Budget Travel – Page 2 – Travel with KKday

6 Handy Tips For Paris Budget Travellers

Ahhh, the City of Love.

Other than the renown Eiffel Tower, what else is Paris known for? Every bit of Paris, from plane tickets to accommodation, can be painfully expensive, deeming this city an unreachable goal for fresh graduates looking for a grad trip destination.

Find out how you can save money and skip queues while fulfilling your Paris graduation trip dream! Following these advices, you might soon be on your way to the City of Lights too!

#1 Internet: Speed Data SIM card

In today’s day and age, internet access is every traveller’s number one priority. Let’s all admit it, wifi is a necessity—almost comparable to oxygen. This is especially so for solo travellers, who wish to stay connected with their family and friends, and update their social media accounts. The best place to get a SIM card is to book it online prior to your trip, ensuring that you’ll get your connection as soon as you step out of the plane.

>> High Speed Europe Prepaid SIM card

#2 Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) / Orly Airport

After you get connected to your wifi, that’s when your first test starts. Trying to figure how to get to the city from the airport can leave you lost and confused as the directions and information are mostly in French. To avoid this whole situation, opt for a Paris airport shuttle service instead. This is especially great for solo travellers with a poor sense of direction (*raises hands discretely*) or for trips with large groups of family or friends.

Airport shuttle services are definitely necessary if you aren’t fluent in French, because you may take a wrong transport and end up lost while attempting to get to your destination. Paris airport transfer saves you the horror of things that could possibly go wrong.

>> Paris Shared Arrival/ Departure Transfer: Charles de Gaulle Airport

#3 Sightseeing tour bus around Paris attractions

Transportation is terribly complicated in Paris — getting from point A to B may require you to take flights of stairs, and several more turns before making a transfer. A good alternative to solve all inconveniences is to simply take the Big Bus Paris.

You can get either a one-day or two-day pass to go around Paris and to check out the major attractions. If this is your first trip to Paris, you’ll be glad to know that Big Bus Tour’s stops include Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars, Louvre Museum, Notre Dame, Orsay Museum and more.

>> Get your Big Bus Paris pass online

#4 Seine River Cruise

Experience a different side of Paris on Seine River Cruise; besides appreciating the beautiful scenery of Paris, you can even feel romance and love in the air. Get your tickets online — it’s way cheaper plus you get to skip the queues!

>> Seine Cruise (KKday Special Price)

#5 Louvre Museum

Pretty sure you’ve heard that one of the must visit places in Paris is The Louvre. Not only is it the largest museum in the world, The Louvre is also a monument in Paris.

Even if you aren’t an artsy-fartsy person, you’ll definitely know Mona Lisa, situated in The Louvre. Tourists all over the world flock to The Louvre for a glimpse of Mona Lisa. On a regular day, you may have to queue over two hours to purchase an admission ticket into Louvre. To save your time, be smart and beat the queue by getting your tickets to The Louvre online.

>> Visit Louvre Museum with Audioguide or Live Guide

#6 Paris Museum Pass

If The Louvre is on your itinerary because you’d like to experience Paris’ culture, how does a Paris Museum package sound? If museum hopping is your thing, rejoice!

This Paris museum pass allows you to enter a whopping 60 museums in Paris, saving you lots of precious time queuing for tickets, and only at 35 euros (that’s almost SGD $60!).

>> Paris Museum Pass

For more Paris travel guides:

>> Dine in These 5 Restaurants to Know Why Paris is a Culinary Capitol
>> Don’t Miss Out These Experiences If You’re in Paris!

6 Budget Activities in Europe and USA to Complete Your Vacation

What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when someone mentions Europe and USA? The breathtaking Niagara Falls or the magnificence of Grand Canyon? London‘s scenery or Turkish cuisine? Have these been lying in your bucket list for a long time? Fret not for your wallet — KKday shows you how you can pamper yourself with a long holidays without exceeding your budget.

1. The Elegance of Baroque: Vienna, Salzburg

If you often dream of visiting scenes from your favourite fairy tales, Vienna is the place for you! This quaint city filled with blue lakes and picturesque castles sees a higher number of tourists each year than the residents actually living there. Enjoy unique Baroque architectures in this charming city home to music prodigy Mozart and take delight in the beauty of Europe with every breath.

>> Enjoy 30% discount with KKday’s train transfer from Salzburg to Vienna

2. English Afternoon Tea On a Romantic Cruise: London

Having an English afternoon tea while cruising along River Thames

Britons drink 165 million cups of tea per day and they are proud of their tea tradition! Take a trip down London personally and you’ll understand why English afternoon tea is a “must do” there.

Revel in the beauty of River Thames while sipping on a cup of top-notch British tea as you learn to appreciate a slower pace of life cruising down the longest river in England.

Before that, here’s everything you need to know about British afternoon tea.

3. Paris Nightlife: Moulin Rouge Show

There’s no better place to experience the charming nightlife in Paris than Moulin Rouge! Be seduced by the champagne, alluring beauties and non-stop Can-Can. The captivating Moulin Rouge show is an essential to complete your nightlife in Paris.

Moulin Rouge is located in Paris‘ red-light district, easily identified by the windmill on its roof. As the oldest and most famous show in the entire history of Paris, Moulin Rouge is the birth place of French Can-Can, thus explaining its tough selection criteria during auditions. Other than appearance, a dancer’s demeanour plays an enormous part during the tryouts as well.

What more do we need to say when the Moulin Rouge Show is the most exciting performance throughout the whole of Paris, and even Europe? Tickets are often sold out so remember to pre-plan this stop into your itinerary or you might miss this world-famous show.

>> How to grab tickets to the Moulin Rouge Show when it’s always sold out?

4. Witness America History: Washington Capital Tour

If you’re want to experience America‘s pop scene, New York will probably be the first thing that pops into your mind. But to truly learn more about the history and culture of the United States? Washington is the city to be. As the most powerful nation in the world, Washington DC is like a microcosm of American history. Set foot into Lincoln Memorial, and you’ll discover how America‘s continuous struggle for equality impacted development of the country.

Visit the White House to unveil mysteries hidden in the office to President of the United States.

>> Washington DC One Day Tour

5. A must in your bucket list: Niagara Falls

Lunging downwards at 400 million cubic meters per minute, creating exhilaration and a thrilling sensation, Niagara Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Bask in the presence of a vast waterfall, take delight in the natural scenery and familiarise yourself with Indian cultural history — the last vestige of the American — all at the same time!

>> Arranging a trip to marvel at Niagara Falls? We suggest a 2D1N quick staycation.

6. Classic American culture: Broadway Musicals

The Lion King, Rent, Mama Mia — these are just some names you should have heard of even if you are not familiar with the Broadway music scene. Broadway musicals have been sung and remade countless times over that they the foundation of classic American culture. You can’t conclude your trip to USA without watching a Broadway musical. Treat your eyes and ears to a show unparalleled to the rest!

>> The Lion King Show Tickets
>> The Phantom of the Opera Show Tickets
>> Sleep No More Show Tickets

Let the days of expensive Europe or USA travel experiences be a thing of the past! Creating the best value for money itineraries, you don’t have to burn your wallet when you travel with KKday.

For more Europe and USA travel guide:

>> Getting Around London On Public Transport
>> Passes That Will Save You Time And Money in Europe
>> 4 Reasons Solo Travellers Need to Visit Iceland (Esepcially Females!)
>> Maximising Your Time At California Disneyland For More Fun

London Raiders, Here’s How You Can Get Around the City

Planning a trip to London but unsure of how you can get around the city? The Oyster card is the solution to all your problems! Similar to our EZ-Link card, this card is essential if you are considering taking public transport in London.

1. Oyster Card Usability

Not only does an Oyster card save time, it helps save money as well! Purchasing an Oyster card is way cheaper than purchasing single tickets all the time. The London Oyster card can be used in almost every single public transportation services available: bus, subway, DLR, tram, and most of the national railway. It can be even used to rent a bicycle! With the Oyster card, one is also entitled to purchasing cable car or ferry tickets at a discounted rate.

Purchasing the Oyster card is real simple – just purchase the card at a vending machine for only £5. You can purchase the Oyster card as a gift or keep it as a souvenir. The Oyster card works exactly the same way as our EZ-Link card in Singapore—you’ll have to tap in and out of the gantries except for the buses (you only need to tap in for buses).

Rent a bicycle with the Oyster Card in London (Photopin)

If you wish to rent a bicycle within the city, you can use the Oyster Card to help you with the rental services. Renting a bicycle in London is the best choice for a short-distance journeys because the first half an hour of rental is completely free! There are many bicycle rental stands throughout the city, making it easy to rent and return. If you would like to rent the bicycle for a long period of time, select “Hire a Cycle” on the screen and insert your card. A password would be given to you and you have to key into the machine in order to rent the bicycle.

The prices are as such:

For long period of use
24h: £2

For short period of use
First half an hour: Free
Every Subsequent 30 min: £2

2. London Underground Fare System

Transportation charges in London is divided into peak and off-peak timings.

Peak hours:
Monday to Friday 4:30 to 9:30 and 16:00 to 19:00

Non-Peak Hours:
Besides the peak hours, weekends and holidays.

If you are travelling with luggages or want to ride the subway or buses more comfortably, KKday advises you to travel during off-peak hours.

London’s subway is divided into 6 areas, as indicated by gray and white in the map below. The fare is charged according to the distance travelled. When purchasing a one-time ticket, the fare ranges £4.80 ~ £12.70 whereas the fare is only about £2.30 ~ £9.20 with the Oyster Card.

London underground subway map (tfl.gov.uk)

When using the Oyster Card, bus fare is only £1.50! Do note that the buses do not accept cash purchases. The Oyster Card in London has many benefits, and we hope you’ll make full use of it!

By the way, the Oyster Card available to tourists has a completely different design from the ones for the locals, making it a great gift or souvenir.

3. London Transport Policy

Frequent subway strike

Due to regular maintenance or unions strike, subway services may be unavailable. In case of a strike, be sure to check the bulletins or their website to know when will the services be up again.

London’s busy streets packed with vehicles (Photopin)

It’s convenient to take a bus in London

In addition to being cheap, riding a bus is way more convenient than the subway when exploring London. While riding the bus, each stop’s name will be broadcasted. If you’re still unsure, you can always ask the bus driver.

If you need a late night ride during your stay there, there are about five to six subways (Piccadilly, Victoria, Central, Jubilee, Northern) and other lines that provide night services. The prices are according to the off-peak prices.

Routes marked with “N” stand for night buses. The price is equivalent to taking a bus during the day. If you’re not familiar with the roads in London, you can view the information at each bus stop or take the night bus to the terminal in Trafalgar Square.

Train Stations

There are seven main train stations in London bound for different destinations. Be sure to check beforehand and arrive at the train station before the train departs.

Watch for Special Offers

Train tickets are available three months before for preorder. You can purchase the tickets through their website or by downloading their app. The prices for the tickets will be cheaper when you preorder instead of purchasing it on the day itself. The preordered tickets might even be cheaper than the bus fares!

If you are intending to stay in London for long, you can consider buying the railcard to enjoy further discounts. If you’re a youth between 16 – 25 years old, you may purchase the youth card available on the website or the subway registration counter. Discounts up to 25% will be given to cardholders.

You can purchase tickets directly from UK’s largest bus company, National Express’ website. Similar to train tickets, you can preorder their tickets 3 months in advance at a discounted rate. Upon travelling on the bus, you simply have to present your electronic ticket using a mobile phone or any tech device.

Buses are an inexpensive way of traveling in London (Photopin)

If you are a kiasu early planner, you might want to consider getting your tickets from Megabus. Tickets are very limited but they start off as low as £1 and £15 for night buses. Generally, Megabus fares are a lot cheaper than the National Express but the National Express service has more tickets and destinations for one to choose from. The boarding area is always at Victoria Coach Station.

We hope that by reading this article, you will be more prepared and equipped as you plan your holiday to London!

Here are some popular attractions that you can consider visiting on your trip to London:

>> Visit Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath
>> Warner Brothers Studio: The making of Harry Potter
>> Coca-Cola London Eye

6 Beauty Products Under $30 You MUST Buy in Korea (2016 Edition)

6 Beauty Products under $30 in Korea

How can you leave South Korea without any beauty hauls? From the trendy gradient lips on K-pop stars to BB cream that gives you dewy skin and even cosmetics with LINE merchandise printed on them, Korea seems to have them all. KKday brings you 7 beauty products under $30 that you have to buy when you’re in Korea, even if it means you have to brave the snowstorms or unbearable heat for them!

#1 Innisfree green tea seed serum | 22,000 won (~ SGD$26)

Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum

Now we all know that that Innisfree is a popular skincare brand amongst both Koreans and Singaporeans alike, and their secret is this flagship product of theirs suitable for all skin types. Made of natural ingredients gentle on the skin, this serum contains green tea extract planted by Innisfree on Jeju island.

#2 Too Cool for School Glossy Blaster Tint | 10,000 won (~ SGD$12)

Too Cool for School Glossy Blaster Tint (Too Cool for School)

This product is highly raved by many beauty YouTubers and was 2015’s best selling cosmetic in Korea. Coming in many different shades, there’s bound to be something you’d like. Don’t forget to grab some for your bestie while you’re there!

#3 Banila Co. Clean It Zero Sherbet Cleanser | 25,000 won (~ SGD$29)

Banila Co. Clean It Zero Sherbet Cleanser (Banila Co)

How can we not want this when it’s promoted by goddess Song Ji-hyo? Many korean beauty bloggers swear by this product as their secret to clear refreshing skin!

Banila Co. Radiant CC Cream | 25,000 won (~ SGD$29)

Banila Co. Radiant CC Cream (Banila Co)

The price is relatively cheap for a CC cream with such great coverage. Other than the pink tube, the other variations of this product are not commonly found in Singapore so remember to stock up some for your girlfriends and you when you’re there!

#4 Missha Magic Cushion | 6800 won (~ SGD$8)

Missha Magic Cushion (Missha)

Yes, you got that right, you can get this Missha Magic Cushion for only SGD$8. Un-un-un-un-unbelievable! You can’t even get a Doble McSpicy meal at that price. Even better, purchase refill packs along with your magic cushions for more discounts! Hmm, maybe we shouldn’t be saying this but… Buying in bulk and selling them on Carousell would earn you a neat profit.

#5 Etude House Tint My Eyebrows Gel | 8500 won (~ SGD$10)

Etude House Tint My Eyebrows Gel (Etude House)

Want eyebrows that are on fleek? The product has taken the Internet by storm and its popularity speaks for abilities to give you on point eyebrows!

#6 Missha LINE series

You can’t buy this line of product (no pun intended) even with money because it’s sold out across Korea, but it’s too adorable to not be featured here! Missha launched another LINE series soon after but all of its products were sold out as well.

Other than shopping, consider:
>> SMTOWN STUDIO idol experience trip
>> Lotte World tickets
>> Everland – South Korea’s largest theme park
>> Private guided tour

Can’t get enough of Korea?
>> 20 Things You Must Do on Your First Trip to Seoul
>> 4 Places You Can Visit to Relive Descendants of the Sun
>> 10 Must Go Shopping Spots in Korea

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram (@kkdaysg) and use the hashtag #kkdaysg for a chance to be featured on our Instagram!

Passes That Will Save You Time and Money in Europe

Ever thought of backpacking in Europe? To go free and easy in Europe, transportation, accommodation, attractions and tickets may be a burden to your budget. Be it the Tower of London, the Louvre in Paris, Vienna Museum of Art or the Royal Palace of Madrid, Europe provides sightseeing packages (City Pass) service that is not only cheaper but also less time-consuming. KKday helped you put together seven European countries attraction tickets and information to help you save cost. Let the fun begin!

1. London Pass, Oyster Card (London, England)

Oyster Card in the UK is equivalent of Singapore’s Nets FlashPay card – although there is a daily cap, you can enjoy the highest charge usage to the card. There is also no surcharge when taking the Metro sub-bus. It is worth collecting the Oyster Card when travelling in London as the design is different from the one locals have.

The London Pass is a sightseeing city card which gives you entry to a choice of over 60 popular tourist attractions in the city. You’ll feel like a VIP with this pass as you will be granted Fast Track Entry into some of London’s most popular attractions. As the card is designed in a way that you don’t have to carry around cash or queue up to buy tickets, it will help you save time and money when travelling alone.

Top 3 attractions with the London Pass:

Westminster Abbey
Tower of London
Windsor Castle

>> The London Pass with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

2. Paris Pass (Paris, France)

In addition to the fashion world, there is also a large architectural and cultural atmosphere in Paris. Other than well-known museums and more popular tourist attractions, with the Paris Pass, you’ll be able to pass customs clearance and enjoy majority of attractions such as Louvre by avoiding long queues and heavy traffic.

p.s. If you can’t read French, the Paris Pass offers a full range of travel guides in multiple languages such as English, German and Spanish, making it convenient and practical!

Top 3 attractions with the Paris Pass:

Louvre Museum
Palace of Versailles
Notre Dame Cathedral

>> Paris City Pass

3. Berlin Pass (Berlin, Germany)

Most people have the impression that Berlin is filled with rich history as the Berlin Wall has significant importance in world history. However, more than it’s cultural history, there are also many attractions worth visiting in Berlin. Pergamon Museum as well as the Babylonian architecture are such examples. You can use the Berlin Pass as an optional travel card to cover zones A, B, C and the whole of central Berlin with their public transportation services.

Top 3 Attractions with the Berlin Pass:

Pergamon Museum
Checkpoint Charlie
Berlin Dungeon

>> Berlin Pass With Public Transport

4. Vienna Card (Vienna, Austria)

Vienna is the hub where students passionate about learning classical music gather. Vienna card offers many attractions and concessions to travellers in this city full of classical music and cultural atmosphere. With unlimited free excess to subways, trams, buses and enjoy more than 210 attractions, museums, shops and other discounts, one can take two to three days to explore this city with the Vienna card.

Top 3 attractions with the Vienna Card:

Schönbrunn Palace
Kunsthaus Wien
Hofburg Palace

>> Vienna Pass

5. Swiss Pass (Geneva, Switzerland)

The gorgeous streets of Geneva (Flickr / ITU Pictures)

Switzerland, a country known for their watches and their beautiful natural landscape, has more to offer than you think. If you are not into the common attractions Switzerland is known for, check out the attractions the Swiss Pass offers – over 40 attractions, free admission to Geneva and you can also enjoy discounts and coupons that will help you carefully explore the city.

Top 3 attractions with the Swiss Pass:

Musée National Suisse
Musée d’art et d’histoire
Beautiful Shores of Geneva

>> Geneve Pass

6. Holland Pass (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)

Windmills in Amsterdam (Flickr / Roman Boed)

Speaking of the Netherlands, one immediately thinks about windmills and tulips! Holland Pass provides you with another way to experience the Netherlands, Amsterdam – free tour bus rides, free downtown tours and offers at shops, museums and restaurants. With free entry, the Holland pass also allows one to skip queuing when it comes to certain attractions such as Van Gogh Museum.

Top 3 attractions with the Swiss Pass:

Van Gogh Museum
Keukenhof Gardens
Rijksmuseum

>> Amsterdam Holland Pass

7. Madrid Pass (Madrid, Spain)

One of Gaudi’s architecture, Casa Batllo (Flickr / Moyan Brenn)

Unsure of what to do during your first time in Madrid? With the Madrid Pass, you can enjoy free admissions to more than 50 museums and attractions! Not only that, you can get free access to the Real Madrid stadium, book free city tours, get discounts in restaurants, shops and shows. With so many free entries, you know that the Madrid pass is a must when travelling in Madrid!

Top 3 attractions with the Swiss Pass:

Prado National Museum
Royal Palace
Tour Bernabéu

>> Madrid Card

That’s it! We hope with this article, we have helped you to save your time and money while travelling through Europe!

7 Places to Visit from Singapore for Under SGD500

Travel to these countries for under SGD $500!

Yes you heard us right! Who says you can’t travel when you are on a budget? From UNESCOs World Heritage Sites to the beaches and more, KKday lists down 7 places you can visit under $500!

1. Lombok, Indonesia

Gili Islands, Lombok, Indonesia (Jorge Lascar)

Move over Bali! Lombok comes at a cheaper price tag with untouched yet similar offerings, and without the crowd. Just a three hour flight away from paradise, Lombok provides the best of both worlds – pristine beaches and mountains.

Mount Rinjani, Lombok, Indonesia (Trekking Rinjani)

You can hike up to Mount Rinjani, one of Indonesia’s active volcanoes, while you are there or even snorkel in the sea. With so much to do in Lombok, you can’t miss out on this little gem!

2. Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has more than just ancient buildings. The quaint picture town has a strong French influence which is reflected in its architecture. While you are there, get yourself a custom made tailored suit; it is cheaper than getting on back home. If you are keen, an unforgettable traditional fishing experience with local farmers awaits you!

3. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, Chiang Mai (Patty Ho)

If you are sick of Bangkok, Chiang Mai has a lot to offer too. Just up North of Bangkok, it has plenty of activities that you can engage in, so fret not! Chiang Mai is a relatively affordable city which makes it a favourite destination among backpackers.

Wat Chedi Luang, Chiang Mai (Madeleine Deaton)

If you love Thai food, you can consider taking up a cooking class to learn and recreate the delightful dishes back home. You will also get a chance to visit a local market and organic farm as part of the package. Lastly, don’t miss out on the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary for an opportunity to hang out with the elephants in their natural habitat.

4. Siem Reap, Cambodia

It’s a must to catch the sunrise or sunset at the Angkor Wat – another UNESCO World Heritage site – when you’re in Cambodia. Don’t leave Cambodia till you’ve seen that spectacular sight! Then join a Culture Tour to learn more about the five popular attractions like the Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and more!

When dusk falls, head over to Pub Street for the night life. A draft of beer costs as low as $2 there. Oh and you may want to drop by Red Piano if you’re around the vicinity – it was Angelina Jolie’s favourite haunt when she was filming Tomb Raider!

5. Hong Kong

Hong Kong is just four hours away from Singapore, which is why it’s not surprising that it is one of the popular holiday destinations among Singaporeans. The land of Dim Sum is arguably one of the best representations of traditional meets modern.

Lantau Island, Hong Kong (Jennifer Morrow)

Take the 25 minutes cable car ride up to Ngong Ping 360 to enjoy the panoramic view of the sea, greenery and mountains along the way. Stop by Tai O, one of the oldest fishing village on Lantau Island, and soak in the peaceful sleepy vibe.

6. Yangon, Myanmar

The best time to visit Myanmar is from November to February when it’s less dry and humid then with the cool to moderate rainfall. Do visit the Shwedagon Pagoda and take an interactive walking tour (Burmese breakfast and lunch included).

For a glimpse of the city, rarely seen by tourist, board the Circular Train and be greeted by the colourful sights and sounds along the way. Trains are common mode of transport for them and it is one of the best ways to see the local life. Do note that Singaporeans require a visa to visit Myanmar.

7. Sapa, Vietnam

Sapa is home to many ethnic groups, drawing culturally adventurous tourists. To get there, you have to take an 8-hour long train ride or a 6-hour long bus ride from Hanoi. It is best to visit from April to September when it isn’t the rainy season. Do note that the temperature during this period ranges from 15 – 25°C, so bring along warmer clothes.

Sapa offers a range of trekking spots with different difficulties, so do not worry if you are less athletic. Also, if homestay is your thing, do not miss out on this wonderful chance to learn and experience the lifestyle there!

There you have it – a round up of 7 places you can visit under SGD$500. Bon voyage!

Not convinced that you should visit these countries yet? Need help planning your itinerary?

>> 6 Reasons Backpackers Keep Returning to Chiangmai
>> 6 Insta-worthy Cafes You Need to Visit or You Haven’t Been to Macau
>> 8 Beautiful Hidden Beaches Near Singapore