money flying with Frontier and Spirit."

If you like flying Frontier or Spirit...buyer beware. Frontier doesn't even have a customer service number, so if your flight gets canceled, good luck. 

Here's an article that I wrote about the dark side of budget airlines. I may do a Part 2.

Here's another thing to consider.

Now, imagine you want to stay within the United States and travel to a city on the East Coast, like New York. The hotel prices alone can easily reach hundreds of dollars per night. However, if you choose to explore a place in South America instead, you can find a nice Airbnb for just $50 per night and live like royalty.

Here are a few tips for maximizing your travel experience:

1. Be flexible with your travel dates: Instead of traveling during the peak summer season when prices are at their highest, consider visiting during the off-peak seasons like fall or spring.
    
2. Keep an eye out for travel deals: Websites like Going.com can help you find great deals on flights. You can also set up flight alerts on Google Flights to stay updated on the best offers.
    
3. Research currency exchange rates: Different countries have their own currencies and exchange rates. If you choose a destination with a favorable exchange rate, you can live large without breaking the bank. For example, countries going through economic fluctuations, like Argentina, can offer exceptional value for travelers.
    
4. Second guess your domestic trip: Before making plans for extensive domestic travel within the United States, take a moment to evaluate the potential of using that same budget for an international adventure.
    

So, international travel is not necessarily more expensive; if you know how to spend wisely. Consider that the same budget you have for domestic vacations can actually get you an international trip.

What's stopping you from doing more international travel?

Cocktail of the Week

The Kalimotxo is a popular drink from the Basque region of Spain, originating in the 1970s. It was created as a way to mix cheap red wine with cola to improve the taste and make it more palatable for young people attending festivals and parties.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  1. 4 oz red wine
  2. 4 oz cola
  3. Ice
• Instructions:
  1. Fill a glass with ice.
  2. Pour the red wine into the glass.
  3. Top up the glass with cola.
  4. Stir gently to mix the wine and cola together.
      

Random Travel Thought

You don't have to pack if you stay packed.

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The Plug

Cheap flights:

• Going.com: This might be the only discounted flights website you need. It’s a paid service that sends you notifications when deals become available, but they expire in a couple of days so Act Fast!! 
• Secret Flying 🤫: This website emails you about free flight opportunities and even better… it doesn’t cost a thing!!
• Skyscanner: An older, but still reliable website that’s also *FREE* so there’s no reason not to use it. Use the "Explore the World" feature and set your departure date to "Whole Month" to find the cheapest deals.

Insurance:

• Safety Wing: I use Safety Wing as my travel insurance because the plans are flexible. You can easily insure a 1-week trip for like $11 dollars which is less than the cost of a cocktail at the bar.

Travel Gear

• Compression socks: Sitting for extended periods of time is not good for the body, so keep yourself healthy enough to go on more trips. Link
• Apple AirTags: Consider getting Apple AirTags for the peace of mind of always knowing where your luggage is. Link
• Smart Phone holder: It's a foldable sheet that can be used as a stand for your iPhone or iPad.Link
• Packing cubes: Having a separate container works wonders for keeping clothes wrinkle-free. It also makes packing/unpacking much easier.Link
• Donut Power Strip: Power outlets are always in demand, but sometimes they're in weird spots. I use this bagel because it's lightweight, and I don't have to think about it. Link
• Travel Case Organizer: Cable organizers can be a pain, but this is what I use to keep my cables organized. Link
• Backup batteries: I like these backup batteries because they have three important components for me: 1. They have enough power to recharge my phone multiple times at once, 2. Are small enough to put in my pocket, and 3. Are sturdy enough to survive a fall. Link
• Yoga Mat: I use this thin mat to get my stretching in even when I'm traveling. Link
• Jump Rope: It's so easy to bring a jump rope with you for exercise because it weighs almost nothing and takes up no space. Link
• Liquid IV: Great for hydration to keep you from dying. When you're traveling, it's time to live it up!  Link
  
  *Above are Affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

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