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The most enjoyable and memorable holiday that I have ever experienced was also the cheapest by a considerable distance. I spent a fortnight in Amsterdam, my favourite city on the planet, at least out of those that I have visited, and it cost me considerably less than week long holidays that I have spent elsewhere (Ibiza, I'm looking in your direction...).

I will admit, firstly, that I did benefit from a rather fortunate way of travelling to the Dutch city. At the time, family members that were close to me worked for an international logistics and travel company, and as one of the perks of their job they managed to acquire me some free ferry tickets, which also included a free breakfast and one free evening meal. I estimate that this saved me as much as 100, and I assure you that I made the most of the breakfast buffet...

When I arrived in Holland, I'd planned to stay in youth hostels every night, as opposed to booking a hotel. I did this for some of the fortnight that I stayed there, but I also promised some friends that I'd made through work that I would visit them. When I did, they insisted that I stayed with them for a few days, so that saved me even the paltry amount that my place in a hostel cost. But at 10 euros a night (8), an overall accommodation cost of 80 added to the free travel made my staple costs for the trip rather low. I would say that I saved at least 420 from the cost of staying in a hotel.

Having a guide for my trip ensured me that I was introduced to all of the best and cheapest local haunts, away from the over-priced tourist traps. I was able to eat very well, sampling the local fare, but at very low cost, and I had plenty of money left over for a few beers!

But above all else, Amsterdam is an easy place to amuse yourself without spending money. The atmosphere of the place is amazing; it is the most peaceful and relaxed place in the world, regardless of whether you're a smoker or not (I'm not), and I intend to go back there and live near the canals one day. You can while the days away just walking or cycling around, playing chess in bars and coffee shops, and browsing the markets. I also bought an Amsterdam card, which enabled me to enjoy 25% discounts on food, and entry to museums and galleries.

In total, a two week break that I really enjoyed cost no more than 300, which was entirely necessary as I was quite poor at the time! I estimate I spent at least 600 less than I could have in Amsterdam and I could undoubtedly have spent a lot more than that in more expensive destinations.

Original post:
How I managed to have a fortnight's holiday for £300