Traveling, but Cheaper (and Maybe Better)

Do what you do at home, somewhere else

Last week, I wrote about my Trip to Europe. This week, I was tallying up the expenses (much less fun), and I realized something. I kind of just did the same thing I do at home, in a different place. I realized this while doing expenses because my travel charges looked similar to a weekend in San Francisco: a few cups of coffee, an Uber or two, and my monthly Strava premium subscription.

While this might sound lame and boring, I’d like to advocate for my method.

Some background. In San Francisco, on a Saturday, I just go on a long walk or run, either by myself or with friends. I might catch up on my podcasts, drink a cappuccino, maybe a few beers, and go grocery shopping.

In Paris, I did the same thing. I went on a long run through the city, drank espresso and wine, caught up on my podcasts, and went clothes shopping. It was a blast IMO.

I could be totally wrong about this, and trying new things when traveling can be rewarding in its own way, but it’s magical to live your routine behind a different scenic backdrop. It highlights the differences between the place you call home and this new place you’re exploring. With the awesome side effect of being affordable and accessible.

I’ve also grown to enjoy seeing the unmanicured version of the places I visit through my routines. This past weekend I was in Paso Robles and Santa Barbara with my parents. I carved out some time for running and I was able to explore the cities in a new way. I ran up and down the coast in Paso, and saw the trailer parks that lined the coast as you run south. I ran north and was taken aback by the sun dipping into the Pacific Ocean, marveling at the seaside mansions that get to enjoy this view every night. I’m glad I ran because I doubt the hotel concierge’s suggested itinerary would have been as rewarding.

Running and walking are how I explore new places, and it’s an utterly convenient way to cover lots of ground fast. But I’m optimistic that no matter your routine, you can work it into your travel in a fulfilling way.

The last thing I realized about my method is that it leaves an aftertaste of your trip weeks into your return. Going on runs in SF, or drinking an espresso in Dolores Park now reminds me of the Place de Vosges in Paris, Hyde Park in London, or the Marx-Engles Forum in Berlin.

And as the wisest man in America has told us:

“Creativity saves money” - Mr. Beast.

Be creative, don’t book the guided tour, just explore and try to do your own thing. I bet it’ll save you a bunch of cash without compromising on your travel experience.

Cheers,

Rajveer