Travel

Best Outdoor Adventure Vacation Destinations on a Budget

July 5, 2019 By Paula 30 Comments

Best Outdoor Adventure Vacation Destinations on a Budget

We all are aware of the fact traveling not only helps us in relaxing our souls but also boost the energy levels so that we can get back to our usual lives with a bang.

It’s not necessary to travel just within the state or country. If you are able to plan your budget properly, then you can travel across various countries in the world to explore some beautiful places.

There’s this myth amongst people that traveling to different countries is expensive and a middle-class family or an individual cannot afford a trip to abroad.

In this year, according to a report published by UNWTO, there was a significant growth of international tourists to about 3 to 4 percent when compared to the previous year.

With about 1.45 billion people traveling across the world, 3 to 4 percent of hike is definitely a great achievement for the tourism industry.

Out of all these, most of them who travel across the world belong to middle-class families, who take their time off from their usual schedule to see some beautiful places across the globe.

When you are looking for places to travel on a strict budget, you must consider listing some of the best locations across the globe in your bucket list where the cost of living is cheaper and affordable.

Try to compare the cost of living in your country in order to determine whether you can afford a trip to that specific place or not.

Therefore, to assist you in finding some of the best and cheapest adventure vacation destinations across the world, we have come up with a list that will help you in taking an easy decision where you want to travel.

Albufeira, Portugal

Image Source: kayak

When you have a stringent budget to travel, you can plan a trip to Albufeira located in an exotic location of Portugal, which attracts a lot of tourist across the globe every single year.

The Algarve region in the country is something that you must visit once in your lifetime.

Apart from this, the city has some incredible beaches, inexpensive ancient apartment-style hotels, and lots more tourist places where you can enjoy your favorite adventure sports with family and friends.

The climatic condition of this place is just amazing, and you cannot afford to miss a chance to visit this place.

There are over hundreds of restaurants where you can get some delicious food to eat and spend some quality time with your friends and families.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Image Source: independent

Although, the fancy name of the city may force you to think that it’s an expensive destination; however, it is one of the best and affordable places across the globe because of various obvious reasons.

This exotic and beautiful place is absolutely budget-friendly and fun to visit once in your lifetime.

Located in the mainland of Tanzania, you can enjoy by eating some delicious food items, and spending nights in the royally built hotels, all you can get just by spending not even hundred dollars.

There are many luxurious resorts such as Tulia Zanzibar, Melia Zanzibar, and lots more where you must splurge on to have a great time.

Tulia is basically a waterslide located in a jungle and has pool floaties.

If you want to book your flight tickets to this place, then try to opt for Air Canada flights. Air Canada flights are known for their services and hospitality across the world. Make sure that you follow all the Air Canada Reservations rules and regulations so that you don’t face any issues while booking the flights.

Saint Martin

Image Source: caribbeanislands

Situated in the Caribbean Islands, this place attracts millions of visitors every year. Saint Martin’s prominent Princess Juliana International Airport, which is operational since 2017, is known for its history and the services it offers.

With over hundreds of beaches, pubs, exotic clubs, bars, restaurants, and many businesses, this city is just the place every adventure junkie loves.

Most of the hotels offer the best discounts that you can opt to save a lot of money on your trip.

Naples, Italy

Image Source: visitnaples

Italy is known to be one of the expensive and exotic places to visit across the globe. If you are worried about your budget but have a wish to visit Italy once, then Naples is the place that must be included in your bucket list.

There are other places such as Amalfi, Pompeii, Capri, etc. where you can plan your trip; however, Naples is the ideal destination of the intrepid travelers.

With some of the best cultural sights and ancient monuments, this historical place has many eye-smacking infrastructures to visit. There is a plethora of contemporary crafts and arts that will definitely blow your minds to a great extent.

Apart from all these things, the place is also known as the origin place of pizza, which you can buy spending just 4 to 5 euros. The food in this place is something that you shouldn’t be missing at any given time.

The Cook Islands

Image Source: usatoday

This island is not just one island but is made up of a combination of 15 islands altogether. Although, the place has many islands joined together, however, it doesn’t exceed more than 100 square miles.

The Cook Islands has everything that an individual would love to see or wonder in their dreams.

Located in the southern Pacific region, it has luscious tropical flora and fauna that you wouldn’t have seen in any other place. The vibrant reefs, as well as the Polynesian vibe, just doubles the beauty of the islands.

If you are visiting this place, make sure to experience their Maori Culture, which is still the same as it was during the traditional days.

All the 15 islands located in this place offers a unique and incredible experience to all the visitors. Don’t miss out the opportunity to visit this place; just add it in your bucket list.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Image Source: getbybus

Not many people know this place that has some of the massive stone walls across the globe.

This Adriatic gem is just difficult to resist because of its eternal beauty and old-world charm, which is maintained by the people residing in that place.

The best time to visit this place is in summer seasons as the limestone passes on a fresh feeling within the walls. Apart from this, there are massive monuments and beautiful architecture that you just can’t miss visiting.

Make sure that you have packed your bags properly for some days as you won’t feel like returning to your hometown anytime soon from this place. You must try their staple food in some of the restaurants that offer excellent services. The place knows how to treat people.

Final Words

When you are traveling on a strict budget, make sure that you don’t end up spending much money on unnecessary things such as unnecessary shopping items, spending on alcohol, etc.

All these places listed above can be visited anytime during the year as the prices remain the same throughout the year, irrespective of seasons.

So, what are you waiting for? Just pack your bags, and book your flight tickets.

Best Outdoor Adventure Vacation Destinations on a Budget - Check out these awesome places that you can explore when #Traveling on a #Budget #Vacation #Travel #Travelling

We’d love to hear from you. Leave us a comment below.

Which of these destinations would you most like to visit? Is one of them your dream destination? What is your best tip for traveling on a budget?

Items You Need To Bring When Visiting America’s National Parks

April 19, 2018 By Paula 10 Comments

Items You Need To Bring When Visiting America’s National Parks

Don’t forget these items when packing for your next outdoor adventure in one of our nation’s outdoor wonders.

America’s national parks celebrated their 100th birthday last year, but their rugged beauty and fascinating history never gets old. The United States’ national parks are among the country’s greatest treasures, and packing the right gear will help you have the best experience possible when visiting America’s National Parks. Remember, less is more, it’s not how much you pack, but what you pack that’s important.

Hat, Sunglasses, and Sunscreen – Even in the winter and on cloudy days you need to make sure you are protected from head to toe from the sun’s rays. A wide-brimmed hat is preferable over a baseball cap as it can better protect your entire face.

Insect Repellent – Keep those pesky insects away with a strong insect repellent. If you are in bear country, don’t forget the bear spray.

Rain Jacket – A light-weight rain coat stashed in your backpack will help prevent mother nature from spoiling your trip.

Water Bottle or Filtration Device – It’s important to stay hydrated since water is the most important survival need. You will need water to drink, cook, and clean. We keep a water filtration device in our emergency kit just in case.

Camera and Binoculars – You’ll want to be able to see the animals that you can’t get close to and a weather-proof camera is a must to get the shots to remember your visit for years to come.

Medication – Be sure to bring any prescription medications that you take.

Plastic Bags – Plastic bags come in handy to pack out used toilet paper if nature calls while you are hiking.

Pocket Blanket – You should have a quality multi-purpose pocket blanket in your backpack as you never know when you will need one for emergencies or sudden weather changes.

Hiking Boots or Comfortable All-Day Shoes – Depending on which park you visit and what your plans are you will need proper footwear. Tip: The day of a long hike is not the day to break in a new pair. You’ll just end up with blisters and sore feet.

Socks – Even when just visiting for the day, you’ll to add an extra pair of socks to your dry bag just in case your feet get wet.

Backpack – You need a sturdy backpack that is water-resistant to carry all your emergency and convenience items in.

Dry Bag – Keep all the items that you don’t want to get wet in this specially made bag. We keep our spare clothes, towels, pocket blankets, emergency kit, and electronics in ours.

Swimwear – If there’s any chance you might take a dip, you’ll want a swimsuit.

Extra Clothing – You always want to be able to put on and take off layers as the weather and your activity changes.

Tent – Many of the parks offer backcountry campsites. They are a great way to get away from the crowds and have your own experience. If you are camping you’ll also want to have a sleeping bag or pad, a stove, fire starter or lighter, flashlights or headlamps, and if you are in bear country, a bear bag.

Be sure to check-in at the visitor center when you first arrive at the park. You’ll receive valuable information about closures, weather conditions, and more.

Are you ready? Get outside and explore the natural and cultural wonders of America. Since are our National Parks so awesome, why not try visiting them all?

Find a National Park near you, NPS Find A Park Index.

The Trawler Restaurant’s Famous Crab Dip + Recipe Makeover 🆕 Lite version is only 1 SmartPoint per serving!

December 31, 2017 By Paula 15 Comments

The Trawler Restaurant in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, first opened in 1967, one year after I was born and just four years before I moved to Charleston, as an oyster bar. As their business increased, rooms were added to the original structure until the restaurant had an impressive 15 rooms. It was in the mid-1970’s that I first remember my family and I dined at this wonderful restaurant. So, of course, I was saddened when in 1989 a raging fire consumed the restaurant. However, soon a new structure was built and we were once again treated to some of the best dining that Shem Creek had to offer.

Then, Hurricane Hugo paid us a visit and left a path of destruction across the Lowcountry. The restaurant was once again destroyed and rebuilt! After years of serving great food at reasonable prices to families, they became an upscale pricey restaurant catering to the fine-dining crowd. After eating at the restaurant for many years I dined there only once after this change and $300 later (yes, there was four alcoholic drinks involved in that bill for two) I came away with a full belly but with a lot less money in my wallet. It was the same quality of food that I used to enjoy when we ate there when the prices were affordable for many families the atmosphere was just not as rustic.

The Trawler no longer exists, it went bankrupt about four years ago and the site narrowly escaped becoming a condotel but instead was reborn as an event venue, Tavern & Table. Like most, my fondest memories of the dining experience was eating the crackers and complimentary crab dip while we waited for the waitress to come to take our order. The Trawler will never be again but their famous crab dip lives on thanks in part to the persistence of customers, who loved it as much as I did, asking for their recipe!

Below is their simple but delicious crab dip recipe so that you can indulge in some of Charleston’s history that I was lucky enough to live.

Trawler Crab Dip

This delicious dip is 2 SmartPoints per tablespoon!

1 Cup (8oz) Canned Lump Crab Meat
1 Cup Mayonnaise
1⁄2 Cup Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese
2 Tablespoons French Dressing (orange one)
1 to 1 1⁄2 Teaspoon Horseradish (from dairy case)

Mix ingredients and chill until firm. Serve with Captain’s Wafers.

By changing to lighter versions of my ingredients, I was able to enjoy one of my favorite dips while maintaining a healthy diet.

Lite Trawler Crab Dip

This lite version is only 1 SmartPoint per 2 tablespoons!

1 Cup (8oz) Canned Lump Crab Meat
1 Cup Reduced Fat Lite Mayonnaise
1⁄2 Cup 2% Milk Reduced Fat Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese
2 Tablespoons Fat-Free French Dressing (orange one)
1 to 1 1⁄2 Teaspoon Horseradish (from the dairy case)

Mix ingredients and chill until firm. Serve with celery for no added points or light crackers.

I am thinking that plain unsweetened greek yogurt would also work well with this recipe. What do you think? I would love to hear your thoughts and serving suggestions.

Check out more recipes on Sweet Southern Savings.

Our Visit To Hollywild Animal Park Was Incredible!

April 29, 2016 By Paula Leave a Comment

Hollywild Animal Park, set in rural Upstate SC is a gem among parks and zoos – it’s a combination of both!

We went a few weeks ago and we would all like to thank this wonderful park for the opportunity to share such a great experience with our family. Everyone loved the animals, staff, and homey feel of the grounds. The kids were so excited about the trip that they are still talking about it. I still can’t believe that I have lived in South Carolina for more than thirty years and never knew that we had such a great resource available.

With this being a no frills, non-profit park their resources are spent on taking care of the animals needs and enrichment. If you are looking for manicured shrubs, paved walkways, and the like you’re in the wrong place. However, if you want interaction with animals, clean enclosures, content animals that have all their needs met, and a staff that loves their jobs this is definitely the place for you.

This was a fun and educational experience for all of us!

From the time we walked up to the gate to the moment we left to go home six hours later not once did the children say that they were bored, wanted to play with any electronic, or lose that look of awe that they got when they laid eyes on the first animal. The bus safari ride on a bus that was as old as dirt, was the highlight of the trip. Feeding the huge snorting and even a bit cute beasts without letting their tongue touch you became a fun challenge.

Visit my pre-visit post to learn more about this park!

ATTENTION!
This nearly 100-acre wildlife park, home to nearly 500 animals, is in danger. Right now the Hollywild has a Renew Our Zoo Campaign to save the park. Without significant, widespread, and deep support, Hollywild cannot remain the asset it is and can be.

Deer, Lights, and Marshmallows…oh my! Each year from #Thanksgiving to New Years, #Hollywild #AnimalPark in Wellford, South Carolina opens its 100-acre #safari to provide a unique holiday experience. The 2018 #Holiday Lights #Safari is from November 20 through January 5. https://www.showclix.com/event/holiday-lights-safari-2018

The park closed in 2017. Now they are only open for the Safari Festival of Lights each year.

Deer, Lights, and Marshmallows…oh my! Each year from Thanksgiving to New Years, Hollywild Animal Park in Wellford, South Carolina opens its 100-acre safari to provide a unique holiday experience. The 2018 Holiday Lights Safari is from November 20 through January 5. https://www.showclix.com/event/holiday-lights-safari-2018

We’re Going To Hollywild Animal Park!

March 21, 2016 By Paula Leave a Comment

Hollywild Animal Park, set in rural Upstate SC is a gem among parks and zoos – it’s a combination of both!

We’re going to Hollywild in April, and I am thrilled for the opportunity to share such a great experience with my twin grandchildren and nephew. They all love animals and are already excited about the upcoming trip. I just can’t believe that I have lived in South Carolina for more than thirty years and never knew that we had such a great resource available. I would have loved to have taken my children here when I homeschooled them. This is going to be a fun and educational experience for all of us!

What we are looking forward to at Hollywild!

Natural pathways and open spaces with plenty of picnic areas make it a great place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of life and explore. But there’s more – more than 500 animals native to countries around the globe make their home at Hollywild.

In the walking area of the park, you are close to all kinds of animals from the curious camels and humorous bears to the great majestic cats (lions, tigers, leopards, and cougars), striking baboons and ambassador wolves.

Petting areas are intentionally placed throughout the park. Children wanting to pet the “kitty” may need to be redirected if that “kitty” happens to be a 500 pound Siberian Tiger, but just a few feet away you find a petting area where donkeys, alpaca, goats, and even pigs can be found ready for some attention.

Free roaming birds like the brilliant peacocks, guineas, and exotic chickens show their colors throughout the grounds adding another element of fun to your visit.

A bit of learning is tucked into a Hollywild visit too, with the aid of signage and the Creature Feature programs in the park’s amphitheater. Both showcase details about the featured animals and give you the inside scoop on their unique adaptations and behaviors.

There just aren’t many places where you learn a little then spread out a picnic blanket beside a waterfall in view of a rare white lion, one of the newest additions to the Hollywild family. His inspiring story and Hollywild’s partnership in an international effort to conserve the rare white subspecies make it easy to see why this place is a treasure on so many levels.

Included in your admission is the Safari Bus Ride you won’t want to miss. Converted old-style school buses take you and yours on a journey you’ll not soon forget – on the ride you meet all kinds of herbivores: emu, donkeys, water buffalo, bison, watusi, and zebras who come to the bus for snack time. You just can’t see the foot-long tongue of a Watusi up-close from anywhere – but you can at Hollywild! You can ride the bus as many times as you like and just relax enjoying the nature abundant around you.

From the bus, catch a glimpse of “Tank” the park’s rare white rhino and star of many television commercials. In fact, that’s where the park’s name originated – through the movie industry. Hollywild has a 40+ year history – starting from a modest private backyard collection of animals to the nearly 100-acre public access park it is today. It grew as a result of Hollywood movie makers calling founder David Meeks and asking to film his animals. The funds raised by those efforts built the park to be the great resource it is today. Throughout the park, there are star signs indicating the movies that Hollywild animals have appeared in.

The park converted to a non-profit organization more than 15 years ago so that it would be run by a board of directors who could see to it that the park lives on as a great resource for generations to come. Many animals have been born here or brought here as rescues and some as ‘retirees’ from circus acts. Each has a special story worth hearing.

Picnics are welcome, or you can purchase light concessions on-site. The park’s website www.hollywild.org has links to places to stay, eat, and play nearby making it easy to plan a weekend getaway to the Upstate area convenient to I-85 and I-26.

Though staff recommends at least 2 hours for a visit, others recommend just planning to spend the whole day.

Right now the Hollywild has an awesome special!
FREE Child’s Admission with the purchase of an Adult Admission