Just an expansion on my one of the old posts on "Travelling and Enjoying On Budget". In addition, I came across people asking me why I travel so much, whether it is expensive, that I am always away.
Well, needle to say, travelling is my passion, to some extent my work and something that I see worth an investment into. The experiences.

I am still very careful when it comes to travelling. In terms of budget and locations. I am working in a corporate 9-6 job and my holidays' allowance is limited. Yet, I am trying to utilize the time and various factors as much as I can so I can go away. I spend my boring and procrastination time browsing either through my unread emails, Instagram or flight tickets. Therefore I would like to share with you some tactics and tips into how to find cheap travel tickets that you can go and enjoy the world too. Besides this, my other old posts, you will find also many other online resources which are sharing similar tips and even with some stats to back up.



1. Know your tools

Know where to search and how to search. There are so many websites where you can search and get notifications. It is always beneficial to sign up for newsletters with your favourite aeroplane providers, hotels providers or even travel agencies. By doing so, you can keep yourself updated on the deals, packages, sales season, trendy destination or also collect points for being loyal.

My favourite tools to search for flights are Skyscanner and Google Flights. Apart from this, there is also Kayak, Momodo or directly at the aeroplanes websites. It is always worth to check different combinations, different websites, different currencies as well as browse through different devices.

2. Be flexible
Try to search for different dates, times or event airport locations. Be flexible as much as you can, if it helps you to reduce the cost of travelling. Ask yourself if it is worth the extra hours, or extra travel time. Be sensible and know the limits. For example, my upcoming trip to Morocco, I have booked a flight to get to Rabat and then from Marrakesh back to London. Not only I will have the opportunity to explore two cities, sacrifice the 3h train ride from Rabat to Marrakesh, but also saved the cost of two ways ticket if I would only travel to Marrakesh. Look for combinations of time

3. Know when is the best to book flights
Logically, think about the periods when everybody else would think about holidays. Like, at the end of the month when people get paid, or during winter times when people get tired of the cold weather and are seeking for sunny places, or during any school holidays. Try to plan and think in advance before the majority would, in general months like January, February, August or September are great months to plan and book your trips. Those are the times when people don't have money to spend after Christmas, or are too happy with summer weather and don't have any vacation in mind for a while. Avoid booking peak seasons and know the best month and even hour to book. Additionally, Tuesday mornings are the best time to purchase ticket! Note that down.

4. Use multi-stop options
As I have already given an example of multi-stop travelling in point 2) Be flexible. Multi-stop option simple means travelling via different routes and cities. Try to look for nearest city or other airport options. For example, if you would be travelling to Brno, Czech republic, you can choose Vienna, Bratislava, Ostrava or Prague airport to travel into. All of it is about 2-3h far by bus or train. Try to fly in from one place and fly out from another place. Meanwhile, use local flights or travel options to travel in between cities. Not only you will save money for airplane tickets, but also it may give you a chance to explore something new.



5. Online Travel Agents
OTA or Online Travel Agents are simple websites and companies who specialise in selling travel deals and tickets to consumers. Travel agents usually have direct deals with the provider and may sell it cheaper. But it is not always the case! If you are just purely looking for tickets, sometimes directly from airlines it is cheaper. If you are looking for a package (e.g.: hotels, car rental as well) then check for OTA's prices. It is worth to compare and make your decision before you will go purchase it either directly from airline website or via a travel agent.

6. Be quick with deals
Deals don't stick around for long, as it is limited by number of seats and demand. Sometimes there may by an error in pricing (it happens) and if you spot one, purchase it immediately, because most of the time, it is company's fault and they can't do anything about those tickets that went out wrong. The best time to check for tickets is the morning time. Don't hesitate too long and purchase tickets when you find the deal!

7. Know what is or isn't a best deal
Check what is are the average costs to travel to certain continent or destination and base your deals around this. Getting tickets to Asia for £300 is a good deal for example. Getting a ticket around Europe for £30 is a good deal. Understand the pricing system behind just the demand, and happy hunting!

SOFIA

Don't you also love the glam nights, long summer evenings and chilled vibes with beloved ones?
That is how I feel when I have worn these one shoulder slinky midi dress from Femme Luxe in Sofia couple weeks back.

Summer is popular time for weddings, and that is one of the reasons I have head to Bulgaria for. A destination wedding is a great reason for travel and to experience something extraordinary. Nevertheless, destination weddings takes a lot of dedication for guests to take time off, and spend money to travel abroad. Since Bulgaria wasn't too far off and I would never had another reason to go back there anytime soon, going for a wedding was a good "excuse" for an extended weekend away. In fact, I am preparing more travel guides for Bulgaria, so watch this space!

This beige midi dress from Femme Luxe defines femininity in the perfect way. It not only shape your body perfectly, but also love the one shoulder cut, giving the dress sophisticated edge. Head to Femme Luxe website to browse for more sophisticated pieces for your wardrobe that you'll need for these summer endless evenings, or shop similar looks below.

MARRAKESH

Marrakesh is the popular getaway to Moroccan culture. Marrakesh is the fourth largest city in Morocco, after Casablanca, Fez and Tangier. Nevertheless, the capital city of Morocco is Rabat. Marrakesh is a place that people either love or hate. It is a place where tourists need to adapt and show respect. Filled with many vibrant souks (markets), medieval old town or beautiful mosques and gardens. Marrakesh or so called "Red City" has established itself as a cultural, religious and trading center for the Magreb and sub-Saharan Africa.

Things to do and see

1. Jemaa el-Fna
It is apparently the busiest square in Africa. Jemaa el-Fna is the largest and main square in Marrakesh, packed by food, trading stalls, shops and entertainment street performances. It is located right at the heart of Medina (the old city). Visit the square during the day and night, you will find it buzzing from locals as well as from tourists.

2. Jardin Majorelle & YSL museum
The Majorelle Garden is a botanical harden created by the French artist Jacques Majorelle. Majorelle was forced to sell the house and land in 1950. After this, the garden was neglected and fell into disrepair. The garden and villa were rediscovered in the 1980s, by fashion designers, Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé who set about restoring it and saving it. Nowadays, this complex consist of the garden, YSL house and a Barber museum. 
Just next to Jardin Majorelle, you can find newly built Yves Saint Laurent museum dedicated to Yves's life in Marrakesh and as an iconic designer. You can purchase the combo ticket to save some money when sitting both sites. The entrance fee for both attractions is about 183 Moroccan Dirham.



3. Bahia Palace
Bahia Palace is a palace built in 19th century, and it is a perfect example to capture the essence of the Islamic and Moroccan style. This palace is divided into different rooms with spectacular ceiling details. Each room is opened to a small and large courtyard as well as to a beautiful garden. The entrance fee for the palace was about 70 DH.


4. Koutobia mosque
Koutobia mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakesh, located not far from Saadian tombs and Jemaa el-Fna square. Next to the large tower, you will find excavated remains of the first mosque. The building is built from bricks and sandstone. It is believed that the architecture style is very similar to the first mosque. As with any mosques in Morocco, non-muslims can't enter the mosques, so we can just admire the mosque and its gardens from outside. 

5. Saadian Tombs
The Saadian tombs, located nearby to Koutobia mosque, is dated to time of the Saadian dynasty sultan Amad al-Mansur. The museum consist of about 60 members of Saadi Dynasty. Outside of the building, you can visit the gardens and graves of soldiers and servants.
6. Menara gardens
The panorama of the Menara Gardens is one of the popular scenery of Marrakesh, due to the Atlas mountains in the background. The large green space with water basic and vegetation, is located a bit further from the old city, more less on the way to airport. The basis is about 150 m wide and about 200 m long. The pavilion in the middle of the lake against the mountains is the picturesque spot for many tourists. 
7. El Badi palace
El Badi palace is an architectural ensemble built at the end of the 16th century and located near to Bahia palace. The former palace was built by Saadian sultan Ahmed al-Mansur Dhabi. The palace's construction was funded by Portugese after the Battle of the Three Kings. The palace took about 15 years to build, it was completed in 1593. However, after the fall of the Saadians and the rise of the Alaouite dynasty, sultan Ismail Ibn Sharif demolished the building's content, materials and materials so he can use it to build a new palace at Meknes. 


8. Marrakesh museum Marrakesh museum is housed in the Dar Menebhi Palace, a former residence of Mehdi Mnebhi who was the defence minister of Abdelaziz of Morocco. The building is a great example of classical Andalusian architecture. Apart from extensive museum's collection, the building's highlight is the patio, courtyards and the decorations. 
8. Medina and souks of Marrakesh
If you are travelling to Morocco, you will be flooded with souks, and it is okay to get lost among them. Souks are Moroccan markets, where you will find everything. Simply everything. From spices, food, clothes, handcraft items, carpets to home decors. Always do negotiate if you shop at the markets, and don't ask for prices if you have no interest in buying it.



9. Bab Agnaou gate
Bab Agnaou is one of 19 gates of Marrakesh. It was built in the 12th century during Almohad dynasty. Do you know that Bab er Robb was the official entrance to the city. However, Bab Agnaou gave entrance to the royal kasbah in the southern part of the Media of Marrakesh. 
10. Dar Si Said museum
Another interesting and local museum in Marrakesh to visit is Dar Si Said. It is the oldest museum in the city that exhibits many craftsmanship work and art. The museum is officially called the Museum of Moroccan Arts.
11. Le Jardin Secret A smaller "secret" gardens located just in the old city of Marrakesh is called Le Jardin Secret. Compared to the famous and popular Majorelle, Le Jardin Secret is an elegant 19th century palace complex with traditional Islamic gardens. Within the oasis of these gardens, you may visit also the tower for a view. 

12. Ben Youssef mosque
Ben Youssef Medersa mosque is one of the major landmark of Marrakesh old city, named after the Almoravid emir Ali ibn Yusuf. It is the oldest and one of the most important mosques in Marrakesh. Apart from the mosque, Medersa Ben Youseff served as a home for students as well.Yet again, it is unfortunately not accessible inside by non-Muslim visitors.
13. Cyber park
Cyber park is a large green space just nearby Koutobia mosque. The park which dates back in 18th century have many nice fountains or green space for a nice walk and chilling. Very popular among students and locals.
14. Ensemble Artisanal Marrakesh
This artistic and shopping complex consists of many small boutiques and studios where you can admire the craftsmanship of rugs, leather or straw decorations. You will find very similar items as you would in souks. Soaking up the vibrant souks in old medina can be very fun and experiential, but if you are looking for more relaxing alternative, definitely make a visit to Ensemble Artisanal.



15. Marrakesh Tanneries
Tanning is the process of treating skins and hides of animals to produce leather. Sometimes also in a tannery, people process dies and other materials. Fez is the famous place for tanneries. However, Marrakesh has its own small place too. Located about 10 minutes away from Old Medina. 

Food & drink

Marrakesh is full of food stands and places to eat and chill. The only thing they are lacking off is supermarkets though! Nevertheless, do taste local cuisine whenever you are travelling, and Marrakesh has many beautiful local places to offer. From traditional Moroccan restaurants to more modern places. What I loved the most in Marrakesh, was the endless choice of rooftop coffee shops and restaurants. Whilst admiring the beautiful view on the local life, you can even admire the amazing interior design.  Make sure to always have cash with you, as not so many places accept cards. Below are some of the places you should check out: 1. Azar (great Moroccan/Lebanese dining with shisha and entertainment) 2. Zwin Zwin Cafe (Rooftop cafe and healthy dining place) 3. Le Salama (4 stores dining and bar place in Medina) 4. Nomad (A dining place with a rooftop) 5. Cafe Des Epices (A dining place with a rooftop) 5. Argana (Dining and cafe place at the market square) 6. Le Jardin (Garden dining restaurant in Medina) 7. Atay Cafe Food (3 store dining and cafe place in Medina) 8. La Table de la Kasbah (Rooftop cafe and dining place near Koutobia mosque) 9. Dar yacout (Moroccan restaurant) 10. Katsura (Japanese restaurant)

Where to stay?

You must have heard that the best experiential place to stay is in Riads in Medinas. They are small guest houses with courtyards. Tourists love it, as they decorated in traditional Moroccan mosaics and colours. Usually riads are located in the Old Town. However, if you looking to stay outside of Medina, outside of the busy rush, you can look into many hotels via hotels.com or booking.com (make sure to use my link to get some discount off your first booking!)

During my stay in Marrakesh, I have stayed at Zwin Zwin boutique hotel which is located just 10 minutes away from Medina. Therefore, the location make it super convenient to get around the nearby tourist attractions. The other place is Dellarosa hotel suite and spa which is about half an hour from Medina by walk. Closer to the main train station, but the location was super clean and quiet. Surrounded by many higher class dining and bars, it was a great stay to relax and see the different part of Marrakesh.

How to get around

I have not used public transport in Marrakesh to be honest. The best way how I travel is by foot or getting a taxi. Accommodate yourself either in the old city or nearby, so it will ease your hassle to travel around. The old city is walkable easily and there is no other way of transports apart from bikes and motorcycles. Nevertheless, taxis are affordable and you can get them just outside of Medina or anywhere close to a tourist attraction. Make sure to always negotiate the price for a taxi before getting in, as they don't have meters. On the other hand, if you are looking to travel outside of Marrakesh, you have 3 ways. Either you can either hire a car and plan your trip yourself.  Book a tour bus with a guide, or lastly, larger towns in Morocco are well connected by trains that are reliable, so you can use get on a train to explore.

Trips out of the city

Marrakesh is beautiful and vibrant city, full of locals and tourists. However, don't get trapped and don't spend the whole holiday in there. Use your time to explore the surrounding. Go to trips to valleys, deserts and other smaller villages or towns. Morocco is beautiful itself and there is so much you should see. Whether you want more landscape, hiking or chilling, pick a tour and a trip suitable to your needs. There are plenty of tourist agencies in the city to help you book a tour, so don't be afraid to reach out and look out for what you want. Below are some great locations nearby Marrakesh that are worth to consider:
1. Dunes & Desert Quad      2. Ourika 3. Lalla Takerkoust 4. Ouzoud Falls 5. Ouarzazate 6. Essaouira 7. Casablanca 8. Atlas mountains 9. Agadir 10. Desert camps

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