With temperatures rising and the school year ending, many may have their minds set on making the best out of the summer. Apart from the many expatriates who plan to spend time with relatives and family their home countries, some perhaps can’t afford air travel or trying to avoid the summer rush that put a premium on almost every category in vacations. Either way, the prospect of being stuck through the summer in the Gulf’s scorching heat may be disheartening, but it doesn’t have to be this way.
In reality, you don’t need a fortune to enjoy the summer months, even though many banks may be trying to lure you into taking credit to do so. A little bit of planning combined with a small budget can put you on track for a fun-filled summer. The most important step is to keep a positive attitude and be willing to take the time to research for budget-friendly travel, accommodation and dining options.
Here are a few tips that can help you plan your summer without breaking the bank.
Think low cost
If you are price sensitive you should begin by checking out low-cost airlines to see if any of their close destinations can be of interest to you. Low-cost airlines, like FlyDubai, typically go to secondary airports which can help you explore new places that you never thought of visiting before at surprisingly limited money out. As always the earlier you book, the more likely you will be able to get a good deal. But that is not the case, or if the costs still go well beyond your budget, you probably need to switch gears and think about local destinations.
Get a guidebook
Many of us overlook great destinations that may be within driving distances, which may be attracting tourists from all over the world. Getting a guidebook and beginning to look around from a traveller’s point of view may be an inexpensive way that helps you visit the hidden gems in the UAE and neighbouring countries like Oman.
If you’re planning your vacation with a number of friends, you may be able to save a bunch by driving one or two cars only and sharing the petrol costs. This also can help you go further since you probably will have more than one driver. Lay out your trip ahead of hitting the road as much as possible to avoid spending a fortune on hotel stays, dining, etc. With that in mind, don’t get carried away and book every single hotel stay unless you’re sure you will be able to make it, and it is refundable at no cost.
Find deals
Those who are not able to take time off or can’t afford any sort of vacation don’t need to despair. A little bit of research can help you come up with a calendar of community events that are either free or at very low cost within your area. Remember Dubai and other major cities are major destinations for tourists even in the summer — despite the heat. Use your guidebook to find places like museums, parks, historic landmarks that interest you. Some may have special days where admission is either reduced or free.
If you’re looking for more fun activities especially with children, a good place to start is to look at mall events. On the sidelines of the summer sales, many malls plan family activities, festivals, and exhibitions, so keep an eye out for things meet your interest.
In addition, if you’ve certain entertainment destinations that are pricey and still you’d like to visit, search for discount deals either in coupon books, websites or social media. Search their online booking for off-days where they try to drive more traffic by reduced admission. By doing so, you may be able to explore your area and enjoy the summer without worrying about paying for tickets, hotels, etc.
Rania Oteify, a former Gulf News Business Features Editor, is currently a Seattle-based editor.
