Here’s a great article for all of us budget travelers (or independent travelers; whatever floats your boat): 51 Ways to Cut Vacation Costs from National Geographic Traveler.
I find myself agreeing with most of the list, but this one comes as a surprise:
2. Trash your “cookies,” small files (stored in your Internet browser) that record the websites you surf—and the transactions you make. Say you go online and purchase a $200 plane ticket from Chicago to Omaha. The next time you visit that site, you could be quoted a higher rate than what’s actually available because of your spending history. Avoid this problem by deleting these files each time you log on; detailed instructions can be found under the “Help” option in your browser menu.
Well I’ll be darned.
Please visit http://www.ofwforum.com
“Don’t wait until the last minute to get—or renew—your passport; the longer you wait, the more it will cost. Routine applications generally take up to six weeks to process for $67 (renewal applications) and $97 (first-time applications); both fees include passport, security, and execution fees. ”
Heh. To renew the Philippine passport only took less than a week. Send them your money & you’re good to go. I think renewing cost me only $50.
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I was reading their tips. Like you, I didn’t know about the cookie thing. Those sneaks…
Yeah, kaso hassle naman tayo when applying for visas for entry!
Re: Cookies
Who’d have thought no? Very sneaky nga. *shakes head*
re: renewing passports — yep, it takes up to 6 long weeks to do it in the states. so i renewed it in Manila. time it took: 5 days (including transit time via FedEx)!!! and no need to appear in person.