Ruby's World

If ur in Bangkok and you wanna find somewhere with ACTUAL amazing vintage finds for cheap its the best place to go.

I found a store that literally had a basket full of authentic true religion jeans for £15 each and I also got a caharrt jean bag for £20.

If ur a fashion girly ud know how good these finds are

On a warm and bustling evening, my friend and I decided to make the most of our hour and a half of free time in Sathon, a vibrant district of the city. Not wanting to waste a moment, we hailed a Grab car to take us to our destination. As we approached the area, we could already sense the energy in the air.

Upon arriving, it was clear that we had chosen the right spot for some excitement. The streets were teeming with activity, and the constant stream of motorcycles added to the buzz. The atmosphere was electric, with the unmistakable thump of loud music resonating from various establishments. The lively ambiance was intoxicating.

We began to explore our surroundings, passing numerous bars and tattoo shops that lined the bustling streets. The neon signs and lively chatter of patrons spilled out into the streets, creating a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds.

Our first stop was the main market. Initially, we found only a few clothing shops that offered basic, commercial clothing. But as we ventured deeper into the market, we stumbled upon the food section. It was a treasure trove of culinary delights from various cultures. Feeling adventurous, I decided to try crickets, octopus with spicy salad served in a plastic bag, chicken breaded strips, and soju. The flavors were an explosion of tastes, and the atmosphere around the food vendors was both chaotic and exciting.

Although sushi was plentiful, we hesitated to try it, as it seemed to be left in the heat for hours. Instead, we moved on, eager to explore more of what the market had to offer. Toward the end of the market, we encountered vintage shops and even a few weed shops. Some of the vintage stores had a westernized feel or offered high-end designer items, but the overall vibe was still cool and inviting.

We decided to take a break in the market's carpark area, where a group of local boys on skateboards approached us, asking for a lighter. Attempting to bridge the language barrier, we engaged in a short-lived conversation in Thai, which resulted in laughter and smiles.

As we continued towards the front of the market, we reached a wide street flanked by bars on both sides. It was clear that they were in competition, each one featuring a live band playing at full volume. The music was deafening, reminiscent of the famous Khao San Road, and the energy was infectious.

As we prepared to leave the market, we passed by more bars, clothing shops, and tattoo parlors. One particular bar caught our attention, or more accurately, our ears. The loud, raw sound of a live rock band beckoned us inside. It was a riveting experience, and we couldn't resist the urge to stay and enjoy the show.

The band played their hearts out, and we joined the crowd in cheering and dancing. The band were crazy, some of the guitarists jumped over the fence onto the road and started playing in the middle of the road despite several cars having to drive around them. It was a night filled with unexpected adventures, new flavors, and a vibrant cultural experience that we would remember for a long time. Sathon had revealed a side of the city we had never seen before, and we couldn't have been happier with our spontaneous decision to explore this lively and eclectic neighborhood.

Ah, the age of 19, fresh into my first year of university, and a burning desire to live life to the fullest—especially through the lens of travel. But let's face it, fellow students, there's a constant hurdle in our path, and it goes by the name of MONEY. Now, add London to the mix, and you've got yourself a budgeting puzzle that needs solving.

So, picture this: my boyfriend and I, in a fit of spontaneity, decided to embark on a seven-week escapade through Southeast Asia over the Christmas break. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, it is, but there's a catch. Southeast Asia might be the haven for cash-strapped college students, but saving up for such an adventure? That's a whole new challenge, my friends.

But fret not, because I'm here to spill the beans on how I managed to squirrel away enough funds for that epic seven-week Southeast Asia journey. And the best part? I did it all without sacrificing my social life and academic performance. So, stick around as I unravel the secrets to budgeting like a pro while savoring every moment of student life.

1. Buy your flights early and PLAN AHEAD

As the Christmas season approached, I found myself in possession of a surplus of approximately £500. This stash consisted of unspent funds from my student finance and the earnings I had squirreled away from my part-time job. It was a fortuitous situation, and my adventurous spirit began to stir. The idea of embarking on a journey to South East Asia started to take shape.

Our first order of business was to scout for flight prices to our desired destination, Bangkok. After some diligent research, we were pleasantly surprised to discover that a round trip from London to Bangkok would cost us around £400. A promising start, indeed!

However, as any seasoned traveler knows, the itinerary can evolve as you go along. It wasn't long before we realized that Kuala Lumpur offered the most budget-friendly return route to London. A handy tip for those seeking economical travel options!

But here's the golden nugget of wisdom I'd like to share: when it comes to booking your flights, always, and I mean ALWAYS, do it well in advance. Trust me; it's a game-changer. Flights are considerably cheaper when booked ahead of time, even in comparison to snagging a deal a mere 3 to 5 months before your intended departure.

Of course, there are a few caveats to this approach. Planning months in advance can feel a tad risky, especially when life's unpredictabilities come into play. However, if you're absolutely certain about your travel plans and have the wanderlust bug firmly entrenched in your system, this method is an absolute winner.

To sweeten the deal, you can employ the nifty tool known as Google Flights. It's your trusty sidekick for pinpointing the departure dates that promise the most budget-friendly fares. So, there you have it—a tried-and-tested formula for budget-savvy travel. Happy exploring!

2. Get a part-time job 

Finding the perfect part-time job during my university year turned into a bit of an odyssey, taking me roughly a month to land on the right opportunity. My initial foray into the job market led me to a waitressing gig at a local restaurant. However, it quickly became evident that this place had different plans for my time than I did. Despite my request for a more manageable 15-20 hours per week, they insisted on a gruelling 30-hour workweek.

Thankfully, I didn't give up, and my persistence eventually paid off. I stumbled upon a job at a restaurant that was conveniently paired with the Hilton in the heart of London Bridge. The silver lining? They offered a zero-hour contract, which meant I had the flexibility to work around 10 hours a week. The catch? I had to rise and shine at the crack of dawn since I was assigned to the breakfast buffet shift. But hey, that left me with the entire day to call my own.

With this additional income, coupled with my student finance, I managed to tuck away a tidy sum of £100-200 per month into my travel savings. This prudent financial approach ultimately enabled me to accomplish a significant feat: booking my flight to Bangkok and securing a return flight from Kuala Lumpur in January.

How did I pull it off, you might wonder? Well, I made a conscious decision to save money during the Christmas holidays by opting to spend quality time with my family staying at home instead of splurging on groceries, transportation, and other expense if I decided to stay on campus. My part-time job earnings were now exclusively channeled into my travel savings fund. And that, my friends, is how I turned my dreams of an adventure into a reality.

3. Lock your travel savings into a Monzo pot

Being a student on a budget, I stumbled upon a game-changer: Monzo, the banking app that quickly became my trusty sidekick. Why, you ask? Well, let me spill the beans.

Monzo boasts a nifty feature that had me absolutely hooked—the ability to create what they call "pots." Picture these pots as your secret stash for all your savings goals. It's like having a digital piggy bank, but way cooler.

Now, here's where it gets even better. I designated one of these magical pots exclusively for my travel savings. It became my virtual treasure chest, where I diligently stashed away funds for my upcoming summer adventures. But wait, there's more! Monzo throws in an extra layer of awesomeness by allowing you to lock these pots for a specific period. Talk about commitment!

If you're anything like me and aspire to save up for your epic summer escapades, Monzo is your go-to bank. It keeps things crystal clear by showing you exactly how much you've squirreled away. Plus, it's equipped with nifty features that act as your guardian angels, preventing you from dipping into your precious travel savings. So, if you're ready to embark on a budget-savvy journey toward your dream summer getaway, Monzo is here to make it happen. Trust me; you won't regret it.

4. Pre-game hard before you go out 

Let's talk about one of the classic student struggles—nights out with friends. It was my Achilles' heel when I was on a mission to save up during my university days. Ah, those unforgettable first-year adventures! Back then, the goal was simple: get as drunk as humanly possible every single time.

You know how it goes—one drink leads to another, and suddenly, I've dropped a cool £50 on club drinks that didn't even have the courtesy to get me properly sloshed. It's a rite of passage, really. But if you're looking for sage advice to pass down to fellow university students, here it is: pregame like a pro.

For the uninitiated, pregame is the art of enjoying a few budget-friendly sips before hitting the town. In my case, a trusty £6 bottle of white wine was my secret weapon. It's a game-changer that not only saves you a small fortune but also ensures you're in good spirits for a night out.

And here's a little trick I picked up along the way—a sober month. Yep, you heard that right. I tried it, and it worked wonders for my wallet. Of course, this path is reserved for the truly dedicated travelers among us, like myself. Plus, there are some nifty health benefits thrown in for good measure.

So, if you're ready to commit to your travel dreams, consider these wallet-friendly tactics. Your future adventures—and your bank account—will thank you. Cheers to saving and savouring life!

5. Don't buy new clothes or sell your old, unused ones

Ah, the perils of being a spirited teenager—it's all too easy to succumb to the allure of an online shopping spree, seeking that sweet serotonin rush. But let me regale you with a valuable lesson I learned on my quest to save up for my Asian adventure.

Here's the thing: buying new clothes can seem like a fantastic idea at the time, but trust me, it often doesn't live up to the hype. I vividly recall the sinking feeling of spending a hefty £50 on a top that lost its appeal within a mere month. Ouch. That £50 could've been a tidy addition to my savings pot.

So, here's my sage advice—take a moment to cherish your current wardrobe. You've got more than enough stylish outfits to rock. The truth is, you don't need to splurge on trendy new threads every single month. Sometimes, less is more.

But wait, there's more wisdom to share. Ever thought about clearing out those old clothes that have been gathering dust? Enter apps like Vinted, your ticket to not only decluttering your wardrobe but also pocketing a little extra cash. It's a win-win. The money you make from selling those second-hand gems can easily replace any funds you might have dipped into from your savings pot during moments of weakness.

So, my fellow youthful thrivers, remember this: appreciating what you have and making savvy choices will not only keep your wardrobe fresh but also propel you closer to your savings goals. It's all about balance and making the most of what you've got. Happy saving!

6. Spend less money on transport

London, the ultimate city for strolling to your heart's content. An hour spent navigating the vibrant streets of this bustling metropolis feels like a mere twenty minutes. So, before you let TFL make a dent in your bank account every time you tap into the tube, consider another option—walking.

Not only does this choice help you rack up those much-needed steps, but it also invites a sense of mindfulness into your daily routine. There's something special about meandering through London's streets, taking in the sights, sounds, and energy of the city.

Now, for those moments when public transport is non-negotiable, here's a pro tip: make sure you've got your trusty student discount zip card at the ready. The small savings you accumulate with each journey may seem inconsequential in the moment, but they add up to significant savings in the long run.

In a nutshell, if your destination in London is less than an hour away by foot, I say go for it—walk to your heart's content. Your wallet and your well-being will thank you.

7. Stop buying your significant other gifts

Are you and your partner planning an exciting travel adventure together, much like I did? Well, here's a little nugget of wisdom I picked up along the way—put a hold on those pricey gifts for birthdays, Valentines, Christmas, and all the rest. 

Now, don't get me wrong. I'm all for showing love through gift-giving, but let's consider a savvy alternative. How about redirecting those gift funds straight into your travel savings pot? It's a game-changer that can help you build up a substantial travel fund before you know it.

If you and your partner share a burning passion for exploring new horizons and want to ensure your trip is not just a dream but a reality filled with incredible experiences, this is a no-brainer. Making the decision to prioritize your travel goals over materialistic gifts is a win-win situation.

After all, isn't the prospect of a remarkable journey together and the memories you'll create far more valuable and enduring than those fleeting, material presents? It's a shift in perspective that's bound to make your adventures all the more meaningful. So, consider this your passport to both love and wanderlust!

8. Choose your supermarket wisely, good meal plans are key 

London, the land of opportunities, but also a city that can quickly drain your wallet. But fear not, fellow budget-conscious souls, for I've uncovered a gem of wisdom that will keep your finances in check while keeping your belly full.

First and foremost, ditch the fancy supermarkets and head straight to the budget-friendly havens—Aldi and Lidl. These places are your best pals when it comes to smart grocery shopping in the heart of London.

Now, let's talk strategy. The key to saving big bucks is to craft a robust meal plan. Trust me; this simple step can be a game-changer. Instead of splurging on takeout and watching your hard-earned money vanish, you'll be in control of your spending.

As an example, let's take a 19-year-old like me. With a mere £11 at Aldi, I managed to score groceries that kept me satisfied for an entire week. Yes, you read that right! Three meals a day, each brimming with the essential trio—protein, fiber, and carbs.

Sure, we all have unique tastes and dietary needs, but the bottom line remains the same. Whether you're a gourmet enthusiast or a lover of simple pleasures, shopping at Aldi or Lidl will stretch your grocery budget further than you ever thought possible. So, without further ado, here's a sample meal plan to help you conquer the art of budget-friendly grocery shopping in your local Aldi. Your wallet will thank you later!

Day 1:

Breakfast: Oatmeal with banana slices.

Lunch: Peanut butter and banana sandwich.

Dinner: Spaghetti with tomato sauce, a side salad, and garlic bread.

Day 2:

Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with toast.

Lunch: Tuna salad (canned tuna, mayo, and chopped veggies).

Dinner: Baked chicken thighs with mixed vegetables and rice.

Day 3:

Breakfast: Greek yogurt with honey and a handful of berries.

Lunch: Cheese and ham sandwich with a side of carrot sticks.

Dinner: Vegetarian chili with rice.

Day 4:

Breakfast: Banana and peanut butter smoothie.

Lunch: Leftover chili.

Dinner: Pork sausages with mashed potatoes and peas.

Day 5:

Breakfast: Cereal with milk.

Lunch: Turkey and cheese wrap with cucumber slices.

Dinner: Tuna pasta (canned tuna, pasta, mayo, and peas).

Day 6:

Breakfast: Toasted English muffin with cream cheese.

Lunch: Leftover tuna pasta.

Dinner: Chicken drumsticks with roasted potatoes and green beans.

Day 7:

Breakfast: Pancakes with syrup.

Lunch: Tomato soup with a side of crackers.

Dinner: Vegetarian stir-fry with rice (use frozen mixed veggies and tofu or your preferred protein).

Additional Ingredients:

Olive oil, butter, or cooking spray for cooking.

Salt, pepper, and basic spices (like garlic powder, paprika, and oregano).

Shopping List:

Oatmeal

Bananas

Bread

Peanut butter

Canned tuna

Mixed vegetables

Tomato sauce

Salad greens

Garlic bread

Eggs

Greek yogurt

Honey

Berries

Cheese slices

Deli ham

Carrots

Pork sausages

Potatoes

Peas

Cereal

Milk

Turkey slices

Tortillas or wraps

Cucumber

Cream cheese

English muffins

Tomato soup

Crackers

Pancake mix

Syrup

Frozen mixed vegetables

Tofu or preferred protein

10. Freeload off your parents

Living near your parents during university can be a blessing in disguise, and I've got a little trick up my sleeve to share with you—make the most of it! Here's how I did it: I'd invite my dear parents for a fun day out in central London, but there was a little twist—our adventure included a grocery shopping spree.

Now, you might wonder why I'd drag them along for a grocery run, but let me tell you, it's a brilliant way to save some extra cash while enjoying quality time together. Plus, who doesn't love a day out with their folks, right?

And here's a little secret that many university students swear by—when you head back home during breaks, seize the opportunity to load up on all the "freebies" you can find. Trust me; these treasures can go a long way in saving you money while you're back on campus.

So, my fellow scholars, remember this little strategy when you're lucky enough to live close to your parents. It's a win-win situation—family time, savings, and a few extra goodies to make your university life a bit more comfortable.

11. Discipline yourself two months before your big trip 

While our mission here is to help you maintain a healthy social life while sticking to your budget, we can't overlook the significance of the last two months leading up to your adventure.

Now, the timeline might vary depending on the duration of your trip, but these precious months are where the magic—or the challenge—happens. It's the time for unwavering discipline in the realm of saving money and budgeting, ensuring that your trip exceeds your expectations without financial hiccups.

So, how can you master this discipline? Let's explore some strategies. Consider temporarily limiting your outings to once a month. I know, it might seem like a daunting task, and yes, it might cause a bit of a stir among your friends. But fear not! There are alternatives to keep the social flame burning bright.

Host indoor activities with your pals—think cozy dinners or engaging card games. These gatherings not only preserve your social life but also contribute to your savings discipline. It's a win-win situation that ensures your travel fund stays intact.