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Backpacking throughout Southeast Asia remains one of the most economical methods to prolong travel duration, just like it was in the 1990s. The region’s array of great value locations facilitates easier movement from one site to another. Nowadays, transportation alternatives have remarkably increased, with new routes and services constantly developing.

In the 1990s, the concept of a high-speed train in Laos or numerous domestic airlines in Thailand seemed improbable. Now, these have become realities. The access to information has also enhanced, with platforms like 12Go streamlining travel planning by offering comprehensive options for trains, buses, ferries, and flights.

Train journeys in Southeast Asia have experienced significant improvements. Laos now features a high-speed train, rendering travel more pleasant and efficient than before. The journey from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, for example, lasts only two hours. Although high-speed links between nations are still scarce, extensive train networks exist within countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

Budget airlines have transformed travel in Southeast Asia, making flights as cheap as bus fares on certain routes. Thailand alone hosts several domestic airlines, while regional carriers such as AirAsia and Scoot provide numerous international connections. However, travelers must be cautious of extra luggage charges.

Ferries are crucial for island nations like the Philippines and Indonesia, offering essential links between islands. Some ferries also operate between countries, such as the connection between Malaysia and Indonesia. For those who prefer not to fly, cargo ships accommodating passengers present alternative routes.

Buses serve as a cornerstone for backpackers, delivering extensive service even in remote regions. While some buses might be cramped and uncomfortable, others offer pleasant air-conditioned travel between major cities. Ride-hailing apps such as Grab and Bolt provide additional choices for shorter trips.

In summary, Southeast Asia continues to be a haven for backpackers, presenting a variety of affordable travel methods. Whether by train, plane, bus, or ferry, travelers can delve into the region’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes without overspending. For budgeting guidance, resources like “The World’s Cheapest Destinations” book can offer valuable information.

In the sea of daily e-mails I receive that are promoting a product or service, this particular one caught my attention because it was something I had been anticipating. Finally, for the first time since 2023, individuals in the USA can obtain a Wise debit card.

I felt thrilled because while Wise.com (previously Transferwise) users in Europe or Asia had the ability to get a card for ATM withdrawals, those in the United States were excluded from this option. While our counterparts around the globe were able to access their multi-currency accounts at stores and ATMs, we could only withdraw funds from our Wise accounts by transferring them to another bank account first, incurring a fee for that transfer. There was simply no straightforward way to access our own money.

However, the more I delved into the terms and conditions of this card, the more let down I became. I appreciate the company and have recommended their services numerous times. But I found myself questioning whether to even acquire this Wise debit card as a contingency for emergencies—that’s how concerning it is.

Here’s an outline of how this card will deplete your funds just to access your own money. Tally up the fees and you’re likely to spend more than you would with your regular bank ATM card internationally, even with its charges.

A Steep 2% Fee on Nearly Every Transaction

You might even have to pay just to obtain this card, which I’ll discuss shortly, but then this Wise debit card will continuously drain your funds after acquisition. Here’s a straightforward summary from their official website:

“The Wise Multi-Currency Card alleviates the stress of using ATMs overseas. You only incur a super-low fee on withdrawals after the first $100.”

Who withdraws less than $100 from an ATM?! I believe the only instance I’ve done that in the last two decades was when I used a machine in Argentina that limited withdrawals to $80 at a time. Otherwise, anyone who is financially savvy withdraws enough cash for an extended period, or they opt for the maximum allowed.

So the only scenario where you’ll encounter the “free” withdrawal is if you use the card at a grocery store, pharmacy, or café for a small purchase. But why bother with this card at all when you have a standard bank debit card that incurs no foreign transaction fees and has no limitations?

And if you’re engaging in the points and miles strategy, wouldn’t you prefer a credit card that provides rewards and pay it off? Or use a debit card that offers cash back? This card would be the least beneficial one in your wallet.

Upon examining the fine print, my jaw dropped. What they refer to as a “super-low fee” is actually 2% on every transaction. To put it simply, for every $100 you withdraw from your account, you’re giving Wise.com $2 as a transaction fee. On a typical $500 withdrawal, you would incur a $10 fee to them in addition to whatever the local bank charges.

This would render the Wise card the priciest in my collection, second only to (occasionally) Paypal’s. My Fidelity card charges $0 and reimburses local fees. My Novo.com business account charges $0 and refunds local costs up to $7 monthly. (My preferred Mexican ATM charges $1.50, so I rarely exceed that.)

My wife’s Capital One 360 card incurs no fees on their end, requiring only the local bank fee. My regular Regions bank card charges a flat $5 fee—half of what Wise takes on a $500 transaction—plus local charges.

Therefore, even if I acquired this Wise ATM card, it would rank #4 on my backup list, or #5 once I’m back in the states and can request a Schwab debit card with no fees. This implies a truly unfortunate string of events would have to occur before it ever sees the light of day from my home safe or a concealed spot while traveling “just in case.”

Expect Another Fee on Top of the Existing Fee

But there’s more bad news! You’ll incur additional charges if you make more than two ATM withdrawals in a month. You’ll face a penalty with a $1.50 fee in addition to the 2% fee they’re already assessing, any currency conversion fees involved, and the local bank fees. Here’s the chart from their website:

So they provide you this oh-so-useful suggestion: “Planning to withdraw money for vacation? It’s more economical to make one large withdrawal rather than several smaller ones. This will help you avoid the fixed $1.50 fee each time.” Wow, thanks.

Wise Might Charge You $$ Just to Send It

Have you ever been charged by a bank just to receive one of their debit cards? Probably not, but with Wise, you’re already at a loss before the

The Ridge Magnetic Power Bank is a sleek and adaptable charging device tailored to satisfy the requirements of contemporary tech enthusiasts. Boasting a capacity of 10,000 mAh, it is capable of fully recharging the majority of smartphones twice, rendering it a dependable partner for users on the move. This power bank facilitates 15-watt MagSafe wireless charging and features integrated Lightning and USB-C cables, in addition to a USB-C port that supports 20-watt charging. This guarantees rapid charging for various devices, though the Lightning cable might be superfluous for those who do not own iPhones.

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Although the Ridge Magnetic Power Bank showcases a chic and practical design, it may lack sufficient innovation to supplant existing chargers with similar specifications. Yet, for those lacking a portable charging option, it serves as a powerful alternative, even if it comes at a somewhat elevated price compared to some rivals. In summary, the Ridge Magnetic Power Bank is an excellent option for individuals seeking a compact, versatile, and visually appealing charging solution.

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Josh Ferry-Woodard sets off on an enthralling expedition through Central Europe, delving into the vibrant cultural fabric of Germany, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia via train. His escapade starts in Dresden, a city that harmoniously merges historical allure with contemporary vitality. In the Outer Neustadt area, Josh encounters an energetic neighborhood influenced by anarchists and bohemians. Accompanied by Christoph, he uncovers streets embellished with vivid murals, unique shops, and lively cafes, all reflections of the community’s resilient spirit and artistic dynamism.

A standout moment of Josh’s Dresden adventure is the exceptional chance to drive a Trabant, the emblematic vehicle of the Communist period. Renowned for its unique design and historical value, the Trabant provides a nostalgic journey through the city’s history. As he maneuvers through Dresden’s streets, Josh develops a greater appreciation for the city’s evolution over the years, from its post-war rebuilding to its present role as a cultural epicenter.

As he continues his travels, Josh reaches Ostrava, Czech Republic, where he comes across the impressive Bolt Tower. Named after the famous sprinter Usain Bolt, this architectural wonder towers over the city, providing sweeping views and a look into Ostrava’s industrial past. Ascending the tower, Josh contemplates the blend of old and new, as the structure symbolizes the city’s transformation from a coal-mining hub to a lively urban area.

In Slovakia, Josh participates in a literary festival in Kosice, immersing himself in a realm of words and ideas. The festival draws writers, poets, and thinkers from around the world, fostering a vibrant atmosphere of intellectual exchange. Amid readings and dialogues, Josh discovers the ability of literature to cross boundaries and connect varied cultures, deepening his insight into Central Europe’s literary landscape.

Throughout his journey, Josh is enthralled by the seamless connectivity provided by the train network, enabling him to navigate borders effortlessly and experience the distinct yet interconnected identities of each location. The train’s rhythmic movement becomes a metaphor for his expedition, as he glides fluidly through diverse landscapes and narratives, with each stop unveiling a new aspect of Central Europe’s rich heritage.

Josh’s journey stands as a tribute to the lasting charm of train travel, offering an extraordinary view of the region’s history, culture, and inhabitants. From the lively streets of Dresden to the soaring heights of Ostrava and the literary events in Kosice, his adventure celebrates exploration and discovery, encouraging readers to embark on their own Central European journey.