Have you ever visited a place that is so great you literally never wanted to leave? Well, there are people who actually do these. These are expats or expatriates.

Most people become expats not really for the sake of traveling and delving into foreign culture, but for economic reasons. America for example receives plenty of expats because it is easy to get a decent job that can easily cover the living expenses. So for people living in countries where the minimum wage can barely reach the cost of living, being an expat is always an option. Singapore, U.A.E. and the U.S. top the list of the best places to be expats. People who do not really earn big in underdeveloped countries can live luxuriously as expats in countries that pay huge sums of money.

If you decide on being an expat, it is important that you choose the country carefully. There are plenty of countries that pay you big bucks, but to hit two birds with one stone, why not choose a country that is not only financially rich, but also rich in culture and natural beauty? Here are a few great places to be an expat in.

1.    Mexico. Ok, Mexico is not your ideal expatriate destination if you want to earn big bucks. But the cost of living, particularly real estates, is much cheaper. Money matters aside, Mexico is a great expat destination because it is paradise. The great beaches, vibrant culture, welcoming locals and interesting history make this a great place for foreigners to live in. Just imagine yourself waking up in paradise everyday! Simply click here and you can fly to Mexico for free!

2.    San Francisco. The cost of living in San Francisco is high, but that’s ok because the salaries are high as well. More importantly, art is alive in this city. San Francisco is a great place for artists to be expats in. Graffiti is supported by the government and is highly encouraged. Just look around and you’ll see that this city has walls for canvases. I would definitely want to live there.

3.    Tokyo. Japan ranks the 2nd most expensive city in the world making it a great place to get high salaries. But more than the possibilities for luxurious living, Tokyo is great because it has an interesting culture and unique customs.

4.    Hong Kong. For someone who loves to shop, Hong Kong is your expat destination. Aside from giving out big salaries, Hong Kong has an interesting and colorful pop culture that you will surely enjoy living in. The entire place is like a huge shopping mall with a wide and complete variety of commodities. And the best thing is cheap stuff is not hard to come by.

5.    India. Aside from getting big salaries, India is a great place to live in because of the culture. It’s difficult to be bored in this place with its many attractions. But this place is not for everyone. You have to deal with traffic and some densely populated streets. India is not really for those who want to live like Dons. This interesting country is more for culture and history buffs and for travelers who are ready for any kind of adventure.

You’ll never really know a place unless you’ve lived there long enough. So choose a city that you think suits your interests. Don’t just go there for the big bucks, or you might end up being bored in a desk job in the end. Consider the city’s culture. It is important that you get not only financial wealth but also cultural and personal growth as an expat.

Do you have a taste for exotic foods? Ever wondered what kind of “strange” stuff they eat at places like China? Now, as China opens its door to the rest of the world you–and possibly your family–too can enjoy some unique delicacies by flying to China for free. You can even avail of some extra money on the side just so you can buy some really delicious meals.

Being from two very different cultures, Americans would most likely have their stomachs turned upside down at the sight of jellyfish, or pig intestines. But, one shouldn’t be ignorant to dismiss the thought that Chinese people would probably react the same way if ever they were asked to eat caviar or bull testicles (which is considered food at some areas in the U.S.)

So, in the spirit of cultural awareness here is a brief list of comparisons between American and Chinese common and exotic foods, and even things that both cultures (uniquely) find disgusting.

Common Food- these are what you’d normally find being sold on the street or at a local grocery store

Americans: Sour Cream, Cheese, Salty Beans, Raw Vegetables, Sausages

Chinese: Chicken Hearts, Pig Intestines, Pumpkin Drink, Durian, Stinky Tofu, Squid Jerky, Blood Sausage

If we think about it, sour cream is made from dairy gone bad, and, well, cheese is also made from milk inside a cow.  So, there’s no difference from eating what’s inside a pig or chicken. Durian is a kind of fruit that smells a lot like gym socks, but raw vegetables sometimes do too.

Delicacies – usually expensive and are more than likely only available in limited supplies.

Americans: Caviar, Goose Liver Pate, Frog’s Legs, Live Lobster

Chinese: Jellyfish, Pigeon Soup, Beef Tendons, Shark’s Fin Soup, Bird’s Nest Soup

It seems that both cultures enjoy a little taste of the exotic now and then. As most of us know, caviar is actually eggs laid by a particular fish, hence canceling out bird’s eggs used for soup. Americans only eat frog’s legs and not the rest of the frog, while the Chinese just have a taste for the shark’s fin—you get the picture.

Gross Foods – here are some menu stuffers that gross most people out regardless of their culture.

Americans: Deer/Bull Testicles

Chinese: Rat, Worms.

I really don’t need to say anything. These will definitely make you vomit at plain sight, but at least this goes to show that a few people from both cultures enjoy what most people deem as disgusting.

Originally in 1955, there was only one theme park and one hotel built Disneyland Anaheim. But the ever growing success of Disney entailed the expansion of the theme park in the 90’s. Hence today, Disneyland in Anaheim is not only a park, but a resort complex with two theme parks, three hotels and a walk-in district that is sure to give anyone a delightful flight to a world of magic.

Sounds good, doesn’t it? But I will not lie, that fun fantasy-filled trip will cost you. But just because we don’t have a bed of cash does not mean we cannot have fun in Disneyland Resort, Anaheim! Here are a few tips to make your trip cheaper, but just as fun.

1. Fly for free to Anaheim
I kid you not, this is possible! If you’re not from California and you want to visit Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, you can make your trip cheaper by flying in for free! Simply click here for more information, and start your cheap but fun adventure to Anaheim!

2.   Choose your theme park
As mentioned, there are two theme parks in Disneyland Resort Anaheim. The original park has the typical Disneyland layout – Main Street USA, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Fantasyland etc. It is the larger of the two and naturally has more attractions. This park is more suited for the younger bunch who wants to immerse in fantasy and magic. If you have not been to any Disneyland Park anywhere in the world, I advise you choose this. This will give you an authentic Disney experience. But if you’ve already been to other Disneyland Parks like in Paris or in Japan, choose the other one, Disney’s California Adventure (DCA). All Disneyland Parks in the world look almost the same so you’ll probably get the same experience, but DCA is unique in Anaheim.

DCA is also more suited for thrill-seeking teenagers who want to be blasted up in roller coasters and thrown around in wild loops. This park is also uniquely Californian. The entire park is a tribute to California; hence sub-lands such as Pacific Wharf, the Golden Vine Winery, the Hollywood Pictures Backlot and many more.

You don’t have to visit both parks. You won’t be missing out if you don’t visit both. Just consider the ages of the people you’re traveling with and if there’s another Disneyland Park nearer your home.

3.    Don’t stay in the Resort’s hotels
It’s really tempting to sleep in Disney hotels, but the thing is, you will spend most of the time outside. You’ll only be needing your hotel room for the bed and the bathroom. There are plenty of inns near Disneyland Resort! You just have to choose one that has a good lock, neat bathroom and soft bed. Believe me, it’s not hard to find around Anaheim.

4.    Unwind in Downtown Disney
There is no entrance fee in this part of the resort. You can simply walk-in, enjoy the view, shop, dine, or see a movie! Downtown Disney is a perfect place to unwind after a long thrilling walk around either one of the parks.

Those artistic elitists might tend to steer away their camera lens from objects or places that are deemed as “the most photographed.”  They even have names for it–which have been somewhat transformed into derogatory terms—such as picturesque, and postcard-ish.  While these common subjects for photography would be sneered at within elite circles, some of us who are simply looking for beautiful places will definitely find these destinations inspiring.  After all, they wouldn’t have been called “the most photographed” if they weren’t exactly sights to behold.

While the problem of having an insufficient travel budget may arise, rest assured that there are countless way to travel these places practically for free.  Anyone who enjoys a good and memorable vacation should have the right to go to these wonderful places.

Table Mountain:
In 75 years over 16 million people have climbed, toured, and gawked at the famous table mountain located at Cape Town, South Africa.  Especially during sunsets, the almost perfect plateau captivates tourists the world over.  The mountain is also surrounded by other tourist destinations, such as beaches and fine hotels, making it accessible to just about anyone.

Parthenon:
Having survived centuries upon centuries, the famous Parthenon in Greece—originally erected I honor of the Goddess Athena—the majestic structure is one of the first things which usually comes into mind whenever travelling to Greece is mentioned.  Just traversing the same steps that Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle must have passed through is enough to bring goosebumps down one’s back.

The Golden Gate Bridge:
The massive bridge located in San Francisco may be a bit of a salmon red—far from golden, we can tell you that—but it certainly offers a golden photo opportunity.  And the best part is, there are lot more places worth looking into whenever you get the chance to visit the city.

Abbey Road:
For those of you who still have no clue why this isn’t one of the most photographed places in the world, you have either been locked away in a dungeon for the last half century, or you have just grown accustomed to listening to music—thus, you probably only have emo bands in your playlist.  Even without John, Paul, George, and Ringo, Abbey Road—located at St. Johns Wood, London—is considered as the most photographed street in the world.

Niagara Falls:
Experiencing the awesome power of nature first hand should be on everyone’s bucket list.  Straddling the international border between the U.S. and Canada, this massive water fall reminds us humans that we are mortals truly vulnerable from obscurity and insignificance.

It’s summer.  As we all know it’s also the season for heat strokes, lawn fires, droughts, and high electricity bills.  For those of you who are running out of places to take the kids other than Disneyland, a much quieter, cooler place may very well sooth your vacationing itch.  Alaska isn’t all about the wilderness and sub-zero temperatures.  What most people don’t realize is that “The Last Frontier” state is definitely perfect for quick summer getaways.

Getting to Alaska is easy, seeing that state has its own airline, and if for those on a tight budget travel opportunities are a dime-a-dozen throughout the net.
You might ask, “But what is there to do there that’s safe, manageable, and fun for the whole family?”  Well, as our Inuit brethren would say, “There’s plenty to do here, so come on over!”  With the cool and more forgiving weather during the summer months, Alaska will certainly make you realize that it is truly the coolest place to be.

Though before you start packing your bags, here are a few things worth jotting down:

Outdoor Activities:
It isn’t called The Last Frontier for nothing.  You and your family can enjoy numerous activities while at the Alaskan outdoors.  There’s kayaking, four wheeling (ATV’s), and hiking.  Of course, there are safe routes for beginners as much as there are more perilous ones for those seeking adventure.  You and your family could also fish for huge King Salmons, which are very tasty.  And if you’re lucky and happen to find yourself in front of the ocean then you might very well see a blue whale or an orca splashing about.  Now that’s a hundred times more fascinating than SeaWorld!  But if whales and marine life aren’t up your alley, there are also eagles and moose and other interesting wildlife—some of which often walk right up the streets of Anchorage.

Historical Sites:
If you happen to be staying at Anchorage, take a trip to the Native Heritage Center.  While there the kids can finally learn firsthand about the 11 distinct cultures found in Alaska—that’s even more than most cities.  In addition, there is also the Ulu Knife Factory which showcases unique sets of blades which are exact replicas of what the early settlers used for hunting, gathering, and fishing.  Lastly, there’s the Anchorage Museum where you can learn about the Alaskan Pipeline–which is responsible for carrying much needed oil to the mainland–, and take a trip back into history to bear witness to the devastation of the great Alaskan earthquake of 1964 which measured 9.2 on the Richter scale.  It is also important to mention that all these notable places are just either a stroll or bus ride away from the nicest hotels.

Dining:
Don’t limit yourself to fast food, and all that unhealthy junk food.  While in Alaska, you can delight in delicacies not found anywhere else, and definitely not as fresh.  Among the favorites are reindeer sausages, caribou steaks.  For dad, there’s the exquisitely brewed microbeer—sorry kiddies maybe after a few years.  And of course, don’t forget that tasty Salmon you just caught!

Night Life:
When finally, the kids are tucked safely in bed, there is the Alaskan night life awaiting those old romantics seeking a little time away from domestic life.  There are plenty of bars open to those looking for a good time, most notably the B & B Bar which is the oldest bar in the state, complete with nondescript architecture and friendly people.  Couples could also avail of certain stimulants which are deemed illegal in most states.  So go back for a brief moment to the time when everything else was easier and responsibility was merely a suggestion rather than a mandate.  Don’t forget to look up at that colorful sky, illuminated by the Aurora Borealis.