#spent

Madison Mcferrin - Spent

Theo Baker, a Stanford freshman, achieved what few seasoned journalists ever do: he broke a story that led to his university president’s resignation, earned a George Polk Award, and saw his work optioned by Hollywood. Now, with graduation nearing, Baker publishes *How to Rule the World*, a searing account of his time at Stanford and the university’s often insidious relationship with the venture…

I stretched my budget to the max and still had an amazing time in Çanakkale. When I first visited in early October, I stayed for three days on less than €100—excluding the ferry from Greece. Here’s exactly how I did it.

Where I stayed (and why it worked)

I bunked down in a pansiyon near the city center called Pansiyon Zeytin. A basic but clean room cost me €25 a night, and the owners gave me a discount for paying in cash. It was a 10-minute walk to the main square, so I didn’t waste money on taxis. If you’re really pinching pennies, check Facebook Marketplace for shared apartments—some locals rent rooms for just €15.

The food I ate (and how little it cost)

Çanakkale’s food scene is packed with cheap, delicious options. My go-to was Kebapçı Emin Usta—a tiny place where a döner kebap plate with salad cost €5. For breakfast, I hit up Kahvaltı Bahçesi for a massive spread of cheese, olives, and fresh bread for €4. And don’t skip the local market! I bought a kilo of cherries for €2 and ate them like candy. Pro tip: Eat like a local—street food stalls and lokantas are your best friends.

What I did (without breaking the bank)

Here’s my budget-friendly itinerary:

Day 1: Walked along the Kordon (waterfront), visited the Çanakkale Archaeological Museum (€3), and watched the sunset from Kaleiçi Park. Total: €6

Day 2: Took a dolmuş to Troy (€2.50 each way) and spent hours exploring the ruins. Brought my own water and snacks to save money. Total: €5

Day 3: Hiked up to the Çimenlik Fortress (free), then explored the Grand Bazaar for souvenirs. Grabbed a €3 balık ekmek (fish sandwich) by the docks. Total: €5

The key? Prioritize free or low-cost activities and pack your own snacks.

Money-saving tips I wish I knew sooner

Here’s what saved me the most cash:

Public transport: The dolmuş (shared minibus) to Eceabat (for Gallipoli) is €2, way cheaper than a taxi.

Water: Bring a reusable bottle—Çanakkale’s tap water is safe to drink.

Free walking tours: Some hostels offer them, and tips are optional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Çanakkale safe for solo travelers?

Absolutely. It’s a university town, so it’s lively but not overwhelming. Just watch your stuff in crowded areas, like the bazaar.

Q: Can I visit Troy on a tight budget?

Yes! Skip the audio guide (€5) and explore on your own. The bus from Çanakkale is €2.50 each way.

Q: What’s the cheapest way to get to Çanakkale from Istanbul?