Perks of Korea Part 01

I'm pretty sure you've heard by now that Korea is pretty amazing and the list continues as to why Korea is so amazing. Living here for the past two years, I've grown to love the culture and the people, although there are still a few things that bother me. Nonetheless, it's a love hate relationship, more love than hate and I can't imagine how life will be when I move back to Korea. I think Korea actually changes everyone, all in different ways. A few ways Korea has spoiled me and making life that much easier:


Amazing people - People all over Korea are willing to help. Traveling out to the country side, I even had people volunteer to take me to places because I was with a few girls traveling alone. Thankfully, there's no crazy people here in Korea which means they actually are doing it out of the kindness of their hearts!

One other great thing about the locals is the true friendliness that comes from within. They aren't looking to harm people and for those of the younger generation, once they know you speak English, they are more inclined to friend you. Locals are always looking for foreigners to hang out with, practice English, and of course, drink and party with. They label us as the cool kids just cause!

4 wheel shopping carts - Shopping in America is the worst when it's the weekend for the very reason that it is jam packed. Shopping around and being able to go forward, backward on carts that barely want to slide which means getting out of people's way and moving around is difficult. In Korea, and most Asian countries, the four wheels actually slide side to side meaning you can move around easily!
Point system with actual discounts - Using different point cards when you go out shopping and eating, the point system actually adds up to different discounts. It's used as a credit that can be applied to your next order and the best part is, it works on online purchases as well! 

Extra room buses - Buses in America are usually packing people in as much as possible meaning there are rows of four seats. In Korea, you can find a more spacious bus with three seats in a row where its a pair together and one single. These extra room buses allow for you to control the volume to the TV that is playing as well as adjust the seat. You'll practically feel as if you're sitting in your own sofa at home, except you're traveling to another place.

Making your own parking spot - In Korea, practically everyone has a sign that lists their phone number which means if you're blocking someone, they'll give you a call so you can move your car. It's a great concept, except when you get a little unlucky and have someone who does not pick up their phone. For this very reason, a lot of Koreans just make their own parking spots across town.

Booking seat for movie theatre - Asian countries offer the service of reserving a seat before you go into the theatre. This allows for you to not have to go into theaters early to wait on line. It also allows for you to have an assigned seat which means you don't have to feel rude about asking the person to move their bag and such.

Soju is cheaper than water - For all the "alcoholics" or those who know the price of Soju back in the States, it's a lot cheaper in Korea which means you can have a good time at a lower price please be wise about it though!

Free samples - You get free samples of food everywhere as well as free beauty samples when you go shopping, but how about free alcohol in the supermarket. Yes, free samples of wine and beer at the supermarket. It's a bit crazy how they're able to offer so much more just to get you to buy something, even vitamins.

Workout machines in public - Working out in a gym in public allows you to save money at the gym and the best part is the Koreans actually care for their items. They use it and respect each and every piece so you won't find crazy kids breaking these things in public. You'll find some crazy back stretchers and such in Korea, but it's pretty amazing how well they work. The best part is everything being free.

Dust off sand and dirt from your shoes after a hike - It's crazy how Koreans know how to cater to their people by making life so much easier. You don't have to worry about having dusty shoes after a hike because there are machines that allow you to blow off the dust!

Create your own playlist - It's a bit crazy, but music is pretty important in Korea. There are a handful of places in Korea that allows for you to create your own playlist, especially at bars. They're extremely friendly and want you to enjoy your time around. The best part is being able to have a good time on a night out, even if it is at Taco Bell. Yes, Taco Bell allows for you to create your own playlist as well!

Drinking in public - So this should be used with caution and to do so responsibly, but you are allow to drink in public. The best part might be drinking on a hike with the older generation who will generously offer you some of their magkeolli (traditional Korean rice wine) and speak to you in broken English. How about that for a cultural experience!

Freedom as a hospital patient - This is definitely a little weird but for the most part, it is great for those who are looking to get a breath of fresh air and enjoy some time with family. The weirdest part may be though, that some drag their IV with them in public. Yes, it's happened where a patient walked across the street attached to his portable IV.

Sitting in a wet ride and not getting "too wet"- This may defeat the purpose of a water ride but they have a protective film where you can sit and hide under so you do not get too wet. If you do get extremely wet, there is a "drying" station with fans and heat that helps you to dry off quickly. That's probably one of the best parts, how considerate of Koreans!

NO TIP - This is the ultimate perk about living in Asia because they almost all follow the no tip rule. Although some restaurants may charge an extra 10% as their tip, the more fancy ones of course, but it beats having to pay a minimum of 15% back at home. That's a lot of saving when you're living abroad and constantly eating out!

Safety - Aside from some who are freaking out about the North Korea-South Korea situation, Korea is a relatively safe place to live. There aren't as many crazy things happening in Korea as there are in America. For one, you can pass out drunk in the middle of the streets, sleep the night away, and no one will disrupt you. You may have a few photos taken of you and exposed via social media, but at least you still have your wallet with all of your money in it.

Dating World in Korea Exposed

I previously blogged about the dating culture in Korea, and after living in Korea for roughly two years, there's a lot more to it than the basics that many of us see it. In fact, there are a lot of "secretive" and under the table things going on in Korea which makes it hard to date. Let me make this clear, this does not apply to all of Korea, but there is a high percentage that fall under the following categories that make it difficult to trust and stay in a stable relationship in Korea. I am not speaking based off of my own experiences only, but the experiences of locals and foreigners in Korea and the crazy stories that I've heard as well. We all know the truth gets stretched and the story can be dramatized from person to person, but it doesn't change the fact that the following are problematic still:

1. Cultural differences - For those who are looking for something more long term and marrying, it is difficult to understand the Korean culture and be inviting to all of the differences, especially with the acceptance of parents. As a foreigner, the way we are brought up and the way Koreans are brought up, gender roles in terms of independence, respect, and actions are all questionable. Many times, it is difficult to find a common ground or a long-term understanding without lots of compromising and an open attitude. 
2. Preferability of light skin partners - This generally applies to almost all of Asia. For some reason, the lighter one's skin, the more "beautiful" he or she is which makes it unacceptable for many Westerners because we understand there is no correlation between the fairness of your skin and the beauty within. In fact, the understanding of having fair skin is different in regards to cultural history and the way media portrays beauty in each country.
3. Tall and skinny is beautiful - This is a bit of a culture shock to many when they visit Korea because most people look and just might be anorexic. You will see may girls whose thighs do not touch with a huge gap that makes it unbearable for you, but it is the way of life in Korea. Muscular women and hourglass figures just aren't appreciated as much as they are elsewhere.
4. Girls just want to have fun - As ridiculous as this sounds, it may be harder and harder to find the fitting Korean girl. No longer are they all as "innocent" as the world sees them, hidden behind their dolly makeup and innocent look. Girls are more open to flirting and will do so with more than one person at a time which causes quite a lot of heartbreaks, and the next problem on the list
5. Trust issues - Statistics label Koreans to be one of the highest cheating individuals. As sad as it is to say, it just may be true. Witnessing first hand girls with boyfriends who go out on dates with other guys, messaging other guys and just lying about where they are, trust is a big issue. There are also guys who drop of their girlfriends at home and go out with the guys for drinks but it sometimes just doesn't end up as a simple bro hangout. Unfortunately to say the least, not everyone is persistent in staying away from engaging in "other" relationships sober or not.
6. The control freak - There has been many instances where your significant other will ask you what you are doing every second of the day. Expect a lot of Kakao talk messages, phone calls, and of course, seeing your significant other on any day off. Now for some of us, it is a sign of care and love, but for many Westerners, it is something that is unbearable. 
7. Working hours - It is crazy how much time one spends on their jobs because the way the culture works. For this very reason, the amount of time that you can actually spend with your partner is limited. In fact, there are many times when one will have to work late hours or into the weekends. There goes your love life.
8. It's a materialistic place - Not everyone is out there chasing luxury brands in Korea, but there's a lot of things that you need to pay attention to. Rather than celebrating the one month anniversary, they have 100 day anniversary. Get counting. Their Valentines Day also has a little twist and throughout the year, there are a ton of couple holidays (Christmas being another). Point is, be ready to spend and invest a lot of time in gifts and thinking or go with the cliche and get the couple items.
9. The STEREOTYPE - I applaud many of my friends for actually being able to tie the knot and or get into serious relationships in Korea. The reason for this is that many hold the stereotypes that foreigner guys do not want anything serious, they are only out to have fun. Another problem is that many Koreans think that foreigner girls are easy. Hence, they don't take us too serious and are always looking for some way to get into your pants. UGH.

Korea, it's a love hate relationship, more love than hate though :]

Hidden Treasures - 長壽갈비집本家

長壽갈비집本家 is my favorite BBQ place in Korea since the first time I had it. In fact, this was actually the first place I had BBQ when I first came to Korea. Since then, not much as changed about this place. 長壽갈비집本家 has years of tradition which many are oblivious to because it's so hidden off in the streets of Myeongdong. 

The one thing that caught my eye about this restaurant was the fact that there was someone grilling the meat out in front. That smell is honestly, unforgettable. Unlike other BBQ places in Korea where they put it on your grill and leave it as is to cook, there is someone here that cooks every piece to perfection. One order of their beef ribs is $9 which can be a bit pricey for a small amount of meat to some, but trust me when I say it is worth it. 

In addition to their must order BBQ beef ribs, there are other beef entrees that guests can order. They have an extremely small menu, with a sole concentration on beef. All dishes are served with a side of vegetables and jigae to be shared.

With two floors of seating, the restaurant offers a less BBQ congested area because all of the cooking is done in front. Therefore, you leave with the benefit of not smelling like Korean BBQ which happens almost at every other BBQ place. The restaurant caters to foreigners with the menu in English, Chinese, and Japanese, making it easier for guests to order. This is definitely a must visit for all.

Restaurant Review - KO Cafe Gome Home

KO - Cafe Gome Home is probably one of my favorite healthy Korean locations in Itaewon. Their mottos is "Korean Healthy Food, Served Fast" which they live up to. They offer a whole new take on incorporating traditional Korean eats of bibimbap which allows you to choose the topping of bulgolgi (thinly sliced meat), chicken breast, of tofu and the best option for those who cannot tolerate the spicy kick of traditional chili paste, you can also choose the alternative sauces of sour spicy chili paste and  lemon soy sauce that is not spicy at all.

They also serve up simple rice dishes, glass noodles, porridges, soups, and even dishes paired with salads and other types of meat.  There is also a Korean-American fusion of salads which allows for you to decide on your own dressing of ginseng, perilla seeds, Korean raspberry or say sauce and olive oil. They have a small selection of sandwiches and traditional Korean desserts that are in the shape of a hexagon called 고메홈육각과자 which you can also pair with ice cream. They offer a handful of combos and specials that won't set you back too much and is perfect to share between two. 

The one recommendation to make to go for their drinks option. They offer a wide selection that beats the cliche coffee drinks, catering around healthy options. There are oriental teas that can be ordered hot or cold to your liking, along with a handful of herbal teas. In addition to this, they have fresh juice and smoothies that are made from real fruits. They have a seasonal menu that is probably one of the best, using fresh fruits and even incorporating vegetables and other healthy options. It is extremely difficult to find fruit and vegetable smoothies in Korea, but this is the place to go! 

For those looking for booze with their meal any time of the day, there is a small selection of alcoholic beverages which includes wine and beer. KO Cafe Gome is a great place for healthy choices that won't have you budging too much. The prices are extremely acceptable and it is a friendly environment, not too loud at all. 

Restaurant Review - Pio Pio

Pio Pio is probably the cheapest place to have Peruvian. The restaurant specializes in all Peruvian goodies for a low cost and extremely filling belly. Their trademark rotisserie chicken is a must order, along with the rice and beans, avocado salad, and plantains. A whole baby chicken is roasted and served whole, maintaining all its juices. Simply pull apart and enjoy the tender meat that easily slices from the bones. 

In addition to the signature chicken, the avocado salad is to die for. Topped with their homemade dressing, it is the perfect way to start and pair with every meal. No Peruvian meal is without rice and beans, but dont fill up on this yum dish. There's just too much more in stored to enjoy, even if the menu is simple. 

Pair your meal with a glass of sangria or even a can of Peruvian soda. Its definitely a different kick that will have your taste buds going. Many order the sangria for an evening buzz, but anything will have your tastebuds going.

Their dishes can be ordered and shared between two, with more to spare. With a few locations across town, the menu is maintained in taste and price which is great for those looking for a delicious cheap eat. It is definitely one place that you'll find a lot of the locals going for because it is a great place for the wallet. The amount of food for the price that it is listed is definitely a no brainer for anyone who is looking for a filling meal. In fact, the meal can be shared a few ways and you probably still won't be able to eat it all!

Story of My Life - Highlights of the Travels

Many call me crazy for traveling alone; in fact I call others crazy when I find out that they, as females, travel alone as well. I have came to understand that traveling alone really does have its perks, but it can definitely get lonely at times. This two month journey started with a family trip to meeting strangers and catching up with old friends in their home countries. It was an overall amazing experience, being able to meet so many different people, create so many new memories. You'd be surprised at how much you can accomplish and learn about yourself, about others, about the way the world works. 

This two month travel has allowed me to experience new things and meet with some amazing people. A highlight of each place includes: 

Taipei, Taiwan - This time around, I was able to catch up with a friend and see the amazing sunset at the Elephant Mountain. It was definitely special for the simple fact that the new MRT line for Elephant Mountain opened when I was in town, making it a special day for locals and tourists to see the sunset. 

Although I was in Taiwan for Thanksgiving, I definitely didn't miss out on the special holiday, except this time was quite unique. Having a homemade Thanksgiving dinner with people from all around the world who were connected by some sort of connection was unexpected of course. Sharing travels of the world and tips of life, whether or not I should move to Taiwan as my next career option. Ada Liu, our host of the Air B n B apartment was one to thank for this!

Sai Kung, Hong Kong - Meeting a Couchsurfer who introduced me to her hilarious coworkers the very first day of landing and taught the local slang again. It's amazing how much changes within one year in a country in regards to lingo. It's always great to hang with the locals who are around your age because of the number of things they'll share with you, without the awkward feeling of having to keep a certain image. 

Mongkok, Hong Kong - Catching up with college friends for a dinner that lead to me buying the Samsung Note 3 in Hong Kong. You can simply trade in your old cell phone (even with a cracked screen) for credit towards a new phone. It is a system that the locals as well as those who come from surrounding areas use in order to get the latest phones without the need of being linked to a contract. The perk of this is the advantage of all phones being factory unlocked already which allows for you to travel without any problems. They'll also throw in a few extra freebies for you which makes it that much more awesome! Then again, catching up with old friends and cracking jokes makes it memorable already.

Singapore - Feasting through the Hawker stalls with a local couple that my friend virtually introduced me to a few days before landing was definitely a stretch for my stomach. They were the cutest couple that took me around Singapore and ate a ton of food with me! The best part about food in Singapore is that you'll know its amazingly good when there is a line. Because Singapore is such a small country locals and tourists actually eat the same things so there's no such thing as overpriced tourist traps. 

Being as friendly as I am, a few months back when I was on the way to Thailand, I met two guys who were from Singapore and Malaysia. After bothering him weeks in advance, he surprisingly spent an entire day with me showing me the ins and outs of Singapore's memorable places and the famous spicy chili crab at the No Name Restaurant which is an extremely popular chain to have this dish. Just be sure to book in advanced because there are long waits! 

Sydney, Australia - Catching up with a friend I met my first month when I moved to Korea two years back and continuing our bond was more than I can ask. It was always a relationship over coffee every few months but after being chauffeured around by this guy who planned and took me to every spot he could think of in Sydney, the friendship definitely became stronger! I was definitely glad to have him around to show me the best views of Sydney. 

As spontaneous as I am, I also managed to grab brunch with a waitress that I met at the famous Pancakes on the Rocks restaurant. It's amazing how one simple question can turn into a great friendship. This Cantonese bond is definitely sticking around, probably making me want to furthermore go to Australia for a working holiday. It's amazing where and how one can make friends. 

As ironic as it may be, going to the beach alone one early afternoon when my dear friend was studying for his exam provided me with the opportunity to meet with two travelers out of chance. In fact, I simply asked them to watch over my bag as I went into the water and a friendship blossomed from there. It might have been fate that one of the girls were actually flying to Melbourne the same day I was, giving us the opportunity to travel together. 

Melbourne, Australia - Melbourne has a crazy amount of culture. There is laneway art and all types of amazing food. There are people singing out in the streets and the convenient trams that makes traveling easy. Although it was convenient, getting in some good exercise and walking the whole city was exactly what I did. The longest walk was probably to the beach which took approximately two hours one way, definitely still worth it to balance out all of the amazing foods I got to eat! 

Great Ocean Road, Australia - This is a must see for everyone and my recommendation is to take the helicopter tour. You are getting an amazing view from up high, an unforgettable one of the last apostles that are left standing. It is definitely worth spending the extra money to experience the ride in a place that you might not get to see ever again. The photos from up high is just breath taking. If you're going to pay for a helicopter ride, it might as well be in an extra significant place.

Cairns, Australia - The Great Barrier Reef is a must visit for guests of all ages. I recommend checking the wind knots prior to your trip out and rescheduling if needed. You are pretty much on a boat and a rocking dock all day. The experience was treacherous for many who experienced motion sickness all day. For those who held up, going snorkeling is recommended for the amazing reef. If you have the money to, I suggest going scuba diving. You are actually able to get up close with the fish and actually touch the spaghetti corals, one thing I will never forget. The most common large fish you will get a photo with is the Humphead Wrasse which makes the experience that much more amazing. 

Brisbane, Australia - Spending Christmas in one of the quieter cities of Australia was definitely difficult. The one good thing was there were a ton of houses that decorated for the Christmas theme. Thanks to two locals who were also on the hunt of Christmas decorations, we were able to visit some of the prettiest and more honored houses for their Christmas decorations. Hundreds of locals also flood the houses to take pictures and join in on the celebration of Christmas. It was definitely the closest to a white Christmas that I have gotten thus far. 

Surfers Paradise, Australia - The name practically says it all. As my last destination in Australia, going out with a bang was definitely necessary. The hotel thought so as well; they upgraded me to a suite for one. The staff at Outriggers Surfers Paradise definitely made life easy and helped me book a ton of activities. My own favorite by far is the private surfing lessons. Thanks to an awesome instructor from Go Ride a Wave, I was actually able to catch a wave! It's definitely an awesome feeling to be able to actually surf on the first go and it is reassuring that all instructors are in fact, certified life guards. Being the oldest in town and probably the most trustworthy one, it is definitely worth it to take a lesson or two. 

Penang, Malaysia - Penang was the place I experienced the airline losing my luggage, but even with that as a problem, I didn't let it get the best of me. In fact, I met some very supportive hostel owners at the Kimberley House that helped to make the situation better. Positive energy and reminders is definitely the way to go. It was quite a short trip in Penang, but I got lucky to have an awesome taxi driver who also served as a tour guide and gave me the history of Penang. It's always awesome to speak to taxi drivers who love to engage in conversation with others! I find them extremely welcoming to foreigners especially, no matter what country I'm in.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - Although many people warned me not to go to KL and told me to be extremely careful of everything, it honestly was not as bad as everyone made it sound. KL has been amazing and one of the friendliest hostels that I have stayed at was the Sunshine Bedz hostel in the heart of Bukit Bitang. The owner is extremely friendly, helpful and hilarious. Patrick really cares about his guests at the hostel and will put in the extra effort to get to know the guests of his place. He even goes out with the guests and tries to arrange activities where guests can join in together. There's nothing better than someone who actually cares to help. This is one thing that many hostels lack with the change of staff through the day, but Patrick is one entertaining individual that I would totally hang with all day!

Maldives - I think this one stand for itself with the amazing views that the Maldives offer. My trip does not end there. I was blessed to have to opportunity to meet two amazing locals. Just by asking locals about boat rentals to the other islands as I walked from my hotel, I randomly stumbled upon one guy who knew another and gave this guy a call. Not too long after, Venger of Rasdhoo Inn, pulled up on a motor bike at the exact place I was standing. As he tried to plan the boat arrangements for my new few days in the Maldives, I stood there waiting. 

Not too long after that, Venger asked me to a cup of coffee and as crazy as I am, I said yes and hopped on his bike. My hearts was racing with the possibility that I could be getting robbed of the thirty dollars in my pocket or even kidnapped. Nonetheless, I still hopped on and am glad I did because the rest makes history in my life. Venger and I bonded over coffee when not too long after, two guys joined us. It was quite a nerve wrecking experience for the simple fact that I was one girl surrounded by three guys. These three guys turned out to be the friendliest and extremely entertaining individuals.

Over the next few days, Venger and a friend Ali spoiled me to the max by taking me to experience the local foods for every meal possible, introducing me to their friends over coffee and even set up boat arrangements to the surrounding islands for me. It was a memorable experience for sure. This random meeting as grown to be a friendship that will eventually bring me back to the Maldives. For anyone traveling on a budget, Venger will definitely make the best of it in every way that he can. Be sure to email him at venger@gmail.com, telling him that you are a friend of mine ^.^  

Now if you plan wisely as suggested in my previous blog, traveling on a budget will definitely help with the explorations and in creating your own traveling highlights.

Story of My Life - Budget Traveling

Traveling for a long duration of time can be quite expensive or that's what you may think. There are a few alternatives to hotels and tour arrangements that will help your wallet when you're traveling on a budget.  For starters, the best way for anyone to save on accommodation is to utilize Couchsurfing. It is a "free" system where people allow you to sleep on their couch (or if you're lucky enough an extra room) for the night you're in town. The experience differs from person to person, place to place. But for one, you'll meet tons of amazing people, if you are smart about the hosts. Couchsurfing is not the safest alternative for both the couchsurfer and host. There is a lot on the line and it is a system based on trust. Second, they know the area and most are willing to show you around and give you a tour from the locals perspective. For many places, this is important so you can dodge the tourist traps. One of my favorite things is sharing meals with hosts who knows where and what all the food foods are. Just be mindful and respectful of your host, Couchsurfing is not made for travelers to abuse the hosts who offer a home. Some hosts have more than one surfer at a time which allows you to explore with another person and share even more stories.

The other option is to go with Air B n B where you can rent a room or share a sleeping space with the locals. As an important travel tip to those who are traveling in big groups or with a family, going for a place through Air B n B is recommended with the amount of money you can save for a larger space. Most places are fully furnished which allows for you to cook your own meals and do laundry if needed. Depending on the space, it differs from host to host, but at the very minimum the privacy is respected and this is definitely more reliable than Couchsurfing because there is money on the line. Hosts build their rental space and page through the recommendations of those who stay which promotes a safer and cleaner environment. It is also less likely for a host to cancel on you which occasionally happens though Couchsurfing and requires you to stir for a new space at the very last minute. 

If you're not comfortable with sharing a space in a stranger's home, budget traveling can be done by staying at hostels and renting a bed for a few nights. With all sorts of dormitory setting, girls can go with the all female dormitory to play it safe but the cost is a little higher than the mixed dormitories. Staying at a mixed hostel dormitory room once, it was actually not bad at all. Most travelers are friendly and would like to hang out and do things with you! but you'll have a few long term hostel renters that just want to keep to themselves. Don't be deterred by this because the staff is usually extremely friendly in providing information and there is always a lounge area that allows for you to converse with other travelers. Some opt out to have a more personal space by paying for a private room, but this does not mean they aren't lonely. Getting a private room in a hostel is always a cheaper alternative than to a hotel room, so don't forget about that option. With the price though, comes the lack of hotel service that you would normally get. 

In addition to accommodation, finding things to do by dodging the tour groups is through a lot of research (maybe not so much). Utilizing the tourist information helps with planning day to day activities as well as finding special activities the town has to offer. Doing your research before visiting a specific location is another way to travel on a budget. This is probably the better option because utilizing websites like Trip Advisor and Lonely Planet allows you to receive extremely informative travel tips and even an estimation of travel costs. You'd be surprised at how much you can save on not only money, but time as well. Doing your research online also allows you to plan your time accordingly. Because there can be so much or so little to do, planning day of can be difficult. 

You may also find that there are free tours offered in certain cities. This is flexible for those on a budget since tour guides do not ask for a fee, but getting the a coffee or small meal is recommended if you're on a walking tour. For those who have to travel with use of public transportation or into tourist areas that require tickets, it is almost mandatory for you to pay for their ticket. Still, you're saving on the extra fees and tips with paid tours and practically doing the same exact thing. 

Should you need to book anything else which includes activities or travel options, remember to get a quote online before going with a travel agent or even the concierge of your hotel and hostel. For many companies, they will match the lowest cost you have found online in order to maintain business. Another recommendation is to stay away from hostel-hotel concierge and travel agencies on main streets. The reason for this is their convenience may come at a price. Walking into smaller companies and those that are further out allows for you to save on money and many of the time, it is the same tour company at your local concierge. 

As a last tip, just remember to give yourself a budget and travel the way locals do. You'll be surprised at how much more money you save if you plan ahead. Always ask around for recommendations, people do not bite and no, you don't look stupid doing so.