I don’t consider myself the world’s most seasoned traveler but I‘ve been around the block a few times. I have traveled quite a bit in my life.I also consider myself a spoiled traveler. I am not a backpacker who carries everything they need on their back with youthful adventure and limitless enthusiasm. Maybe in my early twenties I could have traveled the world with my backpack and infinite endurance. But I am in my late thirties, and I like to travel comfortably.I don’t like hostels because I never did feel safe enough there. (a side note: by no means am I influenced by the horror movie Hostel.) Somehow I am not able to have a good nights rest in any hostel. I feel exposed and vulnerable. Also, a nice bed, a private bathroom, and a clean shower should not be considered a luxury during my travels. Those are necessities.Comfortable travel also means spending money on things that I enjoy: sightseeing, shows and shopping.

When I travel I don’t try to save money on sightseeing. I will pay whatever I have to in order to see the sights that I have always dreamed about. The Great Wall anyone?

I will try to get cheaper tickets to a show at the Moulin Rouge, but if I have to pay the full price, I won’t fret over it. How often do you get to go to the Moulin Rouge after all?

Shopping is just too much fun to go cheap because the shopping experience in different countries is just unforgettable. At least for spenders like me.

Food, however, is a different story. Food should not be your biggest expense during your travels. You can save quite a bit on food if you know one simple trick. I’ve learned it over the years of travel and this trick has never failed me.

Eat where the locals eat… because they eat in places that travel books will never mention.

Finding those places will require a lot of walking. It also means walking away from the high-tourism areas, and venturing out into the side streets, and sometimes even to the outskirts of towns.

It might not sound exciting and even frightening. I completely agree that unknown places can be scary. Depending on the location, you will have to exercise some caution, of course. Venturing into the unknown is one of my favorite adventures.

It never hinders:

- To discover local eateries (some of them can truly be gems)
- To eat much better food (you might be surprise how well some local chefs can cook)
- To pay much lower prices (sometimes half price!) than in any touristy area
- To get directions to other similar good eateries
- To find out about local events
- To support local businesses
- To have fun

It is unavoidable to stumble upon something that you will not like. Or something that will look scary or unsanitary. It has happened to me plenty of times! Don’t be afraid  and don’t give up. Keep looking!

Travel is all about experiencing local cultures. That means food!