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If you consider yourself a top-tier traveler, you might not realize it, but as you go down the budget ladder, the exposure to travel noise increases significantly. It’s an unavoidable consequence of mingling with large groups of people, and in various cultures, noise levels are as normal as exhaust emissions and red tape, often accepted as part of life. This is true for airports, trains, and buses, where discourteous individuals presume that everyone else is interested in their discussions and videos.

How effectively do you manage noise? How soundly do you sleep?

If you’re gearing up to backpack globally on a budget, it’s crucial to become adept at ignoring noise. Alternatively, you should prepare a set of solutions. Brace yourself for nighttime sounds that may exceed anything you’ve encountered, even if you’re from New York City.

Sources of Travel Noise Worldwide

I am reminded of this truth every time I return to my residence in Mexico. In the otherwise charming city of Guanajuato, where I live, enjoying a truly peaceful night is a rare experience. There are typically five barking dogs on the rooftops of each block, and due to the city’s hilly terrain, I can hear nearly all of them at some point during the night, especially if they start a chain reaction when one of them begins.

At least I’m not in the central area, though. There, if a soccer/football game is in play and the bars are bustling, the noise persists until the early morning hours, with booming bass sounds that few windows can block. Street performers are singing and shouting just below those windows, and fireworks often add to the commotion.

Across Latin America, this continues with church bells, gas vendors, garbage collection trucks, and intoxicated people singing in the streets. It’s common for bars to vie for patrons by cranking their music up louder than their competitors. If you’re indoors, conversing is nearly impossible; if you’re outside, you’re subjected to competing stereos playing different tracks.

In countries where people live closely and have fostered a “live and let live” mindset, complaints are rare; you simply tolerate the noise. It’s often culturally unacceptable to voice grievances about the mariachi band next door at 2:00 a.m. or the cannon-like fireworks at dawn on a Sunday, marking the beginning of a saints’ festival.

In Asia, you’ll see individuals dozing off on the subway, buses, benches, and even delivery carts. It’s no surprise: sleeping at night is tough with roosters crowing and everyone awake long before dawn to kickstart their day before the heat sets in. You haven’t truly experienced backpacking until you’ve managed to sleep through a cat in heat, two competing roosters, and a woman noisily sweeping the steps outside your bamboo hut at 5 a.m.

“Oh my god, the chickens!” This phrase echoes frequently from fellow budget travelers globally. Your previous urban assumption that roosters only crow at dawn is quickly dispelled. When do roosters actually crow? Whenever they like, which turns out to be quite often, day or night.

In the Middle East, the call to prayer rings out five times daily, at least once during hours that no reasonable person should be awake. If you find yourself in one of these nations during Ramadan, you’ll also get the unique experience of a person parading through the streets, beating a drum to awaken everyone so the faithful can eat before dawn. (And you’re expected to give this person a tip for their service afterward.)

In some regions, drivers constantly have one hand on the wheel and the other on the horn. In Egypt, they may opt to drive with their headlights off at night, erroneously believing it conserves battery power, yet that doesn’t prevent them from honking the horn, even when there’s no one around.

If you choose to stay in a fancy hotel, you can generally avoid all this. I don’t recall hearing even a single barking dog during my stay at the Villa Maria Cristina hotel in Guanajuato while I was there for a writing assignment on my first visit, and I’ve savored blissfully quiet nights behind the triple-glazed windows of Hiltons and Hyatts. The Four Seasons in Mexico City will make you feel as if there’s no traffic at that bustling intersection outside the hotel, and the Oberoi in Calcutta deserves the title “oasis” more than any other hotel. Money is a significant sound barrier.

However, if you opt for the $8 hostel just a few blocks away, it’s an entirely different experience. You’ll hear every car horn and vendor shout at nearly full volume.

There are merely three fundamental items you require for global travel: a passport, funds, and time. This saying, frequently credited to various sources throughout the years, mirrors a time when smartphones, credit cards, and travel insurance were not yet commonplace. Although these three components are still vital, contemporary travel demands further considerations.

Historically, a passport served as your key travel document, but nowadays, misplacing your phone can be equally distressing. Smartphones have become essential for navigation, staying in touch, and retrieving travel details. They offer notifications for flight modifications, QR codes for boarding passes, and even menus for dining. Consequently, they have transitioned into an indispensable element of the travel arsenal.

Travel insurance, which was once viewed as non-essential, is now strongly advised. It safeguards against unexpected occurrences like accidents or flight disruptions. Many travelers, particularly younger ones, may underestimate this, but holding insurance can lead to substantial savings and offer reassurance.

Obtaining a passport well before your trip is vital. Numerous nations mandate that a passport be valid for at least six months. Processing delays can happen, so planning ahead is prudent. For regular travelers, a business passport with additional pages is advantageous.

The financial dynamics of travel have transformed. While some destinations are cashless, others still favor cash transactions. A combination of cash and cards is recommended, with credit cards providing protection and advantages. It is crucial to avoid conversion fees by opting for transactions in the local currency.

The balance of time versus money is a significant factor. Travelers with ample time can wait for solutions, whereas those with greater financial resources can accelerate their plans. Slow travel frequently results in richer experiences and fewer interruptions.

Lastly, smartphones act as a backup for travel documents and itineraries. Applications like TripIt streamline schedules, while cloud storage guarantees access to necessary documents. It is crucial to ensure that travel partners can reach your phone and accounts during emergencies.

In summary, while a passport, money, and time remain core essentials for international travel, today’s travelers must also acknowledge the significance of technology, insurance, and financial tactics to guarantee a seamless journey.

STLV Trek to Vegas stands as the largest Star Trek Convention globally in most years. This expansive event spans 5 days in Las Vegas and is essential for any sci-fi enthusiast (and certainly Trekkie). The vastness of STLV, coupled with a trip to Las Vegas, entails numerous moving components that can make it challenging to grasp what one actually does at a Star Trek convention.

You can view the video above for your comprehensive guide to STLV and continue reading for the highlights.

What Is STLV?

STLV is one of the numerous fan conventions organized by Creation Entertainment. While not solely dedicated to Star Trek (STLV features guests and panels related to other fandoms), it predominantly focuses on the series created by Gene Roddenberry. STLV occurs annually in early August, running from Wednesday to Sunday at the Rio Hotel and Casino, which has recently come under Hyatt’s ownership.

Planning Your STLV

The first step is creating a World of Hyatt rewards program account if you don’t possess one already. You can earn and redeem Hyatt points for reservations at the Rio, but you cannot claim points after your stay (in contrast to most airline mileage schemes). It’s advisable to reserve a room at the Rio—off the strip, making it less convenient to stay at other properties—by mid-May at the latest to ensure you secure accommodation that suits your needs.

– After arriving at the hotel, you can register for a Rio Rewards card. This will allow you to accrue points from any purchases at the hotel (excluding your room) and Rio will send you complimentary stay offers throughout the year. By utilizing a Rio Rewards promotion, you can often obtain at least one night of your booking for free, either before or after the convention.

STLV tickets can be acquired as general admission or under various tiers, each offering its unique benefits. For general admission, Saturday and Sunday tend to be the busiest days, so I suggest purchasing tickets at least a month ahead. Throughout the year, particularly around several United States Federal Holidays, Creation also runs ticket sales. You can subscribe through their website to stay informed about any deals.

– Personally, I prefer to arrive at Rio the Sunday preceding STLV, plan some side excursions like Area 51, and depart the Tuesday following the convention. (There’s an unofficial Star Trek pool party on Monday after STLV that aids in recovery after the extended weekend.)

What’s STLV Like?

STLV functions like a Star Trek buffet, allowing you to select how you wish to assemble your experience. There are panel discussions with actors, crew, and writers who answer audience questions, a bustling vendor room brimming with merchandise, science presentations, concerts, and much more, all often happening simultaneously. You’ll need to make choices among all the events and any scheduled photo ops or autograph signings.

– Photo ops are enjoyable, but if you aim to engage further with a Trek personality, obtaining an autograph is a better route. You’ll pay for the autograph, but many are willing to take a selfie with you for free. Plus, you gain a few extra moments to converse with the Trek actor, writer, or crew member.

Money Saving Tips

An additional day before STLV allows you to visit a nearby grocery store to purchase snacks and any desired alcohol. The Rio, like many Las Vegas resorts, imposes steep markups on food and beverages, so shopping at a nearby grocery store can save you a significant amount over STLV. I also recommend bringing or acquiring a filtered water bottle to drink from the room faucet. The convention areas provide free water, but carrying a bottle reduces waste.

No Cosplay Needed

While dressing up isn’t necessary, feel free to get as creative as you wish if you choose to. At STLV, you can embody a different character each day, just ensure to wear comfortable walking shoes. The steps down the long hallways at the Rio accumulate quickly, and make sure to venture down to the Masquerade Bar in the evenings, where most attendees at STLV stop to relax.

For any Star Trek devotee, STLV is a convention worthy of attending at least once. Creation also organizes other regional ST-Conventions in different U.S. cities that are worth considering, but for the most significant event showcasing the best series, there’s no place like STLV Trek to Vegas.

In 2026, I will mark the 20th year since I departed from the corporate sphere to embrace a location-independent lifestyle. Since that time, I have effectively supported my family and financed my child’s college education through the revenue generated by my publishing enterprise. This adventure commenced in 2003 with the inception of the Cheapest Destinations Blog, which was soon followed by Perceptive Travel and various other websites. My revenue sources have included book royalties, freelance writing, and ghostwriting.

At that time, remote employment was rare, and many were skeptical about the possibility of making a living online. Nonetheless, I learned that with a dependable Wi-Fi connection, my business flourished, enabling me to work and travel efficiently without the hindrances of an office environment. Nowadays, remote work is widely embraced, with companies functioning entirely online, posing challenges to conventional businesses.

For individuals contemplating a similar journey, having a legitimate revenue stream is crucial. Here are several options to consider:

**Generating Income Online Through Writing**: This avenue is not an immediate path to riches, particularly during the early years. It’s best to start as a side endeavor. Constructing a blog or website, cultivating an email list, and establishing a social presence are vital steps. Select a brand name that isn’t directly associated with your personal identity for potential resale value. Concentrate on a niche you are passionate about and adhere to a regular publishing routine.

**Offering Products or Services From Any Location**: E-commerce is now globally attainable through drop-shipping and fulfillment services. You can market anything from books to consulting services. For freelancers, platforms like Upwork and Fiverr can assist in connecting with new clients.

**A Genuine Remote Position With a Company**: Securing a remote job is contingent upon your skills and network. Sales roles are frequently available, though competition is international. Specialized skills enhance your odds of success.

**Operating a SaaS Business**: This model presents significant earning potential with recurring revenue. It necessitates technical expertise or a collaboration with a technical specialist. If successful, it can evolve into a self-sustaining venture.

**The Agency Model**: Agencies can function remotely, providing services such as PR, marketing, or SEO. They can begin on a small scale and expand as the business develops. This model entails minimal overhead and can serve as a side project.

**Audio and Video Production**: Podcasts and video content can cultivate an audience and bring in revenue. Although video editing can be labor-intensive, it offers prospects for those willing to put in the hard work.

These are merely a few legitimate avenues to make money online. If you have additional suggestions, feel free to share them in the comments.

There’s a great deal of ongoing chatter in the travel media about how to cut costs on your vacation and how to maximize your travel budget. The issue is, most of that guidance is concentrated on the less important aspects. They’re fiddling with minor details instead of focusing on what truly influences a budget trip: your destination.

$2 bed, $3 lunch in Nepal

In one of my earlier publications, I mentioned in Make Your Travel Dollars Worth a Fortune that the most significant effect on your budget will stem from where you choose to travel, not how you do it. Yes, numerous vital factors contribute to how much you spend on your travels, whether it’s a weeklong getaway or a year-long journey around the globe. The most crucial one, however, is the location you opt to enjoy.

This fact was accurate 20 years ago, 10 years ago, and last year. It will likely remain true unless airfares surge dramatically or if rising sea levels inundate many travel destinations. The location plays a larger role in determining your expenses, and the longer the trip, the more relevant it becomes.

Travel destination first, logistics second (unless a major airfare deal pops up)

No matter how meticulously you organize your trip to Singapore or Norway, and regardless of how advantageous the flight pricing may be, it will still cost you a significant amount of money compared to, say, Ecuador.

Once, Budget Travel magazine published an article where two writers were given a budget of $1,200 to travel. The guidelines were to go at least eight hours away for four nights and not exceed that budget. One chose Tokyo, and the other opted for Quito. You can probably guess how that turned out.

Essentially, the individual who traveled to Quito, Ecuador, had a fantastic experience, dined well, and lodged in very comfortable accommodations. He described his last evening at one of the finest restaurants in town: “From the ceviche sampler to the grouper in a zesty cream sauce, everything was remarkable. Including champagne, dessert, half a bottle of sauvignon blanc, and gratuity, my total was $75.”

A $2.50 haircut or a $15 massage in Quito

The writer who went to Tokyo—during a time when the exchange rate was not as favorable as it is now—had to be exceptionally cautious with his finances. He slept in a room measuring 8′ by 10′ for $70 and primarily consumed ramen noodles and snacks from vending machines. “I kept my spending low by employing a three-pronged strategy: dining at places without waitstaff, never using taxis, and interacting with locals.” He still had an enjoyable experience, but making the numbers work was challenging.

Ramen noodle budget or dining out for every meal? Capsule hotel or hostel bed versus boutique hotel with luxury linens and high-end toiletries? Taxis at your convenience or waiting for public transport? Surprisingly, these two options can cost the same. It all hinges on your destination.

Of course, there are some exceptions. There are nearly five-star hotels everywhere, so it is possible to spend a significant amount in any location if you opt for luxury accommodations. Nevertheless, a suite at a chain hotel in Quito will cost much less than a similar one in Oslo. When you scale down to a 3-star or hostel level, the price difference becomes even greater.

Additionally, airfare can influence costs on a quick trip. If you find a round-trip flight to Ireland for $700 and one to India at double that rate, it may balance out in total spending for a week’s vacation because you won’t have enough time for other expenses to offset the difference. If any international destination is under $500 from your local airport in the USA or Canada, it likely makes sense to take that opportunity.

The most affordable travel spots will make you feel affluent

$20 for two with wine and tip in Buenos Aires

I just spent two months journeying through Europe and aside from 17 days in Hungary, I was not in any of the budget-friendly locations highlighted in The World’s Cheapest Destinations book. Consequently, when dining in countries like Holland, Germany, or Italy, it was not unusual to spend $50 or $60 on dinner. A meal that would have cost half that or less in Bulgaria, Albania, or Montenegro.

The last time I visited Ireland, I was thankful I didn’t attempt to go there during my backpacking days. Prices were comparable to what I would spend in a U.S. city, but they were in euros instead of dollars. With an influx of wealthy tourists, hotel rates are higher than one might expect. Then, traveling from there to London, prices climb even further.

I spent more than I have in a long time on nightly

**Discovering Unique Paths: Budget-Friendly and Unforgettable US Getaways**

Traveling doesn’t need to be expensive, particularly if you’re open to straying from traditional routes. By adopting a non-traditional approach to travel, you can unearth lesser-known locations that provide enriching experiences without the steep prices typically linked to well-trodden tourist destinations such as New York City, Washington D.C., or San Francisco. Here’s how to optimize your travel budget by seeking out economical vacation spots in the US.

**Select Destinations Aligned with Your Interests**

Begin by pinpointing your hobbies. Whether your interests lie in music, sports, theater, or outdoor adventures, allow these passions to shape your travel itineraries. For example, if there’s a band you adore playing in a lesser-known city, consider organizing your visit around that show. Likewise, sports fans might appreciate attending a minor league baseball game or a college basketball event in a smaller town where prices are more wallet-friendly.

**Utilize Local Discounts**

Prior to traveling to your selected location, look for bargains on websites like Groupon. You can uncover savings on experiences ranging from wine tastings to adventurous outings. Furthermore, many destinations provide free attractions, especially in less frequented areas. For instance, North Dakota Tourism lists 35 complimentary activities, while both Omaha and Rochester feature 20 free options each.

**Focus on Price Rather Than Location**

When arranging your getaway, think about beginning with accommodation costs. Use resources like Google Flights to discover budget airfare or browse hotel booking platforms for affordable lodging alternatives. For instance, while a hotel in Chicago might run $223 per night, comparable accommodations in Grand Rapids or Omaha could be much cheaper.

If camping or RV travel is more your style, check out state parks and campgrounds for more economical lodging. Many parks offer budget options such as yurts or cabins, providing a distinctive and affordable way to immerse yourself in nature.

**Discover Alternative Locations**

Secondary destinations frequently provide ample appeal without the throngs of tourists. For example, North Dakota features 13 trails for hiking and biking, including the picturesque Maah Daah Hey Trail. You can also partake in canoeing or kayaking on local waterways and lakes. These activities are not only budget-friendly but also foster a deeper connection with the outdoors.

**Maximize Travel Credit Card Benefits**

Consider utilizing travel credit cards to help alleviate lodging expenses. Cards such as IHG or Amex Hilton Surpass provide sign-up bonuses and rewards that can facilitate hotel stays, enabling you to relish your trip without the burden of accommodation costs.

By steering clear of typical tourist traps and delving into lesser-known destinations, you can savor a memorable and budget-friendly vacation. With some thorough research and strategic planning, you’ll find that the US is brimming with hidden treasures waiting for exploration.