Many people love to travel over the holidays to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax. Travelling over the holidays is not cheap as it is peak season in Kenya’s coastal season during the Chrismas holidays and all other public holidays.
This should not make you despair though as there are ways to travel on a budget and have a wonderful and full experience. Check them out below;
Tuk tuk drivers are the plug
When getting around, it is advisable to use tuk-tuks so as to get the full experience of the coast. On top of this, if you land a good tuk-tuk driver, they will give you all the hacks to cheap living including the best food places and excursions to do. They double up as local cheaper tourist guides.
Airbnb
One of the things that take up most of people’s money is accommodation costs. During the peak season, hotels become three times more expensive to stay at. The trick to this is to opt for an Airbnb and book it months in advance before prices get hiked.
Book SGR in advance
Transport costs can get expensive as well. It is advisable to book SGR (Standard Gauge Railway) tickets a month or two prior to travelling. Travelling by SGR or bus can cut some costs as compared to travelling by air. Taking the train would cost you Ksh.700 one way if you are travelling in the economy class and Ksh. 3,000 if you are travelling first class. A bus would cost around Ksh. 1500.
Cost-share
Another key way to save your coins on such a trip is by travelling with friends. By travelling as a group, you get to enjoy subsidized rates on a number of facilities and you can bargain as you are bringing in more money. You can even go for excursions which would have been costly to cover alone.
Eat at local restaurants
Instead of eating at hotels, pick the local restaurants that serve good food but at lower rates. Here you are guaranteed to get full without breaking the bank.
Public beach
There is usually no entrance fee at public beaches as compared to private beaches. And while most can be abit overcrowded, if you are lucky to get a good guide or tuk-tuk driver, they will show you the secluded and secret gems hiding in plain sight.