Attracting millions of visitors from across the globe each year, the event (which actually occurs at the end of September, despite its name) is packed full of tasting, dancing and raucous Bavarian-style partying!

As the world's biggest beer festival, there's really nothing quite like it but it can be a little expensive and overwhelming, so here's our tips on how to get the most out of this Oktoberfest.

1. Getting there on the cheap

   With low cost airlines regularly connecting Munich with most other European cities, it's easy to find a flight to suit your budget. Booking well in advance (or sometimes right at the last minute) can produce further savings but a bit of research and price comparison goes a long way towards finding a great deal.

2. Budget accommodation

   Luckily there are plenty of good, cheap Munich hostels concentrated in the city center within stumbling distance of the Oktoberfest site at Theresienwiesen. However, as the festival is so popular with travelers and backpackers, the quality hostels always fill up fast, so it's advisable to book early for the best value.

3. Beat the crowds

   The scale of Oktoberfest can seem daunting at first, with thousands of people packed into the 14 tents filling up the tables. Heading down to the site at lunchtime (especially on weekdays) can offer some welcome peace and quiet to complement your pint. It tends to get busier and busier throughout the day so arriving early also helps you stake out some space for the rest of the evening's partying!

4. Be prepared

   Unfortunately it's not possible to take your own food or drink into the festival, and inside prices have soared thanks to the captive audience, with dinner working out particularly pricey. Eating a hearty breakfast can help line your stomach and cut down on costs, and you could even enjoy a cheaper pint or two before entering the festival as well!

5. Budget realistically

   No matter how you approach it, Oktoberfest can work out rather pricey, even when staying in a cheap hostel and trying not to buy over-priced meals. Although great quality, the same six breweries are responsible for supplying the beers every year and they've pushed up the cost of a liter to around €8. So if you come expecting to splash out a bit - and budget accordingly - then you'll be well equipped to fully experience the atmosphere and merriment of this unique event!

As a local, I have come to notice two very different stages of the tourist - the “newbies” and those that have been here for a few days. Whenever I have flown back to Orlando, the plane is always filled with several people about to begin their magical experience. It is not rare to hear children, as they sit in their plane seat filled with giddy joy, asking their parents where Disney World is and looking all around as they try to find the Magic Kingdom. The plane lands, adults and children alike that are bound for vacation exit the plane filled with a myriad of hopes and dreams that their vacation holds in store for them. It is easy to see the anticipation on their faces, like a child about to open a present. Each person has a vision of what is in store for them, what they want to do and see. This stage holds so much excitement and energy. The second phase, that is almost always noticeable, are those vacationers that have been around for a few days.

Usually they are a bit more than sun-kissed as they had forgotten to put sunscreen on. They are seen walking around with a bit less pep in their step and seem a bit tired. They are still enjoying their vacation, but many find out that Orlando can be a bit daunting. So many visitors try to fit it all in on one visit and drain themselves in the process of trying to do so. The honest truth - unless you have 3 or more weeks, and the money required too, it just can't be done in seven days while you still retain your budget, sanity, and physical health. So, if you are out to find a great way to enjoy planet Earth's number tourist destination, read on and hopefully you will find a few helpful vacation planning tips to make the most of your hard earned time and money. These few insider tips can help you, your family and friends all go home with more precious memories and fewer sore muscles.

The planning begins with deciding the type of Orlando area vacation that you are hoping to experience. This typically falls within one of three categories; 1) The Mickey Mouse Vacation, 2) Orlando Overview or 3) A Glimpse of Central Florida. The first option, The Mickey Mouse Vacation, is for those dedicated Disney fans who want to visit the place where it all began. Believe me, there are many people who come to Orlando strictly for the Disney Parks and Resorts. If you love all that is Disney and want the complete Disney experience, then you will need an entire week to simply skim the surface of this entertainment kingdom. The second type of traveller is looking for an Orlando Overview. These are the vacationers that want to experience a little bit of everything, from theme parks to shopping and dining, that has made Orlando into the tourism hot spot that it is today. The final type of vacation is one that includes a glimpse of the Central Florida region including a few parks, the Atlantic beaches, Kennedy Space Center and more. Deciding which of these types of experiences you are wanting to plan is the key to beginning the perfect visit to Orlando and(perhaps) the surrounding areas. So, let the fun begin!

Research

 

Before you finalize the details for your vacation, the first step is deciding what you want to do and when you want to travel. Some valuable resources include the Orlando Convention and Visitors Bureau, fodors.com, frommers.com, one of the many internet travel web sites, and yes - your local travel agent. Price your vacation in a couple of different ways to see where you will save the most, but also get the best experience. Usually by packaging your airfare, car rental or transfer, lodging, and entertainment into one price you can save money over booking each item individually.

Lodging

Lodging options in Orlando are nearly limitless, but as this article is trying to provide you with a bit more of an economical approach to visiting the area, l will focus more on those options that will help you stretch your vacation dollar. Of course peak travel times, any period that children are out of school or a Holiday is happening, will also bring along with them peak hotel rates. If you can travel during off peak periods, then you can most definitely save some money.

*The Mickey Mouse Vacation: There are a couple of options that work wonderfully for this type of experience. If you must stay on Disney property you have three avenues to choose from. The first is staying at one of Disney's value resorts, such as the All-Star Sports, All-Star Movies, All-Star Music, and the Pop Century resorts. These are a great value that include the benefits of staying on Disney property. The second option, for those of you that like to be a bit closer to nature, is opting for the Fort Wilderness Campground. I have stayed there a few times myself and have found the facilities above par for a campground experience - it's Disney, what else would you expect. They spray for bugs, the bathrooms are spotless, they have marshmallow roasts with Disney Characters, movies under the stars, fishing, canoeing, and much more. This option also provides use of the Disney transportation system and resort benefits. The third option is to stay at one of the many hotels near the Disney Village. These options, such as the Grosvenor Hotel, are located on Disney property but are not owned directly by Disney. What makes these great is that you can use much of the Disney transportation system, but you are also within walking distance of Downtown Disney and many chain restaurants, such as McDonalds and TGIFridays, that can help save money over theme park priced food on a daily basis.

Orlando Overview Vacation

The best area for this option is either International Drive or the hotels near Universal Studios on Sandlake Road. Believe it or not, there are times that I still see rooms advertised for $40/night(plus tax). These hotels have a great centralized location and are close to Interstate 4, providing easy access to all that the area has to offer. Again, there are some other great lodging options in the area, but if you are wanting to stay on a budget, these areas will offer some of the best rates in the area as there is a lot of competition for the business.

*Glimpse of Central Florida: Here I recommend the International Drive/Sandlake area for your stay in Orlando and then choosing a hotel along the beach in either Cocoa Beach or Daytona Beach. If you are here for 6 nights and 7 days, I would say that spending 4 in Orlando and 2 at the beach would give you the chance to enjoy what the area has to offer.

Hotels on International Drive, Sandlake Road, and at the Beaches range from Days Inn to Holiday Inn, Best Western, and so on. The tourism industry is extremely vast and the hotels are all doing what they can to attract your business. So, it can be worth the research to find what deals the hotels are offering.

Transportation

If you are staying on Disney property you can obtain a transfer from the airport to the Disney hotel you are staying at. Once on Disney property, they offer an extensive system of buses, trams, and ferries that take you between the parks, dining options, and resorts. So, for those of you strictly coming to visit Disney, a car rental is not really a necessity. If you drive, parking is free and when staying at a Disney resort you also receive a parking pass if you opt to drive yourself between the theme parks.

If you are staying on International Drive or Sandlake, I recommend renting a car. Yes, you can get by without one, but when it comes down to convenience and saving your valuable vacation time, it is well worth the money. International Drive does offer a trolley that runs up and down the road that you can take from your hotel to restaurants and shopping venues. Note that the area does have toll roads, so be sure to have some cash on hand. One of these roads runs from the airport to International Drive and also takes you out to Cocoa Beach, locals call this The Beachline.

Entertainment

One thing Orlando is not short of is entertainment. From theme parks and water parks, to movie theaters, performing arts, museums, and other local attractions the list is lengthy. In other words - if you are bored while you are visiting Orlando, it is your own doing. If you have not visited Orlando before, here is a brief description of each theme/water park. For those of you staying with the Disney option, going with a Park Hopper pass is a must as it saves money over purchasing individual day pass tickets. If you are wanting to enjoy a sampling of the Orlando area parks, then choose a few that look interesting and search their web sites to see if they are offering any new park promotions, such as a second day free.

• The Magic Kingdom - Great for young kids and kids at heart. If you are a fan of this fabled mouse, then this is a must. It really is ideal for younger children with its' carousel and rides like It's a Small World, Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin, and Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor. However, it also has a few thrills via Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, and Big Thunder Mountain. Of course you also have the must see parades and character meets as well.
• MGM Studios - This is where the movies come to life. Experience Indiana Jones as they recreate scenes on a movie set using members of the audience, step into a live performance of High School Musical or try the new Journey Into Narnia and Toy Story Mania. Looking for a thrill? Check out the stunt show, The Twilight Tower of Terror, or even The Rockin' Roller Coaster. At night, arrive early to obtain a seat for Fantasmic. This is a great park for the entire family to enjoy as there is something for everyone!
• Epcot Center - This is a park featuring inventions and concepts for the here and now as well as possibilities for the future. The other half of the park is the World Showcase that lets you step into a culture to experience a bit of life, culture, and history from worldwide destinations. In future World check out Test Track, Mission Space, and Soarin'. The World Showcase deserves some time. Kids love to get a “passport”(nominal cost in any gift shop) and get it stamped as they visit each country. At night, stay for a viewing of the Illuminations show to add the perfect end to a great day.
• Animal Kingdom - Some have described this as a glorified zoo. I would have to disagree. It is an amazing experience for adults, children, couples, and families. I highly recommend checking out Kilamanjaro Safaris first thing in the morning. It is at the back of the park, but lines build quickly and the animals like to be out in the cooler weather. Other great attractions include Dinosaur, Finding Nemo - The Musical, the new Expedition Everest, Kali River Rapids, and of course the many animal viewing opportunities. Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Parade is a great time to enjoy a rest and watch a great parade.
• Blizzard Beach -Imagine racing down “icy” slides, experiencing the thrill of the Slush Gusher, relaxing in the Cross Country Creek, challenging a friend on the Toboggan Racers, screaming as you race down Summit Plummit, or chilling out as the kdis play at Tike's Peak. This is an all around great park for everyone.
• Typhoon Lagoon - This park takes a more tropical approach to the waterpark idea. There is the Shark Reef, Surf Pool, Wave Pool, Snorkeling, and The Gang Plank Falls rafting ride along with Castaway Creek, and Hamunga Cowabunga(for those that are looking for a thrill). While this park offers a few more relaxing options, it is still packed with exciting rides.
• Universal Studios - Looking to step into the movies or one of your favorite TV shows? Then this is the park for you. Featured attractions include The Simpsons Ride, Shrek 4-D, the heart pumping Revenge of the Mummy rollercoaster, Men In Black Alien Attack interactive ride, E.T. Adventure, and Jimmy Neutron's Nickolodean Blast. If you are wanting to let the kids roam free, check out Woody Woodpecker's Kidzone. Need to sit for a bit, try the Animal Actors on Location show, FEAR Factor Live, Beetlejuices, and Beetlejuice's Graveyard Revue -- just to name a few. Universal Studios provides the ultimate in behind-the-scenes TV and moview experiences.
• Islands of Adventure - This is the newest theme park in the ever growing and changing Orlando industry. While it offers something for everyone, it really seems to fit a crowd looking for a bit more of a thrill. There is the cutting edge Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, the hold-on-for-your-life Incredible Hulk rollercoaster, Doctor Doom's Fearfall, Dueling Dragons - the world's first inverted dueling rollercoaster, and Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls. Wanting a little more mild thrill? Try Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rate Barges, Jurassic Park River Adventure, or Poseidon's Fury. For the young, and young at heart, there is Me Ship, Me Olive, Camp Jurassic, and Seuss Landing. The newest addition to this park, and a highly anticipated one at that, is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. A 20 acre park set to open in 2009.
• Wet n Wild - Set on International Drive, this is the waterpark with the thrills, chills, and spills. From the screamin' Brain Wash and Bomb Bay to the funky Disco H2O there is a ride for everyone. Swirl down The Storm or relax as the kids play at the Kids Park. At times this park runs a great promotion that when you buy one day, you get the rest of your stay for FREE(only if purchased online)! You can't beat that!
• SeaWorld - This is a completely different theme park experience. No visit to Orlando would be complete without seeing Shamu! Of course you also have the dolphins, penguins, sharks, flamingos, sea otters, walrus, stingrays, sea lion's and more! Amazing shows include Believe(Shamu), Happy Horizons(dolphins), Clyde and Seamore Take Pirate Island(a comical event), Pets Ahoy, Odyssea, and their nightly shows. For children, head over to Shamu's Happy Harbor or visit the famed Clydesdale horses and even get up close and personal with one. For thrill seekers, try Kraken or Journey to Atlantis. Yes, SeaWorld is also gearing up for a new roller coaster addition in the near future that is to provide a new ride experience all together.
• Discovery Cove - The price tag for this park can be a bit much. But, if it is a must for you, then it really is a once in a lifetime experience. Imagine being a dolphin trainer for the day or just getting up close to dolphins and other sea life, birds, fish, and rays and all within a tropical setting. Part of your experience at Discovery Cove includes a 30 minute dolphin swim, snorkeling on a coral reef, hand feeding birds, breakfast/lunch/and snacks throughout the day, snorkel gear and swim vest, locker use, sunscreen, beach chairs, parking, and admission o either SeaWorld or Busch Gardens(Tampa) for 14 consecutive days.
• Aquatica - This new waterpark opened in March of 2008. It features 2 wave pools, and amazing children's interactive waterplay area, two lazy rivers(one of which is not so lazy but rather fast flowing), an expansive beach area, and 6 water rides. SeaWorld and a waterpark. What combination could be better!

So, those are the theme parks in a nutshell. But, what else is there to do in and around Orlando? The answer may suprise you.

Other Area Attractions in Orlando and Central Florida

Orlando and Central Florida offer a(nearly) unending list of activity options to fill your days. Alas, I would love to give you a description of each of these and more, but this article would turn into a short novel. So, I will leave you with this listing of other noteworthy attractions and sights to consider as part of your vacation experience. Visit one of Orlando's Official Visitor Centers for discount tickets to some of these entertainment options. Some of these are available at a very minimal cost or are free, outside of the cost of gas. Many discounts and promotions for Orlando can be found on the Convention and Visitors Bureau web site here. From this web site you can buy discount tickets, obtain an Magicard that offers savings at area venues(it's free), obtain a free vacation planning kit, sign up for e-mail offers, and more. It is worth the time to check it out. If there is a destination that is a must during your stay, it is also wise to go to their web site to see if they are offering any promotions or discounts.

*The Boat Tour in Winter Park *HP Leu Gardens

*Gatorland *Orlando Science Center

*Silver Springs *Wekiwa Springs

*Kennedy Space Center *Cocoa Beach

*Daytona Beach *The Daytona Raceway

*Disney's Wide World of Sports *Airboat Rides

*Ron Jon Surfpark *Van's Skatepark

*Deep Sea fishing *Morse Museum of American Art

*Blue Springs State Park *Fun Spot Action Park

*The Everglades *Richard Petty Driving Experience

*Paddlewheel Boat on the Indian River

*Golfing *Ripley's Believe It or Not!

*Mini golfing *Water skiing

*The Holy Land Experience *Dinner Theaters

*Hang gliding *Cirque du Soleil

*Blue Man Group *Astronaut Hall of Fame

*SkyVenture Orlando *Titanic - The Exhibition

*Concerts at House of Blues and Hard Rock Cafe

*Wonderworks *NBA City

*Parasailing *Spa services

*Comedy Lab *Tennis

*Kayaking *Daytona USA

*Relaxing on Park Avenue *Cypress Gardens

*And so many more.

Dining and Shopping

What vacation would be complete with out great food and shopping? Orlando has a wealth of both to choose from. I remember reading an article once that stated that the number one activity in Orlando was actually shopping. Countless times I have seen people, especially Europeans, purchasing extra suitcases to carry their purchases back home. Is the shopping really that good? As a shopper at heart, I can tell you that it is. The shopping experiences in Orlando vary. So knowing what you are looking for and where to go will save you time and a little money.

Malls

• The Florida Mall - This is the largest in the area and offers a wide variety of over 180 stores including Macy's, Pottery Barn, Brookstone, Build-A-Bear, Williams and Sonoma, Abercrombie and Fitch, Hollister, Apple, Harry and David, Sephora, PacSun, Gap, and more!
• The Mall at Millenia - If you are looking for a more upscale shopping experience this is the place for you. With over 120 stores, including Z Galleria, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Crate and Barrel, Zara, Macy's, Apple, and Tiffany's - this is a unique shopping venue.
• Park Avenue - Located in Winter Park, FL. This is a bit more laid back shopping area. You can walk up and down Park Avenue and it's shops, such as Restoration Hardware, Pottery Barn, Apenberry's, Williams and Sonoma, Bebe's, and Talbot's. After some shopping, enjoy sitting at one of the outdoor cafe areas for ice cream or a great meal.
• Pointe Orlando - This shopping area is located on International Drive and recently underwent a major renovation. It has some great dining options, a movie theater, and stores such as Chicos, Everything But Water, Hollister, Foot Locker, Life Is Good, and Tommy Bahama.
• Festival Bay - Looking for shopping, dining, and activities all under one roof? This is a great option. They have a huge Bass Pro Shop World store, there is the Vans Skatepark, Ron Jon, and Urban Planet. The complex also offers glow in the dark mini golf and a movie theater.
• Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores: One of the area outlet shopping options, this complex offers stores such as Old Navy, Hard Rock, Carters, Eddie Bauer, Tommy Hilfiger, Gap, Nike, Oshkosh, Reebok, and more.
• Orlando Premium Outlets is a large outlet shopping center with over 100 stores including Anne Taylor, Diesel, Dior, Armani Xchange, Bebe, Burberry, DKNY, Fendi, Gap, Guess, Izod, Nike, Addidas, Reebok, Disney, and more.
• Prime Outlets. This shopping experience is at the north end of International Drive, across from Festival Bay and underwent a major renovation and upgrade in 2007. It is a great outlet center offering stores like Escada, Aeropostale, Banana Republic, Bejoux, Chicos, Eddie Bauer, Fossil, LOFT Outlet, Oakley, Saks 5th, Carters, Nike, Gymboree, and more.
• Waterford Lakes Town Center. If you are looking for an all around shopping experience, this is a wonderful option. This shopping center is located in East Orlando, near the University of Central Florida on Alafaya Trail. If you are planning on spending a day at Cocoa Beach, this would be a great place to spend a couple of hours at. It is one of the largest outdoor shopping centers in the United States with stores such as Ross, TJMaxx, Super Target, Tillys, Dress Barn, Old Navy, Bath and Body Works, Pier 1, Skechers, Inland Ocean, Barnes and Noble, Kohls, Best Buy, Circuit City, JoAnn Etc, Bose, Carters,and many more! The center also features a movie theater and great dining options.
• Dining: Orlando, of course, has all of the regular chain restaurants from TGFridays and Outback to McDonald's and KFC. So, I will not go into those options. However, Orlando has some amazing dining experiences awaiting you. I will admit, that the theme park food has improved immensely over the past 10 years. Yes, it is a bit pricey, but it is fairly good. Both Disney and Universal offer some unique dining options such as Emerils, Artists Point, and Boma. Outside of the theme parks the dining abounds. Here are a few of the local favorites: Cafe Tu Tu Tango on International Drive, Texas De Brazil - worth every cent, Giordanno's Italian food and deep dish pizza, Roy's Hawaiian Fusian - another pricey one but really great food and service, The Orlando Ale House, Bahama Breeze, Bubbalous Bodacious BBQ, Spice in Winter Park, Froggers Grill, Moonfish, HUE in downtown Orlando, Taverna Opa, Rainforest Cafe, Charley's Steakhouse - one of the best, and Tijuana Flats. The dining options are endless and there is food that represents nearly every type of ethnic background. There is something to satisfy every palate.

Orlando. It is indeed, one of the most magical places on Earth. It is one of those few destinations that allows children to experience their dreams and adults can act like children. It is an escape, a world of possibilities, a chance to relax and rejuvenate. Orlando, and the Central Florida area, provides a different vacation filled with excitement and wonder at every turn. The best part is that it can be done in a budget friendly way that will provide the entire family with a wealth of memories, laughter, and good times. Find your magic and let the journey begin.

1. Be the first to book accommodation.

Edinburgh hostels have a number of great cheap beds and rooms scattered across the city center but the popularity of the festival with backpackers means the best (and most affordable) places always fill up fast!

2. Search for discount train tickets in advance.

Although the most cost-effective way to get to Edinburgh from the rest of the UK is by bus (London from £10 return), the journey is pretty slow and uncomfortable. Train companies also offer cheap fares when they're booked before the day of travel (the earlier, the better).

3. Take a friend along to the Half Price Hut.

On the corner of Waverley Bridge and Princes Street (by Princes Mall), there's a half-price ticket booth for the fringe which offers does 2-for-1 deals for many shows on the day of performance. If none of your mates want to go, you're bound to meet someone at your hostel with similar interests who'll be happy to split the costs this way!

4. Arrive early.

From the opening weekend (August 3/4) through to the middle of the second week, the festival is at its quietest and, when there are only small audiences booked in, there are often great discounts to be had. Hanging around outside one of the big theatres like The Pleasance can be a great way to get cheap (or even free) tickets when organizers hope to fill up seats at the last minute.

5. Knock the sellers down.

When you're offered a deal, investigate the possibility of an even cheaper one! It's always worth asking…

6. Check out snippets of over 100 shows at Fringe Sunday.

On 10th August 2008, the Edinburgh Meadows hosts a day of cabaret, theatre, music dance and comedy - all for free! This busy day is the largest free event of the Fringe Festival and includes a farmers market and a host of family-friendly fun.

7. See top comedians on the cheap at Amnesty International's Stand Up for Freedom gigs.

Although most of the low-priced shows involve fun but alternative stuff, the charity's two sponsored late-night shows on 6th and 13th August include such illustrious names as Ed Byrne and Jo Caufield and are a bargain! What's more, proceeds go directly towards Amnesty International's human rights work.

8. Hit the streets!

The central section of the Royal Mile becomes one big, lively street-theatre throughout August, with acrobats, entertainers and musicians all entertaining the crowds that flock to the city. Head to the National Galleries Complex for everything from fire-eaters to Peruvian pan-pipes and a truly festive atmosphere.

9. Visit Arthur Smith's Arturart gallery on Queen Street for just £5.

During the Fringe this museum is packed with silly installations using two-way mirrors and CCTV from top names such as Stewart Lee, Jo Brand, Tim Vine and Harry Hill. It was awarded the if.comedy panel prize in 2007 and is definitely worth a visit.

10. Work for your living!

The numerous pubs and restaurants around Edinburgh are always keen to take on visitors for casual work throughout the festival to help with the massive crowds. With a few nights work behind the bar the festival could end up costing next to nothing! And, with late openings and a constant buzz around the city, it's entertaining as well as a job.

So here's my very own version of Boracay Survival Guide:

Transportation

No need to arrange for one. If you are landing in Kalibo, there are a number of vans right outside the airport that will take you directly to the Caticlan Jetty Port. Fare is around P175/pax without boat ride, which I suggest you take because it's a LITTLE cheaper than getting the one that includes the boat ride. And you have to pay some more fees at the port anyway.

I also discourage vacationers from availing of the transfers that most resorts and hotels offer because I think it's unreasonably expensive! If not mistaken, it costs around P650 for a transfer from the Caticlan Jetty Port to hotel when total actual cost is only about P150 or less:

Boat fare = 20.00

Environmental Fees, etc. = 20.00 (or less)

Tricycle Ride from Boracay Is. to hotel = 100.00

There are a lot of tricycles for you to take from the port going to your hotel. There are also multicabs (tiny vans for bigger groups) that go for a higher rate (between P200 and P300).

Do not forget to bring loose change to give to the porters who helped you carry your luggage(s).

Apart from walking, tricycles are the main mode of going around the island, or from one station to the other. Boracay is segmented into three stations:

Station 1 - where most of the bars and clubs are.

Station 2 - the “center” of the island; where most of the restaurants and boutiques are. D'mall is also in Station 2.

Station 3 - where the main market is. D'talipapa (aka flea market) is also in Station 3.

Fare is around P7/pax.

Accommodation

For backpackers or those who are travelling on a budget, Eriko's or Tan's guest house is a good choice. Both guest houses are owned by the same person: Net Sacapaño.

The guest houses are located in station 2, near D'mall. To get there, you may ask the tricycle or multicab driver to drop you off at "Crafts of Boracay", it's a big grocery store that is still part of D'mall. From there, take a one to two minute walk towards the beachfront area. Once you're along the beach walkway…turn left, walk a few steps, and then take another left at Shenna's - there's an alley sandwiched between a small grocery store and a diving shop.

You'll notice a couple of guest houses lining the alley as well, but I've always stayed at Eriko's and Tan's because the price is reasonable - if I remember correctly, I only paid about P1,800/night for an airconditioned unit with kitchen (separated by a sliding glass door). It also comes with cable TV and your own verandah.*

Apart from that, Eriko's/Tan's is very accessible to almost anything. Situated in Station 2, it's in the middle of everything - from flea market to restaurants to bars!

*Note: I was able to negotiate an all-year round 20% discount to readers of this post! Just bring a copy of this article and show it to Net ;-)

Restaurants and Bars

Just some of my recommended establishments:

• Cocomangas - famous for their “still standing after 15” challenge
• Shenna's - cheap tequila shots
• Jonah's - famous for their shakes, located in Station 1
  
• Hey Jude! - best to go here during happy hour as you get a discount on your drinks
  
• Crepes St. Michel's or Crazy Crepes - for dessert
  
• Andok's - known for their roast chicken; cheap but filling meal
  
• Binalot - serves Filipino dishes wrapped in banana leaves; cheap but filling meal
  
• D'Talipapa - you can buy seafood from the wet market and have it cooked in one of the eateries here. Or, simply avail of their meal packages that go for about P100-P150 per head (best for large groups).
  
• Barbecue stands - don't miss the chori (short for chorizo = native sausage) burger!

Water Sports/Activities

Banana boat ride is around P250/pax during peak season. However, you should be able to get it for only P80-P100/pax during low season. Jet Ski rentals are around P2,500 for 30mins during peak and P1,000 during off-peak.

If you want to visit the islets surrounding the island, your best option is to hire a boat. It would set you back by P1,500-P1,800, depending on how many you are. When you do get one, leave early so you have enough time to visit three to four islets. A must-visit is Crystal Cave. It's a huge cave that has a wonderful lagoon inside. It's very hard to get in, as you need to go down some steep slopes and crawl thru a narrow opening. It's slippery and has lots of sharp stones on the ceiling (so watch your head!), but the beauty of the place make it all well worth it! Remember to bring knee pads and helmets if you have any. Otherwise, make sure you have alcohol and band-aid handy…just in case.

As much as I like Puka Beach, because of its very clear and calm water that's best for swimming, I would not recommend for you to include it in this trip. Puka Beach, also a great place to buy pasalubongs from (accessories made out of Puka Shells selling for as low as P10!), is accessible via tricycle. So ask the boatmen to bring you somewhere else instead (e.g. Crocodile Island, Bat Cave, etc.)

Snorkeling is usually included in the itinerary, so bring some biscuits to feed to the fishes. Beware though, boatmen usually charge for the gears separately (around P100 for the goggles and the snorkel). Also, be prepared with some loose change as there's someone going around collecting about P20/pax for “environmental fees”.

Though boatmen usually approach you with flyers (prices included) on hand, always remember to haggle. And make sure that both parties are clear on whatever was agreed upon.

Others

Everything is more expensive in Boracay. If you could, bring staple food like canned goods, instant noodles, and bread. A loaf of Gardenia bread costs around P80 when it's just P35-P40 in Manila.

Toothbrushes are expensive too - I had to learn that the hard way. So do not forget to bring yours (see related article here.)

Anyway, there's a big wet and dry market at D'Talipapa but you would need to catch a tricycle ride going there. So if you don't really need much, you can just walk to the smaller one near Eriko's/Tan's guest house (also one of the reasons why I like to stay here). You can buy staples here like vegetables, meat, poultry and other grocery items. This flea market is in D'mall, near Crafts of Boracay. You would have passed by this one going to Eriko's/Tan's (see item#2 on how to get to the said guest houses).

Water is also very expensive. I suggest you contact Agua Vida (288-3754) to have water delivered to your doorstep. You can use the guest house's landline. What I usually do is rent their 5-gal container with faucet. You pay P500 upfront, but it's actually only P80 per 5-gal water plus P70 for the container rental. So you get P350 back when you return the jug. I really think it's cheaper that way than having to buy a bottle of water (costs P20 minimum) each time.

For pasalubongs (gifts), there are a few establishments in D'Mall where you can get key chains or magnets for P15-P20 a piece. But, I prefer to walk early in the morning along the beach to Station 3. There are a lot of vendors lining up the beach walkway as early as 6AM (i.e. if it's not raining). Women's accessories (earrings, bracelets, etc.) go for as low as P10! Or, you can always take a tricycle ride to D'Talipapa, where you can get native snacks like piyaya or caramelized banana chips with sesame seeds, etc. You can also buy t-shirts here for around P100-P150 a piece.

Just remember to always haggle. If you don't feel that you are getting your money's worth, leave and look in another stall.

What some don't know is that there are already numerous vacation packages available for the middle-class traveler. Forego riding on charter jets and car rentals for your tour. Instead, find a site that issue consolidator tickets. Consolidator tickets are discounted airline tickets that are commonly available for international flights. Once your reservation is ticketed, it becomes almost the same as a full-priced ticket except that it is non-refundable and entails higher penalty fee once you change flight.

Once you're set, plan your vacation activities. Whether you want to snorkel, do yoga, tour the city, explore caves or go trekking, make sure to plan ahead. This will allow you to make the most out of your holiday travel, not to mention your hard-earned money. This is also important when you pack your things because you will know what to bring for each planned activity.

In planning, don't forget to calculate each activity's equivalent cost. Work on your budget and prioritize visiting spots you have always wanted to see. Be practical as well in the sequencing of activities. Don't put all tiring tasks all in one day and don't rush just for the sake of being able to do everything. You will not enjoy and will most probably want to go back to the same place again after a few years. This means spending twice on seeing the same place. Also, don't go for five-star hotels. Remember that the only time you spend in your room is when you're sleeping. You'll be out wandering 70% of the time. There are several good discount hotels scattered in the city if you just know where to look.

Lastly, no matter where you go and how much your budget is, keep in mind to get yourself a travel insurance. This will give you peace of mind and enjoy your vacation all the more.

Much of the city's varied history and architecture can be admired from a simple walking tour, from the "Dublin Spire" built in the millennium to the gothic-style St Patrick's Cathedral and the ancient castle which stands guard above the banks of the River Liffey.

The National Library and National Museum are, surprisingly, free to explore, along with the Colin Barracks and the castle's courtyards and Chapel Royal. If you are in Dublin on a Tuesday, there is also a free tour of the House of Lords which is well worth a visit for anyone interested in the country's troubled politics.

For a taste of Ireland beyond the capital, a reasonable bus ticket and short ride will allow you to enjoy the fifty acres of the National Botanic Gardens. To the south, Sandycove has a renowned bathing spot to tempt brave travelers into the chill of the Irish Sea whilst Killney hill boasts a fantastic (and free) panorama of the city below.

Eating and Drinking

Dublin may be better known for its barrels of Guinness but it still houses some good quality eateries. If you are drawn to a traditional meal, many pubs will offer a variation on "Irish Stew," although recent cosmopolitan influences mean international restaurants are often more affordable.

Another good budget bet is the Cedar Tree off Grafton Street which serves hearty Lebanese fare at a good price, particularly the early-bird special. The set lunch at Ristorante Romano on Capel Street, meanwhile, offers excellent value for money on Italian dishes.

Alternatively, you could pick up lunch from recommended Munchies Sandwich Bar and head to nearby St. Stephens Green. Here you can picnic away from the bustle of the city and enjoy the quiet company of James Joyce's statue and the park's resident ducks!

Nightlife

As a modern, lively city, Dublin also has plenty of entertainment after dark. Temple Bar is renowned for housing more pubs than even the most seasoned drinker can crawl between but it can be uncomfortably crowded during tourist season and its reputation has pushed up the price of a Guinness. For a cheaper drink, nearby Camden Street is a similarly enjoyable night out and sticking to pints and stout can stretch those Euros still further!

Walking through the streets at night, you're as likely to hear traditional music issuing from the door of a bar as pop tunes and, as late licensing means there is little distinction between pubs and clubs in Ireland, adding music to your evening often comes without the inconvenience of paying entry.

Hard-core clubbers may be tempted to experience the Gaiety Theater which becomes an electronic/dance club at weekends. As it stays open till very late and has five floors of DJs spinning beats, it offers surprising value for money. Just remember to pick a hostel with a late curfew to avoid spending the night on a bridge by the Liffey!

Where to Stay

And when it comes to places to stay, Dublin is packed with good, reasonable accommodation, with the prices at Dublin Hostels ranging from €16 for a dorm bed at Kinlay House, to €23 for a rather swanky private room at the Dublin City Bunkhouse.

It's never a bad idea to check out a variety of Dublin hostel photos before deciding on your bed for the night. But frankly, Kinlay House and Dublin City Bunkhouse make an attractive pair, and are right up there with the very best hostels in Dublin, anyway.

As both hostels are centrally located and Dublin itself is relatively compact, it's possible to explore the whole of the city on foot. Which gives you all the more opportunity to soak up its unique atmosphere and save a little extra cash as you do so!

Notwithstanding warnings from folks decrying this choice of time of travel, Goa being very hot, this being peak of the Off-season etc etc, flights to Goa were completely packed. With mostly Indians. Lots of children .

Despite Goa being touted as a destination of choice that draws German charter flights like a Goan to his feni, the airport in Goa remains an unassuming type. No aerobridges, tunnels etc. You get off the plane and sort of trudge into an enclosure which quickly leads you outside the airport, without endless corridors with endless signs . No one looks at you with suspicion as you pull your luggage (the current style elsewhere being, treat travelers in an Guilty-until-proven-innocent manner, all in the name of security.).

You have a choice of prepaid taxis to take you to your destination, ours being Panjim. Immediately outside the airport, you see the moderate intercity traffic, and spying buses trundling in the distance and true to our middle class values, we do a fast trudge with our bags to the main road and back. The buses are decently crowded with folks who are NOT on holiday, and going about their work with baskets and stuff, and since we do a lot of push-push-shove-shove-squeeeeze-through-to-the-exit-stuff in Mumbai, we decide to treat ourselves to a taxi in Goa, and pretend we are on a five star vacation. Turns out this was to be one of the two taxi rides we took in our entire 5 day stay...

Goa to me, earlier was a bunch of cities interspersed in a wealth of small villages dotted with greenery. The earlier lack of multistoreyed dwellings was admirable. The biggest difference this time was there are no well defined village boundaries any more. There seems to be some sort of boom in ex-village construction. Some of the older mangalore-tiled houses with intricate trelisses and bowers of greenery leaning over imposing entrances have given way to cement-concrete monstrosities.

Some unavoidable things like industrial areas have come up, but they still try and blend in with the surroundings, moderating their external display, so-to-speak. Earlier, 25 years ago, as you entered the main village area, you saw a nice football field , a church and temple, where you read announcements of impending matches with a visiting village team from elsewhere; folks landed up to cheer their team, to be followed by a goodwill feni session post match, possibly with a great meal.

Today, what really strikes you is the number of houses in the village with doors locked from outside. My friend from Goa, who we met after 25 years , tells us that this doesn't necessarily mean that people have migrated ; it also could mean, that someone is out for shopping etc, and IT IS NO LONGER SAFE TO LEAVE YOUR HOUSE UNLOCKED IF YOU ARE STEPPING OUT FOR A WHILE. The possibility of people from the countryside going to work in Panjim also cannot be denied, given the development of educational institutions over the years , and the transport infrastructure.

(We in Mumbai , who travel 80km daily , packed liked sardines , simply to go to work, cannot really say a thing. Traveling to work in Goa is a very civilized affair. Buses are generally going from point A to Z, and anyone along the way , at any point, stops the bus anywhere and gets on it. You politely wave, the driver politely stops, the conductor shouts out the area names while leaning from the steps, just to introduce some excitement, and "transport" happens...).

Roads in Goa are wonderful. Mostly 2 lane highways, sorry, roads. I don't recall seeing single speed limit sign during my entire stay. Everyone drives as fast as they want. Our taxi driver did a 1 hour drive in 35 minutes flat. The approved thing is to overtake huge vehicles at great speed. The only time you cannot do that is when a motorcycle with a pillion rider is simultaneously trying to overtake you at the same time, irrespective of the width of the road.

I didn't experience a single pot hole. Goa has a climate similar to Mumbai. Yes, I know the density of traffic in Mumbai is huge. But here in Mumbai potholes are a way of life. Goa is dotted with new roundabouts where traffic gracefully swirls around before getting into a frenzied acceleration, and I admire this effort by the government to temper as well as beautify in one shot.

Given the 25 years that elapsed after my previous visit, one thing that reassures me is the effort being put , in maintaining the greenery in Goa. Goa is still lush with mangroves, trees, and i suppose individual riches are still counted in terms of how much land you have and how many mango, cashew and coconut trees crown it. You notice "houses nestled amongst trees" as opposed to trees decorating the house. Which is how it was, and how it should be.

Goa tourism tries to do a commendable job running various tours. The communication interface when you call from out of state is good. Relevant information, quick information, someone has some great ideas about how websites can be usefully planned.

The problem starts in "Real-Time."

Assorted bookings are made, coupons given for trips on buses, but the communication infrastructure, network wise, is simply , not there. The centralized booking people convey arbitrary bookings to the people at the tour start site. One feels they get so carried away with the IT aspect of the whole thing, that they simply forget to pass on the information to people at the bus-level.

And so, for every tour we took, there was a lot of frustrated yelling, discussion, cursing the GTDC people. Walking back and forth to counters. On finally resolving the issue, we would still keep our time everywhere as defined in the brochure; which leads me to believe that these mess-ups are all planned/built-in and taken care off by the GTDC system. Absolutely shameless and amazing.

Waves of anger and frustration, enveloped by the breezes of the peaceful Goa countryside, soon gave way to a bus , speeding along, playing the latest music, interspersed with pithy comments from the tour guide. One cannot help but smile , when , on explaining the importance of Aguada fort, where there is a jail, the tour guide PROUDLY mentions that 2 very prominent criminals managed to escape from there. There is even a bust of one of the criminals , in the fancy restaurant where he was finally arrested.

Folks in Goa have an inborn environmental awareness. There are several watchdog organizations today that ensure that planted trees exceed cut trees during any construction activity. One is delighted to see inland waterways, and mangroves ; driving inland in the hills, pineapples bought from local chaps certainly taste different to those I have eaten so far; much more sweet.

Old women hawkers on the streets and markets of Panjim, sell raw cashews and Goa's local mangoes. A glance across the hills emphasizes the insistence of non-highrises. The coastal regulations rules prohibit construction within 500 meters of the coastline. But sadly, as elsewhere in India, (but to a much lesser extent) these rules are flouted by appealing to higher (?) authorities at the Center. Witness the Tata housing in the Betim Hills. JRD would NEVER have approved.

The old quarter of Panjim, now being treated as a Heritage area, has these amazing "gulleys", (small pathways), with even more amazing houses with intricate carvings and trellises, and a very unique way of announcing the owners name, in a blue delft like plate fitted into the wall outside. Dark blue, brick red etc appear to be the favorite colors of buildings, and white comes a close second . These areas are dotted with home style restaurants , serving typical Goan food, and many are written up and recommended in things like the lonely Planet Guide.

Lonely or not, recommended or not, we were treated to a lunch in one of these, by our Goan friend towards the end of our trip. Fish Curry and rice being the staple, this place excels in serving various varieties of fish. The non vegetarians amongst us, ate with single minded devotion to the plate in front, oblivious to the coming and going of electricity, conversation, etc. Plates were wiped clean with "pao" till they gleamed, and fingers licked till there was nothing more to be licked. Amazing food, at even more amazing prices; bringing out th Goans' natural predeliction for the "good times" to be enjoyed by one and all.

Which finally brings us to Sussegaad. I am convinced that after such great meals of Fish Curry and rice, a person gets so satiated, that a short nap (after a drink of chilled beer...) is on order. Maybe its the quality of rice, the lush quality of the coconut used, or the omega 3 magic of the fish fat, but most businesses in Goa come to a halt between 1pm and say 4pm. This is Sussegaad time. Relax. Take a nap. Release your tensions.

And then there is the Ferry. Despite the Panjim Mandovi river bridge spanning across Panjim and Betim , most people still like to travel across the river by Ferry. On my last trip to Goa, I remember paying for it. Since 2002 this is now free, except for vehicles with wheels for which there is a minor fee. And so you see tons of two wheelers emerging , as if from the river, when the Ferry docks at Panjim or Betim. The heady combination of sea smells, fish and diesel fumes probably creates the right incentive for rushing to have a cold chilled beer /feni wherever you plan to go next.

On our last day in Panjim we were looking for a place that sells a typical Goan sweet called "Dose"; I may have the spelling wrong, but folks, its the taste that matters. Our Goan friend served this to us over tea at her riverfront living room in Betim. This resulted in us depleting her entire supply of this sweet. A deadly combination of gram flour (chana flour), coconut, and local jaggery (probably toddy based) this melt-in-your-mouth stuff has not been given the publicity it deserves. Goa Tourism, WAKE UP!!!

It was 1 pm when our taxi taking us to the airport came. On hearing about our quest, the driver, trying to beat the Sussegaad timings, drove in a frenzy in the opposite direction to the airport, to take us to a shop where he knew this was sold. He then came after us to see whether we were able to get it, and then even moved the car and parked it where we didn't have to walk back a big distance to get back in again.

Izzat ka swaal tha. (To those unfamiliar with this, it means "it was question of goan prestige...").

And so we were back on the way to the airport. Whizzing past, trying to beat out previous timing between Panjim and the airport. Maybe the driver was yet to have his lunch. Maybe he wanted to get back to a Sussegaad afternoon over fish curry, rice and feni.

Like I said, there are NO speed limits. Maybe I will recommend him to Michael Schumaker. And maybe Schumaker will take him, provided, of course , he comes along with the fish curry and rice.

And a picture of Schumaker winning his races and getting doused by a bottle of feni in Monaco, is too much to imagine.

Time for Sussegaad.