Is San Juan Safe for Solo Women Travelers? 

BY  Sibashree Jul 24, 2025

Ever come back from a trip, check your bank balance, and think, “Wait… where did all my money go?” Yeah, we’ve all been there. Traveling’s thrilling, sure, but it’s also sneaky—little costs pile up faster than you’d think. That overpriced airport snack?  The “cute” souvenir you didn’t need? It adds up. But here’s the thing: good budgeting isn’t about saying no to everything—it’s about being smart with your choices so you can actually enjoy yourself without the post-trip regret. So let’s talk about a few easy, real-life ways to track every dollar and build better spending habits while you’re off exploring. You can even use a spending tracker to keep the budget in check.  Start With A Clear Budget So That You Can Track Every Dollar While Traveling Honestly, the easiest way to keep travel spending under control? Plan before you even leave. Otherwise, it can quickly become expensive.  Set a total budget for the whole trip and then split it up—transportation, hotels, food, activities, and that “miscellaneous stuff” (because there’s always something). It’s also smart to include sneaky extras like tips, parking, or baggage fees. I like using a simple spreadsheet or an app for this. Doesn’t have to be fancy—just something you can check daily so you know where you stand.  When you see exactly how much you’ve got for each category, you make way fewer impulsive choices. Plus, you can spend guilt-free when you know it’s part of the plan. That little bit of prep before you leave? It’ll save you from a ton of “uh-oh” moments later. Track Every Dollar During The Trip Here’s the not-so-fun part: write down everything you spend. Yes, even the coffee. It feels like a pain at first, but it gives you a clear picture of what’s really happening with your money.  You don’t have to go old-school with pen and paper—budgeting apps are a lifesaver. They’ll let you log purchases, set limits, and even break down your spending by category so you can see exactly where it’s going. This habit makes you think twice before handing over cash (or swiping). You’ll start noticing patterns—like how quick snacks add up or how that “just one drink” at dinner somehow becomes three. And once you see it in real time, it’s way easier to adjust before things spiral. 1. Choose Affordable Accommodations Wisely Let’s be real: lodging eats up a huge chunk of any travel budget. But you don’t have to blow your cash to sleep somewhere decent.  Try looking at options beyond hotels—hostels, guesthouses, vacation rentals… even budget inns can surprise you. Just compare prices and always read recent reviews (you do not want bedbug drama on vacation). Also, book early when you can. Not only do you usually get better rates, but you also get more options. And don’t ignore the perks—free breakfast, a kitchen, maybe laundry or airport pickup—those little extras save money in the long run.  Sometimes staying slightly outside the city center can cut costs, but make sure you’re not spending that “saved” money on transportation. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between cost, convenience, and comfort. 2. Control Food Expenses Without Missing Out Food is one of the best parts of traveling… but it’s also where budgets go to die. My hack? Mix it up. Eat at restaurants for those “must-try” experiences, but grab at least one meal a day from a market, food stall, or grocery store. Not only is it cheaper, but you’ll get a more local vibe. Oh, and if your place offers free breakfast? Don’t skip it. If there’s a kitchen, maybe cook a meal or two—it’s kind of fun (and saves a chunk of cash). The point isn’t to skip good meals; it’s to save the sit-down restaurant splurges for when they really count. 3. Avoid Currency Conversion Surprises Traveling abroad? Exchange rates can sneak up on you. Don’t change all your cash at the airport—it’s usually the worst rate. Check if your card charges foreign transaction fees, too, because those tiny percentages add up faster than you think. Apps like XE or Revolut can help you track rates and even decide the best time to exchange. And while cards are convenient, always keep some local cash for markets or smaller places. Knowing exactly how much you’re spending in your own currency keeps you from going overboard without realizing it. 4. Stay Away From Impulse Purchases Souvenirs are tempting. Those random little trinkets? Cute… but do you really need them? Probably not. Before you buy something, pause and ask yourself: “Do I actually want this, or am I just in the moment?” Nine times out of ten, waiting a day makes you realize you didn’t really want it. These are impulsive buys we need to avoid! Setting a daily spending cap for fun stuff (shopping, treats, entertainment) works wonders. When you hit your limit, that’s it for the day. It’s not about never treating yourself—it’s about doing it with intention. And honestly, those thoughtful purchases end up being way more meaningful than the random impulse buys. Track Every Dollar While Traveling: It’s Not About Restriction But Avoiding Waste Travel should be about making memories, not stressing over your bank balance. When you track what you spend, you’re not restricting yourself—you’re giving yourself freedom. You know where your money’s going, you cut out the waste, and you get more out of your trip. Whether it’s a quick road trip or the big “dream vacation,” strong money habits make the whole experience smoother and way less stressful. Over time, this stuff becomes second nature… and trust me, your future self will thank you for it.

BY  Sibashree Nov 18, 2025

The Andaman Sea transformed into a spectacular canvas. The water started reflecting shades of violet, crimson, and amber. The experience was not just my eyes capturing some beautiful visuals. It was immersive. The tranquil setting, the chirpings of the birds going back to their nests, and the golden glow bathing everyone’s face, transported me to somewhere else. The crowded viewpoints on the beach were at a distance, and it was like the noise in my mind, which I wanted to distance myself from. This is how magical the Phuket sunset cruises can be. We seldom connect Phuket and a cruising experience there with something spiritual. However, if we allow ourselves, we can explore a different side of Phuket. In my mind, the lines of the famous Pink Floyd song were playing. “And as the windshield melts My tears evaporate Leaving only charcoal to defend. Finally, I understand the feelings of the few. Ashes and diamonds Foe and friend We were all equal in the end…” The sunset cruising was a kind of experience that made me feel one with the universe. Also, everything good and bad that happened in my life kept occurring before my eyes as a flashback. In this article, I will talk about the prime routes for the Phuket sunset cruises, how the surrounding elements define the experience, and every other detail you need to know. Prime Routes For Phuket Sunset Cruises The prime routes for Phuket sunset cruises offer diverse experiences. While the western coastline is about drama, the northern routes are surreal. Furthermore, the island-hopping circuits are more action-packed with itineraries including snorkeling and swimming. 1. Western Coastline The western coastline presents the most dramatic sunset vistas, with Promthep Cape serving as a legendary reference point. Promthep Cape, or the Laem Promthep, is on the southernmost tip of Phuket. The rocky outcrop here sets the stage, and as you climb it, you will see how the Sun creates magic on the waters of the Andaman Sea during the sunset hours. In addition, the panoramic view from the clifftop was amazing, and again, a famous quote came into my mind that when we see a problem from a distance, it looks smaller, but when we go close to it, it appears bigger and sometimes unbearable. Departing from Chalong Bay allows vessels to navigate toward this southern landmark while maintaining optimal positioning as daylight fades. The journey typically passes Rawai Beach and Nai Harn Bay, where protected waters create smooth sailing conditions ideal for photography and relaxation. 2. Northern Routes Northern routes toward Phang-Nga Bay offer a different perspective, with limestone karsts silhouetted against the glowing sky. These geological formations, such as the caves and lagoons, add depth and character to sunset compositions, particularly around Koh Panyee and the surrounding archipelago. The bay's sheltered nature ensures calm conditions even during monsoon transitions. If you want an added dose of adventure, you can take a canoe and explore the sea caves, inlet caves, and lagoons as the daylight starts getting softer and nature prepares for the sunset. 3. Island-Hopping Circuits Island-hopping circuits incorporate the following spots. Coral Island Racha Yai Khai Islands These itineraries typically allocate afternoon hours for swimming and snorkeling. Atmospheric Elements That Define The Experience As the Sun began spreading different shades of red and touched the waters of the Andaman Sea, I felt a subtle chill in the air. The midday heat was still there like the strongest perfume, the whiff of which remains on a shirt even after a wash. Within a few minutes, the transition in the weather became very prominent. The calm evening winds began to blow, infusing everyone on the deck with a sense of relaxation. I felt like that time stood still, and I quickly put on my jacket to be more comfortable in the moment. The jacket kept me cozy while I was still feeling the ocean breezes directly caressing my face and hair. Also, the color change felt like a 45-minute masterclass. At first, everything began to soften; the bright daylight took on a mellower tone, and then came the real drama, with intense saturation during the final ten minutes before dusk.  Finally, the lights were on, and the Andaman Sea looked most mysterious as the sky became dark. The blue hour, or the moments just after sunset, is dreamy in Phuket. There are aesthetic pastel tones everywhere, and the stars were becoming visible in the sky one by one. Standing on the deck of the water and with water everywhere around our cruise, there was very low light pollution. So, the stars and constellations shone the brightest. Thanks to this change of colors for an extended period, I could take some brilliant snaps. There was no rush, and I could experiment with my lenses and angles. Also, this extended timeline gave me enough time to cherish contemplative moments, and there was no rush. Companies specializing in yacht rentals in Phuket, such as DreamCharter, offer dedicated sunset cruise packages with professional crews managing navigation and timing to position guests at optimal viewing locations. Viewing Locations Open-water positioning west of the major islands maximizes unobstructed sightlines toward the setting sun. However, incorporating foreground elements such as traditional longtail boats, rocky outcrops, or palm-fringed shores adds compositional interest to photographs and enhances the overall visual narrative. Areas with minimal light pollution, particularly between islands or away from Patong's illuminated coastline, allow stars to become visible shortly after sunset. This astronomical dimension extends the experience beyond the sunset itself, creating a seamless transition into the evening. The combination of maritime mobility and natural spectacle makes sunset cruising a distinctive way to experience Phuket's coastal environment. Whether seeking romantic ambiance, photographic opportunities, or simply peaceful moments on the water, these golden-hour voyages deliver perspectives unavailable from land-based vantage points. November to April is the best season for sunset cruising in Phuket. Sunny days and clear skies make these months ideal for experiencing the beautiful transition of colors and stargazing after dark. Read Also: Three Of The Best Must-See Attractions During Your Time On The Thai Island Of Phuket 5 Must-Visit Places In Thailand: Should I Go To Phuket Or Krabi? Should You Choose A Luxury Resort In Phuket?

BY  Barsha Oct 22, 2025

I know what’s going on inside that pretty head of yours. You are probably thinking how many hookups I've had during my travels - especially since I am here to talk about travel hookups!  TBH, a few times for sure - not too many times, but definitely a few times. I mean, I had no idea about how the hookup culture worked during vacations - until I tried it out a few times. And now? Well, while the adrenaline is certainly thrilling, it does come with some major risks.  And while I’m nobody to stop you, it’s important that I help you out with my comprehensive list of dangers associated with travel hookups. Once you are aware, you will be safe while having ‘fun’ on vacation. Stay tuned. What Are The Dangers Of Hooking Up When You Travel? Romantic relationships on the road can be a great way to experience a foreign culture intimately, but at the same time, navigating the dating scene abroad can be a minefield.  Hooking up while traveling is an experience many actively strive for; as of 2025, 58 percent of travelers have embarked on a vacation romance, according to a recent TripAdvisor survey. Hookup culture not only accepts but actively encourages casual sex, including activities like one-night stands, without necessarily including bonding or emotional intimacy.  The term “hookup” has a broad scope because it can indicate any form of sexual activity between partners, including kissing. One can expect the dangers of hookup culture to be amplified when the partners in question have gone all the way at least once, especially regarding the following point.  In this context, let’s look at the primary dangers of travel hookups: Misaligned expectations  The risks of overindulging in alcohol The dangers of hooking up are relative  About good old-fashioned regret  The big issue of safety. 1. Misaligned Expectations: The question of whether it’s acceptable or even desirable to hook up with someone while traveling is very complicated. It first depends on the object of the hookup: a local or a fellow traveler? It seems far less complex when the person is also traveling and in a similar situation to you.  Given the significant financial gap and ensuing power imbalance between tourists and locals in destinations like third-world countries, there’s no shortage of potential problems. The traveler might see it as a fling, and the local – as real love, finally. Streams of messages over different online apps will follow the interaction, which can get awkward and, ultimately, one person could decide to block the other and move on.  2. The Risks Of Overindulging In Alcohol: It’s a fine line between lowering inhibitions and becoming too intoxicated to make smart decisions about what you do or don’t want to engage in. Overindulging in alcohol makes you more vulnerable to assault and theft, not to mention risking alcohol poisoning and ruining your entire vacation. 3. Relative Dangers Of Hooking Up: That only begins to scratch the surface of the dangers faced by women. Trust your intuition if a situation feels wrong or unsafe. Don’t assume you’re safer leaving a bar in a foreign country with someone you just met than you would be back home.  The sometimes misleading sense of security you feel while on vacation can make you vulnerable. Other vacationers won’t necessarily have your best interests at heart. Safe sex is about more than wearing a condom; it’s about not ending up on the news as a cautionary tale.  4. About Good Old-Fashioned Regret:  An online survey of 1,468 college students found that more than 27% felt embarrassed about a recent hookup, just under a quarter reported emotional difficulties, a fifth felt a loss of respect, and a tenth shared they had problems with their long-term partner.  78% of women and 72% of men who had casual sex reported experiencing regret thereafter, according to a Canadian survey of 200 undergraduate students.  5. The BIG Issue Of Safety: Obviously, this is perhaps the most important issue associated with travel hookups. When you reside somewhere unfamiliar, you become more open and vulnerable to any kind of sexual assault.  Both drug use and alcohol are common parts of travel, and both can sufficiently increase risks when you are traveling. Why? Well, it can impair your judgement, increasing risks in the process. As per travel data on Satista, sexual violence in international trips is typically perpetrated by strangers or even recent acquaintances.  Of course, this is correct, considering you won’t have your usual security network of family and friends who can interfere or even help in case of something dangerous. Moreover, in a foreign land, you might not be familiar with social cues or even local emergency support.  How To Minimize Risks Associated With Travel Hookups? Now that I’ve highlighted the major risks associated with travel hookups, I have a few tricks up my sleeve to minimize the dangers associated with travel hookups: Always meet in Public! If you are meeting someone from a dating or hookup app for the first time, and that too while you are traveling, then it's best to meet them in a public spot. And best to avoid drinking - what if they spike your drink? But if you still want to be a little tipsy, drink a little, depending on your tolerance, and then go meet someone new.  Always confide in someone about your plans. So what are they miles away from you? My best friend lives on another continent, but I always message her - she knows what to do if she doesn’t hear from me every few hours. Also, I always share my live location with her - just to be extra safe.  While you can do a thousand other things, it is best to trust your gut. If something feels off, then trust your instincts and leave. You don’t need to hook up with someone who doesn’t make you feel comfortable at the onset. And if you are meeting in public, then leaving is always an easy option. Lastly, never disclose personal information. This basically means don’t tell your tour ‘date’ which hotel you are residing in, what your plans are for the next few days, and stuff like that. This is because once you do leave, considering something feels off, they might just follow you and make it unsafe for you.  The Dos Of Hooking Up When Traveling: It’s not about avoiding hookups while traveling, but approaching them the right way. To make sure you don’t regret the experience, don’t lower your standards. Always be selective and don’t hook up with people in your tour group or who are staying at your hotel – it will prevent the awkwardness of running into them after a disappointing experience.  Follow the golden rule: come and leave with friends and look out for each other and, ideally, other travelers. Being an active bystander will make sure no one looks back on situations abroad with regret.