Places: Glasgow, United Kingdom

In terms of budget travel, the United Kingdom is a relatively expensive country to visit. Scotland, however, can be much more affordable than other major UK cities such as London, if done properly.

The Scots are some of the friendliest people you will ever meet and between pub-hopping, getting fish & chips take-a-way or exploring one of the cities many artsy cafes and tea rooms, you are bound to encounter many a smiling Scot.

Getting To/From:

Glasgow Prestwick Airport was basically set up to service the budget airlines such as Ryanair. I learned a *VERY IMPORTANT TIP* about taking a train from Prestwick to the city centre: DO NOT PURCHASE TICKETS IN ADVANCE. (Buying tickets in advance generally works in your favor — this time it is not the case!) If you purchase your tickets from the conductor on-board, with a valid airline boarding pass you get 50% off a one-way ticket. A ticket to Central Station cost £3,60.

Budget Accommodation:

Just as any major city, Glasgow has a wide range of hotels, hostels and guesthouses to fit every budget. Here are two recommendations:

easy Hotel Glasgow – This easyJet brand of hotels is exactly like the airline: low cost and no frills or gimmicks. The rooms are clean and very standard but be expected to pay for any extra services such as borrowing a hair dryer or using the television. At the reception desk you can pick up coupons for discounts at several of the local restaurants and cafes.

Rennie Mackintosh Hotel (Central Station) – This budget hotel is located on the same block as Central Station, so a perfect location if you plan on traveling around Scotland. Rooms are the Rennie Mackintosh have much more character than the above mentioned hotel and come with complimetary water bottles and cookies with tea and coffee. The best thing about the hotel: Free Scottish breakfast every morning including regular and vegetarian options and a cold buffet of cereals, yogurt, toast and jam. A double room cost around £32 per night.

Budget Dining:

You will quickly learn that Glasgow is all about food at your [frozen] fingertips. There are kebab and takeaway shops on nearly every corner. Sausage or bacon rolls run £2 or less on average. Scotland is not known for their health foods but if you look in the right place you can find salads and even vegetarian bean burgers.

Driftwood Bar is the place to go if you don’t want to spend a lot of money and are sick of Scottish breakfasts and fried foods. Driftwood serves a full Mexican menu of delicious dishes such as burritos and fajitas. They always offer 2-for-1 specials and well drinks for just over one pound.

One excellent tip if you are staying in an expensive city is to book a hotel or hostel that includes breakfast in the price. Having a free breakfast at your hotel can save you at least £8 per day.

Budget Activities:

West Brewery is located in the scenic Glasgow Green (which is free and worth taking a stroll through). If you are not up for taking a tour, you can at least sit at the bar and try a few pints for under £5 per glass. I recommend their top beer St Mungo!

Ashton Lane is a quaint little street filled with restaurants and bars — certainly a place for the young university crowd to hang out. Drinks can be a little on the pricey side, but if you are a student with a valid student ID, many places offer very good discounts on drinks.