If you’re traveling on a budget, there’s no time like the present to hop a flight to Dublin (with cheap airfare, of course!) and discover this fun city.

Once you’re on the ground and you’ve booked your Dublin hotel, use these five tips to keep your money where it belongs: in your pocket.

Dublin budget tips

1. Don’t waste money on transportation

It can be tempting in Dublin just to hop in a cab, but this is one way to empty your pockets very quickly. Instead of cabs, check out the local bus schedule. Dublin Bus is very affordable, and routes connect all different areas of the city.

Alternatively, Dublin’s bike share program, called Dublin Bikes, is a cheap and easy way to get around the city. And remember, Dublin is very small and manageable on foot, too.

2. Eat your dinner early

With Dublin’s current boom, there are more and more gourmet restaurants opening in the city. These same restaurants do have deals if you know where or when to look. One strategy to fill seats is offering heavily discounted “early bird” or pre-theater specials.

Take one of my favorite restaurants in Dublin for example — The Winding Stair. A meal here is usually a splurge, but early birds can enjoy an incredible 2-course meal for just €29. You will leave stuffed and your wallet won’t be nearly empty.

Related:  Five ways to save on dining in Dublin.

3. Make friends with the half-pint — And keep your change!

There’s no such thing as a discount on alcohol in Dublin — you won’t find any “happy hours” in the city. If you’re trying to keep your costs down on beer, order a half pint instead of a full pint. This way you can spread your money a bit farther between different pubs.

Also remember, if you order from a bartender, there is no need to tip. Keep all your change!

4. Seek out free entertainment

While you’re sipping on that half-pint, how about some entertainment? Many Dublin pubs are known for their live music, so check out pubs that provide some entertainment beyond the Guinness and Jameson.

For traditional music, check out O’Donoghue’s on Merrion Row. Another great option for live music is Doyles, right across the street for Trinity College. If you happen to be in Dublin on “match day” (whether it’s rugby, soccer, or the Gaelic games) be sure to grab a seat in the pub — both the game and the locals will provide the entertainment.

5. Research your ride to the airport

If there’s one thing visitors complain about when it comes to Dublin — it’s the lack of airport transportation. You won’t find a train or a subway system that connects Dublin Airport to the city center. Some visitors resign themselves to taking a taxi (this costs at least €20) but Cheapos will want to check out the buses.

There are two options: the local bus that is very cheap (but stops frequently, seriously lengthening your journey into Dublin) or taking the Aircoach, a 24-hour express bus service into the city. Purchase a return fare to save a few euros instead of paying for a ticket each way. (Read more on Dublin’s airport transportation.)

A little airport research ahead of time could mean a lot of money saved during a trip to Dublin.

Your Dublin tips

Do you have any favorite ways to save? Share in the comments below!

The post Dublin Budget Tips: 5 simple ways to save appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

As is our holiday tradition, we’re ready with our list of why you should be excited about visiting Paris in 2015. (Funny how the list gets longer every year. We wonder what 75 reasons to visit Paris in 2075 will look like…)

Fortunately 15 reasons to visit the City of Light is an easy challenge, with many new things happening, beginning in January. Here are just a few of the highlights that we’re looking forward to:

The renovations at the Musée Picasso have finally finished, and it’s looking better than ever. Photo: Yann C.

15. Picasso is back in the house

After accidentally lying to you years ago, this time we’re sure. The newly renovated Picasso Museum has finally reopened. We’re serious this time. We’ve seen it. It just reopened. So go visit!

14. BYO Bag

A city free of plastic bags? That’s what Paris should look like in 2015. Mayor Hidalgo wants to rid the city of the pervasive bags that contribute to pollution. We’re inching closer to a cleaner Paris. Think about bringing your own tote bag.

13. Swan Lake! Singin’ in the Rain!

“Swan Lake” at the Opéra Bastille this March-April? Yes please! (And cheapo seats are available from €5!) The theatrical offerings next year are as high quality as ever at the city’s two main opera houses. Or swing over to the Théâtre du Châtelet for a bit of “Singin’ in the Rain”, March 12-26.

Related: Cheapo guide to the Opera district

12. Papal visit

The pope’s coming, and he’s pretty cool, right? Francois I’s plans are still shaping up—no doubt waiting to see if we’ll be around to give him a visit of our favorite spots—but we’ll let you know once he decides to book. With only two or three other visits planned around France, you can bet this historic trip will mean a lot of excitement in Paris.

The Ritz at Place Vendome might be out of our price range, but we’re still looking forward to the new renovations. (Hint: fancy bathroom break!) Photo: Welshdan

11. Flushing at the Ritz

Okay, so we can’t afford to stay there, but the post-renovation re-openings of the Hotel Ritz and the Hotel de Crillon are still exciting. We like to stop into the bars to pretend that we’ll have a drink and splurge, but actually we’ll just use their impeccable bathrooms when nature calls. Why not?

10. New Paris Philharmonic opens

The opening of the new Paris Philharmonic, a building designed by Jean Nouvel, will “revolutionize music in Paris” according to some, but we’re just excited to see the final architectural product. Way up in the 19th arrondissement, it’s sure to have an impact on the neighborhood at least. Check their site for the 2015 program.

9. Navigo gets simpler

Those monthly Navigo passes for the Metro can get tricky, but in 2015 it all gets easier. For monthly subscribers—so students, long-stay visitors, expats—the new fee is €70 for all zones, so there’s no need to buy extra tickets to get out to CDG or Versailles. Thanks for making things easier, Paris!

Related: Will buying a Navigo Pass help save you money?

8. Taxi changes

See them while they’re still here! Those green taxi stands with the buttons that you press in vain while calling a cab? They’re on their way out, to be replaced with a smartphone app. At the moment, Parisian taxi drivers aren’t happy, already facing competition from Uber. We’ll see how the story develops.

The Grand Palais is one of the most beautiful spaces in Paris, and 2015 welcomes a host of world-class art. Photo: Pierre-Louis F.

7. MOMA and Gaultier at the Grand Palais

The Louvre in Abu Dhabi will be stealing a lot of the attention on French art in 2015, but there will be no shortage of great shows going on, especially at the Grand Palais. Modern art from the San Francisco MOMA will headline one show in April-June alongside another featuring French fashion’s bad boy Jean-Paul Gaultier (April 1-August 3).

Another much-anticipated Picasso exhibit, featuring his works compared to those of other famous artists, should be up in the fall also at the Grand Palais. But then, there’s also a lot happening at the Orsay, the Petit Palais, the Palais de Tokyo, the Louvre, the Carnavalet…

6. New Generator Hostel powers up

European chain Generator is opening up its newest youth hostel boasting 916 beds in the 10th arrondissement. The hostel isn’t your dad’s backpacker hostel, featuring more a more upscale design that might attract business travelers looking for a deal. And with rooms starting at 25 euros, who could blame them?

Related: The best cheap hotels in Paris 

5. “Best City for Students”

Paris was named best city for students in 2015 by the QS report, beating out London and Melbourne. With so many student discounts, free cultural offerings, affordable student living, and a concentration of good inexpensive schools, we totally agree. (So maybe take that semester abroad now, right?)

Pedestrians will have more room to stretch their legs next year in the central districts of Paris. Photo: David McSpadden

4. Cars out of the center

Adieu, we say to the cars, adieu. The mayor has proposed addressing air pollution by restricting the number of cars in the central first four arrondissements in Paris. By allowing only cars from residents, deliveries, and other necessary vehicles, she hopes to make the historic center more pedestrian and bike friendly, and a whole lot cleaner. Diesel fuel is also on the chopping block…

3. “Tastes of Paris” in late May

We’re not about to throw down a few hundred euros for a Michelin star dining experience in Paris. Not yet at least. But the country’s most famous chefs are bringing their dishes to the public at the first ever Tastes of Paris event at the Grand Palais, May 21-25. Names like Ducasse and Robuchon will be there, offering tastings of their famous fare—with much more enticing prices.

Related: Eating cheap in Paris with 8 dinners for €10 or less

2. Race up the Tour Eiffel in March

Sure the Paris Marathon is attracting tens of thousands of people to Paris in April, but the Eco Trail run, held just a few weeks before on March 21, is offering a historic opportunity to run up the city’ most iconic monument, the Eiffel Tower herself. If you’re an experienced runner, enter the lottery to win a spot among the 40 runners to be selected for the “Verticale Tour Eiffel” race in March.

You can never have enough baguettes in Paris. Photo: Paul Asman

1. Baguettes

And if nothing else, I hear that Paris still makes some good baguettes… You know, if nothing else. Here’s a list of the 2014 winners for the “Grand Prix de la Meilleure Baguette” (Grand Prize for the Best Baguettes). Why not check them all out?

The post 15 reasons to visit Paris in 2015 appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Here, 25 free events in New York City this summer that we’re particularly excited about:

Street scenes

From parades to festivals to block parties, New Yorkers like to party in the streets.

1. Pride Weekend
June 28-30
Various locations

As is the case with most things New York, the Pride celebration here is one of the biggest in the world. The parade marches down Fifth Avenue on Sunday, June 30, but festivities fill the weekend, including Dance on the Pier, Rapture on the River and Pride (Poolside). And in this critical year there’s a lot to celebrate, so be sure to come out and join in the fun.

2. Independence Day
July 4
Hudson River or Coney Island

There is little that feels more American than the smell of hot dogs, the boom of fireworks or the Fourth of July. The big Macy’s fireworks show lights up the sky over the Hudson, with various access points from 24th Street on up to 54th Street. A hint if you choose to go: Head farther downtown (below 12th Street), where the crowds will be (slightly) smaller. Wherever you go, get there early and bring along blankets for sitting and food for eating.

If you prefer the hot dog aspect of the day, head out to Coney Island to cheer on the big eaters in Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest. The fun starts at noon, but arrive early to stake out your spot (and a hot dog).

3. Bastille Day
July 14
60th Street between 5th and Lexington Avenues or Smith Street, Brooklyn

France’s answer to Independence Day has several festivities of its own. Manhattan‘s party, on 60th Street from Fifth Avenue to Lexington Avenue, becomes a veritable Franco-wonderland, replete with cheeses, éclairs and crêpes (oh my!), plus crafts, live music and much more. Meanwhile, in Brooklyn, you can expect costumes, music and fabulous eats at the Bar Tabac Bastille Day celebration in Cobble Hill.

4. New Museum Block Party
July 20, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Sara D. Roosevelt Park

Experience art firsthand at this all-day extravaganza with performance art, interactive projects and workshops, plus free public tours of the museum.

5. Harlem Week
July 27 to August 30
Various locations in Harlem

Talk about understatement: Harlem Week lasts a month! Head Uptown for Gospel concerts, a jazzmobile, a fashion showcase, a basketball classic and much more.

6. Summer Streets
Dates and locations to be announced

For a few Saturdays every summer, New Yorkers receive a special gift: their streets. Traffic is diverted so that cyclists can cycle, runners can run and everyone else can walk, skip and cartwheel down the center of the street. Expect fun and games at stops along the way (last year saw a zip line and climbing wall).

Dance and sing

Whether you’re keen to cut a rug, groove in place or just sit and watch, outdoor music brings delights, especially the free kind.

Bust out your best garden party duds for the Jazz Age Lawn Party. Photo: Suzanne Russo

7. Celebrate Brooklyn
Throughout summer
Prospect Park Bandshell

All summer long, Prospect Park is alive and humming (literally). This year’s lineup includes Shaggy, They Might Be Giants and a live performance of the score from Beasts of the Southern Wild.

8. Midsummer Night’s Swing
June 24 to July 13
Lincoln Center

For 25 years now, live bands have filled the stellar space outside Lincoln Center with jazz, salsa, swing and disco, so that the good people of summer can jump, jive and jitterbug to their hearts’ content. Skip the $17 admission (which includes a lesson at 6:30 p.m. and admission to the dance floor) to shake and shimmy for free outside the ticketed area.

9. Jazz Age Lawn Party
August 17-18
Governors Island

A live concert and so much more, this 1920s-themed fête is the event of the summer (for this New Yorker, at least). Picture the old-fashioned splendor that is always Governors Island, now aglow with dashing costumes, games and all that jazz courtesy of Michael Arenella and His Dreamland Orchestra. A ticket ($30 in advance) gets you into the main area with access to dance floor, vintage clothing booths and food and drink offerings, but you can just as easily pack a picnic, claim a spot on the lawn and enjoy the festivities for free.

10. Summerstage
Throughout summer
Various locations

Mambo, hip-hop and everything in between. No matter your music preference, Summerstage will have something for you. Free concerts take place in Central Park and other parks throughout the boroughs.

11. Sweet Spot Festival
Select Saturdays through September 22
Jackie Robinson Park or Pier 1

The whole family can partake in this celebration of Harlem culture. In addition to vintage shopping, rotating shows include a reggae party and a roller skating jam.

That’s Entertainment

High culture, out of doors.

Rock out at Lincoln Center Out of Doors. Photo: Ian Muttoo

12. New York Philharmonic Concerts in the Parks
July 10-16
Various locations

Now’s your chance to hear the famed New York Philharmonic, Cheapos. The orchestra spends a week playing at one location in each borough (Prospect Park, Brooklyn; Cunningham Park, Queens; College of Staten Island; Central Park, Manhattan; Van Cortlandt Park, Bronx). There’s something extra magical about classical music under a blanket of stars.

13. Lincoln Center Out of Doors
July 24 to August 11
Lincoln Center

Once the dancers have had their fill, Lincoln Center opens the floor to all array of entertainment, from Afrobeat with Red Hot + FELA to the jazzy Kronos Quartet to funky Ozomatli. This year also includes the 30th Annual Roots of American Music Festival.

14. Shakespeare in the Park
Through August 18
Delacorte Theater

One of New York’s favorite summer traditions: the Bard, performed live, in Central Park’s lovely Delacorte Theater. Tickets are free, but can be hard to come by. Check out our trusty guide to free Shakespeare in the Park tickets for tips on claiming yours.

15. The Met Summer Recital Series
July 16 to August 1
Various locations

Just like the Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera brings its art to the masses, with six performances throughout the five boroughs. Bring a blanket, a picnic and your best falsetto.

16. New York Classical Theatre
Through July 28
Various locations

Free Shakespeare. In parks. (Minus the Shakespeare in the Park lines.)

17. River to River Festival
June 15 to July 14
Locations vary

Theater, art, dance, city… The R2R Festival has it all. Watch open rehearsals, listen to poetry readings, or get your hands dirty at interactive events. The festival takes place on waterfront spaces (Governors Island, South Street Seaport…) throughout the city.

Films alfresco

It’s a bit overwhelming how many free movie series there are in New York, and each is awesome in its own way. Here’s the rundown.

You don’t know what to watch, movie or scenery in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Photo: Courtesy of Movies with a View

18. HBO-Bryant Park Summer Film Festival
Mondays through August 19
Bryant Park

The grand daddy of the summer film fests has the throngs arriving hours early (the lawn opens at 5 p.m.) to score a spot. Movies won’t start until dusk, but the wait is part of the pleasure. It’s fun to strike up conversations with strangers, and we can certainly think of worse places to lounge than Bryant Park. Movies here tend toward the tried-and-true (this year’s season closes with E.T the Extra Terrestrial).

19. RiverFlicks for Grown-ups
Wednesdays, July 10 to August 21
Pier 63, Hudson River Park (enter at W 23rd Street)

For more modern selections, movies on the river are a good bet. This year’s theme is “bands of heroes and bands of singers,” so you’ll see everything from Argo to Pitch Perfect. It’s a good chance to catch up on the blockbusters you missed last winter. Plus, the staff passes out free popcorn while supplies last.

20. RiverFlicks for Kids
Fridays, July 12 to August 23
Pier 46, Hudson River Park (enter at Charles Street)

Don’t let the name fool you. This youthful version of RiverFlicks offers nostalgic kid-friendly favorites like Beetlejuice and Who Framed Roger Rabbit. Oh, and more free popcorn.

21. Central Park Film Festival
August 22-26
Central Park just north of Sheep Meadow

Classics for a classic. This five-day film festival tends to go retro in its pickings, and this year the “People’s Park” let the people decide the movies. The winners include West Side Story for Classics night, The Shining for horror night and Raiders of the Lost Ark for adventure night. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. and movies start at 8 p.m.

22. SummerScreen
Wednesdays, July 10 to August 14
McCarren Park, Williamsburg

This hipster fest kicks off each evening with live music and food trucks at 6 p.m., followed by a ’90s throwback movie (Can’t Hardly Wait, The Goonies…) at sunset. We’d expect no less from the ‘burg.

23. Syfy Movies with a View at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Thursdays, July 11 to August 29
Pier 1 Harbor View Lawn

And the winner for best scenery goes to… With the Brooklyn Bridge looming off to one side, and lower Manhattan as backdrop, the atmosphere at Brooklyn Bridge seems like something from, well, a movie.  Snag a spot early and be rewarded by not only a seat but fabulous views and DJ tunes (from 6 p.m.) Feature films—this year kicks it off with Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and ends with Lost in Translation—are each preceded by a short. 

24. The Intrepid Summer Movie Series
Various dates through August 15
Intrepid Museum, Pier 86 (W 46th Street)

It’s no surprise that this massive aircraft carrier turned museum has the likes of Jaws, Top Gun and The Karate Kid on the docket this year. Space is limited and priority seating is granted to members, so arrive early (doors open at 7:30 p.m.), and note that there is no admission after 8:30 p.m.

25. Films In Tompkins
Thursdays through August 8
Tompkins Square Park

Somehow the thought of watching Rocky Horror Picture Show in the heart of the East Village just feels right. Gates open at 6 p.m., and musical entertainment starts around then too.

Looking for somewhere to sleep?

While you can catch free theater, concerts and movies outdoors, we wouldn’t recommend trying to sleep under the stars while in New York (Cheapo as that may be).  For our favorite cheap sleeps in the city, check out our guide to budget hotels in New York.

Anything to add? 

Know of any other free events in New York this summer? Feel free to share them in the comment box below.  And if you have any questions about the events listed, ask away!

The post New York: Summer 2013 free events calendar appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Our “Cheapo Culture” series is exploring ways for budget travelers to experience the best of high-culture at low prices. We’ve also covered cheap theatre tickets in London, and free museums. Now, let’s talk about where to find free and cheap classic music concerts.

Free lunchtime and evening concerts and venues

You can get your share of classical music at a number of completely free concerts in London. Here’s a quick overview:

• Monday: St. Martin in the Fields (1 pm); Royal Opera House (1 pm); St. James Church (1:10 pm)
• Tuesday: St. Martin in the Fields (1 pm)
• Wednesday: St. James Church (1:10 pm)
• Thursday: Southbank Sinfonia (St. John’s Waterloo Church – 6 pm)
• Friday: St. Martin in the Fields (1 pm); St. James Church (1:10 pm)

Here’s some information about each of these concerts:

St. Martin in the Fields by Trafalgar Square runs lunchtime recitals on Monday, Tuesday and Fridays, and encourages classical music fans to drop by and enjoy them. The concerts run from 1 pm-2 pm and the program, announced online, can range from vocal recitals and student performances, to organ music and classical quartets.

Similarly, beautiful St. James’s Church in Piccadilly Circus offers free lunchtime recitals every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1:10 pm. Donations of £3.50 are encouraged at both St. James’s and St. Martin in the Fields.

Alternatively, you can head to the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden on a Monday at 1 pm for an exclusive free concert showcasing the young rising stars of the classical music world. You will need a ticket to attend one of these concerts, some of which are available online nine days beforehand, while the remaining tickets are available from the Royal Opera House box office from 10 am on the day of the concert.

If music in the evening is more to your liking then drop in on the Southbank Sinfonia’s Rush Hour concerts. Held every Thursday from 6 pm-7:15 pm at St. John’s Waterloo Church, it’s a lovely, relaxed way to start the weekend and you even get a glass of wine on arrival!

Affordable classical music in London

Excellent value tickets are on offer at a number of London’s most popular venues, so if you’re willing to spend between £9 and £20, you can be guaranteed a great night out. Here are some ways to score a cheapo classical ticket:

Home of the Conway Hall Ethical Society, Conway Hall in Holborn runs a fantastic program of chamber music concerts on Sunday evenings and you can get yourself a ticket for just £9. Most concerts start at 6:30 pm and you can buy a ticket from the box office from 5:45pm.

It’s also well worth checking out the programs of the British Youth Opera and Opera Holland Park, as there are usually a smattering of £12 tickets on offer at each of their concerts.

If your heart is set on seeing a performance at the English National Opera (ENO), then opt for one of their “Secret Seats”. For £20 you’ll be guaranteed a seat worth at least £25, possibly a lot more, and you’ll only find out where you’re actually going to sit three days before the show.

For a last minute bargain, keep an eye on Intermezzo, where amazing offers and last minute classical music deals are listed.

London’s summer of music

Finally, classical music fans should not make a summer visit to London without attending the BBC Proms. This musical extravaganza takes place over two months each summer and always promises an impressive line up of concerts at the spectacular Royal Albert Hall. Restricted view tickets are available to some concerts for as little as £7.50, but true Cheapos will love the £5 “Promming” tickets. These give access to a standing place in the Gallery or Arena areas and are released on the day so you don’t even need to book in advance.

The post London: How to score free and cheap classical music tickets appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

The good news for music lovers is that there is music every night somewhere in Barcelona. The bad news is that tickets can be spendy! But fear not. Here are a few ways to enjoy great music in Barcelona a Cheapo’s budget:

Atrapalo
Web site

The absolute first place I check for tickets, whether they be for music or theater or dance, is Atrapalo.com. You will need some Spanish to use this site, and you will need a printer. If you can access both of these necessities, then you can save some major euros.

Atrapalo lets you search by interest and date and then sells tickets for select shows at a discounted rate. Some shows can be up to 70% percent off. I’ve bought tickets for jazz concerts at Jamboree on Atrapalo, as well as theater tickets. You make your purchase and then print off the tickets. Most hotels and Internet Cafes in Barcelona have printers.

Oficina de Turismo de Barcelona
La Rambla 99 (near the Liceu Metro stop)

Another place to check out is the Oficina de Turismo de Barcelona: Eventos culturales en Barcelona office on La Rambla. There are many tourist information offices around the city, but this one is different because they also sell discounted tickets to cultural activities around town.

It works this way, more or less: You have an idea of what you might like to see, perhaps a concert at El Palau or a Spanish guitar show. You head over to the office about three hours before the show starts and see if they have any discount tickets left. There is usually a line if the concert is popular.

The problem with this system is that they may be sold out, they may not have tickets to the show you want to see (ask ahead of time) and you never know how much of a discount there will be. Still, it’s better than nothing. I’ve saved big buying from the tourist information office last minute.

Aside from these two bargain places to save on music, you could also opt for the following clubs which always have inexpensive or free live music:

Paraiguas Bar
C/ Pas de L’ensenyança, 2
Web site

Meaning “The Umbrellas,” this bar is a modernista gem in the Gothic Quarter. The Paraiguas Bar offer live music for free on weekends, although cocktails are not cheap.

Electric Bar
Travesera de Gràcia, 233
Open: 7 p.m. – 2 a.m. (open until 3 a.m. weekends)
Web site

A hole-in-in-the-wall if there ever was one, Electric has music seven nights a week. Entrance to the tiny venue is rarely more than €4 or €5.

Bar Ese Efe
C/ Carretes, 48 (Rava)
Open: Tue-Sun 7:30 p.m.-3:00 a.m.

This new Barcelona bar has some mid-week music and tunes on the weekend. There’s no cover and they’ve got craft brews from California on tap. See their very local line-up on Facebook.

The post Barcelona: Where to find cheap concert tickets appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

For those of you with plans to ring in the New Year in Rome, the problem is not finding something to do. Rather, the real dilemma lies in narrowing down your celebratory options. Fortunately for Cheapos, Capodanno (New Year’s Eve) is one time when the city’s squares come alive with free events.

My favorite free New Year’s events include:

Free Concert at the Fori Imperiali (Imperial Forum)
New Year’s Eve
10 p.m.

New Year’s just wouldn’t be the same without its traditional Capodanno concert in Rome. Sponsored by the city, the free concert at the Imperial Forum typically has a big Italian name headlining the show.

For this year’s event, famous Roman singer Claudio Baglioni will put on a concert starting at 10 p.m. that will last about three hours. Just before midnight, the concert will be interrupted in order to do the traditional New Year’s countdown, followed by a magnificent fireworks display. The concert will take place along Via dei Fori Imperiali near Piazza Venezia. Large TV screens will be strategically positioned around the area to enable the tens of thousands of attendees to enjoy the concert.

The New Year’s Eve concert is an event definitely not to be missed. Plan to arrive early to find a good spot.

Free Classical Concert at Piazza Del Quirinale
New Year’s Eve
11 p.m.

Just off of Via Nazionale in the Piazza del Quirninale, a classical music concert is held on New Year’s Eve. The classical concert, usually attended by the Italian President (currently Giorgio Napolitano), takes place around 11 p.m. and is followed by fireworks.

Free Concert and Nativity Scenes Exhibit in Piazza del Popolo
New Year’s Eve
10 p.m.

The grandiose Piazza del Popolo will also put on a New Year’s Eve concert of its own with a mix of Italian music, street performers and fireworks. The festivities begin here roughly around 10 p.m.

Need a break from all of that rocking out? Head over to the Santa Maria del Popolo church, where just next to it is a giant exhibit of nativity scenes from nearly 100 Italian regions.

Metro Hours Extended on New Year’s Eve

Worried about how to get home after a long night taking in the capital’s festivities? Happily, the city has decided to extend the Metro’s hours of operation in order to ensure that people can make it home safely without having to resort to driving.

New Year’s Day Parade – St. Peter’s Square
New Year’s Day
From 10 a.m.

If you wake up with energy on January 1, you should consider attending the city of Rome’s fantastic New Year’s Day parade. The event kicks off at 10 a.m. at St. Peter’s Square, with the Pope’s New Year’s Day blessing. It then heads down Via della Concilliazione before winding up near the Castel Sant’Angelo. Tens of thousands of people congregate to witness the parade, with its military, civil and school marching bands and pageantry.

For Kids: Piazza del Popolo
New Year’s Day
10 a.m.-6 p.m.

While the big kids enjoyed the New Year’s Eve festivities, the little kids have lots more to look forward to on New Year’s Day. The city turns Piazza del Popolo into one big playground. The performances and activities include acrobats, clowns, street performers, musicians and face painters.

The post Rome: 5 free ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

New York City is a hub for music lovers of all tastes. The city’s neighborhoods have streets lined with venues offering live music every night of the week. So whether you’re looking for a rock show or a jazz club, you won’t have trouble finding the right place.

Manhattan is not the only borough that serves up popular music halls. Brooklyn is quickly growing into a popular home base for independent musicians, record labels, and DIY artists looking to leave their mark on New York’s dynamic music scene. Rock shows, DJ events, benefit concerts, the latest tours – these New York venues have it all:

Pianos
158 Ludlow Street (at Stanton St.), Manhattan
Web site

Pianos is a Lower East Side bar, lounge, restaurant, and music venue. Downstairs you’ll find a crowd of loud college students standing elbow-to-elbow slinging back drinks on weekend nights while the upstairs lounge offers a more laid back crowd, cocktails in hand. That’s where you should head – especially on select Friday nights as resident DJs spin all night and offer free entry to females before 10 p.m.

Musical stylings run the gamut with legendary hip-hop jingles, dance rock jams, and 80’s classics. If this is your kind of dance party, Pianos is not to be missed on a Friday night.

The Studio at Webster Hall
125 E 11th St (between 3rd Ave. and 4th Ave.), Manhattan
Web site

Webster Hall is not just known for its crazy club nights anymore. For those looking for an intimate show or to see up and coming bands, head to the Studio, located in the Hall’s basement. Showcasing touring bands of punk rock, indie pop, and straight up rock and roll genres, The Studio offers cheap tickets to small shows. It’s a perfect space to share the spotlight with bands both old and new.

Not to be overshadowed by its upstairs neighbor, The Studio serves up the ultimate acoustics in sound and lighting to maximize performances that challenge the line between audience and performers. Don’t be surprised if the lead singer himself crawls down from the stage and into the crowd to sing the words with you!

Mercury Lounge
217 E Houston St. (between Ave. A and Essex St.), Manhattan
Web site

The Mercury Lounge is the Lower East Side’s quintessential dive bar slash music venue. It’s a staple for seeing energetic live rock shows at a cheap price. Centrally located on Houston Street with doors that stay open until 3 a.m., the Mercury Lounge welcomes established indie rockers and newcomers as part of its “Bowery Presents” music family.

Audiences can expect to take full advantage of happy hour specials, spacious floors, and rattling stage performances by some of the best new musicians in the biz. New York musicians often come out to support one another here too, so chances are you might run into a familiar face at a show.

Southpaw
125 5th Ave (near Sterling Pl.), Brooklyn
Web site

Southpaw is a neighborhood bar and concert hall in Park Slope, Brooklyn. Located on the ever-so-trendy Fifth Avenue, Brooklynites from all over flock here on the weekends for cheap cans of beer, old-school arcade games, and rock-and-roll décor.

This past month, Southpaw opened its doors to benefit concerts for fellow Brooklyn bloggers You Sing I Write and Brooklyn the Borough in support of local organizations and musicians. Also, on second Saturdays of the month, “Down South at Southpaw” has introduced a new series of dance parties for the LGBT community. With events like these, Southpaw continues to be an integral part of the Brooklyn music scene. Their upcoming calendar features music showcases, journalists, and special guests such as Talib Kweli, so be sure to grab a ticket soon!

Tea Lounge
837 Union St. (between 6th and 7th Ave.), Brooklyn
Web site

This Park Slope café house also doubles as a live music space, presenting free jazz series and pop/singer-songwriters each week. Set up as a cozy living room, patrons enjoy free Wi-Fi and café drinks as performances carry on, and other attendees mingle in around the bar area for a prime view. The atmosphere is pleasant, welcoming, and relaxed which makes for a special evening that both musicians and audiences can enjoy any night of the week. At the end of the night, a tip jar is passed around to encourage donations.

If you want a more upbeat show, check out their bar parties accompanied by live bands and DJs hosted by one of Tea Lounge’s own bartenders. The café stays open past its normal closing hours just for these shows, too!

About the author: Alisha Miranda is a certified Travel Geek. A lover of all things budget-friendly, she’s constantly in search of good food and drinks, and engaging cultures. She even managed to complete a trip to Spain for two weeks under $1500 all by herself. Previously the first lady of Sosauce, she continues to guest post for travel sites, and now is the Local Expert: New York for NileGuide. Keep up with her travels at http://thisisalisha.tumblr.com/travelgeek.

The post 5 Cheapo Music Venues in New York City appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Madrid’s live music scene is alive and kicking with both local and international artists setting the bar high. One of the most wonderful things about live music in Madrid is that you can enjoy it without breaking the bank! The cheapest way to catch a concert is to frequent one of the many jam sessions going on around town on any given night.

Whether you wish to partake or just join the audience, the jams listed below boast free entry, high quality music and a great atmosphere – what more could you ask for?

Marula
C/Caños Viejos 3, 28005
Metro: La Latina & Opera
Web site

Luck Dados performing at La Boca del Lobo. Photo: Jota Pe

This La Latina treasure is one of Madrid’s best-kept secrets. Tucked below the Viaducto de Segovia, Marula is a small, funky bar that has live music throughout the week. Monday is Jam Night led by American drummer Noah Shaye and is an unmissable weekly event for all you jazz and soul fans. The music kicks off at midnight and goes on into the small hours.

Moe
C/Alberto Alcocer 32, 28036
Metro: Cuzco & Colombia
Web site

Just off the Paseo de la Castellana, Moe is a friendly bar that showcases the best in jazz, blues and Latin music. There are two jam sessions each week at Moe, so you can catch the Blues Jam on a Tuesday and the Jazz Jam on a Wednesday. Things start heating up from 10:30 p.m.

La Boca del Lobo
C/Echegaray 11, 28014
Metro: Sol
Web site

If you like funk music, then this is definitely the place for you! Get down to this Huertas favorite on a Wednesday for the Roots and Grooves Jam Session. Music starts at 11 p.m. and makes for an excellent midweek choice.

El Junco
Plaza Santa Barbara 10, 28004
Metro: Alonso Martinez
Web site

Dark and atmospheric, El Junco makes a great change from the bars and clubs of Chueca and Malasaña. Stop by on a Sunday for Norman Hogue’s legendary Blues Jam, or wind down on a Tuesday as Ruben Andreu and his band lead the Jazz Jam. It all gets going at 11:30 p.m. and goes on until late.

Sala Barco
C/Barco 34, 28004
Metro: Tribunal
Web site

You may well have already danced the night away at this infamous Malasaña haunt on a Friday or Saturday, but did you know about the Sunday Jam? Led by the incredible Cuban saxophonist, Inoidel Gonzalez, this Jazz Jam starts at 11:30 p.m. and is the perfect place to end your weekend on a high note.

The post Madrid: 5 Bars with Free Live Music appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Here’s a quick overview of where audiophiles can enjoy classical music on a shoestring budget:

Carnegie Hall
881 7th Ave (at 57th Street)
(212) 247-7800
Web site

Music lovers in New York must make a pilgrimage to Carnegie Hall. Happily the world-famous music hall provides several options for ticket discounts.

Starting at 11:00 a.m. on the day of concert (noon on Sunday), the box office sells “Public RUSH” tickets in the balcony for $10 each (limit two per person). This offer is valid for all Carnegie Hall presentations in the Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage, and excludes gala events and family concerts (which are already cheap, at $9-20 per ticket).

Students can also pick up $10 tickets to select shows with their student IDs at the box office. For more information, and to buy student tickets in advance, see www.carnegiehall.org/students.

If you generally close your eyes during concerts, consider getting 50% off the usual ticket price when you purchase partial view tickets for seats with obstructed viewing or a little less leg room. Check out CarnegieHall.org for more information on discount ticket programs.

Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
10 Lincoln Center Plaza
(212) 875-5456
Web site

Home to big-name ensembles like the New York Philharmonic and the Metropolitan Opera, Lincoln Center offers day-of-performance discounts at the Zucker box office in the David Rubenstein Atrium. Performances are held Tuesday through Sunday and discounts vary depending on show.

The Atrium handles same-day discounts for performances in all Lincoln Center spaces, including Alice Tully Hall, Avery Fisher Hall, David H. Koch Theater, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Lincoln Center Theater and the Metropolitan Opera.

The Atrium is open Monday–Friday 8:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m., and
Saturday–Sunday 9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.. For more information on Lincoln Center ticket discounts, check out this page on their Web site.

Juilliard School
60 Lincoln Center Plaza
(212) 799-5000
Web site

The world-famous Julliard conservatory opens its doors for student and faculty performances. Most performances are free and don’t require tickets. For the shows that do require tickets, be sure to show up at the 65th Street box office as soon as tickets are available. Can’t get a ticket? A standby line starts about one hour before the concert.

Orchestra of St. Luke’s
Performances throughout New York City
Web site

This year marks the 35th anniversary of the Orchestra of St. Luke’s. The 2010-11 season includes concerts, both chamber groups and full orchestra, at The Morgan Library and Museum, Dia:Beacon and the Brooklyn Museum. (Tip: See a concert at the Brooklyn Museum or Dia:Beacon and get access to the exhibits.)

Take advantage of the special occasion and get seats for as low as $25. Hungry after the show? Your ticket stub gets you 10% off at some local restaurants. For more information, check out the groups Web site.

Symphony Space
2537 Broadway (at 95th Street)
(212) 864-5400
Web site

This Upper West Side gem is home to performances that span genres but the classics are never forgotten. Many performances offer student tickets for as little as $10. The post-grad among us can grab “Under 30” tickets for $15. For concert schedule and ticket information, visit http://www.symphonyspace.org

The post New York: Cheap tickets and discounts to classical music concerts appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Luckily for you, Florence does have plenty open in August. The main tourist attractions and centrally located restaurants and shops generally remain open to meet the demands of summer visitors. In fact, you’ll find there are many advantages to visiting this picture-perfect city during this hot month.

Here are a few of my favorite reasons to head here and stick around (if you can stand the heat, that is…).

Less crowds and commotion

While the amount of tourists visiting the city remains more or less the same, almost all Italians are on vacation in the mountains or on the beach. While you may miss out on some interaction with the locals, you will benefit from the ease of an empty city, very quiet weekends and less hustle and bustle. Even in the main tourist areas you’ll notice the slower pace of the summer.

Summer nights and concerts

When the warmth arrives in Florence, the city’s nightlife welcomes it with open arms. Open-air concerts and parties are scheduled for every night during the summer. Granted, things do tend to slow down a bit in August, but there are still plenty of events—free and paying—to choose from.

For example, the summer concert series Live On, at the large fortress near the train station, La Fortezza da Basso, offers a wide range of concerts, the majority of which are free, as well as a place to dance and drink in the open air.

If you’re looking for something more low-key, the former prison-turned-cultural space Le Murate, right near Piazza Beccaria, offers aperitivos every Monday night. During the month of August, the post-aperitivo entertainment includes presentations of short films and documentaries from all over the world.

Gelato

Ok, I know you can get gelato all year round and in all parts of Italy, but come on, what is better on a scorching hot day in the Tuscan capital (and disputed home of the luscious snack) than three solid meals of icy creamy gelato? You could start with a breakfast of fruity sorbetto topped with whipped cream, linger over a hearty lunch of nocciola (hazelnut) and pistacchio and finish off your night with some rich cioccolato fondente (dark chocolate) and crema (cream).

After all that, you may even need a gelato al caffe’ (coffee ice cream) to help digest. I’ll be writing about my Florence’s best gelato places soon, but in the meantime go to my favorite, Perche’ No (literally named Why Not?) in Via dei Tavolini, right off the main shopping street of Via Calzaiuoli. In addition to the central location, it boasts gelato made on the premises from all natural ingredients. The shop even has vegan ice cream!

Extended hours at the Palazzo Vecchio

The Palazzo Vecchio will remain open every night, except Thursdays, from 9 a.m. to midnight. These late-night openings allow the public an even more special look at one of the most important buildings of past and present Florence.

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