Lawrence.com

Mary Pigg

teacher, universal healthcare advocate, travelin' fool

How do you save money?

"I went to Cancun by myself over the Labor Day weekend and spent $40 for the whole trip-drinks, food and everything. I managed it by looking pathetic and alone. Make friends while you're abroad-and it helps if you're a broad. Although you have to be careful-I was in a Moscow bar by myself, mistaken for a prostitute, and almost shoved into a car without my consent. When I was in Australia I spent $160 for seven days. In Melbourne I met two older ladies, who were about 70, when I was at a restaurant by myself. They invited me to their home so I didn't have to stay at a hotel. Another thing is to use public transit like buses. Travel to places where tourists aren't, like downtown Cancun. You find the best, cheapest restaurants in the city where the locals eat. Use local resources. And this is crazy-people don't really know about this-but if you call Travelocity or Expedia the day before you want to leave, they'll switch you to 'Last Minute Deals' and you'll sit on the phone while they keep clicking through options. Using that, I flew to Mexico and got a suite for six days for $400. They don't have anybody booked at those hotels and on the plane at those times. You'll be on the phone for a while, but you can get really good flights."

How much has this saved you?

"For example, a normal trip to Moscow would have cost $6,000-$7,000. By doing research, I spent $1,500. I've probably been to 21 countries and spent $14,000, which I think is great."

What do you splurge on?

"Twice a month I like to go out for a good dinner and treat myself. I love good sushi. I like going to concerts. When I was in Spain, I wanted to see the Rolling Stones in Barcelona. Keith Richards had just fallen out of a coconut tree, so there was no show. I was sitting alone at a restaurant that night, and I met an older woman from Florida there who was staying at the Ritz Carlton. She invited me back to the Ritz for a drink and was like, 'You may know the band who's staying across the hall from me. They're pretty popular.' It was the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and she introduced me to Flea."

How much does meeting Flea in Barcelona cost?

"Well, that cost me nothing."