When it comes to traveling, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether the ultimate goal should be to save money or to experience as much as possible. It all depends on your preferences, budget, and priorities.
On the one hand, if you are traveling on a tight budget, it makes sense to prioritize saving money over experiencing everything a destination has to offer. Public transportation can be an affordable option, and choosing budget-friendly accommodations and eating cheap street food can help stretch your budget further. However, this approach may limit your ability to fully experience the local culture and cuisine, as you may miss out on the unique flavors and experiences that come with trying local foods and dining at local restaurants.
On the other hand, if you have more disposable income and are looking to fully immerse yourself in a new destination, spending more money may be necessary to experience all that a place has to offer truly. This could mean staying in nicer accommodations, taking guided tours or classes, and dining at high-end restaurants. While this approach may be more expensive, it can also provide a deeper and more meaningful travel experience.
What do you think? Do you try to spend as little as possible while traveling, or do you rather spend less at home, and then spend a lot to experience a lot while traveling?
That being said, there is a balance that can be struck between saving money and experiencing as much as possible. For example, opting for public transportation can still provide an authentic local experience, while also being budget-friendly. Similarly, choosing to eat at local restaurants rather than high-end establishments can still provide a taste of the local cuisine without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, it is up to each individual traveler to decide their priorities when it comes to traveling. Some may prioritize saving money in order to be able to travel more frequently, while others may choose to spend more money on a few select trips in order to have a more immersive experience. Regardless of your approach, the most important thing is to make the most of your travels and enjoy the journey.