Look for menus in the city’s native language – Dining out tip

by Gadling Staff on

When traveling to a foreign city, you can usually find the cheapest and best-tasting food by looking for menus that are written entirely in that city’s native language.

Generally speaking, these venues are frequented by locals and are found off the beaten path. Travelers will find that restaurants catering to the local population are far less expensive than their tourist-orientated counterparts. Often, the food will be fresher and better prepared, as it has to cater to the discerning local.

Not only will you find the best and cheapest food – it will add to the overall cultural experience of your destination.

Change drivers often – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

When sharing driving on a long trip, it’s tempting for one driver to drive until he or she is tired, then switch to another driver. The tired driver then wants to sleep, leaving the new driver “alone” while the tired driver sleeps.

You can drive for greater distances without being exhausted if you switch drivers on a schedule — for example, every one to two hours. This way, neither driver becomes exhausted.

Additional bonus: the switch allows for a brief stretch which also tends to diminish fatigue.

Stick to a budget – Dinging out tip

by Gadling Staff on

Stick to a budget.

It’s easy to overspend on food on vacation, because you get excited about trying new dishes or regional specialties. Try setting yourself a budget for each meal ahead of time, and go into the restaurant mindful of your goal.

We’ve found it helpful to set budgets before we even leave on a trip, because once you’re in the moment, it’s easy to spend more than you planned.

Note that budgeting doesn’t have to mean eating boring or familiar dishes; choose restaurants that don’t cater to tourists, and you’ll find lower menu prices in many places.

Dine from the Menu del Dia in Spain – Dining out tip

by Gadling Staff on

The Menu del Dia (menu of the day) in Spain will not only keep some extra Euros in your pocket, it will introduce you to authentic Spanish dishes and local fare.

This dining-on-the-cheap option is offered by many restaurants throughout Spain and is a great, penny-pinching way to fill up on a big lunch, then send you right into a proper afternoon siesta!

A typical ‘menu’ is three to four courses showcasing fresh, local specialties and comes with a glass or a bottle of “house” wine. Suggested use for the cash you save: a shopping spree along Las Ramblas.

Stop carrying all your luggage – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

When hitting the road for a long stretch, pack your clothes in a large laundry basket in the car and keep just your pj’s, toiletries, and valuables in an overnight bag. Each night, put your next day’s clothes in the overnight bag to take into your hotel or tent.

It’s a lot less to lug in and out of the car than a full suitcase or duffel.