I’m weighing some decisions while planning my next two international trips and am curious. Where do you usually splurge? Where do you tend to limit costs? Comments?
Flight category
Larger city lodging
Smaller city/village lodging
Taxis, public transport, or walking
Food
Tours, Private guides, or independent
Activities
Classes
Souvenirs
Other categories?
Flight category (BC)
Reasonably comfortable hotel
Nicer lunches (we snack for dinner)
Some private tours and/or transportation (for e.g. we booked private transport and a guide for the tour of the concentration camp in France Natzweiler Struthof as there was a personal connection).
Taxis to and from airports, train stations (if too far to reasonably walk)
We don’t consciously limit too many costs but we happily use public transit, don’t drink much alcohol, and aren’t big shoppers.
We’re pretty frugal so we don’t really splurge. We will, however, be more willing to spend on experiences like on local food and visiting local sites. We don’t find it of much value to focus on hotel, flights, and transport so we definitely don’t splurge on that unless it’s local transport that’s unusual for us like say high speed train etc.
Love this question and the responses !
I "splurge" for me every so often on lodging, usually countryside or small town. On my trips I usually do a combination of simple and inexpensive lodging at most places to allow for treating myself at one or two stops.
Like Tom and Claire, I almost always take public transportation. Every once in a while I will splurge on a taxi to/from CDG (and that is definitely a splurge since going on the RER is free for me since my monthly pass is already paid for).
When traveling within Europe, I will frequently spend a little more to get a flight on Air France rather than trying to find the absolute cheapest fare on RyanAir or Vueling or something. The assurance that there is a backup plan if there is a problem with my particular flight is worth more to me than having an initial dirt-cheap outlay.
I never splurge on anything but main economy for trans-Atlantic flights (a trans-Atlantic ticket is a splurge in itself in my book !)
I often splurge for first-class if going on long-distance trains. My husband and I always buy first class for our Paris-Turin return train tickets.
I definitely let myself purchase whatever I want in terms of museum tickets, walking tours, etc.
Earlier this year, I splurged and bought myself a much nicer / more chic suitcase than I need. I got a promotion at work and decided it was my gift to myself. I justified it by saying that luggage is something that brings me pleasure (I know that sounds dumb) and that I will have it for a decently long time.
I am so interested to read what everyone says as this thread gets more and more responses !
Splurge:
Taxi/Uber to/from airport if it's easier than transport. Exception would be when there's specific transport, such as the airport tram in Edinburgh.
Taxi/Uber to get to a specific location where we'll be on our feet for hours, such as the Alhambra. It only cost €4 though so hardly a splurge.
Hotel breakfast. We've learned that it relieves stress in the morning not having to figure out where to eat, plus it's quicker so we can eat and get going.
Central hotel. I prefer being able to step outside and immediately be in the thick of the action.
Save:
Airfare. It's only about 8-9 hours and that extra $1k+ or whatever for 'premium' seating is better spent on a nicer hotel or food.
Premium economy on planes. Taxis to and from airport and train station so we're not wandering around with luggage looking for the hotel.
We always take public transportation in Europe. We don't rent a car either. For our upcoming trip to Ireland, we will splurge by hiring a private guide/tour in the Burren area since public transport there is not great. The tour will also drop us off in our next destination.
We are retired, FWIW. Comfort and convenience matter more to us today than what we did back in the day to save $...
The way you have defined "splurge" I guess we splurge on just about everything, from Premium Economy to taxis on arrival and departure, nice hotels, private tour guides. I don't see any of it as a splurge.
We eat well, but one thing we do not do in Europe (or at home) is bother with the "famous" restaurants, high end / Michelin star rated, $300+ per person kinds of joints...no thanks. So I suppose dining is one category where we consciously limit costs, at least avoiding the really expensive meals.
We are not big "souvenir" buyers, either. We like to window shop, and occasionally buy clothing we can't find back home, and that can be fairly expensive.
As for getting around, we always take taxis or arrange private transport to/from airports upon arrival, jet lagged and/or with bags in tow. Afterwards we do lots of walking, take public transport (Paris Metro, London Tube, etc), and only occasionally will we take a taxi if it is more easily done than using public transport.
I love this topic!
For us, the one thing we consistently splurge on is memorable experiences. We learned the hard way that life is short and painfully unpredictable so we spend our travel dollars on things we'll be reminiscing about for a lifetime. These are things like expensive tours or classes, shows or music. I'll truly never forget sitting outside Caffe Florian as they played "Can You Feel The Love Tonight" as the sun began to set around St. Mark's Square, eating macarons with happy tears streaming down my face. Those are the moments I cherish and will happily pay for.
We also love to bring home special souvenirs to remind us of those special days. A beautiful tablecloth, a tea tin, a painting etc.
Everything else is typically done with a budget in mind. Hotels are basic and about 10-15mins walk outside of the action. Flights are always economy or even basic economy and we just suck up the seat options. We use public transport nearly all the time but will use taxis if our bodies are done for the day.
Fantastic question!
PQ
We eat well, but one thing we do not do in Europe (or at home) is bother with the "famous" restaurants, high end / Michelin star rated, $300+ per person kinds of joints...no thanks. So I suppose dining is one category where we consciously limit costs, at least avoiding the really expensive meals.
Same with us here. We don't really splurge on fancy restaurants. We are not the kind that are really able to appreciate say the difference between a $50 fish entree and a $120 fish entree. That kind of thing is lost on me and I'd rather spend the money elsewhere
/We are not big "souvenir" buyers, either. We like to window shop, and occasionally buy clothing we can't find back home, and that can be fairly expensive.
True for me too. I was recently in Portugal and considered buying a set of 4 tiles which I thought was quite pretty and could put up in home. Well, I looked at that over and over again and finally thought not to get it, not so much because of the money (I think it was something like 80 Euros) but because after I get it home and hang it up, do I want to dust it? I also hate having trinkets all over the house because someone is going to have to dust. And, I'm not a collector of physical things, generally.
What I would splurge on are books.
I am probably one of the more budget travelers on here, though I probably have no need to worry about a budget. I just do not see the need to spend lots of money on many things, I travel comfortably, but people's definition of comfortable vary, and many view travel as a luxury experience.
Flight? My flights always include changes, I am perfectly fine in economy, I fit the seats. I fly Delta, but will not use Basic Economy, since I still have status and a Delta card, and that negates many benefits. I do usually still get upgraded to Comfort Plus on overseas flights, and I get lounge access. But to pay for Delta One? No, no, no, for the cost, there are so many better things to spend my money on.
Lodging? Usually pretty basic, we spend little time in the room. Comfort, location, and quiet trumps quaint and amenities. My "splurges" would be a nicer place if I am spending a week, a refrigerator is nice, a washer a plus.
We typically do not shell out for lots of classes, guides, tours, etc. We nearly always take public transport or walk, though if the trip fits, we rent a car, rarely taxis, never a private driver.
If we have one "splurge" category, it would be food/drink. We do not mind spending on a great meal featuring local cuisine. It is a main reason we travel. We stop often to sit and enjoy a coffee, or beer, wine, or a cocktail. But still, we tend to pass on "famous" restaurants, and find a Michelin star more of a sign to avoid, for both, mainly because value does not match the price.
We do pay for extra legroom on flights. With lodging we book with a place we like; it’s not based on price. Some are more expensive while others are more budget friendly. We will pay for breakfast buffets for the convenience so we don’t need to stop for lunch. When renting a car we do splurge on the zero deductible insurance.
I agree with a few posters, what some consider a splurge we consider routine. We’re too old and have saved for too many years to budget now.
That said, we will splurge on a fine meal. Usually just one per trip. In Paris it was on the Eiffel Tower at the Jules Verne restaurant. What a decadent, delicious meal with the most magnificent views. Worth every penny to us! I can remember every bite, hmmmm. In Croatia it was in Rijeka at the Hilton Costa Bella Resort at the restaurant Nebo. An 11 course tasting menu, again with beautiful views of the sea. Nebo in Croatian translates to sky and the restaurant was very high up.
This is one of the main splurges I look for and book.
Our splurges are for activities, classes and sometimes souvenirs. I don't care about flying first class, or fancier hotels, or Michelin restaurants etc. I. do want to be within an easy walking distance of the heart of a city though. Our trips are usually focused on doing specific things vs just wandering. This summer one of our splurges was a guided hike at Hornstrandir in Iceland. We had to take a boat out there, transfer to a zodiac to get to land, hike for 10 miles, get the zodiac and then the boat back. Very expensive, but SOOOO worth it! We also splurged in another very remote area of the country to do more hiking and again is was so worth it. Not nearly as much of a splurge as Hornstrandir was, but close!
Jean, great question!
I pay more for Main Cabin (I want an assigned seat) but refuse to pay higher prices for upgrades. It just doesn't matter that much to me.
For lodging, I look for comfort, convenience and location (in that order) and will pay more than I used to, but still do not splurge on lodging, since I'm rarely there.
I very very rarely take a taxi. I like public transport and walk as much as possible. The only time I grab a cab is when I am forced to by circumstances.
Food is one thing i do splurge on. I consider myself a foodie and love going to really good restaurants with great chefs and do not mind paying for that. I don't do that for every meal but at least once or twice on trips I will splurge at a nice restaurant. But I also like stopping at little cafes and having a nice coffee and snack, and eating out. Grocery stores are fine but when I'm on vacation, I don't want to spend time cooking for myself.
I like visiting things that are free and it annoys me to no end to have to pay for something like a cathedral and ancient sites. I do it, but I don't like it. :-) So in order to lessen the irritation, I tend to buy memberships to places like the National Trust, English Heritage, Historic Scotland and so on when I can. It makes me feel like I'm supporting them and I'm not being nickeled and dimed to death. Probably a false economy but oh well...
I usually don't take classes because I'm not into group events that much, but wouldn't mind doing so if the right class was offered.
I rarely buy souvenirs but when I do, it is something locally created and I don't mind paying more for that.
Airfare. It's only about 8-9 hours and that extra $1k+ or whatever for
'premium' seating is better spent on a nicer hotel or food.
I was going to write something similar. I'm 6'2", 210lbs, but feel comfortable enough in Economy. I will spend extra for direct flights over connections though, and luckily I live in a city with plenty of direct destinations available. Food isn't important enough for me to care, but my wife will tend to splurge on the occasional restaurant. What we tend to splurge on is the occasional hotel where it is part of the experience. Last year it was Barcaldine Castle in Scotland which was worth every penny, and the Mermaid Inn in Rye, England which was not. Next year we're leaning towards a week or two in the Dordogne and it won't be a hotel but we are most likely going to splurge on a hot air balloon ride.
Splurges:
Limits:
There are exceptions. We are going back to Rome next fall for the first time since we moved away in 2016. We plan to eat our way through the city we know so well so 7 nights in a moderate hotel and dinner out every night. Diet to follow.
Splurge: hotels in the middle of the action, that have 2 comfy chairs in the room and a shower with some enclosure. Now that we're older and take a break in the afternoon, we want to be able to relax in our room without sitting on the bed. And I hate a shower where it's a struggle to not get the whole bathroom wet.
We're also more and more willing to pay for the hotel breakfast
Save: main cabin seats, although we did just splurge on premium economy on a trip to Vietnam (but the flight was so much longer than Europe!)
We also don't splurge on food, that's just not important to us when we travel
And we love doing public transportation, it feels like a treat since we basically have none where we live
pay more for Main Cabin (I want an assigned seat) but refuse to pay higher prices for upgrades. It just doesn't matter that much to me.
That's what I do. The cheap seats plus seat selection and changeable fare.
Splurge? The fact that I get to travel, and do so as often as I do, is one big splurge. I am so thankful for those opportunities.
I will always pay more if I feel that there is a health or safety factor involved with a situation that requires that spending. I will spend more for a private guide in an unique situation where there is a lot to learn and the cost/benefit ratio seems good.
I will rarely spend more for fancy meals or for souvenirs. Those of us who have cleaned out our parents' homes after their passing know just why I choose not to fill up my house with extra "things."
I generally go for 3 star hotels, but will splurge for convenience or experience if the situation warrants. For example, I stayed at the Parador at the Alhambra with my sister. We shared the room cost so that helped. However, the experience of staying right on the Alhambra grounds was amazing for us and worth it.
I will usually travel coach with a seat selection cost to an extra legroom seat. However, if I am traveling on miles, I will sometimes go for premium economy or even business if the deal is good.
Flight over if I can get business/first with points. Taxis when I have luggage
Fun thread, Jean!
Fights: The last few flights since Covid I've done Delta One because I wanted to be in a cabin with fewer people and where everyone in the plane didn't walk by my seat when boarding. The lowest I will go is Comfort +. I want the assigned seat, I want to board early, I want a place to put my carry on bag. And yes, not really a luxury person but wow, I love the "PFD" - Pre-flight drink of prosecco or mimosa!
Hotels: I don't really spend on hotels BUT I want a smaller hotel with a 24 hour reception desk. My expectation is that after a frew days that the person at reception recognizes me when I come in. That makes me feel they are scanning who is entering and going upstairs.
Food: I'm not a foodie. I would not go to a very expensive restaurant for a meal and agree with someone upthread who says they would not be able to tell the difference in quality. I eat what I'm in the mood for, lol. If I have a big lunch sometimes I'll skip dinner. I drink wine more on vacation than at home but usually just one glass is sufficient for me. The times I've had 2 glasses for lunch are the times I've had to go back to the hotel and nap, hahaha!!
Experiences: I enjoy tours. My last 2 trips have been with Mark Seymour, a former RS guide. I've loved the intensity of his tours with so much learning! For me, that is an excellent expenditure and I'll do it until I "age-out" of his activity level. I also spend freely for museums and walking tours.
Taxis: I will usually take a taxi to/from an airport, except London. The National Express Coach is very handy for my favorite hotel there.
Souvenirs: Nope, not a shopper. I wasn't much of a shopper but then when my brother and I had to close out our parents' home and do something with all their "stuff"...that pretty much killed any shopping urge. I will occasionally buy a scarf or this summer on Shetland I bought a hat, knitted by a local in a co-op store. I can't wait to shovel snow in it, lol!!
Jean, what about you? I know you love experiences and do cooking classes plus arranging your trips so they fall in line with local festivals but what else?
Mardee--I too will always buy at least main cabin. Sometimes we opt for comfort plus if the cost is reasonable.
Carol now retired--We cleaned out mom's place this year, so know all about that. Her favorite souvenirs were plates. I am not a fan, but took 4 of the most special ones and am turning them into small cake platters with a base. Two will be gifts to our kids. Mom had some souvenirs from her parents travels, and my brother is not a traveler so had no interest in them. We had to be selective in what we kept as mom lives in CA and we were driving home. When I buy souvenirs, they are almost always something local and special. My favorite souvenir though was free. Horse shoes from Iceland after our ride this summer. We cleaned them up, put a clear coat of Rustoleum on them, and mounted them on wooden plaques. They are over two of the entrance doors for good luck.
We aren’t huge splurgers in any ofJean’s categories. We travel pretty modestly so if any of our family can travel with us we can be very generous on those types of trips of take a second trip for ourselves in the same year.
In general I'm pretty tight fisted and travel on a small budget, but I'll splurge on city tours, guides, and activities (experiences) - never on lodging, food, or flights.
Great thread!!! I love reading everyones posts
Splurges
Comfort+ and when it's not too crazy expensive the new premium class on Delta. I will pay for direct flights but for us that's our second flight as we go from a regional airport to the major airport
Activities are probably our biggest splurge .... cooking classes, small if not private tours - wine tasting, cycling, hikes. We like to do day trips and/or walking food tours a couple times in each location
taxis from the airport when we're in a new city
I do prefer hotels with breakfast and 24 concierge but places we visit often (Nice comes to mind) we will get an apartment
We ship wine home. It's a new splurge.
Not interested in expensive restaurants but we do like "fun" dining experiences. Not a souvenir person but I will by like a tea towel or napkins as they are easy to pack home.
One funny note...our neighbors like to tell us all the #1 rated restaurants they chose when they travel and I always think its a waste but then I realized that's there activity no hiking or cycling for them.
I feel like the fact I travel so much is a big splurge, even if I do my travel in a moderate way.
However, my new splurge - I made a firm decision last year (after buying a moderately priced ticket and regretting it) - is, if I am attending a performance, to pay for the best seats I can (like Tom_MN).
@Donna: "I will pay for direct flights but for us that's our second flight as we go from a regional airport to the major airport"
You made me think of this! I, too, always have a flight from Spokane to an International Hub and yes, I will also pay more to transit thru Seattle or SLC over transiting on the East Coast!
Wow, I am enjoying skimming through your answers this morning! So many interesting responses! I will spend more time this afternoon actually reading every word.
I need to get ready this morning to play the piano at a retirement home - volunteer for the Alzheimer’s sweet residents. I’ll share my decision I’m currently weighing and also how/where I usually splurge or save.
We generally don't splurge, but we did in 2022 when we decided to go to the Galapagos Islands on Celebrity Cruise lines ship.
The tour was 11 days with a week on the cruise ship. It was great, the best way to see the Galapagos Islands. Only 45 passengers on the ship and the Galapagos was wonderful.
Still, it was about twice as expensive as our average tour, cruise or trip.
We are in our mid to late 70s now and tend toward guided tours. When younger, we did lots of do it yourself trips, sometimes with a cruise sometimes not.
When doing it ourselves, we tended to go for Bed and Breakfasts instead of 4 or 5 star hotels. We actually like the BNBs more.
We usually ate light at lunch and our evening meal was usually nicer.
Jean—what a gift you are to those residents! My mom is in an assisted living and loves when pianists come by to play.
After 51 years of travel on public education salaries our routine is pretty set at the modest level. However, upon retirement 15 years ago we made two adjustments -- routinely fly business class - generally on points. And since we like to visit wineries almost always opt for the wine pairing lunch or dinner offered by the winery. Those tend to be expensive but so enjoyable.
As long as the door had a lock never were concerned about the hotel room other than it had to be centrally located.
We splurge on experiences based on “you only live once” (helicopter flight over Victoria Falls, over Flanders Bay in Antarctica, and Grand Canyon of Kauai) and hot air balloon in Cappadocia. These are memories that last a lifetime and well worth it. We also fly premium economy as our flights are generally 19 hours+. I still can’t bring myself to spend $10 to $14k extra for flights. I also like more upscale hotels when I am not on a tour. I am not a foodie so rarely splurge on a meal. To me, it’s just food. We also do not bring back souvenirs, etc. As someone previously mentioned, we are getting rid of stuff and don’t need to add to my daughter’s burden when she has to clean out our house after we’re gone.
Great question!
We are not shoppers nor interested in tracking down A-list eateries, though fridge magnets and good food are always appealing. Love a great bargain more than an expensive anything so “splurge” is relative. Our trip-types are varied and where we chose to spend a bit extra depends on the type of trip:
Beach vacation splurge is accommodation on the beach, with a sea view. Unless I can have my end-of-day gin and tonic on a balcony overlooking the ocean it does not count as a vacation.
On our annual trip to the east coast to visit family our splurge is a couple of nights away from family in a hotel. Provides some breathing space during what is typically a four-week stay with various family members. Whom I love dearly but…😉
Trip with flight over 3 hours, the splurge is extra legroom seats so either I pay for seat selection, or premium economy or club class.
Trip to a new place of immense historical interest (like Rome this past October), the splurge was for several small group guided tours. Saved having to study like a fiend before departure and bring cue cards!
We tend to balance/off-set restaurant meals with in-room picnics so often the splurge is an “expensive” bottle of wine from the supermarket. One day I might even summon up the nerve to buy the most expensive bottle on the COOP shelf just to see how good it is.
I agree with mikliz97 about Jean playing the piano in the Alzheimer's facility
That kind of thing was a gift to my Mum in her last 3 years in a nursing home with very advanced dementia.
Thank you on behalf of the residents (and families) of those who are there.
Traveling since 1971 to Europe, I see myself still basically as " budget plus ." Where I scrimp , I reserve for the occasional splurge later.
First of all, I scrimp on the flight category choosing the most rock bottom airfare , Basic Economy and putting up with that sometimes barely tolerable seat and flight for 11 hours non-stop.
I splurge on using taxis (arrange with the Tourist Office) sometimes in accessing the towns/village in the boonies if the bus schedule is not satisfactory. No rental car here. Almost exclusively I use public transport within the cities.
Staying sometimes in 3 star hotels is another example of splurging, two star hotels/Pensionen usually suffice. I don't use airb&b, VBRO, etc...not options.
Other times I spurge regarding food in restaurants/cafes , barring drinks, off limits.
Our splurges tend to be dinners and Uber/Lyft rides.
Lodging I think we stay pretty middle of the road unless these days we can get a discounted or free night through my husband's work.
I used to buy a lot of souvenirs and spent a lot of time on each trip hunting for them (ourselves, friends, family, co workers) but have found myself cutting back on that substantially the last few years.
We walk everywhere for our sight-seeing, rarely even taking public transportation. We cover quite the miles in the cities we visit doing our "urban hiking". Tours/guided activities we tend to stay on the low-mid end, usually not doing really expensive ones (student-led tours, birdwatching, walking tours with locals--no helicopters or catamarans!).
On the plane we are usually economy plus (there was a time when my husband had a different career with a lot of miles and we occasionally got first class but that is history now).
I spend a fair amount on the photo book I make after our bigger trips
Always fly economy and standard fare on trains
Prefer an upscale (NOT luxury, but definitely not economy) hotel--I travel solo and a lovely room in a nice hotel makes me happy
Taxis only if absolutely necessary, i.e. early flight, only option for some good reason, etc. I love walking & public transit.
Not a foodie, but I do at least one sit-down nice restaurant type meal every day, and have also been known to eat fast food--I don't eat it at home so it's actually a weird kind of treat, to me.
I will do guided day tours if it's something complicated that's easiest to do that way, otherwise I prefer my independent wanderings
Not much on activities or classes, so far
Souvenirs--my Achilles heel! Aside from the small things like magnets and tea towels, which bring me joy every time I use them, I am an avid flea market/antiques market hunter and some cities, like Budapest, have wonderful markets that I predictably find wonderful old goodies in. And books--the UK always sees me toting home a lot of books. My recent trip to Edinburgh and London were great for my fall wardrobe--wearing one of the sweaters I bought right now. I do not buy clothes on every trip, got lucky this time. I generally tend more towards useful things rather than tchotchkes--aside from 1930s Hungarian pottery pieces :) And then there's the fabric dept at Liberty of London...
Jean,
Very interesting topic.
I don't use a detailed budget in my day to day life or for traveling. I make a comfortable living but do not consider myself wealthy.
I just seem to have a nack for prioritizing the things that are important to me (and family) and economizing on what is less important. I grew up with a wonderful father. His greatest hobby was penny pinching. I learned several things from that. 1. The value of a dollar, 2. I don't want to spend too much time on getting the cheapest of something and 3. It is worth spending money on health, safety and joy.
I am not happy in an economy plane seat.
I am very happy in a 3 star hotel with air conditioning, willing to pay extra for location.
I am happy eating a meal from a grocery, but will pay big bucks to eat as an experience.
I regularly pay big bucks on a personal guide, this is very important to me.
I see a taxi as a splurge, don't use them much.
I am not big on souvenirs, I sometimes buy small things that I need in everyday life, but has to fit in my carry-on bag.
I pay attention to prices, but I travel how I want to. After a trip I see how much money I have and that dictates when the next trip is. I can also work extra hours to boost my travel fund when needed.
Similar to @vandrabrud, just above, but with some differences...
I just booked tickets for January and was able to get premium seats for $20 more per seat. That was a no brainer!
This is a fun topic, Jane! I love reading everyone's answers. Like a few posters mentioned, I feel like my biggest splurge is the act of traveling for pleasure so much in one year. We are not the people who drive the nice cars or have a bunch of fancy things or the newest and greatest of anything. But we do spend our money on experiences including travel. With that said some other splurges for me would be:
Limits:
- Main/comfort+ cabin seating (no basic economy. Though I have, on occasion, upgraded to D1 when I have found a screaming deal but that doesn't happen very often at all)
- AirBnB or VRBO so we don't have to eat out for every meal. It's fun to grocery shop in another country and you can save a lot of money on food costs while still experiencing the food/culture of the region (we always eat breakfast 'at home' whether that's in an apartment or included with our hotel)
- Food. Like I mentioned above, I love grocery shopping at the local markets and stores. I also love to find the small, mom-and-pop places in an area as often the food is locally sourced, fresh and delicious, and typically inexpensive (at least to an American it's inexpensive).
- Trains. I almost exclusively travel 2nd class as I find very little difference between the two (I'm not a big person so the seat size in the 2nd class is fine for me) I'll also typically chose the OuiGo train vs. the InOui TGV as there is a substatial cost savings.
- Souvenirs. As others have mentioned, I just don't want to lug a bunch of stuff home with me. Nor do I really need anything. I may buy one item from a trip but typically not more than that (unless it's a present for someone else.)
As others have said, that is very kind of you Jean to volunteer your time and talent playing at the retirement home..
And as others have said -- I guess the traveling in and of itself is a splurge.
Can't remember now who said this a few posts above, but I totally do this.
We tend to balance/off-set restaurant meals with in-room picnics
I tend to let myself have a nice restaurant meal if I want, because usually it's only one a day. I will usually eat the other meal (usually dinner) in my room with some grocery store snacks. (I always have breakfast though !)
All of your comments have been so enjoyable to read! When I glance at our row of travel photo books in our bookshelf at home, it's a great reminder that being able to travel internationally so many times has in itself been a splurge.
And thank you for the kind comments! It is amazing how playing music - especially their old childhood school songs, patriotic and hymns bring silent Alzheimer residents back to singing & some clapping along, too.
I'll summarize briefly & will add a second reply with the decision I'm in the process of making.
Splurge:
Flight category - we pay for the Economy Comfort for leg room. I buy it early for the bulkhead seats.
I gladly splurge on nice seats for any ballet, classical music, etc. concert! Wonderful memories!
Lodging - typically when we're both traveling, I splurge on at least one smaller city where the money stretches further. Our overall total average hotel/night is $150-225, depending on the country.
Middle:
Activities & classes - I don't consider them a splurge but do at least one cooking class & other active activities along with museums. Sometimes a group mini-van day tour. My cooking class info gets reused a lot when I'm home. : )
Food - Breakfast at the hotel, afternoon gelato, evening outdoor meal. If traveling solo, I just eat some veggies & fruit for a meal in my room for a few of my dinners.
Lower costs:
Souvenirs - maybe a tea towel or scarf. One nice ceramic piece per first time in a country, if I see something.
Taxis - rare to get a taxi. Mostly walking & public transportation, if necessary. For instance, we take the RER to/from CDG.
We travel by train, and I purchase the tickets a few months ahead for additional savings.
Laundry is just done in the hotel sink - my preference.
I splurge on others. Pay for meals. Drinks. Taxi’s if needed.
As noted by another poster being able to afford a trip to Europe is a splurge.
A splurge for me was moving from Economy to Premium Economy on Virgin Airlines about 10 years ago.
I will buy good seats for theatre and sporting events.
Next trip I intend to really splurge and fly Upper Class ( first class ) on VA.
Might be last London trip so why not?
Might also stay at a 4 star hotel.
EDIT: as I made my cup of coffee this morning realized it’s a splurge because I order the ground beans and have them shipped to me.
Okay, here's what's going on in my head.... ; )
Not including the price for airline tickets or insurance, here's the total per night cost for everything including gelato! for two previous & one projected solo trip - all in Italy:
2018 - 18 nights = $180/night
2022 - 22 nights = $168/night
2024 - 32 nights = $282/night
Most of the jump in price for next year's trip is due to lodging costs, specifically at Polignano a Mare & Palermo.
The PaM room has a balcony with two chairs overlooking the favorite spot for Instragramers which I am definitely not! LOL! But, I can picture myself relaxing there in the afternoon when things are closed & I usually take a short break anyway and also in the evening.
The Palermo lodging is a gorgeous palazzo that's more than I've ever paid for a room. It's on Via Vittorio Emanuele in the heart of where I want to be in the evening. The reviews for hospitality & the whole experience are impeccable. Last year during the RS Adriatic tour, there were a couple of hotels that were not the location I would have chosen. They were fine during the day, but I don't like walking solo at night more than a few blocks anywhere there's not a lot of people out on the street. I also don't choose apartments when I'm traveling solo. I've looked through so many options in Palermo that are getting cut because of one of these criteria, plus I want something cheerful since it's a 5-night stay.
Last year I paid $370/night for the RS Adriatic tour trip and didn't hesitate on that expense. Also, my husband & I were in England & Wales last year, and that was $450/night together for many splurges since it was our anniversary trip. So, I'm just in process while planning this next trip whether I should enjoy these two very special small hotels/B&B's to stay or pick something else.
Edit: maybe I should add - my husband is completely supportive of my need to feed my European travel addiction. : ) This decision is all in my head.
I typically splurge for Business Class on long flights (not on short hops), for a few reasons.
The main reason is because being able to sleep in a lie-flat seat means I'm going to be better prepared to be on the go when I arrive. And it's just less stressful not to worry about having room for my carry-on, or in the rare case when I check a bag, it's handled with priority, meaning it comes off the plane more quickly. Also being at the front of the immigration line is a big bonus. And I really appreciate lounge access when I have a long layover.
Other than that, I don't splurge on anything as a rule, but will often have a few special meals or stay in one or two special hotels over the course of a month-long trip.
It's not a splurge if it's part of the travel experience I've been looking forward to. Tickets to arts events (theatre, symphony, opera) or a hot-air balloon ride in Cappadocia or a helicopter tour of Denali, yes these aren't inexpensive, but these are the reasons I've traveled a long distance. If it's important to me, I won't give up on the experience because of the cost.
Splurges:
Business class flight from USA to Europe using miles.
That's about it. We aren't cheap, but middle-class stuff in Europe is really very nice quality so we don't feel the need to spend more to upgrade beyond 80-140 euro hotel rooms, 100 euro dinners for 4, etc.
Maybe one indulgence is buying outdoor sports gear in or for Europe, and then giving it away when finished instead of dragging it along for the rest of the trip. For instance a Weehoo tandem recumbent kid's bike trailer. Gave it to an adaptive cycling non-profit in Freiburg rather deal with it for a week before returning home.
And I will say that trips themselves overall are a splurge - no one thing super expensive, but in total not cheap.
Hank expressed our approach to travel splurges. Travel itself is a splurge when you add all the expenses, even when careful with spending. We do take a few taxis these days as a consequence of age. It’s time for a trip!
I splurge on flights, flying Business Class after an especially horrible flight back in the early 2000's (drunk passengers, child laying sprawled across 3 seats and part of mine, etc). I tend to use public transportation but will occasionally use taxi.
I will also book walking tours and cooking classes. As much as I like wine, I haven't found any winery tours to be worth the price. I haven't used a private guide but would consider doing so if I felt it would better suit my needs.
I tend to stay in 2-3 star hotels with occasional 4 star. All I require is a clean room and clean bathroom. I don't spend tons on food preferring small mom and pop restaurants to pricier ones.
Not generally a shopper but will purchase easily transported art-looking at a micromosiac of Tuscany as I type. It just needs to be small enough to carry-on.
This has been interesting to ponder because I plan different types of splurges when my husband is traveling with me vs. traveling solo. During our recent trip to England & Wales, we splurged on some nice golf courses for him which he really enjoyed! We will probably do the same for our next trip to southern Spain.
Jean, I got so wound up in everyone's splurges that I just went to the Delta app and bumped myself up to Comfort+ on both flights! See what you did??? 🤣
Although I have to confess that I used AF reward points for the flight, so I figured I could spend a few hundred dollars to indulge myself.
Great choice, Mardee! I once spent 7 hours trapped in pain in a regular coach seat when the person ahead reclined the entire time. I have done all I can to avoid that scenario since. Just those few more inches of legroom make a big difference.
Oh no, Carol! Yes, it will be nice to avoid that situation! Of course, the not-so-good thing is that once you submit to these indulges, it's very hard to go back again. :-)
Mardee, I hope that extra leg room will give you more sleep, so you’re ready to go in England! And being closer to the front door of the plane should give you 3-5 extra minutes of vacation time, too! LOL!
Germane to how this thread is flowing, I'm fairly surprised by how many people spring for business class. It's frackin' expensive!
For my family FF miles/CC points cover it one way at very good value per mile/point (+- 10 cents per). Usually pay about 2x points compared to coach seats, and we rack up tons of miles/point through various minor scheming and just living life. We can't seem to travel enough to deplete half million point balances.
But when I look at actual seat costs if paying cash for business, it's usually $4k-$10k from the west coast. I'm not sure I could do it - hard to not think that each of us in some sense would be earning something like $500 an hour tax free by sitting not just in coach but even economy plus, the exit row, etc. $1500 an hour for the three of us. I can stand a lot of discomfort for that kind of money.
Maybe one day, maybe hopefully, I'll get over being obsessed with opportunity cost and just spend some money on business class seats without fretting about it :) It's not a moral thing for me - just can't stop running the "with that money I could have" spreadsheets in my head.
”…just can't stop running the "with that money I could have" spreadsheets in my head.”
Hank, I feel that way with the neighbors’ professional Christmas lights going up already! I couldn’t justify spending that amount of money, but it does make a pretty street.
Everybody has their own preferences & gets to choose how they spend their money. I’ve been upgraded a few times years ago into those wonderful first class seats where I could sleep all night on my stomach. It was fantastic to wake up ready to go! I can understand some choosing to do it for multiple reasons including health issues.
Mardee, I hope that extra leg room will give you more sleep, so you’re ready to go in England! And being closer to the front door of the plane should give you 3-5 extra minutes of vacation time, too! LOL!
Jean, I hope so, too. And I will definitely use every second of those 3-5 extra minutes! Full speed ahead!
"I can understand some choosing to do it for multiple reasons including health issues."
Same same! We fly business frequently, just never pay many thousands of dollars cash for it. I totally get how much better it is :)
To be completely clear, not saying it's unreasonable or a waste, just that I wouldn't be able to relax and enjoy it so for me may as well not.
I need to cultivate your attitude periscope:)
Having flown seated in all different parts of the plane, I really do value a business class lie flat seat.
But I haven't died in coach yet, and when I'm in business I see all the people in coach, hundreds of them, surviving the journey. And really better, most not super happy coming off the plane, but many pretty okay. I'm not overly misanthropic - it doesn't bother me too much to be around other people. And I'm not constantly shielding myself from discomfort, rather to some extent seeking it out in many habits and activities.
It's hard for me then to think I would pay $20,000 for my family of three to not be with the air-folk. It makes me feel soft or something, a sort of blow to my sense of self as being most efficiently rugged regular person.
Not at all trying to indict anyone who pays cash for business class seats, just exposing my psychology around why so far I haven't been able to manage it. It's me, not you!
Hank, as one of the commenters flying Business Class, it is indeed a big splurge for us. It is also a quality of life/comfort issue for my spouse to manage a long flight a bit more comfortably as he manages some health issues. We balance this splurge out with driving older cars, doing all of our own home maintenance etc, not eating out a lot, etc. So the other areas of our life are not at all extravagant. We also don’t stick with one airline but choose the most convenient route so we never have enough points except to use for an airport hotel stay or something equivalent so we are stuck paying full price.
Sounds perfectly reasonable, Claire.
I will say that my family burns silly amounts of cash on all kinds of things day to day - personal training, skiing, grocery shopping at our local market that is so expensive, friends have dubbed it the "food museum." I "only" how about $1,500 "invested" into my cheapest bicycle, Barney. My other two bikes are easily $6000 a piece.
And still I just can't get my head right to buy a business class seat. OP is right, we all make our choices :)
What we splurge on-
We always fly Business Class lie- flat seats for international flights. When I first flew in coach over the pond, I got zero sleep, and dreaded the flight home. With BC, I'm on vacation from my first step into the BC lounge, and I can enjoy the actual journey. That being said, we average $2500 RT each from the west coast. I've paid from $1650 to $ 3400(once.) Our most recent ticket was $1850 each RT British Airways. I spent hours and days looking for decent BC fares.
Our main rationale- one never knows when it's your last trip, so shouldn't you really treat yourself? We are in our early 70's, and each year we suddenly lose someone in our extended family / friend network, someone who thought they had many more trips on the horizon.
We spend more on convenient hotels in the old town areas, with breakfast, in quiet, charming areas. We usually wake up early , (with jet lag), go out and explore, then return to the hotel for a midday rest. We like having easy access to our hotel. We do research hotels that's accept Sapphire Chase Visa and Avios.
We spend on a house/ dog sitter who comes and stays in our home. We have three dogs that my husband talks about constantly when we are away. When his anxiety gets high, a quick text to the dog sitter calms him down.
What we don't splurge on-
Expensive dinners- we aren't foodies, but do enjoy local wines, which are usually reasonable.
Souvenirs- with carry-on only luggage, I purchase a few small items, often consumables. (Oops- Except for that oil painting we had shipped home from Bellagio last year.)
Private transportation - in most cases, public transportation meets our needs quite nicely.
Transportation at home- I drive a 2005 Lexus.
Jean, thanks for starting this thread, as I'm enjoying reading the responses immensely.
Safe travels to all!
Jean, great topic. Glad so many people are sharing.
I travel on a budget, but not so tight that I can't do or see things I want. I can afford one trip a year. So here it goes:
Flight: I fly Economy. Yesterday I booked United for September 2024, refundable RT PHX to FCO. I would have preferred PHX to VCE, FCO to PHX but didn't like United's VCE flights and RT saved me $400 although I will spend $75-ish for first class train Rome to Venice. I always pay a little more for preferred seats and priority boarding because I want my right hand aisle seat and to board as soon as I can. Phoenix is not a cheap market. I choose refundable over cancellable because anything can happen as I get older.
Transportation: I always book first class train tickets if available. Less seats, so less chance to be exposed to someone sick. I'm not a kid person, so less chance of kids in first class. Depending where my hotel is and how far, I will take taxi, train or bus from airport to hotel or hotel to airport. After arrival I buy a city public transport pass.
Hotels: This year I stayed in my first monastery. Great experience. For next year I have booked monasteries in Florence and Rome. If I stay in hotels, they are on the affordable side of 3-star. Central location is important, close to transportation and sightseeing. No spurges here, costs under €175/night for hotels and under €115/night for monasteries.
Dining: I'm not a foodie so most meals are relatively inexpensive. But I like Food Tours as way to experience areas I may not go to otherwise. As a solo traveler, it's nice to have company for those meals. So one food tour per city and two is a splurge.
Sightseeing/Activities: I will splurge on activities, like center seats at the Spanish Riding School and tickets for concerts and operas. I may or may not take a tour of a museum, depends where. I spend a lot of time looking at what interests me and sometimes tours skim my highlights. I haven't taken any private tours and you get what you pay for with a "free" tour. I will buy museum passes or multi-museum tickets. If horseback riding is available along the way (Hyde Park, Appian Way), I'll go for a meander, $150-200 per hour.
Tours: I don't know if you want to call a Rick Steves tour a splurge. It really isn't but it costs more than traveling on a budget independently. I sandwich a tour in-between independent time. I like the companionship and shared experiences.
Souvenirs: I buy lots of souvenirs, mainly Christmas ornaments. But I'm running out of Christmas trees to decorate so will be cutting back on ornaments. (7+ trees or 1 to 2 in each room is enough.) I buy a few gifts along the way, but am cutting back on that too. Unless I know that someone will really want and appreciate something, I don't want to carry a tote full of stuff. I also don't want to check my suitcase coming home any more after United delayed it in June.
Stuff: I quit splurging on wardrobe/clothes before the trip. Have some that I have never worn. And I don't need or even want to buy more travel stuff because my spares have spares.
Hank, being quite familiar with Seattle, I want to know which grocery store is the ‘food museum’?:)
Nice Topic.
Splurge: Air Fare--Hate the long flight and I want comfort.
Sometimes a Splurge: Hotel, always want AC. I see no reason to "rough it". Been there, done that in real life back in my younger days. Worked hard for retirement, time to spend and enjoy life. Hotel location isn't too important because public transportation is so good almost everywhere.
Everything else is pretty moderate. Enjoy public transportation. Great food is easy to find at reasonable prices. I use ground tours sometimes. Never private. Activities are rare especially if I can do them at home. Seems like I never have time for classes, although I would like to do some cooking classes in some special regions. Souvenirs, never. I take loads of pics and I find those much better than souvenirs.
I'd say experiences.
We usually try to save as much as possible on flights (although as we get older, comfort is starting to become more important, so we are more likely to spring for Premium Economy now). For lodging, we don't choose the cheapest, but we don't choose the most expensive, either, although we will spend extra if a particular location will make a difference. We don't really buy souvenirs, other than some small memento from each country to hang on our Christmas tree.
But once we are at the location, we'll pretty much do what it takes to see what we want to see and do what we want to do. I'm also willing to spend extra to avoid crowds, if possible, or to be in a smaller group.
So, yes we spent extra and got up early to have Inner Circle access at Stonehenge. Yes, we spring for private drivers and tours on occasion, such as from Cusco to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley in Peru; to Sacro Bosco and Civita di Banoregio on our way from Rome to Orvieto in Italy; to some towns, markets, and the equator in Ecuador; to the Giant's Causeway and other sites on the Antrim Coast, etc. Yes, we sprang for a small-group day trip to Pompeii and Sorrento from Rome. Yes, we stayed at a more-expensive-than-other-options national park hotel to be able to visit Plitvice lakes twice--in the afternoon and in the morning. Yes, we took a private tour to visit several cenotes (3 of which we had all to ourselves), in the Yucatan. Yes, we have booked a premium suite on a small-group (12 cabin) boat in Bai Tu Long Bay, Vietnam.
This is one reason I can't bring myself to pay the cost of flying Business Class, although the comfort of that would be wonderful. I'd rather spend the money on experiences.
Hank, being quite familiar with Seattle, I want to know which grocery
store is the ‘food museum’?:)
Metropolitan Market. Pricey but at least it's good :)
When I have the budget, I splurge on experiences as I am a full believer in experiential travel. For example in Vienna, I went to the Vienna State Opera and sat up front and center orchestra on the aisle about 10 rows from the stage. I saw Le Nozze di Figaro. I bought my ticket six months in advance directly from the Vienna State Opera website and selected my seat. This was a huge splurge and well worth it.
I splurge on insurance, lodging with great views, and experiences (like landing in an airplane on a glacier in Alaska).
Continental, the Wiener Staatsoper was also my first experience in Europe buying some special seats! I received a nice recognition gift at work, so I used some of it to buy a ticket for my husband & me to attend a wonderful ballet there. Since that time, if my husband doesn’t come on a trip, that’s an excuse to buy a nicer seat when picking from the choices since I’m only purchasing one ticket.
Jean I would definitely splurge on those hotel rooms.
My overall splurge after years of travelling on a budget is to remind myself that I can now afford to spend what I want if I think it is worth it.
For airfares that is economy to Australia, Premier Economy with the hope of a reward upgrade to the USA or Asia and booked business class to Europe.
My last trip with Emirates included private transfers which I enjoyed but wouldn’t buy myself. Taxi from the airport at the beginning of the trip and public transport at the end unless late at night.
Willing to spend more on a hotel room if I will be spending more time in it but 3 star is fine. I like a separate shower and somewhere to sit apart from the bed.
Recently started going on food tours.
Will pay more for an organised tour with less people, haven’t done a trip with 50 others for a long time.
Will splurge for better tickets for a show.
Will spend money to save time eg not booking cheapest airfare if the time flying is a lot longer.
Still always looking for a bargain though.
Thanks for starting this topic Jean, its been so interesting to read the different views.
My main splurge is airline seats. Recently had a month in Australia, and from London would take more than 17-18 hours so paid for eye-wateringly expensive Business Class (and was very glad I did), though all internal flights there were taken in economy. Usually do premium economy between London and East Coast of US and Canada, maybe Business class for west coast. But for short flights within Europe, stick with economy.
Otherwise my travel is usually all public transportation, with occasional taxis. May upgrade to first in trains if a good deal is on offer.
For hotels, within the UK, I always book the Premier Inn, can't remember the last time I booked something else. Wish they would branch out into Europe. Elsewhere would try to book something between economy and luxury - but would vary depending on lots of factors, but would always go to the higher end to be sure I was comfortable enough.
I don't do "fancy" restaurants. Sometimes do fast food, snacks in room. Happy with a mid range restaurant.
Don't buy much stuff. I do look for drink coasters, nice to have for the memories. Have on my wall a canvas I bought in Cuba, a street painting with a car. Have to admit to a few other odd bits and pieces around - lacquerware (Myanmar) container holding pens, red fan from Vietnam, Aboriginal place mat etc. Also have a couple of group photos of particular trips with friends that are displayed.
I agree that some experiences are exceptional, I noticed a couple of people in the thread flagged the balloon trip in Cappadocia and that's the sort of thing that I wouldn't want to miss.
Splurges:
-paying for our now adult daughters to join us when they can. Although now they have to pay for their own flights since they finally have real jobs, then Mom and Dad pay for the rest.
-experiences, that's why we travel, to experience new things.
Save:
-never been a shopper, so either one or no souvenirs.
-not a foodie
-flights-can't bring myself to pay for more than economy, plus seat assignment, although I have been tempted several times.
Middle of the road:
-hotels-can't do budget, can't afford luxury.
-transportation-whatever is convenient at the time. A lot of walking, trains, metro, taxis or private transfers. Whatever the situation calls for.
And I don't need or even want to buy more travel stuff because my spares have spares.
😆
We bought last minute tickets yesterday and our minimal splurges went right out the window. At least we got main cabin seats, but at the very back of the plane. Yes, the seats that do not recline. For all of this, we also got to pay almost twice what the regular fare would be. Life, what can you do but just roll with it.
I decided just now to check the seat map again. Yay, there were 2 seats in premium, and only $12 each! For the return leg though, I was only able to get to the front part of the plane, but I will take it. Being. 5 weeks post knee replacement, I did not want to be maneuvering too far on the plane.
"I splurge on insurance"
Curious about this one. My Chase Sapphire Reserve card (embarrassingly snooty name for a plastic rectangle) includes much travel insurance, including $100,000 medical evacuation insurance.
But not all travel insurance is equal, particularly med evac, which varies wildly in both cost, services, and threshold for when the insurance company says "fly her home in a private jet." I've been tempted to buy the most expensive, liberal, comprehensive sorts of med evac insurance because family does a lot of inherently dangerous stuff outside in Europe (or at least on average less safe than taking the metro to the museum). I'm not well schooled on the differences in med evac policy though, and have never ponied up for the deluxe versions.
So mnannie (or whomever) what does "I splurge on insurance" mean? Thanks!
Eileen, I decided last night to cancel the expensive palazzo at Palermo, and I reserved my backup plan - Delle Vittorie, a nice boutique B&B, instead. It’s much more my style, and it’s still in a great location. And spending $1000 extra for the five nights just seemed too extravagant.
Priscilla, I was reading one of your old posts from a trip report to Sicily, and I saw that Zoe had recommended Delle Vittorie to you, too! ❤️. That was my final confirmation to switch to it! 😊
I’m definitely keeping my fun lodging at Polignano a Mare, though!
Mikliz7, yes, I also felt like I spent so many miles for my ticket to Italy next year! But, I’m going!
Hope your leg cooperates with your flight & plans! 😊
Splurge: experiences like guided day tours, festival events, concerts; city or central hotels and BnB; at least one real nice meal a day
Limit costs: airfare is usually lowest price or a step above if fare difference isn’t major, carryon only. I too like to limit flight and layover time so I look for the cheapest fare with the least airtime
Jean, I woke up thinking about your thread this morning and about how my views have shifted since Covid.
Something that has moved from the "Splurge" category to the "Basic Need" category is cell service. I used to just depend on WIFI in the hotel room or various restaurants I stopped at. Over the last few trips in 2022 and 2023 I've realized this is a necessity. I don't want to fool with a SIM card so I just pay for a Verizon plan - either the $10/day or $100/month depending on my needs. It is essential on any travel day either plane or train in order to catch any delays or other problems.
@Hank - regarding MedEvac coverage. I try to have enough that I can be flown to a hospital near my home in North Idaho in an air ambulance. When I first returned to travel after Covid I got $1 million coverage in case I needed to be evac'd from Europe on a private jet with a ventilator. I've backed back down to $500,000 per trip at this point. You will want to make sure your evac coverage extends to your doing what they might consider "risky" activities - some policies with have exclusions for things. Divers Network is more apt to cover sports activities than some of the standard policies. Although I've been retired for 10+ years, I was a hospital social worker and covered ICU among other hospital units and had the task of arranging medical transport back home for people. It was horribly expensive then, and moreso now. TBH, $100K is not enough for an evac to me.
It wouldn’t be classed as a splurge to many here, but I always have my own room and preferably own bathroom when traveling with others and renting apartments.
I’m getting way too old and fussy to share a twin room, or worse, sleep on the sofa bed in a vacation apartment just to save money.
Another is to book my first night of a trip to Europe in a nice hotel…..I pick them based on the reviews of their breakfast!
I do love a good hotel breakfast! 😊
I ,or we, move to a rental apartment after that.
Other than that, I’m very much a budget traveler……..though I do now cough up for Premium Economy seats on long haul flights.
You will want to make sure your evac coverage extends to your doing what they might consider "risky" activities - some policies with have exclusions for things. Divers Network is more apt to cover sports activities than some of the standard policies.
Yep.
My spouse and I are SCUBA divers, and in addition to more "typical" tourist activities (like trips to Europe to research pizza and gelato...) we take diving trips, where the trip either includes some diving, or is exclusively a diving trip (though we generally don't go to Europe to dive – our dive trips are generally to places in Latin America, the Indo-Pacific and other far-flung places, sometimes in extremely remote corners of the world and/or in "developing" countries)...some of these locations can be a very, very long way from the nearest medical facility (and getting to one could require an hours-long ride in a speedboat or even a helicopter).
We always have supplemental insurance from "DAN" (correct name is Divers Alert Network). Fortunately, we've never had to file a claim, though we did have one incident while on a dive trip to Indonesia (that incident was scary, though ultimately minor) when we decided to contact them from the other side of the world for a phone consultation with a dive medicine doctor. Turns out it was not really a serious condition, ie "just ice it, stop diving until the swelling goes down and the bruises fade, and don't let that happen again" - which was quite reassuring, and coincidentally matched my own amateur diagnosis/guess - and totally sold me on the value of their services. Most divers swear by it and some dive operators (companies who take people diving) even require customers have DAN insurance and show proof of coverage (a lot of diving is associated with travel, sometimes to those very remote locations).
Worth a look if you engage in what insurers might classify as adventure sports or high-risk activities (and maybe even if your most risky activities are researching pizza and gelato).
Researching gelato can be a very high-energy, risky activity - LOL! I did chance that the cars would stop for me while crossing a busy street to reach the “Old Bridge Gelato” in Rome. (Suso’s Manet in Venice and Buon Gusto in Pienza are still my favorite!)
While some might think that having gelato every afternoon “in the name of research” is a splurge, I firmly categorize that activity as a “cost savings” - i.e., skip lunch, have the gelato. ; )
I like your "alternative accounting," Jean !! 😆😆
Re Gelato, here's a splurge for ya. If I buy a gelato and it isn't excellent quality, I'll throw it away. My family finds it amusing and goes by the Seinfeld "fruit's a gamble" ethos. But I will gladly burn four euro for another try at great gelato.
Thanks for the MedEvac info. Last summer I slid out riding a Belgian Spring Classic route and clearly broke a rib (it still hurts a bit!); made me think that it would be nice to be sure I could be flown home without wrecking my family's finances if something worse happened.
Probably I should buy high-end MedEvac and just eat the middling gelatos. But one must have priorities :)
"I like your "alternative accounting," Jean !! 😆😆"
@Kim and Jean - Gelato (and Jean's excursions to Mr 100 Tiramisu) could also be slotted under a mental health catagory, hahah! I NEED certain things for my mental health equilibrium - gelato? check. Trip to Yellowstone every June? check.
@Hank - Did you read the Trip Report from Leia a few weeks ago? She got sick in Budapest with what turned out to be a collapsed lung...which can also happen if a broken rib pierces a lung...yuck. You've probably discussed with your health care provider the recommendations of flying with a broken rib in case it happens again....
Jean—one time in Paris I suggested to our daughter that we share a gelato. Oh the look I got!!! Followed immediately by the words “one does not share gelato “, lol!!!
Jean I stayed at Delle Vittorie in May. I loved the location and walked everywhere.
OK, maybe (probably) I am super niave here, but I don't get the purchases with CC that provide the travel stuff. People have been posting that they get travel upgrades using the CC. My CC is really an emergency fund to be used if I can't fund something critical with my standard debit card. I can't understand the use of a CC for basic stuff even if the card offers me something in return. To me, setting up the payments to a CC are a pain, subject to ransomware and other cyber attacks and not worth the time.
Background- retired with $50K income, no debt but significant assets.
Convince me I am missing out here. Pre-covid would typically go to Europe 1x/yr.
I think my whole regular life is one big save, so I can splurge and travel!
Going forward, I think a travel splurge will be direct flights where possible. We did air Canada to France this summer with very long layovers that did me in. Not worth the $700 we saved.
My only souvenirs are magnets and maybe a watercolor print.
I’ve only done one RS tour, which I thought a splurge, but worth every penny.
I decided just now to check the seat map again. Yay, there were 2 seats in premium, and only $12 each!
mikliz97, I do that a lot. I will check on the seat map over and over after I buy my tickets, and move my seat around to a more beneficial place whenever I can. It's really surprising how often better seats open up for the same price or only slightly more.
Something that has moved from the "Splurge" category to the "Basic Need" category is cell service.
Pam, I definitely agree that cell phone service with a good data plan is an essential need, rather than a splurge. In fact, as you know, I switched my cell provider from Verizon to T-Mobile to get a free international data plan. It was worth it!
It wouldn’t be classed as a splurge to many here, but I always have my own room and preferably own bathroom when traveling with others and renting apartments.
S J, I still remember when I first started traveling and just about every room I booked had the bathroom down the hall, which was mostly shared with others. Even as late as 2018, I booked an Airbnb that was a private room in a house in Amsterdam with a shared bathroom. But the couple that owned it were wonderful and I had many great conversations with them (usually over wine, lol!). Plus the shower in the HUGE bathroom was the best shower I have ever experienced. But now I like having my own en-suite room and privacy.
I can't understand the use of a CC for basic stuff even if the card offers me something in return. To me, setting up the payments to a CC are a pain, subject to ransomware and other cyber attacks and not worth the time.
cbrochu30, First of all, using a credit card is really safer than using a debit card, as credit cards give you more protection for unauthorized transactions. And for me, it's very easy. I pay off my credit debt every month so I don't have to worry about payments. It's a bit more work because you have to look at the transactions and then set up the payment (unless you make auto payments, which I do not), but in return, you get a myriad of rewards.
I don't spend enough now that I'm retired to gain as many reward points as some people here, but even the small ones add up. For example, I used points to fully cover the flight on my upcoming trip to England in March of 2024, and I used my free hotel credit that I get every year with Marriott Bonvoy to book a hotel in Oxford. So just that alone probably saved me at least $1500.
My splurge is time, I suppose. I take the day flight to Terminal 5, Heathrow, and stay overnight at the Sofitel (airline points) with room service, before flying out to my destination from the same terminal the next day. I made the mistake of deviating from this last May by taking an overnight, direct flight in Business Class, flat bed, from Boston to Madrid. It didn't compete with my day flight in economy (or premium economy...as I am preferring to be reasonably near the front of the plane for deplaning these days) and a comfy bed. I was miserable with jet lag for days so never again will I take an overnight flight. My travel fun starts when I lock my door, so I make it relaxed.
I've moved since the beginning of Covid. I can no longer get quickly to the airport. So now I also have added a hotel room (CC points) at Logan for the night before. I can walk to my terminal A or E via a walkway. With not many points I can stay there for free.
Depending on my location, upon arrival I will take a car to my first location's hotel if there is not easy public transportation from the airport. I like to keep my travel day transportations to just two a day.
When I travel, I see what I want to see and don't consider the cost. I don't consider this a splurge, but a necessity as it is why I am there. So it would seem I splurge on travel time.
I'm of an age now where I'm more into burn rates than I am into travel budgets.
@Periscope: Absolutely.
It's really hard to separate "pragmatism" from "splurge" these days. For example, we now aim for DIRECT flights whenever possible, and sometimes those flights are a bit more expensive. But that is both a splurge (easier to travel but more costly), but also pragmatic as it GREATLY reduces risk, stress, and other downsides. Flights also now come in about a half-dozen categories from no frills (cattle class) up to first class, and we usually find ourselves - like many others - in that "premium economy" middle range so we get a little more leg room and a "better" seat location, but still are back with the normal folks in the main cabin.
We definitely, though, splurge on hotels vs our younger selves. And have no limits on daily spending with regards to reasonable travel costs - like meals or museum entry. Like some others, we're not big drinkers, so it's pretty darn hard to overspend on a meal in Europe unless visiting a Michelin starred restaurant, and if that were the case, we would be fine with the splurge.
Like others, we also walk a ton followed by mass transit, and rarely use taxis or even Uber unless it just makes more sense time-wise to do it.
We do like local tour guides, but use them sparingly enough that it isn't a budget breaker. Our recent Spain trips included local bike tours and a tapas tour, but sometimes a bike tour is only a little more than the cost of the bike rental, so not really a big splurge. More likely, though, is we'll either find a "free" local tour (driven by tips so not free, but not super extravagant) or follow a RS or other "free" online or guidebook one.
I guess, for us, the true splurge is the time and money to actually do it at all. Like folks here probably see as well, too many folks just never get off the couch or leave their comfort zones, so committing to regular travel - local, national, and international ones - comes with a fairly real time and money cost, but we feel it is more than worth it for the experience & rewards we receive from doing it.
Three come to mind.
When flying overseas, premium economy or comfort plus for the extra room.
When flying home, taxi to the airport and occasionally taxi to hotel after arriving in Europe.
There is a hotel level I will not go below. Not a hotel that caters to business guests, but must be centrally located and clean with en suite bathroom and superior guest ratings.
I do not need to splurge on food.
I've moved since the beginning of Covid. I can no longer get quickly to the airport. So now I also have added a hotel room (CC points) at Logan for the night before. I can walk to my terminal A or E via a walkway. With not many points I can stay there for free.
We don't live terribly far from our airport--about a 40 minute drive on freeways. But in winter, that drive can be twice as long or more, and very stressful. So, three times we've booked into the airport hotel for the night before so as to avoid that (twice using points). It's worth it.
This is so much fun! The diversity represented pretty much sums up each of us as individuals.
My .02 worth-
Flight category- Premium Economy always. Cannot stand the thought of main cabin due to years of “experience”.
Wish we could really splurge and fly Business!
Lodging- Usually nice but not fancy airbnb’s. Yes, I am well aware of the issues regarding resident housing, but it still suits our preferences to have a private bathroom, refrigerator, washing machine, real bed (no sofa bed) and space for a yoga mat-it’s a plus if it has a Nespresso style coffee maker! Hotels rarely have the space we like especially at an affordable price. And we don’t spend much time in the accommodation so don’t need fancy.
Smaller city lodging- We consider hotels especially if only 3-4 nights. This can be competitive price wise with airbnb, so if we find a great value we will book a hotel or hotel like (we just stayed at a BnB in Chinon which was fabulous!)
Transport- Definitely public as much as possible. No taxi’s unless absolutely necessary -usually means to/from the airport only. We walk a lot. We splurge on FC on trains offering only 2 classes. Due to some unfavorable experiences in premium we do Business class travel as the next option. We often rent a car for certain segments of a trip. Italy was for three weeks-out of 9. Last trip in France a little over a week of a 6 week trip.
Food- We eat well. We may do one splurge evening meal per city but never Michelin star. In France, we spent just over €240 for two of us including a nice bottle of wine three times in 6 weeks. Breakfast in our room as we like cheese, bread and pastries (add sliced meats for my husband). Often just a split sandwich/light snack for lunch depending on how late breakfast was.
Tours, etc.- Private guides are too rich for us as we can usually find what we want with a group tour. Depending, will spend a bit extra for ‘special’ tours-such as St. Marks at night in Venice or if it is something we must do but no group tours are available. We do shy away from the group tours if larger than 12. Independent wandering yields a myriad of sights just no commentary to enhance it. We’ve tried independent walking tours but get too distracted and end up far away from where we are supposed to be!!
Activities- Will splurge a bit to see a special concert, but won’t go overboard as in over €100 for a seat. Will splurge for special entry fees to art exhibits, etc. Helps with lines too!
Classes- Definitely try to do one or two cooking type classes a trip, but geared towards what my husband finds interesting since he’s the main cook in our kitchen. I would do baking classes-maybe next trip!
Souvenirs- Not shoppers and we need nothing. May bring back 2-3 bottles of wine to share with friends. Always buy chocolate for a friend-lots of chocolate.
Other- Well if something comes up that we feel we must participate in we will purchase tickets, but these are not usually splurges as really they tend to be reasonable price wise. Comes out of the budget line for ‘Oh- we have to do that!’
Gelato or good chocolate is NEVER a splurge.
Limit costs: The way we live day to day.
Background: We are what SOME might consider well traveled, even though until recently, we have not traveled since the pandemic began. Heck, we have not dined in a restaurant here at home since that time either. We have never had a housekeeper, do most home repair, window washing, gardening, etc. projects ourselves. Until recently, drove a 2005 vehicle and on and on. Live in a home that is rather modest my our neighborhood's standards. I live in turtlenecks, flannel shirts, and leggings most days. You get the picture. My neighbors see me behind a wheelbarrow more than not.
Since we have, over the decades, experienced almost every type travel........from the very modest type (when I jumped out of the Ford Pinto on our honeymoon to "price shop" hotels we might afford for our modest 2-night honeymoon (back before pricing was available on line and one had to "write off" for brochures).....to some progressively higher-end trips/tours, etc. in more recent decades.
We may not travel as frequently as others, but when we do travel, over the many decades, we have evolved to the philosophy of do it "right." That does not mean expensive dining .... if we order ONE glass of house wine each at a restaurant when traveling, that's a splurge....ditto for dining locally in our own city. But, it DOES mean researching carefully when planning independent travel and when doing group travel, use only quality, well-vetted tour providers. Before our most recent trip, we had traveled to all 7 continents, plus NZ and Greenland, with several trips to Europe over many years (3 to Italy).
Recent splurge: An "Around the World" Smithsonian/TCS World Travel Private Jet Tour. Yep, that was a lifetime splurge!!
But, hear me out. We were able to efficiently (and comfortably) visit some rather remote places that traveling alone to those places would have meant multi-leg long (downright exhausting), complicated flights. We also were able to "pop into" some destinations that allowed us to see just what we wanted to see without having to invest more time in certain countries. Disappointment: Egypt was to be on our itinerary (Luxor for the Valley of the Kings,etc., then a flight up to Cairo for the day), but that did not happen due to obvious safety current issues, so Malta (which was lovely) was substituted. So, despite the "best laid plans to see all those final destinations," we still have one that has not been fulfilled.
Years (likely decades) ago, I read an article (I think it was in The Wall Street Journal) where someone had handed such an itinerary to his financial advisor to analyze if it was "worth it." The answer was something along the line that if you want to see those specific places (without days of touring in those locations), by time you figure business class flights, the value of your time (not having to wait at airports/not having to endure multi-leg connections, and having the added efficiency/quality of the guides, etc., and the totally all-inclusive nature (including an envelope of local cash spending money in each destination), then YES it is a very good value.
Not knowing what the future will bring (in the way of world peace/lack thereof OR the lurking possibility of future different/worse pandemics OR gawd-awful weather/environmental issues) and not having traveled for 4+ years, we decided to "go for it," when we cleared a waitlist in March for our recent trip. That's our splurge.
Did I ever, ever think we would take a trip like that? If you knew us, you would understand. The answer is "no, never...you gotta be kidding!!!"
So, when you see those brochures in the mail or a link on-line, you may wonder "who does this?" The answer is "someday you might actually do it." Or maybe you already have.
Maggie,
Good for you!! Sounds great and we're glad you got a chance to do it. Gives new meaning to the phrase "You go girl". Wish we could do the same.
We don't live terribly far from our airport--about a 40 minute drive
on freeways.
BB I envy people who live in Calgary. Phenomenal small city set near some of the most beautiful outdoor areas on the planet. And surprisingly good and affordable direct airline connections to all kinds of desirable travel destinations. I think a lot of that owes to the strength of your provincial economy. It's a great spot.
Jean,
These days I don't mind splurging on long flights, as that provides a much more comfortable experience. I can't afford Business Class but I routinely book Premium Economy these days, which is still much more comfortable than "sardine class" in the back.
For travel to & from rail stations to my hotel, I usually use taxis as I'm hauling luggage and don't really want to walk.
I also routinely treat myself to nice meals at posh restaurants during my travels. As I often travel solo, I'm only paying for one.
Thanks, Hank. It's a great city. I love our proximity to the mountains, our fresh air (except lately, during forest fires), and the amount of light we get in the summer. (I don't love our winters.) As for travel--well, we rarely have direct flights to anywhere I want to go, but it's true that our connections are better than those of our sibling, Edmonton.
I was born and raised in this province, as were my parents, one of my grandparents, two of my great grandparents, and so on. However, lately, me and a lot of others I know are thinking of leaving our province because of the extremist views of our provincial government. Hopefully, they don't ruin what we have. I'd actually rather live in the interior of BC, but other commitments keep me here right now.
I fly budget, stay in mid priced hotels (dont like short term rentals). I splurge on the reason for the trip. Might be fishing, might be the theater, might be to see some out of the way oddity that interests me. For those sorts of things I do first class. Those are my memories, not the plane ride.
While helping my wonderful brother during his last illnesses, Dad , brother and determined if it makes our lives easier and travel easier ...we buy it., hire someone to do it , and dont question it.We live a reasonably frugal life otherwise. So in travel,that translates to direct flights.....the stress of having to make a connection is not worth the savings. Preminum or Comfort level seats......we are no longer hunting (or having me hunt) for the extra leg room,aisle but close to the bathroom main cabin. Taxi cabs......we loved riding the trams but eliminating that bit of walking to station and figuring out routes leaves more energy for seeing what we want to see. We spend our steps wisely. We will be upgrading to first class trains as the walk to the second class coaches was an added stressor. Guided bus tours.....we decided to do an organized bus tour of the Amalfi coast rather than do the public bus ' which sounds pretty easy' . Now is the time to admit that we don't have the energy or stamina to plan and execute everything.
Permission to be the "ugly American "....I realized this trip that I was overly concerned about being nice and considerate to others at my dad's expense. Example, cab drivers did not want to go short distances so Dad would tough it out. I finally thought Why are we doing that? Next time, I had the hotel bellman explain we were going a short distance, that we knew that and we would pay fairly. I paid 10 euros for a 4 block trip and everyone was happy. Tour guide was walking too fast for several members of the group. I asked her to please walk a little slower as she was losing people. Got a dirty look and an explanation that she would wait for them before going on. That means Dad never got a chance to catch his breath. I stuck to my guns, she slowed down and the tour was fine.
We are not foodies or souvenirs people. We like the cheap seats unless we have to climb to them
Grateful we have the resources and ability to travel.
Reading your comments, I have another splurge I hadn’t considered that you mentioned. We do stay at the hotel at our home airport for our 6am flights since it’s close to an hour to get there & parked. During winter when we typically have snow or ice, it’s safer to drive over to the airport during the day, so I guess it’s a combined safety splurge.
Ok I am a liar😉 I said we never fly first clsss. We have been at moms for a very difficult trip snd when I had to extend the trip, I booked first class for my return trip. It was only $60 more than coach but I probably would have paid double. Too bad it doesn’t get you home any sooner though.
Mikliz97, I’m sorry your mom is at the stage now where there’s some difficult times for all of you. I hope you were able to feel some calm & comfort during the flight back in first class.
We splurge on taking taxis to and from airports/train stations/bus stations. We don't really consider it a splurge. It's an important convenience for us. We are both in our 70's and don't want to deal with luggage on public transportation.
We don't need luxurious accommodations but want clean accommodations in convenient locations and will splurge if necessary. For example, last June we paid more than we normally do for a very conveniently located hotel in Edinburgh.
We occasionally pay for private guides or private drivers if it enhances our trip and/or makes it easier. One example is that we hired a private driver to drive us around the Bay of Kotor so that my husband could enjoy the scenery, too, and not hassle with parking. We chose the places we wanted to visit, and it worked out perfect for us. We hired Maja Benzon for a private guided tour of Old Town Split and Diocletian's Palace, which was well worth it. I know she recently received a negative review on here, but she was awesome and prompt when we hired her in 2019.
We do not splurge on Michelin starred restaurants. Just not worth it to us. We prefer restaurants where the locals eat and the food is good, and they usually aren't expensive. We don't do expensive tasting menus.
Most of our souvenir shopping is not expensive. Such as shopping in markets and buying local soaps, jams, etc. A couple bottles of wine. And some pottery from markets, too. Probably our biggest shopping splurge was buying several bottles of whisky in Scotland.
We have never splurged on airline seats but we will in 2024. Planning on a trip to Australia and New Zealand, and will definitely purchase premium economy for the very long flights.
So mnannie (or whomever) what does "I splurge on insurance" mean? Thanks!
Just returning from a driving trip through Norway when I made this response, I was specifically thinking of the car insurance. When I reserved the car using Auto Europe, I added all the insurance available at that time. When we got to the counter six months later, we added PLUS insurance to cover glass, roadside assistance and personal accident insurance. We also added Super Cover to bring the deductibles for theft or damage down to less than $150 (it was originally approx. $1000). It gave me peace of mind knowing that we were well covered and there were no large holds on our credit card. Since we didn't depend on any credit card insurance, there would be nothing to deal with after the trip (had there been damage).
This came to mind because I have been reading so many posts (not on this forum) of car rental companies putting large hold on credit cards when the customer declines the insurance. We were just at our local agent yesterday changing home and auto insurance companies, and I mentioned how the agent's dad (now retired) told us to ten years ago to buy all the car rental insurance, and that's what we still do.
I also did the highest level of Travel Guard insurance for Norway (which is a splurge for us since we usually choose a lower package). Although I haven't done it yet, adding MedJet is something I will probably start adding.
We don't go to Europe often, so when we do go our first splurge is to prioritize where we want to go and what we want to see, rather than comparing destinations and choosing based on the cost. That means we often end up in relatively expensive and popular destinations. Then we choose our activities without worrying about admission prices. We have not generally used private guides, but I do have some future destinations in mind where I will definitely consider it.
We fly standard economy, but avoid changing planes if there are nonstop flights to our destination.
Once we have decided where to go, I research options to make the budget work for us. For accommodations, I search for the least expensive hotel or apartment that meets our needs for the particular trip, which usually means spending what is necessary for a quiet room or apartment in a central location. Our trips are relatively short (2-3 weeks), which means we want to see a lot every day without a long commute or drive. I might economize in one location and splurge somewhat in another, depending a on how much time I think we will have to enjoy the hotel or apartment. We typically walk and use public transportation, except that we usually take taxis to and from the airport.
We love food but aren't what you would call foodies, so we are happy with a mix of less expensive lunches and dinners (such as sandwiches, crepes or pizza), moderately priced restaurants, making simple meals two or three times a week if we have an apartment, and an occasional splurge for a more expensive restaurant.
We buy very few souvenirs.
We spurge on, in country, transportation, and sometimes lodging. I always want to do things by boat, even it there is a cheaper option. And renting motorcycles, which is way more expensive than renting cars.
We have also done some very odd things, such as, have a very cheap hotel room, and while still keeping that room - for our stuff, book another more expensive room somewhere else as an over night, in a special very expensive day trip place to visit. of one over night stay.
It sort of works out when all the costs are averaged. It is important to talk to the manager about this beforehand at the cheap place so they don't assume you cut and ran. I usually pay up front, cash, get the discount, of the cheap home base. And then no issues.
Jean--Thank you so much. My mind was a mess this week. I extended the trip, but then realized I purchased a return ticket for the wrong week. I almost didn't catch it! Called Alaska back and they refunded it immediately. They booked the correct ticket for me, and thankfully again 1st class was not much more. The crew at the gate and on the plane went above and beyond for me, so Alaska Air is getting a letter praising the crew. They made a really difficult flight easier. Being in first class next to the window, I was able to sob without making a scene;)
