Travel Tips: How to save money while traveling through SE Asia

I'm slowly becoming more familiar with South East Asia as I spend more time here.  I've been to the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia (not to mention other countries throughout Asia too).  I hope to continue adding to this list and really get to explore these countries further in the years ahead (it is amazing how diverse different cities can be within a single country).  The great thing about traveling in this region is that it can be pretty inexpensive once you're actually here.  Travel, accommodations, and food can be very reasonable while still maintaining high standards (keep it chic 'n cheap always!)

Here are some tips I've used to save money while traveling:
1. Research low-cost airlines (as well as land routes)

Is it easier/cheaper to fly or to take a bus/train?  Flying is a great option in this region because there are a few low-cost carriers.  My favorites are SilkAir (division of Singapore Airlines), Jetstar, and Air Asia - in that order.  We have had a few late flights and poor flight management with Tiger Airways so I wouldn't recommend them.  If you don't fly, it is definitely possible to take a bus or train.  The options will vary by city or country, but the hotel front desk is a great place to ask.

1a. Check out local travel websites
A group buying site from Singapore or Malaysia like Reebonz or Groupon would also be a good place to start looking at flight and hotel packages (the price can be really low - just check out the hotel reviews on an independent site like Tripadvisor!)  Also start researching in country websites for a location in that country.  E.g. Metrodeal.com and cashcashpinoy.com were recommended to us when searching for deals to El Nido/Palawan (one of the best beaches in the world!) and we will be using this when we plan our trip there!  Just check that you can register your foreign credit card on that site!

I had mixed feelings about Bali, but it is a beautiful place!

2. Pick a hub.
It is good to pick one central place and then plan your travels from that hub.  When you pick your starting point, think about the proximity of it to the countries that you really want to visit and the ease of transportation from that location.  E.g. if you want to stay in Cambodia, but also want to visit Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, it may be easier to actually stay in Malaysia or Singapore because their airports are well developed and more people in those countries speak English.

You can use Kuala Lumpur as a hub and easily get to remote parts like Cameron Highlands to view the tea plantations!

Singapore is a small place, but there are some great fashion events here, like the Hermes graffiti event!

3. Research hotels and negotiate the rate
Is the advertised rate the lowest advertised rate?  Well it doesn't hurt to ask the hotel and confirm their lowest rates.  Let them know if you are going for a special event and it doesn't hurt to tell them about your blog either (especially if you will write about the hotel like I have).  You may get a lower rate and even if you don't, you may get extra services thrown in.  Who doesn't like a free massage right (yes my husband and I both got them in Cambodia when we visited for our anniversary!)
Otherwise, I try to book through hotels.com or agoda.com because they have loyalty programs that span across diverse hotel chains (I am a Hilton Honors member as well and if the price is the same, will book directly on the website).  You can get one free night for every ten nights even though some of those hotels may have been boutique hotels and the others ones are multinational hotel chains.

I negotiated free massages and we got to see a few of my favorite temples in Cambodia!

4. Carry USD
Hmm you're in Vietnam but are asked for US Dollars (USD)?  Does this make sense?  Well to some people in SE Asian countries, it does make a lot of sense, especially if they want to get away from their own currency.  I've also paid for Cambodian and Indonesian on-site visas, as well as Philippines exit tax with USD.  I would actually suggest you carry a decent amount of small change ($5, $20 bills) for both entry fees and tips.  You may also be negotiate a lower rate if you offer USD vs. the local currency (calculate the exchange first of course to make sure it works out for you!)

Money Matters: Top Five Tips for Saving

I talk about shopping a lot, but I definitely have experience saving as well and thought I should share that side too.  In most years (non-grad school years) I've saved over 50% of my net income and this has enabled me to pay for my own wedding, support myself through my last year of college and all of graduate school, and contribute financially towards my family.  I have been able to spend my money on fun things that matter to me - handbags and trips across the world of course top my list.  I've also managed to build a large cushion that would enable me to cover rent for a a few years (but having money in savings vs. investments, like real estate, is another post!)

Izak Zenou is awesome - isn't this a stylish woman in charge picture?

Here are the top 5 ways that I've managed to save.
1. Save every chance you get
Where can you save a few dollars a day?  Start with the small manageable things: bring lunch at least once a week instead of eating out, think about taking public transportation or carpooling, and look for coupons when you shop in-store or on-line (my links at the right side help you save almost every single time you shop online!).  Those few dollars definitely accumulate over time and can be put towards your nest egg (because it's always good to have extra savings!)

2. Track your spending (esp. your cash spending)
It's really important to be aware of your spending.  Do you know how much you spend on food every month?  What are your entertainment expenses?  It takes more work to note down all your expenses, but the insight into your money management is totally worth the effort.  We've used quite a few money management softwares and are now using both ibank and mint.com to track our foreign and US expenses, respectively.  Once you know how you are spending your money, you can start scaling back or reallocate your spending to categories that matter more (e.g. if you love shopping, but spend a lot on eating out, why not cut down your dining expenses so that you can put it towards saving and shopping!)

3. Budget for the short and long term
Budgeting isn't just for the hares, it's for the tortoises as well.  Make a budget and try to stick to it.  But don't deprive yourself of spending or else you might unexpectedly splurge way past your budget.   Budget what you feel comfortable spending in different categories and know that it's ok to splurge a little in one month as long as you save at other times.  Just remember how it effects your longer term savings goals. *Ahem* so more than one Chanel reissue a year may be a problem if your shopping budget is $100/month!
Remember my ideal wardrobe list (shopping for the long term, not just because you like something?)  Saving and spending are both long term issues and should be planned accordingly.

Vintage lizard Chanel bag?  Yep, that is definitely worthy of a splurge!

4. Prioritize payments
What are your regular expenses every month?   You likely have some form of housing expense along with a transportation expense as well.  This may be coupled with student loans and credit card expenses.  Pay off the charges with the highest interest rates first (e.g. your credit cards, unless you have a 0% trial interest rate).  Remember that expenses like the interest on your student loans may be tax deductible so it's ok not to pay that all at once.

5. Live within your means
A credit card shouldn't be an excuse to spend more than you have.  Some people limit themselves to spending only with cash (it's a good savings tip and reminder to "spend what you have").   Sure you may want to live in a larger apartment or have the newest pair of Louboutins, but can you realistically afford it?  Over time, your income will vary (hopefully to your benefit) and you should remember to adjust your spending accordingly.

Hope this money matters post helps!  If not, I'll be back to fashion and design posts tomorrow anyway :)

{Shopping} Tips: How to score at a brick and mortar sample sale

If you ever have a chance to stop by a sample sale for your favorite designer, go!

I may have even timed my NYC trip to coincide neatly with the DVF sample sale because my beloved watercolor print DVF dress was a $50 find on the sample rack last year.

Sample sales are usually located in major cities or at least the city where the designer originated.  If you happen to be in that city and have time, check out what sample sales are going on at that time.  Why? Here is one of my best deals ever: a $2 silk, sequin and mother of pearl embellished dress at Hayden Harnett (retail $350 or so).  Seriously.  While that was a once in a lifetime deal, I've also gotten great pieces at 50% off or more from Theory, Nanette Lepore, Lauren Merkin and more.  It's like getting designer duds for Gap prices.

Here are a few tricks I use to score at sample sales.

1. Know the details for the designer that you're stalking

Get the details on when and where sales are being held!  I've noticed that some designers hold their sales at about the same time once or twice a year.  These are usually off-site (not at the brand's retail store).  I find Racked and Daily Candy (Topbutton too in NYC) to give good information in the US.  I find local papers, including free daily newspapers, to be reliable sources of sale information outside the US.  Also visit shopping forums including the Deals and Steals Thread on Purse Forum.

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Reara Draped dress, Neiman Marcus, $365 (but $150 or less if you're at the sale and it's available!)

2. Get there early
If it's a pretty popular sale (DVF, Hermes), get there on the first day if possible and when the sale first opens to the public.  While many sales may restock, you have the choice of the best selection on the first day or at the beginning of the day during this sale period.

3. Hover

If you can't find anything you want immediately, don't fret just yet.  Many shoppers grab more than they are willing to buy just so that they can decide about it later.  If you see something you like on someone else's arm, don't be afraid to ask her if she will keep it or be aware if she drops the item later.  Also keep close to the rack of your choice.  Staff are likely constantly refilling the racks with new stock or fitting room cast-offs.

4. Don't let the price do all the talking

A low price shouldn't mean that this item should come home with you.  Will you really wear that neon floral hat even if it is $10?  Lower priced items at a specific sale may also indicate slight damage.  If it is fixable (like a zipper), go for it.  If it is something like fabric tears (which can't easily be fixed), put it back and move on.

5. Go more than once

If you have the time, visit the sale more than once.  The best selection is in the early days of the sale while the lowest prices may take place during the last day or two of the sale.  For example, most sales will reduce their prices even further on the last day so it's a great time to visit in terms of pricing though you are faced with a limited selection.

6. Bring a little cash just in case

Ok I usually use credit cards at sample sales, but once in a while, certain sales will offer you an extra discount if you pay cash.  So why not save if you can offer cash right?

Do you have any tips for scoring at sample sales?

{Shopping} Tips: 5 Savvy Ways to Get your Dream Wardrobe

It's the eternal fashionista's struggle: how do I stay chic and savvy while building my ideal closet?

I've suffered my share of fashion mishaps, pristine but never worn purchases, and "ooh but it was on sale" regrets.  From now on, I'm stocking my closet with pieces that really contribute to my dream wardrobe without breaking the bank.

Here are my tips for how you can do it as well:
1. Buy only what you can love and wear (and is within your budget)
Buy it if you can wear it now and on multiple occasions (excluding special occasion gowns).   Constantly think about your wardrobe and how it fits in with your style.
That piece-regardless of price-will totally be worth it.  But don't just get it because it is on sale!  My blogger buddy, Tanvi explained her shopping philosophy and cost per wear rationale well in a post here.  Also don't spend your nest egg on a Hermes Birkin or Kelly if you can't comfortably afford it.  Remember to purchase pieces that still leave you enough for the rest of your expenditures.

Some day I will own you Ms. Exotic Kelly and pass you down through the generations...{Source}

2.  Shop often
Note, don't purchase often, but keep on walking through your favorite retail/department stores, consignment or thrift stores, and browse those e-tailers on a regular basis so you know their current selection well.  This may also give you a better idea of the pieces that you really love; if you keep on coming back to an item, it's a piece that deserves to be in your wardrobe.  That and you may become buddies with a sales associate or be the first to know about markdowns in retail and department stores.  Score!

Hope I can get a classic Burberry trench some day (like this double breasted wide cuff coat!)

3. Visit outlets and sign up for Sample Sales

The best deals I have ever received were at sample sales in NYC (and a few online ones have almost fully satisfied my Tom Ford sunglasses obsession).  I've bought everything from a $350 Nanette Lepore suit to a $50 in season DVF dress.  The trick to any sample sale is going in early and to know your buying strategy (will write another post on this some day).  Outlet shopping can also be great (remember my Burberry Prorsum find at the Burberry London outlet - visit when you can because great deals aren't just there around seasonal sales)

Outlets and sample sales enables you to purchase from brands that may be on your wish list but beyond your price point.  My favorite online sample sale sites are: Gilt (massive selection), Ruelala (great Final sales), Swirl (my favorite for <$120 Tom Fords and varied selection), and Ideeli (they have the most AMAZING clearance sales).  I try to join multiple sample sale sites so that I am aware of all the sales.  Please check out the left side of my page if you'd like any invites for fashion, travel, or decor sites.

Kenneth Jay Lane - such inventive pieces and I've seen his pieces on sample sale sites as well

4.  Be informed and get on the list
Sign up for newsletters, e-mails, and sample sale e-mails.  Visit forums and blogs (Slickdeals and Purse Forum are two favorites) to find out about new retailers and sales.  Yes and then you too can possibly get a new $5000 Valentino jacket for under $6 (I did it).  You'll likely get early notifications of sales, exclusive e-mail discounts, and other special offers too.  Daily Candy and Racked give great information on local sample sales in the US and I've found newspapers to be a great source when abroad.

I have a few Lauren Merkin clutches from their NYC sample sales for as low as $15 though this Eve clutch at $180 is pretty reasonable!

5. Be patient and consider pre-loved or similarly styled apparel
You've stalked an item, becomes friends with the store staff, and waited ever so patiently for it to go on sale.  But what if it has already sold out or you can't find it in stores?  Consider hunting in local consignment stores or shop eBay.  Patience is essential but could pay off (remember my 90% off Monique Lhuillier gown?)
See my post regarding "saved searches" to see how you can be e-mailed if your item pops up.  Also look at other retailers that may have a similar item but at a lower price point (sometimes the differences are minimal, but sometimes the quality suffers so be aware!) My blogger buddy, Cafe Fashionista has a regular series for items that are similar but are priced quite differently.
But if you are looking for an original item, remember to check the authenticity and feedback of the seller.  Fake stuff is not cool and fake stuff that is sold for close to real prices is really not cool.

I bought my first vintage Chanel bag and can't wait to use it! {Source}

I hope these tips have helped you to stay savvy and chic!  How do you maintain a Chic 'n Cheap wardrobe?

4 great stores for designer collaboration collections/apparel

I'm constantly surprised and impressed by the number of savvy and chic options available for a lady on a budget.  I would have never considered buying clothing and facewash at the same store.  But today that is not only an option, but one that is attached with designer labels.

Here are four surprising stores for Chic 'n Cheap wardrobe options:
1. Target
I have always loved Target for its everyday low prices and enviable selection of housewares and personal care items.  But I only started wandering into their apparel section in 2006 when GO collections was launched in collaboration with various hot designers.  I've gotten a few pieces like a Behnaz Sarafpour jacket for which I'm constantly getting compliments.  I've also highlighted their collections with Zac Posen, Eugenia Kim, Anna Sui and Temple St. Clair.  William Rast just launched their collection for Target recently so if you're looking for great denim, check it out!

Luckily for us, Target is releasing 34 GO Collection dresses from past seasons next year.  Keep an eye out for some options at your local store!

Anna Sui for Target

2. H&M

Their designer collaborations have been well publicized and highly successful at making luxury a bit more accessible - Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney, Sonia Rykiel, Lanvin - need I say more?  I'm still stalking the Lanvin for H&M pink ruffled dress and tuxedo.   Luckily I actually have most pieces on my wish list through a combination of my lovely brother and online shopping.

The awesome thing about these collections is that they always retain a signature of the original designer - zipper pulls by the ankle for Jimmy Choo shoes and large oversized ruffles typical of Alber Ebaz's Lanvin.  As Alber said, it's pretty cool that H&M can go luxury as well.

I just got this on eBay and for a discount too!

3. QVC

I never quite understood the allure of QVC, but they must be doing something right, especially if they pull in big names like Rachel Zoe and Janie Bryant (costume designer for "Mad Men").  There is a large selection of accessories endorsed by these big names.  If you love prints, particularly animal prints and faux fur, this is the place to go!

Rachel Zoe watercolor print scarf $32.18 here

4. Wal Mart
I first brought up their Norma Kamali collection here and it continues to be simple, chic, and super affordable.  It's great everyday wear and possibly work wear!  Walmart? Clothing?  Don't reject it immediately especially if you are offered super versatile options from a known designer like Norma Kamali.
Oh and this collection has great clothing for traveling or even for bridesmaid dresses too like the one below.

Less than a nice lunch at $10 here

Do you have any favorite designer collaboration pieces?