A properly planned Mediterranean cruise can be one of the most beautiful experiences in the entire lifetime of a traveler. Unfortunately, it can also be one of the most expensive ones as well! However, it does not necessarily have to be, if you keep the following tips in mind before planning your trip to the Mediterranean:
Save Up
This may seem obvious, but you would be surprised at how many of us do not give it the attention it deserves. Saving for a trip does not only mean saving up enough money to complete the trip. You should make provisions for some extra cash as well, in case of emergencies. Sell a few unused gift cards on ejgiftcards.com, do a few extra shifts, or some freelance work online: just make sure that you have saved up a good deal of money before heading out to the Mediterranean.
Cruises Are Better And Cheaper
If it is your first visit, you should most definitely opt for a Mediterranean cruise. Not only are they more economical, but you can see much more of the region for less. The stops will not be too long, however you will get to see some of the major attractions in various ports across the Mediterranean in countries like Greece (Santorini, Athens), Italy (Amalfi, Portofino), France (Monte Carlo), Spain (Barcelona), Croatia (Dubrovnik), and Turkey (Istanbul) to name a few.
Do Not Eat At The “Tourist” Restaurants
Mediterranean cuisines are delicious and healthy at the same time, but it would be best if you avoided the places where most of the tourists flock. Instead, find out where the local people eat. Not only will you be getting an actual taste of the local cuisine that five-star hotels and restaurants can never quite replicate but you will also be saving some serious money.
Train Rides Are Awesome
Do a little research on the internet about the train routes and you will be surprised to know how cheap they are compared to hiring cars or any other form of transport around the Mediterranean. The best part is that some of those routes take you through some absolutely gorgeous locations and staring out of the window in awe becomes an obligation.
Book In Advance And Book Online
You get so many more choices online and you can compare them with each other to find the deal that suits your budget and needs at the same time. Be clever and book in advance, because last minute bookings are always infinitely more expensive.
Keep The Shopping To A Minimum
To be honest, in this age and time of globalization, there is hardly anything in the Mediterranean that you cannot buy in your own country or online, so avoid shelling out unnecessary cash for things that you can buy from home. You should instead spend some of your money on unique items and souvenirs that are inexpensive and will serve as a reminder of your trip.
Keep these tips in mind and apply some common sense to avoid returning home to a dried up bank account. After all, you have more places to visit and things to see in the (near) future as well!