E

xecute. This is hardest part of the process of realizing a self-funded UK trip as mentioned in my previous post. I had a mission to save Php 2,000 per week for at least 50 weeks. I had little idea if Php100,000 was enough or I needed more. All I knew was I’m determined to go there.

MISSION 100K

I came up with Php100,000 as my target budget by researching cost of living in London and some items that I wanted to do. My primary concern was just food, transportation, and minor entertainment. Having a fabulous and glamorous vacation wasn’t in my plan, just a simple visit of a lady traveler who wants to be immersed in a new culture and environment. I referred to this site to determine what costs I should consider. My initial budget plan looked like this:

Why only these items? Fortunately, accommodation wasn’t an issue because my aunt (who I was supposed to go with) assured me of a place to stay for free because she used to live there. Moreover, I really looked out for an Air Asia promo since June and immediately booked it without thinking twice! That’s why it’s that cheap. If you’ll book it now, it will cost 40% more. I didn’t allot for touring allowance because I was focusing on trying to experience the free stuff that London has to offer.

FRUGAL EFFORTS

From Php3,000 disposable income (my money after allocating for bills & other necessities) every week, I had to device a plan on how to shrink it to Php1,000. This required me to have a change in lifestyle. It was going to be hard but I know I just have to be creative so as to not sacrifice my quality of life. And so I did the following:

• Friendly peso pinching efforts. I still want to go out with friends but didn’t want to spend on night outs and out of towns. So I pulled my friends to exercise with me or I joined them instead. Also tried to veer away from movie houses as much as I can. Eat outs with buddies meant they go to my house to eat or the other way around. These things allowed me to have a stronger body, a fatter wallet, and more quality time with the friend.
• No to buying unplanned items. I only bought thoroughly thought items for myself and only last Christmas. Every item I bought should feel like an investment, not an expense. If I didn’t do that, I could have bought stuff I didn’t really need yet like speakers, Vibram FiveFingers, gym bag, bamboo bike, and other outdoorsy items (but please do remember them on my birthday on September 14).
• Committing to simple clothing. Shorts, polo shirts, and rubber shoes define my work look. No new dress and outfit for the past year but I make sure I maximize my wardrobe and my sister’s. I just made sure that I had simple clothes whenever I go out of the house.

CHALLENGING TIMES

The first and most challenging thing I had to face was unexpected expenses. I bumped two cars that costed me Php15,000 and another Php23,000 for a money & life management seminar (which I’m really grateful that I attended).

Second, I had something else to deal with. I’m a travel whore. Given I’m going to UK already this year, I still let my friend book my flight going to Cambodia (Cost of air fare: Php5,800). And did I say I’m going to Dumaguete too  (Cost of air fare: 1,500) ?

Third, did you know that Air Asia flights to London was suspended last April? What a headache.

Last but not the least, I learned that my aunt can’t come with me in London anymore. Plus, Martin (my friend from Australia) who I was supposed to travel with also moved his travel date to next year because he had to finish his overdue planned room renovation. The people I knew are not coming with me anymore.

BLESSINGS ALONG THE WAY

“And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”
― Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

I have only understood this thoroughly during my journey for my UK trip. Yes I did have several challenges. First, my flight to London was suspended. Second, I paid several expenses that could have added to my UK trip savings. Third, I had no one to come with me anymore. But one thing I learned is never lose heart. Things will turn out even better than what you originally planned.

THE BLESSINGS

 

Bristol is also in the plan where the brother of my uncle’s wife is living. Maybe have a short trip to Glasgow, Scotland where my friend’s sibling is living. And to cap things off, I”m going to:

READY, SET, GO!

Tickets & documents, check. Pocket money, check. Adventurous spirit, double check! I’m set for my hard earned vacation trip. I would be more than happy to know when or where will yours be.

Note: Actual and ongoing travel cost will be posted here.