31 Days of Frugal Travel Tips: Day 14


14. When in Rome, do as the Romans do: What do I mean by this? Well, look at and observe the locals when you are visiting somewhere new. Often times you will get clued in on cheap eats and places to shop. People who live in touristy areas have to live their normal lives and chances are they have the inside track on where you can get the most bang for your buck. Case in point: my husband and I traveled to Vienna a few years ago. It is a very expensive place to visit and though we were staying at a hostel, we found that just eating was going to cost an arm and a leg. After spending WAY too much at a McDonald´s in an attempt to save, we looked to the locals to see where they were eating. Many businessmen were going to a stand set up outside of their building and were buying yummy-looking sausages and sandwiches. We decided to give this vendor a try and were delightfully surprised. The prices were good and the food was too.

If you look for places full of local people you tend to avoid tourist prices. Just take a moment to observe or study up on what is eaten where you are visiting and look for vendors, markets, smaller establishments. If you can, ask around to see where people recommend. Step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Do as the Romans do (or at least if you are in Rome, look for places full of Italians! Their food is amazing!).

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