The Thrifty Traveler: Amsterdam Edition

1. Free Tours

Check out yet another free tour in Europe by Sandeman's. This free walking tour covers some of the greatest landmarks like the Anne Frank House, the Red Light District, the Royal Palace, and the Dutch East India Company. Join the group and  trust that Sandeman's will "take you where others don’t and tell you the stories you’d never hear otherwise" More here! 

EYE by Kennisland

2. EYE Film Institute
Don't miss this state of the art facility filled with culture. This museum features free interactive Dutch films on the lower level, while the art-house exhibits and main areas do have an entrance fee. To arrive here take the free Buiksloterweg ferry that departs from behind Centraal Station. More here!

3. Concertgebouw Wednesdays
The Het Concertgebouw offers free performances every Wednesday from 12:30 to 1pm.  These professional musicians will undoubtedly blow your mind with their incredible talent. More here!






4. Canal Ring
It is hard to miss one of the many canals that flow through the city of Amsterdam. Dating back over 400 years, these waterways provide a peaceful stroll through history. They are also considered a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Thrifty Traveler: London Edition

1.  Tour London
Sandeman's free tour covers over 10 must-see attractions in under 3 hours. So join a guide at 10am, 11am, or 2pm and learn about the Big Ben while you gape at the royal pillars of Buckingham Palace. The tour includes stops at Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, and St. James's Park just to name a few! More info here!

2.  British Museum
The British Museum offers free admission to all.
Take a journey through our world's history, spanning across millions of years. From the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon, you will be fascinated by this first-hand glance into ancient civilizations. Check it out here!

3.  Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Take a stroll along the peaceful banks of the canal that runs through London's Queen Elizabeth Park.  Discover the same grounds that famous olympians competed on during the 2012 Summer Olympics. There are also many sites to see and visit around the park. One that is worth your while is the ArcelorMirral Orbit, where you can experience an incredible view of London atop the tallest sculpture in the country. More here!

4.  Stratford
You will not get bored in this cultural hub of London! Home of the world famous Theatre Royal Stratford East, cinemas, museums, and shopping, this happening area will be sure to bring you many hours of entertainment. More here!

The Thrifty Traveler: Cape Town

1.  Tjing Tjing                                   
Did someone say free wine tastings? Stop by Tjing Tjing on Wednesdays starting at 5pm, and try some of the finest blends in South Africa. Chill on top of this historical building which has been transformed into a rooftop bar. Cheers! Want to learn more?

2.  Diamond Tour: Shimansky
Ever wonder how diamonds are sculpted to perfection? Join the Shimansky experts, and see first-hand what goes into this process. Walk through the halls of the sparkling showroom and see how the precious stone is cut and polished in a workshop. This tour is open to all ages, and is entirely free. Check out more at the  Shimansky tour.

3.  Table Mountain National Park        
This park is filled with a plethora of natural wonders, and encompasses over 100 miles of trails for both hiking and biking! Dare to explore Devil's Peak, or take a stroll across Table Mountain. And if you are feeling extra adventurous, you can stay at one of the many campsites available. For more information go to the National Park's Website.

4.  Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden 
With over 1,000 acres to wander, this is one of the largest Botanical Gardens in the entire world. Enjoy the wide diversity of vegetation native to South Africa; while meditating amidst the picturesque backdrop of Table Mountain. Read further here.

The Thrifty Traveler: San Carlos Edition

Looking to visit San Carlos, Costa Rica?

 Here are some fun and
affordable suggestions!


 1. La Fortuna Waterfall
For just $10 you can take a hike to visit this stunning waterfall. Dare to swim in these cleansing aquamarine waters after a nice hike, you will not be disappointed!
*Word of advice-you may want to arrange for a ride to the park entrance (if not it will be a bit of a hike)!
La Fortuna Waterfall

 




2. Free Natural Hot Springs
If you only have time for one thing in San Carlos, this should definitely be number one on your list! Meditate in these warm, clear waters that provide the finest specimen of nature's oasis.

Where can you find them?
In La Fortuna of San Carlos, 8 miles from La Fortuna , towards Tabacon hot springs, by the Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica






3. Del Bosque
Del Bosque is a once in a lifetime opportunity to tour this unique family-run farm! For just $12 you can buy a Campesino Pass which gives a complete tour of the farm, a natural fruit juice and snack, and a tour guide. Other options include a cultural meal and in depth tour of side projects. 
Del Bosque Site 

4. Rainforest Chocolate Tour
Take a ride on the wild side, and get in touch with one of nature's most precious resources: chocolate. Yes that fine, rich, and satisfying treat that has been around for centuries. Learn how how to make this delicious food, and try some fresh chocolate made indigenous-style.

The Thrifty Traveler: Buenos Aires Edition

           

1.  BA Free Tour:  You better believe it, the Buenos Aires walking tour is completely FREE! When? Everyday at 11am and 5pm. So come and enjoy this fun and entertaining tour, and learn something new about the Argentine culture! BA Free Tour

2.  Fútbol:  Soccer is the most popular sport in Argentina, as well as most of Latin America. The season starts in February and goes until November, and tickets are very affordable (the cheapest being "entradas populares"). Buenos Aires is home to the two rival first-division clubs, Boca Juniors and River Plate. So check out a Superclásico and watch these two teams compete, they will sure have you on the edge of your seat!

Learn more here: ASA 

3.  Do you Tango?  Take a class or watch the pros, you choose! At Club de Tango you can check out some impressive tango performances, or try a lesson. Many of these events have a low-admittance fee or are free! Have fun and dance on. See what's on the agenda here: Club de Tango

4. La Noche de los Museos:  The night of the museums is an event that takes place annually every November. The tradition began in 1977 in Berlin, and now over 130 cities in the world celebrate it. In BA all of the cultural hot spots stay open until 2am, and the night is filled with endless festivities, films, music performances. Event Info

The Thrifty Traveler: New Delhi Edition

1. The Swaminarayan Akshardham

The Swaminarayan Akshardham is a Hindu temple. At its very center stands an ornate and  delicate masterpiece, known as the Akshardham Monument. The central dome enshrines a statue of Lord Swaminarayan, the founder of the Swaminarayan Faith. In addition, there is a 10 story high monument made entirely of intricately carved, 6000 tons of pink sand-stone from Rajasthan!
 http://www.akshardham.com/

2. Gurdwara Bangla Sahib

Gurdwara Bangla Sahib was once a bungalo to Indian's ruler, Raja Jai Singh. He ruled in the 17th century when it was named Jaisingphpura Palace. Now, the grounds include the temple, a kitchen, a school and an art gallery. Those who practice in Sikhism believe that all people, regardless of race or religion may eat in the Gurdwara kitchen. The food is prepared by both Gursikhs workers and volunteers. 

3. Delhi By Foot Tour

DelhiByFoot are walking tours offered every week in New Delhi. From forts to mosques, and endless streets filled with colorful foods and fabrics, there is something for everyone. There are up to 12 different walks to choose from, so be sure to check the schedule to see which one sounds best (but beware: you might have a hard time choosing!).

http://delhibyfoot.in/walks/

4. Lodi Gardens
Lodi Gardens is a stunning park with of over 90 acres of land! There are some interesting sites to see here, including various tombs of influential leaders. The earliest tomb was dedicated to  such as Mohammed Shah (the last rule of the Sayyid dynasty) in 1444. So take a stroll through the garden or practice yoga with the locals, you sure will not be bored at this place!

The Thrifty Traveler: Dublin Edition

Looking to have fun without burning a hole in your wallet? Well look no further, we have compiled a few adventures for you here in Dublin at little to no cost. Check  them out, and let us know what you think!

1.  Sandeman’s New Dublin Tour:

This is a free 3-hour walking tour of the city of Dublin. The tour departs everyday at 11am from Dame Street. "From the Celts to the Vikings, invaders have tried to tame this wild island, a place of legends, traditions, and folklore" New Dublin Tours Join the group and explore the Dublin Castle, Viking Remains, Dublin's medieval walls, the Leinster House, the National Library, among many other famous sites!

Read more here: Dublin Free Tour

 2.  Grafton Street:

A vibrant setting complete with historical buildings, this street is a perfect blend of culture and amusement. With plenty of shops to check out and a plethora of restaurants and cafes, this site is sure to have something for everyone!

3.  St. Stephen's Green:

St. Stephen's Green is a 22 acre public park.  The stunning grounds flaunt perfectly tamed gardens, fountains, several statues, a lake, and even a platform for musicians. A favorite spot to many, the park provides a peaceful haven amidst an otherwise bustling city.

4.  Phoenix Park:

Phoenix Park has much to offer in terms of activities. The park itself includes monuments, wildlife, gardens, and is home to the historic Farmleigh House. Many performers offer free concerts here, and if you happen to be visiting in the month of June be sure to check out the Bloom in the Park Festival!

5.  Trinity College:

Founded in 1592, Trinity College is one of the most prestigious universities in Europe. With beautiful grounds for a casual stroll, this location is both tranquil and remarkable. Between the historical architecture and widespread campus, there is much to d o and see here. The college offers many options for visitors as it is home to a zoological museum, science gallery, restaurants, library and bookstore. Take a look around Trinity's grounds, or have a cup of coffee at The Arts Cafe.

More on Trinity College here: Visitor's Welcome!

                                                          


 6.  Museums:

There are many free museums to explore in Dublin. The top ones we recommend are part of the National Museum of Ireland. Two are located right next to Trinity College. One showcases Natural History, while the other is on Archeology. Not too far from these is the Decorative Arts & History museum on Benburb St.

7.  Fascination of Light :

The Fascination of Light is a free event, that will be held "at the Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT festival) from April 1st 15th. "This highly successful exhibition has had tens of     thousands of visitors of all ages as it toured across Europe over the last twelve months "
(Check it out!)

Know of any other thrifty thrills in Dublin? 

We encourage you to share your suggestions with us below!