Travel Tips
How To Find Good Cheap Flight Tickets
Finding a good and cheap flight ticket is not an easy task. There are many factors involved when choosing a flight ticket: destination, departure time, travel dates, class, etc., for getting some bucks cut off your expensive ticket. It is important to find a good and cheap flight ticket because this way you can save a lot of money.
Traveling is an exciting and fun thing to do. It is something that a lot of people plan for. Some people even have their travel plans planned out for years. If you are one of these people, you should be happy that you have a plan and that there is no need to worry about it. However, you should also be careful and make sure that you are not paying too much for your travel. Travel agencies and airlines can be quite expensive. If you are traveling a lot, you might not have time to look for and compare prices. Here are some easier ways to find and pay for cheaper flight tickets.
Sign up on airlines’ websites
As a frequent flyer, signing up on airlines websites is the best way to get cheap tickets. But not only that, there are a lot of bonuses that come as well. You can get free upgrades and perks like more luggage and flight miles. If you want to sign up on an airlines’ websites, you should sign up on the official website, not the search engines. You should sign up for the current flight network for updated news and prices of the tickets from the airline’s site. The official website will have the best prices, and you can even get the best deals from “secret” airlines that you wouldn’t find without signing up with the airline.
Use an app
Apps are the most effective way to find cheap flights. One of the most popular apps for finding cheap flights is Skyscanner, which is available on both Android and iOS. The app functions as a search engine but instead of searching the web, you are searching different airlines. Simply select the origin, destination, and how many days you are willing to travel, and Skyscanner will present you with the cheapest flights.
Collect points to fly for free
One of the hottest topics in the travel industry right now is ways to collect points or miles to fly without coughing up a lot of cash. Many travelers just want to find the cheapest flight available, but those are often the most expensive and restrictive tickets. If you don’t travel often, you probably won’t be able to find cheap flights, even if you do your research. If you do want to be able to travel for free, you will have to be a little more patient and understand how the travel industry works. Finding cheap flights is all about having the right tools.
Check which day is the cheapest to fly at
Finding the cheapest to fly is always a challenge for most people. Most of the time, you don’t see any difference from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars, but that could be a huge difference. If you’re planning a vacation or going on a business trip, you might want to find the cheapest day to fly. You can do this by using a flight search engine such as Momondo. When you’re searching for a flight, you’ll see a calendar. If you click on it, you’ll see the days that are the cheapest to fly. And as mentioned above, a current flight network can also be helpful in finding out flight days and getting updates on them to see what’s cheap. You can find these facilities on sites like the Cathay Pacific.
Pick a cheap location
If you want to find cheap flights, then you must first consider where you want to go. Is it a popular destination like London or Paris? Or is it a destination that is rarely visited by tourists like Cairo? If you pick a popular destination, then you can expect to pay a lot for tickets. But, if you pick a destination that is not popular, then you might find cheap tickets.
Choose connecting flights
Connecting flights can be a great way to save money, but they are very inconvenient. If you have to connect, it is better to have a layover that is in the same time zone. For example, a flight from New York City to London with a six-hour layover in Paris is much better than a flight with a layover in Rome.
Get discounts
When comparing prices online, don’t just look at the lowest price. Instead, try to qualify for extra discounts. Some travel sites, like Expedia.com, give you a discount if your travel plans change or if you book early. If you wait until the last minute to book a flight, your options will be more limited, and you’ll be more likely to get hit with hidden fees. If you can book a flight in advance, you’ll have more options and fewer fees. Some airlines may also offer discounts for booking in bulk. For example, if you and your significant other are traveling, it’s sometimes cheaper to book two tickets than one. If you have flexible travel dates, you can also qualify for cheaper tickets. If you can’t fly on certain days, you might qualify for a cheaper flight.
First of all, you need to figure out how to qualify for travel discounts. If you are a member of an airline club, if you’re a frequent flyer, or if you belong to any other kind of loyalty program, you can take advantage of a variety of travel discounts. The best way to find out if you are eligible for some kind of discount is to contact the airline’s current flight network directly.
Book your flight in advance
Planning an overseas trip and want to find cheap domestic flights? Some people book flights on their last day before their holiday to try and find a cheaper deal, but this can often lead to problems. You may end up having to pay more for a flight because it is last minute, or you may be left out of pocket because you have to cancel the flight. Instead of booking last-minute flights, book them in advance. Booking your flight early means you won’t run into any of these problems, and in fact, you might even save money.
This is the easiest, most important thing you can do to save money on airfare. Flights are often priced based on when you book them, so the earlier you can book, the better. Airlines know this, and they also know that if you’re booking early, you’re probably booking to take advantage of a good deal. That’s why they’ll often raise the price as they get closer to the flight.
Use positioning flights
For those of you who don’t know what positioning flights are, it’s when you fly from a large city to a smaller city, but you’re not actually going there. The reason for doing this is because it’s cheaper to fly to these locations, which are usually small towns because the cost of flights is less expensive. This is why you’ll see people flying from Los Angeles to Bakersfield or Ontario. The flight is pretty cheap, and they’re usually very short.
Using positioning flights is one of the most effective ways to find cheap flights. When you use the positioning flights, you can save a lot of money because when you use positioning flights, you make a stop-over in another city. So, if you want to go to the US, you can go via London and Paris or even Amsterdam.
Bondi Beach is well-known for its vibrant atmosphere, surf culture, and sunny weather, but even when the temperatures drop from June to August, this iconic Sydney suburb offers plenty of attractions to explore. While you might not be lounging in the sun or catching waves, Bondi in winter has a charm of its own. From scenic coastal walks to indulgent food experiences, Bondi transforms into a cozy, relaxed destination perfect for exploring at a slower pace. Whether you’re into wellness retreats, cultural outings, or simply soaking in the picturesque winter scenery, Bondi still holds its appeal year-round. Here’s a guide to some of the best things you can do in Bondi during the colder months.
8 Things to do in Bondi in Winter
1. Go on an art tour
If the weather keeps you from enjoying Bondi’s famous outdoor activities, exploring the local art scene is a perfect alternative. Bondi boasts several high-quality galleries, each offering a unique window into Australia’s vibrant artistic culture. Start with the Cooee Aboriginal Art Gallery, one of Australia’s oldest Aboriginal-owned galleries, which showcases traditional and contemporary Indigenous artworks. With its mission to promote Indigenous art and culture, the gallery offers a rich selection of paintings, sculptures, and crafts from Aboriginal artists all across the country. Spend some time learning about the significance behind each piece, many of which tell stories of Indigenous history, spirituality, and connection to the land.
For a more hands-on experience, visit the Bondi Art Lounge, a welcoming space where you can view works by local artists or, better yet, join a class to create your own masterpiece. This gallery regularly offers art classes for beginners, so even if you’ve never painted before, it’s a fun way to get creative and connect with the local community. Bondi’s art scene continues to thrive year-round, and whether you’re an art enthusiast or a casual observer, spending time in these galleries can be an inspiring way to enjoy Bondi’s cultural side.
2. Take a Hike
Bondi’s stunning coastal scenery becomes even more refreshing in the cooler months, and there’s no better way to experience it than by embarking on a coastal hike. The Bondi to Coogee Walk is one of the most famous coastal trails in Sydney and for good reason. Stretching for 6 kilometers, this scenic trail offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and secluded beaches along the way. The walk takes you through several of Sydney’s eastern suburbs, such as Tamarama, Bronte, and Clovelly, each with its own charm and inviting atmosphere.
The cooler temperatures during the winter months make this hike even more enjoyable, as you’re less likely to overheat, allowing you to take your time and soak in the views. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to stop at cafes, kiosks, and restaurants, where you can relax and enjoy a coffee or snack with an ocean backdrop. Be sure to bring a camera, as you’ll pass plenty of photo-worthy spots, including Waverley Cemetery, one of the most scenic burial grounds in the world, perched on the cliffs above the sea. The Bondi to Coogee Walk is a must-do year-round, but the crisp, cool winter air adds a unique tranquility to this iconic hike.
If the weather doesn’t allow for the typical outdoorsy activities Bondi is known for, a tour of some of its first-rate art galleries can be a great way to spend an afternoon. Don’t miss the Cooee Aboriginal Art Gallery, dedicated to promoting Indigenous art, and the Bondi Art Lounge, where you can view works from local artists or even take a beginner class and create a masterpiece of your own.
3. Head to Bondi Icebergs for Some Winter Swimming
Even during the colder months, swimming remains a quintessential Bondi experience, especially at the Bondi Icebergs Club, home to one of the most famous ocean pools in the world. Bondi Icebergs is open year-round, offering the unique experience of swimming in their picturesque Oceanside pool, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. What makes this spot particularly special during winter is its deep-rooted tradition of winter swimming, which has been a part of the club’s culture since 1929. Every Sunday from May to September, you’ll find the bravest swimmers taking part in this time-honored tradition, where members dive into the bracing waters despite the chilly conditions.
For those who are curious but not ready to commit to a full membership, non-members are welcome to join in the fun by paying a one-time entry fee, granting access to both the pool and the sauna. The cold plunge, followed by the warmth of the sauna, is invigorating and offers a rewarding challenge that many swimmers look forward to each winter. The view alone—swimming with the backdrop of crashing waves and the cliffs of Bondi—is worth the experience.
But the Bondi Icebergs isn’t just for athletes; it’s a place where locals and visitors alike come to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, grab a meal at the Icebergs Bistro, or simply enjoy the winter sunshine while watching the ocean swell. If you’re not quite ready to brave the cold waters, you can still enjoy the social aspect of this iconic venue and soak in the panoramic views from the safety of the heated indoor spaces.
4. Strap on your skates and visit the only beachside skating rink in Australia
If winter swimming is a step too far for you, why not skate instead? Bondi has Australia’s only beachside ice rink, and the ocean view in the background makes for a striking contrast. The ice rink is open from June 27 to July 13, and aside from hosting skating sessions that are open to the public, it also features spectacular ice shows from Stars On Ice.
5. Settle in for brunch at one of Bondi’s decadent cafes
Winter wouldn’t be the same without a few indulgences, and after all your skating and hiking, you’ve probably earned a hearty brunch anyway. Fortunately, Bondi is full of great brunch options, from Trio Café with delicacies like poached eggs with truffle oil and char-grilled halloumi; to the rustic Brown Sugar, where you can indulge in classic comfort food like buttermilk pancakes and English muffins with bacon.
6. Join a cooking class, dodge ball game, or salsa lesson
During the winter, it may seem like most people have gone off to hibernate, but if you know where to look, you can still find plenty of social things to do. Start by checking out the Bondi community page on Gumtree. You can find like-minded individuals to explore the area with or even join a group for fun activities like hiking, biking, or cooking.
7. Score some vintage fashion at Bondi Markets
The Bondi Markets, held every Sunday on Bondi Beach, are known in Sydney for being the best place to shop for vintage clothing and accessories and hip new fashions from emerging designers. Aside from style, you can also shop for art, furniture, flowers, books, local produce, and delicious street eats. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a great place to do some people-watching and see the Bondi locals in their element.
8. Stop by the Bondi Pavilion
The Bondi Pavilion is one of the suburb’s oldest landmarks dating back to 1928 when it first opened, featuring grand dining rooms, a lounge, a ballroom, and the Turkish and Hot Sea Water Baths. Today, it’s used as an art and cultural center and is home to a theatre group, recording studio, and art gallery. There’s always something going on here, from pottery classes to festivals to open-air cinemas, so check it out if you have a chance.
Conclusion: Winter in Bondi—A Different Kind of Magic
While Bondi Beach is typically associated with summer sun, surfing, and crowds of tourists, winter brings a unique charm to this iconic Sydney destination. As the pace slows and the air cools, Bondi offers an opportunity to experience the suburb in a new way—one that’s relaxed, refreshing, and undeniably inviting. Whether you’re delving into the local art scene, taking in the breathtaking coastal views on a hike, or braving the invigorating waters of Bondi Icebergs, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Bondi during the colder months.
From indulging in hearty brunches at cozy cafes to strapping on skates at the beachfront ice rink, winter allows locals and visitors alike to engage in activities that bring a sense of warmth and community. The Bondi Markets and the historic Bondi Pavilion continue to thrive, offering vibrant spaces for culture, fashion, and entertainment. And with winter events like cooking classes and salsa lessons, there are plenty of social activities to keep you connected with others while you explore the best of Bondi in its quieter season.
Bondi in winter may be different, but it’s far from dull. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone. So, if you find yourself in Sydney’s most popular suburb between June and August, take the chance to explore Bondi’s winter magic—you won’t be disappointed!
Africa
Basic Arabic Words for Travel to Egypt
Use our quick language guide to learn the key basic Arabic words that we used when travelling through Egypt and the Middle East.
Before we visited Egypt, our knowledge of the basic Arabic words was pretty limited. Like many travelers, we assumed that Arabic was the primary spoken language, but we had no idea just how different the dialects could be across the Arab world. Egyptian Arabic, often referred to as “Masri,” is widely understood across the Middle East due to the country’s influential media and cinema. However, for first-time visitors, navigating conversations or even basic interactions can feel intimidating.
But don’t worry, because learning just a few essential Arabic words can go a long way! Whether you’re wandering through the bustling souks of Cairo, visiting the majestic temples of Luxor, or relaxing on a Red Sea all-inclusive vacation, being able to speak a few phrases can greatly enrich your experience. Not only does it show respect for the local culture, but it also enhances your interactions with Egyptians, many of whom will appreciate your effort to speak their language—even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to essential Arabic words and phrases that will help you get by during your next trip to Egypt:
Why Learn a Few Arabic Words?
One of the most rewarding aspects of travel is the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture. Learning a few words of the local language shows curiosity and respect. Egyptians, known for their hospitality, are often delighted when tourists attempt to speak Arabic, and this can lead to more authentic and meaningful interactions.
Knowing a few simple words also helps in practical situations—whether you’re haggling at the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, asking for directions, or just ordering a delicious plate of koshari from a street vendor. Plus, it’s a fun way to engage with the culture and enhance your travel experience.
Essential Arabic Words To Get By In Egypt
We always pride ourselves on learning a few essential words and phrases to help us communicate when traveling in foreign countries. The locals always seem to appreciate it, and it makes us feel as if we are immersing ourselves in the culture, which is why we love to travel.
So whether you are just visiting the numerous Red Sea all-inclusive vacations or the Great Pyramids of Giza, use our list of essential Arabic words and phrases below to help you out on your next travel adventure through Egypt and the Middle East.
Keep in mind that there are loads of different ways to greet someone or be polite, etc. But by using the essential Arabic words below daily when strolling through the markets or stopping to eat Egyptian street food.
Key Arabic Phrases and Words to Know
While Egyptian Arabic may differ slightly from other dialects spoken in places like Morocco or Jordan, there are universal phrases that will be useful in most Arabic-speaking regions. Here’s a deeper dive into the Arabic words and phrases every traveler should know when visiting Egypt:
1. Marhaba (مرحبا) – Hello
This is the most common way to greet someone in Arabic. You can use it any time of day, and it’s a great conversation starter. Egyptians may also use “Salaam” (سلام) as a casual greeting, which literally means “peace.”
2. Shukran (شكراً) – Thank you
Gratitude goes a long way. You’ll find yourself using “Shukran” often, especially when thanking vendors, waiters, and locals for their assistance. Don’t forget to say “La Shukran” (no, thank you) when turning down offers politely, whether it’s for a tour, food, or merchandise.
3. Tatakallam ‘English? (هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟) – Do you speak English?
Egypt is a popular tourist destination, and many Egyptians working in hospitality or tourist attractions speak English. This phrase can be useful when navigating areas where English might not be as commonly spoken.
4. Kam? (كم؟) – How much?
An absolute must in Egypt, especially if you’re planning on shopping in local markets or taking taxis. Haggling is common in Egypt, so knowing how to ask “How much?” is a basic yet crucial skill.
5. Naam (نعم) – Yes and La (لا) – No
Simple but vital! Whether you’re agreeing to a price, accepting an offer, or declining something politely, “Naam” (yes) and “La” (no) will be among the most frequently used words in your travel toolkit.
6. Min fadlik (من فضلك) – Please
Politeness is appreciated everywhere, and using “Min fadlik” when asking for something adds a respectful tone to your request. If you’re addressing a man, say “Min fadlak,” but when speaking to a woman, it’s “Min fadlik.”
7. Ya-Allah (يا الله) – Let’s go
You’ll hear this phrase often, especially from taxi drivers or tour guides. It’s a casual way of saying “Let’s get going.”
8. ‘Ayna… (أين…؟) – Where is…?
This phrase comes in handy when you’re lost or looking for something. For example, if you need to ask, “Where is the restroom?” simply say ‘Ayna al-Hammaam? (أين الحمام؟)
Numbers: Always Helpful for Bargaining
Whether you’re negotiating in a marketplace or figuring out prices, knowing a few numbers in Arabic can be extremely useful. Here are the first five numbers you should memorize:
- WaaHid (واحد) – One
- Ithnayn (إثنان) – Two
- Thalaatha (ثلاثة) – Three
- Arba’a (أربعة) – Four
- Khamsa (خمسة) – Five
Knowing these basic numbers will make transactions smoother and can also help you avoid any misunderstandings.
More Useful Phrases
Here are a few more words and phrases to keep in your back pocket as you explore Egypt:
- Afwan (عفواً) – Excuse me or you’re welcome
- Ilal-liqa (إلى اللقاء) – See you later
- Hammam (حمام) – Bathroom/restroom
- Mafi Mushkila (ما في مشكلة) – No problem
Tips for Using Arabic in Egypt
While many Egyptians, especially in tourist areas, speak some level of English, your efforts to use Arabic—even if it’s just a few words—will be warmly received. Here are a few tips for using Arabic effectively while in Egypt:
- Be Confident: Even if you’re unsure about pronunciation, Egyptians will appreciate your effort. They may even help correct you, which is an excellent way to learn.
- Use Non-Verbal Cues: A smile or nod can go a long way in communicating, especially when language barriers arise.
- Haggle with Respect: Bargaining is part of Egyptian culture, especially in markets. Using polite Arabic phrases can make the negotiation process smoother and more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Immersing yourself in the language of a country can dramatically enhance your travel experience. In Egypt, a few simple Arabic phrases can open doors to more meaningful interactions and provide a deeper understanding of the culture. Whether you’re exploring the ancient wonders of the world or lounging on the shores of the Red Sea, don’t be afraid to give your Arabic a try.
Question for Readers: Have you traveled to Egypt before? If so, which Arabic words or phrases did you find the most useful during your trip?
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We have been wearing out our jandals (Kiwi for flip-flops) on our travel adventures around the world since 2009. We think our blog is thought provoking and a little witty. But we have been proven wrong before. Find out more about us here...
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