English Learning Community and Resources

Source: Pixabay

Howdy, friends! 

Welcome back to our money-saving series, How to Stretch a Dollar. If you recall, the first in our series was all about eating well while on a budget. Money management and good food go hand in hand, but now let’s get into some tips and tricks for how to have a fantastic social life while keeping an eye on your wallet.  

 A FILM FROM HOME 

An old-school method for sure, but it's all about the journey, not the destination! Hit your local library with some friends. Your task: Choose a film from your home country that best represents it. Watch it together and enjoy the great discussions and interesting exchanges that will emerge. 

Source: Pixabay

FOOD FOR THOUGHT 

A culinary version of the above and mentioned in episode one of our money-saving series: share a meal! It bears repeating that not only can you share on expenses, but it’s an excellent way to socialize. Start by going shopping together. Then, one of you prepares a starter, the other a main, and the next, dessert. Add or take away a course depending on your numbers. Cooking the food together is always fun -- if a little messy. Nostalgia trips via your tastebuds, guaranteed! 

Source: Pixabay

BE A SHOWSTOPPER 

All skills welcome! Belt out your favorite tunes, try out that violin piece you’ve been practicing, and harmonize with the best of them by having open mics, talent shows, and karaoke get-togethers in the comforts of home. Rotate who hosts the events and don’t think this has to be a night thing either. If you remember from my “Make Your Own Fun” blog, I love daytime parties! So have a few, make some brunch, and share your talents with each other. 

Source: Pexels

SPORTS FOR THE WIN! 

Sports might not always be your cup of tea; but hockey, basketball, football matches (pick any sport) can often be affordably priced. Find a stadium and soak up the local flavor. Who knows, perhaps you'll even become a devoted fan which gives you yet another way of practicing your language skills.   

Source: Pexels

MONUMENTS & STATUES 

Don't forget the obvious: Monuments and tourist sites are, more often than not, worth your time, and totally free to visit (most of the time.) Ever wondered who some of these bronze or stone figures are in your city? Why not grab a map and go on a treasure hunt to find out who they are and how they may have shaped your host country’s history? 

Source: Pixabay

THE GREAT OUTDOORS 

For the price of a bus ticket or by simply putting air in your bike tires, you can say hello to Mother Nature and grab a quiet moment in the hills, mountains, or riverside. Get out of your daily trails and find a few tranquil spots to enjoy with a friend or two. Hug a tree or let one hug you, I promise you’ll feel better. :)  

Source: Pixabay

FREE WALKING TOURS 

Get those knees pumping! Free walking tours are often available in bigger or more touristic cities and towns. Don’t be shy about joining one or two. What better way to become a local expert than by literally following in the footsteps of one? Don't forget to tip your guide though, even if it's just for the price of a coffee! 

Source: Pexels

CULTURE VULTURE 

Entrance to museums and galleries are often free, or have reduced rates for students. For paid museums, often there will be a day of the month when entrance is free. For example, every first Sunday, museums in France are free. Transport yourself by delving deep into the traditions and arts of your host country and beyond. Let your imaginations soar while staring at ancient relics from the Bronze Age, perhaps. 

Source: Pixabay

 
BOARD GAMES, CARD GAMES & MORE  

Oh, game nights are so fun! Remember all those times in the living room or around a table when you and your family played board games or card games for hours on end? Those don’t have to be distant memories anymore!  Grab a few new friends and ask them to bring their favorite game to your house. What better way to spend an evening than to discover new games or a shared love of a beloved one? Psst! …Scrabble lends well to learning English, so grab a board and get those wooden tiles on their pews!

Source: Pexels

VOLUNTEER! 

Keep our elderly friends company. Give water to marathon runners. Plant trees. Whatever you decide, sharing your time in community-building activities is guaranteed to fill your social calendar as well as your hearts. Are you ready? Join a volunteer group or two.  

Source: Pixabay

SO, WHAT DO YOU THINK? 

That’s a nifty list of thrifty ideas, right? What are your favorite ones and which ones will you try? Already skilled in socializing without breaking the bank? Tell us your thoughts by clicking reply below.  

After you do, head over to the third installment of our savvy series to learn about travelling wisely.

Thriftily yours, 

Iya, OLS Community Manager - English