Switzerland has been named year after year as one of the most expensive countries in the world (currently rated #2 with Bermuda taking the gold), so I can understand why, for the budget traveler, it can be a rather intimidating place to visit. When we found out Derik had a spontaneous four-day weekend earlier this month, we thought taking a trip down to the Swiss Alps might be just what our wanderlusting souls needed. The only problem was, we hadn’t budgeted for a trip, let alone a trip to one of the most pricey locations on the planet. *insert thinking emoji face* After a few hours of researching hotels, trains, buses, food, and locations, we decided Interlaken would be the best place for us to stay, and a good starting point to visit ... Read More
Living Expenses in New Zealand
I'm writing this post because a year and a half ago when we were planning our move from Korea, I wish I had a reference point on living expenses in New Zealand . It was incredibly frustrating to be told "It's super expensive" yet have nothing to base it off of. Living in South Korea was also pretty expensive, and I just wanted to know in comparison how much we were going to have to budget each month and overall to make our time in New Zealand not the worst thing ever on our bank accounts. For all you fellow "I-want-to-travel-and-live-in-New-Zealanderers" hopefully you can use this as a general guide to help you get an idea of what things are going to cost while living, or even just visiting New Zealand. PLEASE NOTE: our living ... Read More
10 Ways to Save Money for Travel
The number one question we get asked over, and over, and over again is: "How can you afford to travel and live abroad?" I'd like to delve into this topic over the next couple months, as it's not easily answered in one simple blog post. The ability to live and travel abroad isn't as unattainable as you might think; It takes practice, patience, and dedication. I have so many thoughts I'd like to share with you on the topic, but for now let's just keep it simple. One of the most important aspects of traveling (and living abroad) is the money-factor. Duh. Believe it or not, you don't have to have a ton of cash or a lavish lifestyle to afford a nomadic life. Most of us that travel have become self-proclaimed pros in the area of saving and ... Read More
Living Expenses in Korea
Now that Derik and I have lived here two and a half years, I feel we have a pretty good grasp on how to budget things financially, and aren't usually surprised by unforeseen living expenses in Korea To those considering moving to this fine country, those curious about certain info, or those already here, maybe this will be somewhat of a help to you! If these three types of people don't apply to you, then maybe you'll just want to read this just to know the info and surprise your friends someday. :) Believe it or not, Korea is actually a pretty expensive place to live. That is if you're paying for your own rent, utilities, food, transportation, technology and beyond. Some jobs provide housing, transportation, and phone services, ... Read More