Francophonie vacation via Montreal.

I have spent many summers in Montreal and it is definitely my favorite North American city. It is a city full of French culture with a European vibe. The exchange rate is around one-to-one and a half, which makes it even more appealing to Americans.

For shopping, walk down Saint-Catherine's Street. It is similar to Chicago's Michigan Mile and New York's Fifth Ave. Saint-Laurent Street has eclectic boutiques full of jewelery designed by local artisans. Looking for thrifty vintage shopping? You want to look for any store with the name "Friperie."




For good cheap eats in Montreal, check out Schwartz World Famous Smoked Meat, located on Saint Catherine's Street. It was ranked the number one restaurant with entres under $10 in Montreal on urbanspoon.com. A smoked meat sandwich will set you back $5.50. Eat it like the locals, and pile on the mustard. To download a menu: http://www.schwartzsdeli.com/index2.html. I have been there a couple of times and it is always satisfying after a long day of shopping. For another cheap alternative, go to the Atwater Market for supplies and have a pic-nic at Parc Mont Royal.



If you are interested in history visit Old Montreal. Some famous attractions include, the Notre-Dame Basilica and the Old Port of Montreal. Many museums are located in Old Montreal including,the Marguerite-Bourgeoys Museum, Montreal Science Center and the Montreal Museum of Archeology and History.



I checked hotelscheap.org to find a good rate on a hotel that is close to the action in Montreal. The Best Western Europa Downtown is walking distance to Old Montreal, nightlife and Saint-Catherine's Street. Rates start at just $100 a night.

Bali on a Budget

Many may view Bali as an exotic vacation spot for only the privileged. After my roommate backpacked through Bali a few years ago, I realized just how affordable it could be. You don't have to stay in a private honeymoon villa on the beach to experience Bali. If carefully planned, a Bali vacation doesn't have to cost a fortune and can be a pleasant experience at the same time. While my fiancé and I were planning our honeymoon, I came across a website called Budget Bali-http://www.budgetbali.com/index.php. It lists budget hotels,hostels and guest houses.

The Sarinade Beach Inn (Kuta) is about a five minute walk to the beach. Its amenities include: a swimming pool, restaurant, safety box, massage, drug store, laundry, mini bar and room service. It features a spa with massages starting at $6.

During the high season (December, July and August) a standard double room starts at $37. http://www.sarinandehotel.com/

Hotels near Sanur Beach are even cheaper. Prima Cottages is a four minute walk to the beach. Rates for 2009-2010 start at $27. http://www.primacottage.com/


How can you eat cheap in Bali? For breakfast go to the nearest Circle K. You can find pot noodles for about 30 cents! Sate (barbecued meat on bamboo sticks) is a popular street food in Bali. Depending on the type of meat (chicken, beef, rabbit or goat) sate costs anywhere from 40 to 60 cents for ten pieces.

For more Bali travel tips check The Lonely Planet. I have found it to the best guide while planning my Bali vacation.

Spring Breakers Forget Mexico: Visit Ireland.

During the current economic situation, students want to get the most from their money and may be reconsidering their spring break plans. Here's an idea: instead of the normal Mexico trip, take spring break early and visit Ireland during the off-season.

Aer Lingus recently announced their winter off season vacation package special to promote Irish tourism. The package includes airfare, six nights in a fully equipped two bedroom villa at The Heritage Golf and Spa Resort and a rental car. Prices start at $499 and dates are during the winter break: Dec. 1, 2009-Feb. 11, 2010 (Dec. 18-31 are blackout dates).

The Heritage Golf and Spa Resort is a five star hotel located in the village of Killenard, just thirty minutes from Dublin. Its location is beneficial to guests that wish to explore Dublin and the Irish countryside.

Ireland's capital city, Dublin, is an active vibrant city with many attractions for young adults such as shopping, music, pubs and art.

Kilkenny Town is a nearby village located one hour and forty-five minutes from the resort. It is a popular medieval town known for the Kilkenny Castle.For more information: http://www.aerlingusvacationstore.com/vacations/ire-res-heri/

Trip must be booked by October 31.