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Last Updated 2 years ago

As monkeypox spreads globally, the Canadian government has issued a travel advisory for Canadians traveling overseas. The new Level 2 travel advisory suggests Canadians should practice enhanced health precautions following the emergence of monkeypox. 

The Canadian government released the travel advisory on June 7, 2022. 

The Full Details Of The Level 2 Travel Advisory 

According to the Canadian government, a Level 2 travel health notice “indicates an increased risk to travellers or certain groups of travellers (for example, pregnant women, campers, people visiting friends and relatives) and reminds them to practise enhanced health precautions.”

The Canadian government suggests all Canadians should follow these precautions:

• Use personal protective equipment—such as masks—to minimize the spread of monkeypox
• Delaying all travel until the risk is lower
• Avoiding higher-risk activities 
• Taking recommended vaccinations for some groups 
• Washing hands at all times, especially after being in close contact with some people
• Being careful if you’re attending mass gatherings or parties 
• Being aware of any symptoms, such as a new rash 

The Canadian government has issued the advisory if you’re traveling to these destinations:

• Argentina
• Australia
• Austria
• Belgium
• Bolivia
• The Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Hungary
• Ireland
• Israel
• Italy
• Malta
• Mexico
• Morocco
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Portugal
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• The United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

The Canadian government says: “During your travel, you may be subject to procedures at your destination put in place to limit the spread of monkeypox, such as isolation, should you become infected. You may have limited access to timely and appropriate health care should you become ill, and may experience delays in returning home.”

“PHAC is working closely with international, provincial, and territorial health partners to gather information on this evolving issue. Further investigations are underway to determine the likely source of infection and to limit further onward spread.”

The Canadian government says you should see a healthcare professional if you develop symptoms when you’re traveling. In addition, if you have monkeypox symptoms during the flight: “tell the flight attendant before you land or the border services officer as you enter the country.”

What Is Monkeypox?

The Canadian government states: “Monkeypox is a disease that is caused by a virus. It is regularly found in parts of Central and West Africa, where it has been re-emerging in recent years”

They suggest monkeypox can spread in three ways:

• From animals to humans
• From person to person
• Through direct contact with contaminated objects

In addition, monkeypox can spread from person to person via close contact in the following ways:

• Scabs or skin lesions (which may resemble chickenpox)
• Body fluids or blood 
• Mucosal surfaces (including eyes, mouth, throat, and rectum.)
• Contaminated clothing or linens
• Respiratory droplets (coughs and sneezes) may transmit the monkeypox virus, but scientists are still learning.

However, the Canadian government suggests that: “symptoms usually last between 14 and 28 days. Monkeypox is usually a mild, self-limited disease. In rare situations, people may become very sick and death may occur.”

They add: “Treatment for monkeypox is mainly supportive. Vaccines and medications for prevention and treatment are not commercially available at this time.”

Have Other Countries Issued Travel Advisories? 

The Canadian government isn’t the first nation to introduce a travel advisory for monkeypox. The United States issued a travel advisory due to monkeypox almost two weeks ago.

The CDC advises Americans to avoid:

• Close contact with sick people, particularly those with skin or genital lesions.
• Touching any dead or live wild animals, such as rats, squirrels, monkeys, and apes.
• Handling all materials used by monkeypox-infected individuals as they could be contaminated.

We will keep you updated on how monkeypox may affect travelers going forward. 

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At this point, everyone already knows about Medellin. It’s been taken over by digital nomads and is popular among solo travelers too.

With that comes a lot of chaos that you don’t necessarily have to deal with to check Colombia off your list.

Is Medellin old news? No, not necessarily.

But don’t sleep on Colombia’s hidden gems.

While you may want to avoid visiting Bogota for more than a layover, and Medellin has its own set of issues we reported on earlier this year, there’s so much more to explore in this fascinating country.

Whether it’s beaches, ancient sites, or the timeless streets of Popayan, Colombia’s undiscovered city, it’s time to swap the chaos of Medellin for a more authentic experience amongst some of the country’s most picturesque surroundings.

Colombia’s Little Known Slice Of Spain

I get it. Saying there’s a ‘slice of Spain’ in the middle of Colombia might seem a bit dramatic, but what else do blocks and blocks of captivating whitewashed buildings remind you of?

Santorini perhaps? Now that would be a stretch!

With no blue trim and endless gleaming white structures, Spain is the best comparison since there’s no other place like this in the nation.

Plus, centuries ago, for better or worse, Popayan was on the Spanish conquistador’s trading route through South America, and the preservation of their lasting marks is incredible to visit.

How such a beautiful city has flown under the radar for so long is baffling, but it’s probably because Colombia has so many other popular destinations.

Popayan also has no international airport (which only serves a few domestic flights), so getting here is more of a trek than getting to Medellin, Cartegena, or Cali.

Speaking of, Cali is the most convenient gateway into Popayan by bus unless you connect by flight through Bogota via Avianca or Clic.

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by stunning colonial architecture, historic cobbled streets, and virtually no tourists – but don’t worry; it’s safe here!

Safe And Insanely Budget-Friendly

Colombia’s white city, as it’s known, ticks all the boxes many travelers seek when venturing to this side of the world.

First, unlike Medellin, where it’s almost guaranteed you’ll have some sort of unfortunate run-in the longer you stay, Popayan is widely regarded as safe.

The only issue you’ll want to be aware of is that you may stand out like a sore thumb, being one of few tourists in the entire city of nearly 320,000 residents.

Furthermore, you can stay for cheap in one of the numerous beaming white buildings, whether a boutique hotel, hostel, or rental.

For example, you can stay at Hotel Dann Monasterio, a former 1500s monastery turned ritzy hotel for only $41 on Priceline.

Airbnbs on the other hand offer similar rates and more space than a traditional hotel room, so you have plentiful options at hand.

Monthly stays are even better, so those Medellin digital nomads tired of keeping their head on a swivel could definitely opt for Popayan for super cheap – think nice apartments for $300 – $450 per month.

Where do I sign up?

Calling All Foodies! UNESCO’S First ‘City of Gastronomy’

Oftentimes, UNESCO designated specific sites or regions to protect cultural heritage and encourage education.

But did you know they also do the same for food?

While it’s completely different than receiving Michelin stars, it still shows how incredible a place can be to indulge in local cuisine.

While Colombian restaurants aren’t as popular as they should be in the States, Colombian cuisine goes well beyond savory empanadas.

Popayan was the first ‘City of Gastronomy‘ recognized by UNESCO, particularly for its rich fertile soil resulting in fresh ingredients, whether it be locals’ favorite beverage chicha or corn pancakes.

Culinary traditions are well-preserved here thanks in part to UNESCO and partly due to the community’s’ sense of pride showcased at numerous restaurants here, where traditional methods are still used, such as esamargados (fruits and zest marinade).

While UNESCO doesn’t give restaurant recommendations per se, TripAdvisor sure does. Check out these 3 top-rated restaurants:

1. Restaurante Carmina (perfect rating!)
2. Mora Castilla
3. La Cosecha Parrillada Centro

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Last Updated 2 years ago

Headed to an all-inclusive paradise for a week (or two!) sometime soon? Whether you’re headed to Punta Cana, the latest resort in Cancun, or jetting off to Jamaica, here are some essential travel items to pack in your suitcase for your next all-inclusive vacation.

1. Quick Dry Beach Towel

Tired of those bulky hotel towels that just soak up all of the sand? For your next all-inclusive (or just about any type of getaway) consider investing in a quick-dry beach towel.

This must-carry travel item is truly gem: it packs super light, it dries quickly and efficiently, AND there are so many on the market right now that are sand proof! With just a few shakes, the sand is off of your towel so you don’t end up carrying the whole beach with you back to your hotel.

2. Shampoo & Body Bars

Shampoo bars, conditioner bars, soap bars, moisturizing bars, all the bars. Save yourself the extra stress when it comes to packing liquids in your carry-on and pack a small plastic bag of soap solids for your next all-inclusive vacation. Because each airline is different, it’s hard to know the amount of liquids that you’re allowed to carry on board with you, so soap and shampoo bars with not only save you some room in your luggage but you won’t run the risk of getting them confiscated when you’re going through security.

It’s much easier nowadays to head to a local shop and find homemade bars with simple ingredients, so let’s normalize these low-waste wonders for all future travel packing lists.

3. Bluetooth Speaker

This tech item is quickly becoming one of the top travel must-haves for 2022. You can’t go wrong with a bluetooth speaker to take with you to the beach or for when you’re just chilling in your hotel room.

If you plan to spend lots of time poolside and at the beach, take things to the next level and purchase a waterproof bluetooth speaker; one with an IPX8 rating means that it will still be protected even if it’s been submerged in water.

4. Probiotic Drops

Travel sickness is real, but there are ways to combat it. A classic travel hack that I have is to always make sure my gut is filled with some of that good bacteria before a trip; this will limit my risk of getting sick while on the road.

One easy way to do this is to eat a serving or two of yogurt the few days leading up to your trip. But if you want to take some protection on your all-inclusive vacation with you, these probiotic drops are a must! 10 drops of a liquid concentrate with water or juice (I recommend juice – the taste is really bitter!) is a great way to prepare your stomach for a new environment filled with new food and drink.

5. Carry-On Suitcase

With all of the luggage nightmares happening nowadays, it’s safe to say that traveling carry-on only is the way to go in 2022. If you want to avoid the stress of dealing with baggage loss or delays for your vacation, invest in one amazing carry-on suitcase that will be by your side for years.

Remember that the standard luggage size for most airlines is approximately 55 x 40 x 23 cm/ 21.5 x 15.7 x 9 in (maximum) so make sure your wheelie suitcase or backpack fits those dimensions.

6. Reef Safe Sunscreen

With more chemical-based sunscreens being banned in popular travel destinations (such as Hawaii), it’s a pretty safe bet to start shopping for your new favorite sunscreen that is zinc oxide based. Lots of mineral and coral reef-safe sunscreens come in reusable tins, so they will be easy to pack for your all-inclusive getaway.

Brands like Thinksport also have effective, reef-safe sunscreens for the whole family (baby, kids, adults) that are available in carry-on sizes, so these are a new travel must-have.

7. Travel Citronella Candle

Balmy tropical climates often come with mosquitoes, so if you don’t want your vacation ruined by swatting those annoying pests 24/7, consider bringing a travel-friendly citronella candle with you on your next all-inclusive vacation. Throw a few in your luggage that have a cover so that they will be easy and safe to carry around. You can light it up while you’re relaxing on the deck in the evening to help keep those mosquitoes at bay.

8. Beach Bag

A perfect personal item to pair with your carry-on luggage is a beach bag for your all-inclusive.

Pack all of your daily must-haves in here (sand-proof towel, water bottle, sunscreen, speaker) for your beach days or afternoons spent lounging by the pool.

9. Travel Adapter

An all-in-one travel adapter will always come in handy for a trip – it’s small and easy to throw into your carry-on, and you’ll never know when you might need it.

Whether you’re on an all-inclusive in Greece or Phuket, you’ll be able to charge your devices safely with this little travel adapter. You can buy them at the airport or at your nearest drug store.

10. Reusable Water Bottle

Not only will a travel water bottle save you money at the airport (hello $5 bottles of water), bringing a reusable water bottle for an all-inclusive vacation is a great way to carry around your favorite drinks while keeping them cool. Whether you plan on using it for your iced coffee or a beach cocktail, a reusable water bottle is an essential packing list item.

Read More:

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With its ancient culture, impressive levels of safety, and great infrastructure, Europe seems to be the end goal of a significant percentage of digital nomads.

Cities like Barcelona, Lisbon, and Split have all become workcation havens in recent years.

The only downside to those? Anti-expat sentiment is growing across the Old Continent, as local markets become saturated and prices shoot up in response, so it’s only natural remote workers would be turning their gaze elsewhere to look for cheaper, more welcoming spots.

If you’re wondering which European gems are trending for 2025, here are 5 top (inexpensive) picks taken from Nomad List‘s fastest-rising list:

Timisoara, Romania

A mid-size city in Northwestern Romania offering an alternative to an all-too-chaotic Bucharest, Timisoara is distinguished by its stately, Vienna-inspired Secessionist buildings, 11-dome Metropolitan Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Orthodox architecture, and scenic riverfront.

The pedestrian-friendly center is flush with cafes and youth hostels that turn into lively bars at night. If you’ve been watching in dismay as crime spirals out of control in Western Europe, Timisoara is very safe in comparison, boasting a ‘very low’ level of crime on Numbeo.

Plus, it’s incredibly affordable to live in, costing $1,808 per month. Romania offers some of the cheapest consumer prices anywhere on the continent, and in Timisoara in particular, you can find meals for as cheap as $8.80 in local restaurants and monthly rentals from $425.55.

Faro, Portugal

In the Westernmost end of Europe, an often overlooked Faro is fast-increasing in popularity with nomads.

It is replacing the usual nomad hotspots of Lisbon and Porto, which (let’s be honest) are pretty much done for, what with the astounding increase in rent.

In Faro, on the other hand, you get the Baroque cathedral, the cobbled Old Town, and the pristine sandy coast at much cheaper rates––$1,987 a month versus Lisbon’s pricey $3,290––not to mention a plethora of laptop-friendly eateries and smaller crowds.

Though it is the capital of the sun-drenched Algarve region, Faro feels more like a small town where life unfolds at a much slower pace, and it feels peaceful even in the peak season, as all those British tourists will be hitting the beach in Portimão and Lagos instead.

Antalya, Türkiye

Over in Türkiye, Antalya boasts a minaret-dotted Old Town, ringed by Roman-era city walls and ornate commemorative archways, endless miles of beaches, and unusually milder temps, making it is the perfect destination for those who love ancient culture, as well as basking in the sun:

Temperatures increase up to 68°F as early as April, and there are numerous beaches lined by casual restaurants to be enjoyed, including a trendy Konyaaltı, backed by the towering Anatolian mountains and lapping turquoise-blue waters.

As for the cost of living, you should set aside some $1,507 per month relocating to Antalya, where dinners can cost a negligible $7.30, or a still-acceptable $43.77 for a three-course meal for two, and the price of basic accommodation averages $648.86.

Podgorica, Montenegro

In the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, Podgorica is great for a temporary relocation due to its friendly locals, thriving social scene and economical prices, as well as the fact it lies outside the Schengen Area, allowing nomads to remain longer than the restrictive 90 days in Europe.

Despite being the Montenegrin capital, it’s not the Montenegro you’d expect, and by that we mean, it’s no ocher-colored ancient gem lining a teal-colored Adriatic: it’s known instead for its Ottoman-built Old Town, rebuilt after the World Wars, Yugoslav-era apartment blocks, and verdant city parks.

Similarly to neighboring Croatia, Montenegro has got significantly expensive for nomads in recent years, especially places like Kotor and Budva, but not Podgorica, where having ćevapi for lunch will set you back roughly $8.75, while a centrally-situated one-bedroom apartment is $602.21.

Skopje, North Macedonia

Balkan Europe for the win! One of the greatest traction-gainers for 2025, as well as the cheapest nomad destination on this list, Skopje in North Macedonia should definitely be on your list if medieval castles and Turkish-style bazaars are your thing––and you don’t mind the odd quirky sculpture.

Known as the ‘Kitsch Capital of Europe‘, its skyline is dominated by monumental bronze figures, from Alexander the Great to Mother Teresa, historic stone bridges, and a hilltop fortress overlooking a meandering river: the quintessential European postcard.

The only difference compared to most nomad hubs across the pond? Total expenses are estimated to cap at a much-lower $1,364: ordering some Turkish coffee and a slice of pie in the center of town will have you forking out a mere $6.39, and rent typically starts from $360.45.

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How is it possible nearly 12 million people visit a place you’ve likely never heard of each year?

The same way we all have our beloved secret getaways close to home, the same goes for Asia.

Travelers have been enjoying idyllic escapes to South Korea’s lesser-known paradise for years.

Seoul is always abuzz and thrilling to visit, but Jeju Island invites travelers to experience Korea’s charm in a more peaceful atmosphere highlighted by epic eats and otherworldly nature.

According to local publication, JoongAng Daily, more travelers have been trickling in this year and now it’s ready for the world stage.

Despite being mostly unknown to Western travelers, Jeju isn’t a far-flung remote island unequipped for a spike in tourism; there are ritzy name-brand hotels and centuries of astounding culture waiting for you.

Jeju Island: Closer Than You Think

How many cool places across the world would you be willing to sit through layover after layover to reach?

Being such a drag and energy zapper, that’s a promise I’ve made to myself not to do anymore unless it’s truly unique.

Jeju might be an exception, but the good news is that you can easily reach this 2 million-year-old island with a single connection.

With so many nonstop flights to Seoul, Taipei, and numerous Chinese cities, Jeju is a lot closer and easier to reach than you might think.

This volcanic wonder is set south of South Korea’s mainland in the Korea Strait alone, unlike other Asian countries with paradisal blips dotting the map.

Winter makes for a great time to visit with ideal weather for exploring the island. Agoda notes ‘crisp air’ and ‘minimal rainfall’ perfect for scenic hikes , especially with free entry to place like Hallasan National Park.

Jeju’s Otherworldly Nature & Postcard Villages

When we hear the word ‘island’, we automatically think of pristine beaches. In Jeju’s case, there’s far more to discover.

Take Jeongbang Falls, for example, the only waterfall to crash into the sea; an absolute must on your trip!

Then there’s Seongsan Ilchulbong, a UNESCO-protected site that’s an excellent stop for sunsets and to take in the island’s past volcanic past visit a huge crater than only be described as other-planetary.

Of course, this island has its fair share of incredible beaches to visit, such as Hamdeok, Hyeopjae, and Yongmeori, rounding out TripAdvisor’s top suggestions, but exploring other natural attractions is what will truly captivate you.

The island is teeming with scenic waterfalls, but the most amazing otherworldly experience may be paying a visit to Manjanggul Lava Tube, one of the longest naturally formed lava tubes on Earth.

When visiting Korea, you may not think of such an astounding nature. It’s likely that the food, culture, and bright lights of Seoul come to mind.

But don’t sleep on Jeju’s postcard villages, which make for a great alternative to Seoul’s popular Hanok Village since the new implementation of curfews and fines to combat overtourism concerns next spring.

Jeju Folk Village is a restored village from the 1800s, displaying more than 100 structures and historical remnants.

Seongeup Folk Village is another worthy photo-op where locals have been calling this place home continuously for over 600 years – and don’t skip the Green Tea Cave nearby!

Kimchi, BBQ & Incredible Seafood: Add Some Spice To Your Life In Jeju!

Surely, you’ve realized Chinese takeout and cheap supermarket sushi aren’t the only Asian delights back home.

The U.S. has seen an explosion of Korean restaurants largely highlighted by Korean BBQ garnished by Korea’s spice of life, kimchi, a spicy staple made of fermented vegetables and chilis (and very healthy!).

In Jeju, you can have the real deal at various markets, street vendors, and top-rated restaurants, much of which you’ll find in Jeju City, the island’s largest population.

Albeit winter makes for a great time to visit local citrus farms to sample Jeju mandarins too. Here are some savory dishes to keep an eye for when it’s time to feast:

• Black Pork BBQ
• Gogi Guksu (pork broth-based noodle soup; great for chilly nights!)
• Haemultang (seafood-based soup; equally great for nippy weather!)

Seafood is the claim to fame around here as ingredients are proudly locally sourced. According to TripAdvisor, these are the top 3 seafood restaurants to visit (all with perfect ratings!):

1. Gozip Dol Wooluck – Jungmun
2. Gozip Dol Wooluck – Hamdok
3. Gozipfish – Topdong

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Heading to a sunny Cancun this winter, and as usual, you’re concerned with your personal safety after being bombarded with mainstream news stories on how crime in the Mexican Caribbean is rising?

While there is some truth to that, and we would definitely recommend you exercise greater caution visiting, Cancun remains one of the safest––if not the safest––beach destination in Mexico this season, especially if your primary reason for going is, well, basking in the tropical sun in a luxury resort.

Unless you’ve kept up to date with the latest developments on the security front lately, you may be wondering what exactly makes us so certain Americans have nothing to worry about visiting Cancun in the near future, so here’s why:

Why Is Cancun Safe For Americans?

For starters, Cancun is and always has been, a low-risk destination for U.S. citizens.

It is classified as a Level 2 city by U.S. authorities, which means they do not discourage Americans from visiting, and instead, simply warn them on the necessary precautions that need taken when vacationing south of the border, which we’ll get to in a minute.

It is highly-surveilled, with CCTV and patrol units everywhere to be seen, particularly in the Hotel Zone, and even a Tourist Police––a battalion charged with the care of visitors––having been formed to ensure Americans, and every other guest, feels protected.

Back in 2022, we even reported extensively on how the U.S. issued an alert on kidnapping risks for the whole state of Quintana Roo––including Cancun––over a single individual who had been abducted, in unknown circumstances at the time.

For comparison purposes, can you imagine if there was ever a safety warning that applied to all and mentioned a similar, very specific incident that occurred sporadically in a big U.S. city like Atlanta, New York, or San Francisco, as if it were recurrent?

In that year, there was a single kidnap in the state.

Cancun Is Less Dangerous Than You Might Think

All of this to say that, based on how travel alerts are issued, government bodies seem to play it conservative in how they assess safety risks in Mexico, and you may agree or disagree with that, but it’s evident that, in reality, the risk of kidnapping in Cancun is minimal.

That’s just one newsworthy event: we can’t exactly tell you the last time we caught wind of shoot-outs where tourists got injured within Cancun’s Hotel Zone.

This should already be enough encouragement, but we’re glad to report the Caribbean hub is going even further:

As of this week, Ricardo Morales Santos, director of the Tourist Police, has confirmed they will be ramping up security in the Hotel Zone, with a total of 8 units, each with 7 to 8 officers, being deployed to the area to ensure crime levels stay low.

Gun violence affecting tourists may be uncommon… extortion and corruption, on the other hand, are more common.

Cancun Is Low-Risk, Yes, But…

We can’t tell you the number of times we’ve had reports of readers claiming they were pickpocketed, or fined after breaking poorly-defined traffic rules, particularly when renting cars locally.

These are all seriously inconvenient, and Santos has stated the main objective of the latest deployment is to keep extortion under check, as well as curb drug trafficking, a major concern in Quintana Roo, and ‘high-impact crimes’.

We can’t promise you corruption will decrease in response, but based on what we have seen for crime trends in Cancun, petty criminals may feel less emboldened to target tourists:

Down in Mexico, they call it the ‘cockroach effect‘, when criminals feel cornered by an increased presence of police, and jump to the next town where surveillance isn’t as strict yet.

Interestingly enough, locals in Cancun’s direct neighbor to the south, Playa Del Carmen, are concerned that, now that state authorities have made it very challenging, if not impossible, for lawbreakers to operate from Cancun’s Hotel Zone, they’ll be flocking there instead.

That’s a concern raised by the National Association of Regional Business Councils (Ancer), and it’s not exactly a good thing, by any means, but it only goes to show how actually effective Cancun has been in driving the zero-tolerance message home.

On top of the 8 new Hotel Zone units, Santos is adding 16 motorcycle units, to attend more efficiently to incidents taking place from kilometer zero to 20, in the event there are traffic jams along Kukulcan Boulevard.

The result is a much-safer Cancun, as Mara Lazama Espinosa, the Quintana Roo State Governor, has remarked herself.

The Bottomline

In short, Americans truly have no major concerns traveling to the Caribbean destination, other than keeping an eye on personal belongings in public spaces, notably highly-crowded ones, avoiding marginal districts tourists have no business visiting anyway, and keeping valuables in a hotel safe.

Crime can occur, for sure, like in any popular tourism hotspot, but it’s often restricted to nonviolent mugging and pickpocketing on public beaches––within resorts that straddle their own private beach, it’s very rare––and shopping zones.

Either way, the Hotel Zone and adjacent streets and leisure centers are incredibly safe, with police being promptly available to help if needed, and English being widely spoken, in the very least at a basic level.

So… ready to unwind by the seaside yet?

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Last Updated 1 month ago

When it comes to a place as iconic and stunningly diverse as Italy, it can be hard to pick a single place to visit and even harder to differentiate between the unmissable gems and the overhyped tourist traps.

Milan, in particular, has always been the subject of an ongoing debate among travelers, with some insisting it’s one of Italy’s most visit-worthy cities and others claiming it’s a waste of both time and money.

So I decided to take a leap and see for myself – is Milan actually worth visiting, and more importantly, can you do it on a budget?

After four amazing days in the city, I’m happy to report that the north Italian gem is not only one of the most stunning places I’ve ever seen in my life, but I was actually able to have an incredible time on less than $100 a day.

Here’s how:

Finding Low-Cost Accommodation In Milan

Accommodation might be the trickiest thing to do on a budget in Milan, especially if you have certain expectations regarding location or overall quality, but it’s not impossible.

The no. 1 tip I can give you here is to prioritize Airbnb over hotels.

I know that Airbnbs have notoriously become more expensive than hotels in most destinations, but after searching for the perfect affordable place to stay for at least a month, I can confidently say that Milan is not one of them.

Places like these (1, 2) while unassuming, are still comfy, clean, and conveniently located, offering excellent value for the money (assuming you’re traveling with a companion, the nightly cost ends up somewhere around $40-$55 per person).

You’ll notice that both of these apartments are located in Porta Venezia – in my opinion, that’s the best area for a tourist to stay in the city.

You’re close to both the city center (~25-minute walk) and Milano Centrale, the main train and bus station (~15-minute walk), and believe me, if you don’t have your own car, you’ll want to be close to Minano Centrale because that’s where you’ll go for every day trip and airport transfer.

The neighborhood itself is peaceful but still lively and near great shops and bars, and you even have access to a beautiful park (Indro Montanelli). 

Getting Around The City

OK, so you want to be close to Milano Centrale for all inter-city trips, but what about getting around Milan itself? How do you do that and how much can you expect to pay?

The easiest and most convenient mode of transportation here is by metro, no competition.

There’s a station at almost every corner, and as long as you do your best to understand how the system works, you should get the hang of it in no time.

Basically, there are three main lines that cover most of the city, Red (M1), Green (M2), and Yellow (M3), each with its own set of stops which you can learn more about here.

Still, as a tourist, you might have a challenging time figuring out what station you need to get to and what line you should take, so I highly recommend you download the ATM Milano App.

You just type in your location and where you need to go, and the app will come up with an exact itinerary of how to get to the right metro station near you, what line to take, and where to stop, and it’s definitely a time and headache-saver.

Even with the app, though, you’ll still want to pay close attention to the signs and maps displayed inside metro stations as well as the digital displays inside the actual metros to make sure you’re going in the right direction.

As far as pricing is concerned, a single ticket (which can be used as many times as you want within a 90-minute time frame) costs 2.2€ or ~$2.5, while a 3-day pass costs 15.5€ or ~$17.

Eating Out And Well Doesn’t Have To Be Expensive

Eating out in Milan can get pretty expensive – there are probably thousands of restaurants and fast food joints in the city and most of them are obvious tourist traps with sky-high prices and mediocre food.

With that said, there are still some places where you can get amazing, great-value food, even in more touristy areas.

Case in point, Luna Rossa.

It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but as soon as you get in, you’re hit with that typical Italian trattoria charm.

It’s busy, loud, and unpretentious – the food is great, the service is quick, and a main dish + glass of wine shouldn’t cost you more than $15.

Bonus point, it’s just an 8-minute walk from the Duomo.

Other places I ate at (and loved) during my trip to Milan include Fresca Pasta Club, Salad House, and Pizza e Mozzarella.

For dessert, my go-tos would be Gelato Fatto Con Amore and Spùn Tiramisù.

The Same Goes For Entertainment

With accommodation, food, and transportation covered, it’s time to delve into what it costs to do other touristy activities in Milan, you know, things like visiting a museum, exploring a historical attraction, or going out for a cocktail.

With museums, you’ll want to try your best to time your visit to Milan so that you’re here during the first Sunday of the month – some of the city’s most coveted historical and cultural attractions are free to enter on that day alone.

If that’s not possible, you’ll want to aim for either the first or third Tuesday of the month, when there will still be some gorgeous museums you can enter for free (places that charge anywhere between $5 and $25 per ticket the rest of the month).

With Duomo, you’ll have to pay for a ticket no matter the time of the month you go, but there are a few tips I can give you to get the most out of the experience:

• Only purchase from the official website or on-site
• Check discount policies
• If you’re reasonably fit, choose the Combo Stairs ticket instead of the Combo Lift – there are only 200 stairs, the lines for the lift can get insane during specific times of the day, and there’s no descending lift, so you’ll still have to make your way down by foot
• Make use of the 10% discount code for the gift shop that comes with any Combo Ticket

Now when it comes to bars, the best places to go for those on a budget are definitely neighborhoods like Porta Romana or Porta Venezia, where cocktails cost anywhere between $8 and $10.

If you’re set on having a drink with a gorgeous view of the Duomo, my top recommendation would be SunEleven Rooftop Bar – for just $16 a cocktail you get great service and the most incredible backdrop.

So, with all of that said, what can you expect the average day in Milan to cost you?

• Airbnb – $45
• Breakfast + coffee (espresso) – $6
• Sightseeing + museum tour – $0
• Lunch – $18
• Cocktail – $10
• Dinner – $15

All of that adds up to a total of $94, well under $100.

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Last Updated 4 months ago

For better or worse, Paris is having quite a year. First, the French icon was dethroned by Istanbul as the most visited city in the world, and now they have fallen out of the top 3 entirely.

Followed by the looming Olympics as the City of Light lays down their welcome mats to the world playing host to this magnificent global event Jul 26, 2024 – Aug 11, 2024.

However, early reports are showing mixed reviews of Paris during this period.

Air France, expecting a gargantuan loss of $193 million, was quoted as saying, “International markets show a significant avoidance of Paris.”.

Taking a page out of Southwest Airline’s playbook, tourists are saying they ‘wanna get away’…or stay away for that matter.

Good news is you can, and very cheap at that. One of the main concerns tourists have visiting Paris during the Olympics is the all but guaranteed surge in pricing.

Fortunately, that doesn’t impact trains outta town, but there’s also great deals extending through fall.

Travel to these 4 underrated destinations from Paris under $30 by train:

Ditch France Entirely! Take A Short Ride To Luxembourg ($27)

Luxembourg is undeniably one of the most expensive destinations in all of Europe and also insanely beautiful.

Don’t let your travel budget deter you from visiting one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, however.

Although pricey for hotels and dining, Luxembourg is worth a splurge for a day-trip or weekend getaway and it’s more than meets the eye with small towns like Echternach, known as “Little Switzerland”.

Everybody likes free stuff, and when it comes to traveling, we all appreciate freebies even more.

Luxembourg offers free transit throughout their small nation and you don’t even need a ticket! Just hop on!

In this case, you would be arriving by train via SNCF Connect, so all you have to purchase is your ticket from Paris (Gare de l’Est) into Luxembourg, totaling 2 hours, 43 minutes after a brief stop in Metz.

Those looking to escape the crowds watching Lebron James light up the scoreboard will have to fork over anywhere from $50 – $100 during the Olympics, but can score $27 tickets various dates Sep – Oct.

Au Revoir, Nice! Hit Up The Northern Coastal Town Of Le Havre ($23)

Paris, Lyon, Nice, Cannes…none of these household names are Le Havre. You may have never heard of it and that’s okay.

The road less traveled, or in this case, the rail, is one of the best ways to explore the world.

Those looking to check out more of France and want to stay close to Paris should check out Le Havre, which is just a 2-hour and 18-minute nonstop journey.

According to Rail Europe, tickets are $27 during the Olympics and $23 in October – the perfect escape for a day trip away from crowds, especially since trains run throughout the day.

Visitors may find Le Havre is a bit quirky, but aren’t we all?

This artsy port city, blending modern architecture and well-preserved structures surviving World War II bombings, has earned itself UNESCO recognition.

Easy to explore with the city’s grid-like layout, Le Havre is full of surprises, from savory beachside seafood restaurants to eye-popping art installations.

If there’s one thing not to miss out on it’s the remarkable Saint Joseph’s Church, a feast for the eyes.

Toast To New Adventures: Visit France’s Champagne Capital ($14)

Reims is a city steeped in history, but its claim to fame is being France’s champagne capital.

We’ll toast to that!

Boasting phenomenal attractions ranging from historic to indulgent, you can visit such sites as the Gothic-style Reims Cathedral to the beautiful Abbey of Saint-Remi, both protected by UNESCO.

Of course, you can’t visit the ‘champagne capital’ without sipping some bubbly.

Feel free to pop bottles at Reims’ renowned Champagne Houses for tours and tasting.

A few of the top-rated are:

• Mumm
• Veuve Clicquot,
• Taittinger 

You can reach Reims easily from Paris (Gare de l’Est) as low as $14 during the Olympics on SNCF Connect. Oddly enough prices go up to $19 in fall.

The route takes 2 hours 11 minutes for these fares, but an express route via TGV Inoui will get you there in just 46 minutes for $26.

A Grand Tour Through Tours ($11)

Tours, France is a hidden gem in the Loire Valley and just a stone’s throw from Paris in terms of train travel.

The city is quaint, easily navigable, and underappreciated for authentic French cuisine, but the real draws are the world-class chateaux and wineries outside the city limits.

Explore more of Loire Valley and visit stunning castles like Chambord, Chenonceau, Villandry, and Amboise, each with its own unique style and backstory.

But first, you have to get to Tours. Doing so is easy aboard the direct SNCF Connect route from Paris Montparnasse station, reaching Tours in as little as 51 minutes.

Tickets are as low as $17 July 29th during the Olympics and as low as $11 September – November.

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