Thursday, June 27, 2013

How To: Adventure On A Budget


When one of your favorite humans lives 400 miles away, travel is inevitable.  However, if you're a twentysomething who still eats peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for dinner, planning a getaway can be financially stressful.  You know that quote, "Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer"?  Well, it's only true unless you spend all your money.

This is how you travel to Lake Tahoe and/or San Francisco on a budget. 

1. Megabus, Megabus, Megabus.
Did you know that you can get to the bay area for $1?  Really.  It sounds too good to be true, but it's true.  And it's good.  The single & double-decker buses serve over 24 million Americans throughout more than 100 cities.  I made the mistake of taking Amtrak  (13 hours, 3 buses, 1 train) on the way there.  It was too much, you guys.  I got home via one Megabus within 8 hours.  Free wi-fi, panoramic windows, express ride.  Elin-approved.

2. Camp.
Sleeping under the stars is priceless.  Unless you want s'mores.  In that case, you'll need to shell out $5, big spender.

3. Ride it.
It's time to dust off your bike, my poor friend.  Pedaling is fun, free, and tightens your derriere.  Walk.  Hitchhike.  Jump on the bus.  Steal a car.  Spend less, adventure more.

4.  Know somebody who knows somebody.
This is crucial.  I recommend that you know a guy with long hair who knows a landlord named Ben who knows a friend who has a boat in the San Francisco bay.  The result:  A two-night stay on a sailboat with a view of downtown SF.  For free.

5.  Pretend you're on a cleanse.
Do you really need that sushi roll?  Food is money.  Put that shit down.

6.  Zip yourself.
Hide yo kids, hide yo wife.  Pick-pocketers are still a thing.  Realize that, as an adventurer, you will stand out in the crowd.  People will want what you have.  They will desire your iPhone and they will take it from your outside pocket.  This will cost you, friend.  Take care.

After completion of adventure:  
Take a shower (important), raid parents' pantry, and sleep in your cozy bed with a huge smile on your face.

xx,

E

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