Srilekha Sapram, Inter-professional Studies in Health, Rehabilitation, and Education in Northern Ireland Summer 2024
As a college student and part-time worker, I had limited funds, so saving money and budgeting were essential. Before leaving for Belfast, Northern Ireland, I got a travel credit card with a low annual fee and an opening promotion that covered the fee itself. This card also had no foreign transaction fees on purchases, making it a vital choice for managing expenses abroad. For future study abroad students, I urge you to not use your debit card for any purchases, as you will have limited protection if any fraud or theft occurs.
Only breakfast and a bus card were provided through my program, and the pounds-to-dollars conversion rate made everything more expensive. To save money on food and travel, my group and I developed a few strategies. While we wanted to experience local favorites and immerse ourselves in Belfast’s culture, we also needed to be mindful of our budget. One of our primary strategies was frequenting Tesco, a popular grocery store. Tesco offered meal deals that included a main course, a snack, and a drink for less than five pounds. These deals became our go-to for lunches and some dinners, allowing us to save money for dining out occasionally. We researched restaurants in advance to ensure they were within our budget, so we could enjoy local cuisine without overspending. In addition to saving on food, we also focused on various travel options. Whenever possible, we walked or took public transportation, as it was free with our bus cards. We only used local taxis or Uber when the journey was more than a 40-minute walk or late at night, ensuring our safety without excessive spending.
Despite our efforts to budget, there were occasional challenges. For example, some attractions and activities we wanted to experience had entry fees. We overcame this by prioritizing free or low-cost activities, such as visiting public parks, exploring historic neighborhoods, and attending community events. Belfast’s rich history and vibrant street art scene provided plenty of opportunities for cultural enrichment without financial strain.
One memorable experience was our visit to the Titanic Belfast Museum. Knowing it was a must-see, we planned our budget to accommodate the entry fee. The museum offered a deep dive into the history of the Titanic, and it was a fascinating and educational experience. We balanced such paid experiences with free ones, like local museums, parks, and pubs, which gave us insight into the city’s history and culture at no cost.
By implementing these budgeting strategies, we managed to make the most of our time in Belfast. We experienced the city’s vibrant culture, sampled its culinary delights, and navigated our way through its streets without breaking the bank.
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