Favorites & Tips

For European students used to public transportation: Don’t make the same mistake we did — we thought walking and taking the bus would be easy, just like back home. It’s really not the same here. Renting a car is the best way to get around, especially for exploring California. A great budget-friendly rental company we used is Dirt Cheap Car Rentals — super flexible and student-friendly!

When we traveled to Maui, we were shocked by how expensive everything was even basic meals. But we found a great alternative: Safeway’s lunch deal. For around $9, you can get a super fresh poke bowl that's both filling and delicious. It quickly became our favorite food to eat there and our go-to lunch. It helped us save a lot while still enjoying local flavors without breaking the budget!

If you’re planning to do a road trip through California (or other states) and visit multiple national parks like Yosemite, Gran Canyon, or Death Valley, I highly recommend getting a National Parks Pass. It’s much cheaper in the long run compared to paying entry fees at each park. Plus, in some parks, there’s even a fast pass line for card holders, which can save you time during busy seasons. Totally worth it!

If you're looking to save money without giving up quality, Aldi is hands-down one of the best grocery stores for students. It’s the cheapest option I’ve found in San Diego, offering fresh produce, good-quality essentials, and great prices especially compared to bigger chains. Perfect for weekly shopping on a student budget!

If you want to enjoy authentic local food in Maui, make sure to carry some cash with you. A lot of the best food trucks and small local spots don’t accept cards, especially in more country side areas. We learned this the hard way don’t miss out on amazing Hawaiian food just because you don’t have cash on hand!

If you love ice cream (or want to try flavors you’ve never imagined), you have to visit Salt & Straw. They offer crazy, creative flavors — some even with cheese or olive oil — perfect if you’re feeling adventurous. But don’t worry, they also have more classic, simple options that are just as delicious. The scoops are super generous, the quality is amazing, and the staff is always happy to let you try samples. It’s one of my absolute favorite spots in the city!

Salt & Straw's website: Craft Made, Curiously Delicious Ice Cream | Salt & Straw