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Six dream travel tips you can use on a budget

Research: Hit the road and start digging. Get some travel magazines, sign up for subscriptions and look out for discounts online. Have an idea of where you would want to go, how you want to get there, the activities and how much you want to spend without breaking the bank. This will give you an idea of what is feasible and how to make it a reality.

Go where your money has more value: Be a smart traveller and look for countries and destinations where your money goes a little further. Africa and certain countries in Asia for instance are your best bet. Your dollars will go a long way. You will be able to comfortably afford luxury hotels, fine dining and activities for way less than if you were to go to Paris or London.

Travel off-peak: If you have the time and your schedule allows you some time off, travel during off-peak seasons when hotel rates and flights are much cheaper because of less demand. The only downside is, you may have to go when the weather is not favourable. But who cares when you can enjoy heated pools, hot tubs and visit sites with fewer crowds?

Go to spots with cheap flights: Let the cheapest flights determine your holiday destination if you are open minded. Not only will you get the chance to experience a new country and their culture, but you will also get to enjoy the best they have to offer in terms of holidays. That extra cash you save on the ticket can go elsewhere. Whether it is a massage or a guided tour to the city, you will be grateful you made that decision.

Travel with a group: Solo travel can be affordable and so can group travel. Plan a trip with your girlfriends or a group of couples to enjoy the best at a pocket-friendly rate. This way you can be able to book a luxury villa, cost-share expenses and enjoy the best that destination has to offer without spending too much.

Look for alternatives: Luxury does not have to mean expensive hotels and resorts only. At the price of a hotel, you can score a luxury villa or home from Airbnb in the best locations. You will be amazed at what these private homes have to offer. Some have heated swimming pools, private gardens, proximity to amenities and even professional chefs.