How I saved Rs. 15,000 on my international travel!

As any other Indian, I, living in Bangalore, eat, drink and sleep movies! A rich dose of exotic picturesque locales featured in Bollywood films made me long to head towards the dream destination of Indians – Europe!

Time to switch to the real world…It was my hard-earned money that was to finance the whole trip. I read up and researched and planned to the best of my ability, to make my pocket stretch a tad bit more! Not only was I able to extend my trip by over 4 days than originally scheduled, within the same budget, I actually saved a whole Rs 15,000/- from my initial estimates!

Elated, I wanted to share my discoveries with others, so they too could savour the joys of saving on expensive travel costs and smile from ear to ear!!

• Fly cheap!

I booked my flights during mid-week, offbeat hours. I was flexible with my dates to clinch the best rates.

• Low-season benefits

I travelled just before the onset of the peak summer season to Europe. This way I avoided the hot tourist rush at every place and could get better deals everywhere.

• Pack light

I packed minimal luggage, weighed it well to avoid excess baggage penalties, and therefore, could even tow it around all by myself. Besides I had enough space to do some fun-shopping!

• Carry forex beforehand

Acting on the advice of what I read, I carried ample forex to cover most of my expenses. Banks and agents can charge a hefty fee abroad, hence I searched for the best foreign exchange in Bangalore. The number of agents who claimed to give the best foreign exchange rates in Bangalore was overwhelming. I finally zeroed in on an online marketplace, BookMyForex, which compared the rates on offer from several banks and reputed money changers and then connected me with the one offering the best foreign exchange rates in Bangalore in real time.

• Carry travel card and currency

I carried my forex in two modes - currency and pre-loaded travel card, for safety and added benefits. I was able to use the services of the same online marketplace for foreign exchange in Bangalore to avail both products at the best rates and maximum ease.

• Local hospitality is the best

I settled for BnBs, homestays, budget hotels and enjoyed cheaper accommodation, but with home benefits, such as free laundry and options to make my own meals. On top of that, I was able to get a first-hand experience of the local culture and lifestyle!

• Move around like locals

I used local modes of transport to enjoy unhurried pace of travel, interact with the locals, get invaluable information not found in any brochure, and of course save on commuting costs. Eating at street joints, enjoying local food and shopping at local markets was pure joy!

Truly this was a memorable trip where I did not focus on ticking items off a tourist’s guide, but actually revelled in the atmosphere typical to each location.

For more information, visit https://www.bookmyforex.com/currency-exchange/bangalore  or call @ 09212219191.