Traveling on a Budget - Accomodations

One of the most expensive parts of traveling is finding somewhere to stay. Here are a few tips to help you find a good location without breaking the bank!

1. Stay in the town next door - Sometimes staying in a smaller town, twenty or so minutes from the main city can be less expensive. Hotels may not be as busy or pricey. You may have a longer drive to your destination, but you'll save money on your hotel.

2. Try a home exchange - If your vacation will be an extended one, look into a home exchange, where you stay in a home in your destination city/state/country while the person who lives in that home travels to your city and stays in your home!

3. Just ask - Never underestimate the power of asking. Many small hotels will be willing to give you free upgrades or even free nights if they have the space. You may even be able to bargain by saying you'll upgrade your room if you get an extra night free!

4. Rent a vacation home - If you'll be staying in the same place for at least a few days, try renting out a vacation home. This is typically a more comfortable environment with the added bonus of a full kitchen and may even save you some money.

5. Consider a suite - Instead of renting two separate rooms for you and the kids (or you and other members of your party) try booking a two-bedrooom suite. This may save you money and will give privacy to the entire party.

As always, all of us at Ramada Downtown Hollywood remind you to travel safely!

Source: Moneyning

Traveling on a Budget - Currency

When traveling to a new country, you will most likely have to do a currently exchange. Check out these tips to get you prepared!

1. If you're traveling out of country for the first time, check the exchange rates in advance so you're fully aware of how much money you'll actually have in hand when you make the exchange.

2. Search online for places to get your currently exchanged once you arrived in your destination country. You may find the best exchange rates at the airport once you get off the plane.

3. Currency exchange rates can change drastically day to day. Try booking your travel reservations on the local website for the country you'll be visiting. This site will already be in the correct currency and could save you money.

Ramada Downtown Hollywood wishes you happy and safe travels!

Source: Moneyning

Traveling on a Budget - Transportation!

Traveling in a new city doesn't have to break the bank! Check out some of these tips for some great ways to explore your surroundings!


Rail, Metros and Subway – If you are traveling to a city that has a subway system, such as New York, San Francisco or Washington, DC, the subway is a great and inexpensive way to get around. Daily and weekly passes and usually be purchased and great rates.

Night Train and Flights – If the transportation is going to be long, consider traveling at night to save money on accommodation and many hours of time. When you arrive at your destination you'll be well rested and ready to explore in a new place.

Take the Slower Transportation – If flying is too short for you to take advantage of sleeping while traveling, take a bus ride. When you are sleeping, you won’t mind that the bus ride is 7 hours.

Avoid Taxis and Welcome Public Transportation – Tourist usually take taxis since it’s the laziest way to get from point A to B. Consider the subway or buses because it’s sometimes easier and it is much cheaper. They can also immerse you in the culture of the city you are visiting.

Driving is Not Bad – Want to take that 1 hour flight? With airport security and all the hassle of airport inefficiencies, you might as well drive there (it takes just as long and it’s less expensive). Once you get there, having a car is also much easier than needing to take your bags everywhere.

Ramada Downtown Hollywood reminds you to travel safely!

Source: MoneyNing

Traveling on a Budget - Car Rentals!

Renting a car can be a tricky process. Here are some things for you to consider when traveling:

1. Car Rental Coverage – Some insurance and many credit cards have car rental coverage so take advantage of the ones that you have when you rent a car. All you have to do is pay with the credit card that will cover you. Just be sure to decline the insurance that the rental company offers.

2. Size of the Car – If you don't need a big car, choose one from the economy selection. This will save you money and gas!

3. Children's Car Seats – If you are traveling with children, you might think that bringing your car seat is cheaper. But most rental companies will provide car seats for a small fee, probably smaller than the extra luggage charge to bring yours on a plane. Call the rental company ahead of time to verify.

4. Fill up that Rental Car – When renting, be sure to decline the fuel charge that the company offers you and just fill it up yourself before returning the car. Even if the refuel charge from the company may seem cheaper, they will charge you for an entire tank of gas even if the tank is only half empty.

5. Coupon Codes – Sometimes car rental companies have coupon codes that can be used. Search online to see what you can take advantage of. Be sure you look for special rates for military members, seniors or AAA members.

As always, Ramada Downtown Hollywood reminds you to travel safely!

Traveling on a Budget - Eating!

1. Plan Your Meals - Familiarize yourself with the area you'll be visiting and plan meal outings ahead of time. If possible, eat before you go out to save money!
2. Cook for Yourself - Shopping for groceries in a new place can be fun and educational! You can also have a lot of fun cooking in a new kitchen. Make it a family event and give everybody a part of the meal to be responsible for!
3. Meals Carryover - Save half of your dinner and have it for breakfast the next day. That gives you two meals for the price of one!
4. Eat More at Lunch than Dinner - Fancy lunches are usually less expensive than fancy dinners. If you have a bigger breakfast and lunch and a light dinner, you can save money! This can also help you have a lighter, healthier dinner!

If you're visiting the Hollywood, Florida area, feel free to contact us at Ramada Downtown Hollywood for more information on the restaurants and eateries in the area!


Source: MoneyNing