5 Ways to Travel Cheaply

With a few upcoming trips in the work I decided to compile a few tips on how to travel cheaply. It's true - I am not a baller.

1. Book an Airbnb or Hostel
When my sister and I backpacked through Australia we stayed at different hostels - it was such an awesome experience! We got to meet lots of travelers from around the world and exchanged tidbits of information on where to eat or what to see. The hostels we stayed at weren't dingy but resemble dorms, you could share the room or book a private one. If you feel "too old" for hostels another option would be airbnb or a likeminded company. Both are cheaper options compared to hotels, in fact we booked an airbnb for our stay in Paris this September!

2. Book with a Budget Airline
Yes, they exist! One that comes to top of mind in the states is WOW Airlines with a flight to Iceland from Boston averaging $400. And while you're at it - try not to check in any luggage if there is a fee.

3. Do the Free Walking Tours
Most major cities have walking tours, here and abroad of good samaritans that love sharing their country's history. A great one to check out is Free Tour by Foot - they tend to break them up by theme or neighborhood. 

4. Use Public Transportation
When it comes to the cabs versus public transportation - public transpo will always win. It's significantly cheaper than being chauffeured so aim for this whenever possible. Of course not every city or country is safe so use your judgement when it comes to this.

5. Check the Web for Reviews & Discounts
I google everything and because of that I tend to find really great deals. Here's a tip whatever place, restaurant, etc. you google make sure to add an "discount" or "deal" at the end to help filter through the search results. Another thing is to read up on the local blogs and see if those bloggers have recommendations on what you can do for cheap (or free). Last thing, if you haven't already sign up for tripadvisor.com - this website lets you read reviews, compare prices, and gives you full access to a forum were likeminded travelers can discuss nearly anything! It's pretty amazing and has been a key tool for me when it comes to planning out an itinerary.

Do you travel cheaply? Share your bits of advice down below!

One Week in Ireland

Hi there! I’m Liz from @thecrewedinterest! This past spring break I left the states for the first time and visited my friend abroad in Cork, Ireland. I had an absolutely amazing time and wanted to share my adventure with you. If ever in Europe, you should definitely take the time to visit these beautiful spots in Ireland:

We took a twenty minute train to Cobh (pronounced like Cove), where we saw the port where the Titanic left and visited the Titanic Experience. Another great place of interest is the Deck of Cards Houses - where each house is a different color. 
www.visitcobh.com

After Cobh, we went to the Jameson Factory for an interesting tour. Here you will learn about the history of Jameson Whiskey and see how it's made. The best part of the tour is the end - taste-test three types of whiskey and get a complimentary drink. I recommend Jameson and ginger-ale if you're not a whiskey person. Don't forget to stop at their gift shop for some really cool souvenirs! 
Jameson Irish Whiskey

The next day happened to be St. Patrick's Day where they celebrated with a huge parade. Families and friends gathered in pubs where there was live music and Irish step dancing on the tables. It was much different from St. Patty's in New York (less drinking more culture) and was an experience I will always remember.

On day four, we climbed to the top of the Shandon Bell’s Tower where we had a beautiful view of all of Cork. We also saw University of Cork, where my friend was studying for the semester. It felt like I was at Hogwarts. After that, we took a bus to Blarney Castle where we kissed the Blarney Stone. This tradition will give you the gift of gab, however, it was pretty terrifying.
Blarney Castle

Day five had to be my favorite. We took an all day bus tour to the Cliffs of Moher. This place literally took my breath away and left me feeling one with nature. As we kept walking, the sun came out to play from the fog and the view was crystal clear. This place is a can't miss if you're visiting Ireland.
Cliffs of Moher

On Friday, I went to the second most spectacular place (after the Cliffs of Moher), which is called the Ring of Kerry. It is a combination of mountains, beaches, and plains. There were more sheep here than people, so don't go here if you are afraid of sheep! We ate dinner at a restaurant that had a spectacular view. On our way home, we passed a rainbow where our tour guide allowed us to get out and snap a photo.
Ring of Kerry

Ireland is a beautiful country where there is so much history and sights to see. I'd love to go back someday, but until then keep up with me over on Instagram (@thecrewedinterest).

Top 5 Things to Do in Charleston, SC

Hey all, it's SJ from FASHinNY (lover of fashion, travel and New York City)!

A girls weekend away is always a good idea and usually the perfect weekend away from it all! A few weeks ago I headed South to Charleston with 3 of my closest friends for a much needed weekend out of NYC. We explored the sights, sounds, and of course the food.

Here are a few of my favorites and advice on where to go, what to see, eat & of course shop:

1. Boone Hall Plantation
Founded in 1681, the Boone Hall is one of America's oldest working, living plantations spread out on 738 acres of land. 

Fun Facts: Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively got hitched here
The Notebook was filmed here....
It took two centuries for the massive, moss draped branches to meet overhead, forming today's natural corridor and a scene that NBC Daytime television says is "a must see stop on any trip to Charleston, S.C."
Highly Recommended: Visit the Boone Hall Farms Market: a main market that carries all produce grown on the farm.
Must Try: Cinnamon Honey Butter (My Honey Butter) 

2. Take a tour through town with Palmetto Carriage Tours
Located in the heart of the Historic District and is the oldest Carriage Tour company in Charleston. The city is divided into 3 zones and you get to tour one based on a lottery.

3. King Street Shopping
You can't visit Charleston without shopping a little! With everything from art galleries to upscale fashion, King street is the perfect place to wander through!

4. Charleston City Market
Stop by to pick up a historic Sweetgrass Basket, one of the oldest handcrafts of African origin in the US. These baskets are hand woven from indigenous bulrush, a grass that grows in the coastal region. With more than 50 artists the City Market, it's the epicenter of the sweetgrass baskets. 

via Husk

5. Between rooftop bars and Southern delicacies, Charleston is a great place to drink & dine!
Where to Dine:
Husk
Fig
Cru Cafe (Excellent Sandwiches, highly recommended)
Magnolia (Great for dinner!)

Where to Drink (Rooftop):
The Vendue
Henry's


Other Fun Things
Visit the Charleston Waterfront: stop at the Pineapple Fountain for a great photo op!
Visit The Fudgery: for a fun "Fudge Show" and a sample tasting!

Let me know if you plan on visiting and feel to free to add your own hotspots in the comments.

Catch up with me on Instagram and my blog to see where I go next. 
xo, SJ