The Link Between Fitness and Frugality

Being healthy and physically fit is a blessing. Not everyone has the capability or stamina to walk significant distances. But, as we realized on our recent vacation, taking the "shoe-leather express" whenever possible can save a lot of money.

We just returned from a 16-day cruise along the coast of Norway, stopping in many small to medium-sized towns with compact historical districts. The ship usually docked within a mile or two of the city center if not within easy walking distance of the major attractions. Yet in two of our ports, the ship's tour desk sold tickets for a shuttle service at $8.50 per person, each way. Tickets had to be purchased in advance from the cruise line; we were warned we couldn't decide on the spot to buy them from the bus driver once on shore. So, most passengers signed up to buy the transfers before we arrived.

After looking at maps and listening to talks from the destination port lecturer, my husband and I figured we could find better ways to spend $34. So, we walked into town. In both places, there were sidewalks and crosswalks to accommodate the locals and the more adventurous visitors traveling on foot. The areas we traversed seemed relatively interesting and perfectly safe, making the treks reasonably pleasant.

And what were most people who bought the transfers planning to do once they got off the bus in the main square? Walk around and explore the city. Some fellow passengers ended up not using their return tickets because when they'd finished sightseeing, they were closer to the ship than to the pick-up point for their bus.

In Longyearbyen, it was cold. But that's why we brought coats, hats, and gloves. In Norway, it also helps to have an umbrella handy, or at least a jacket with a hood.

It's a good idea to carry a bottle of water as well. And wear comfortable shoes.

Another instance where we saved money by using our feet was in Bergen, on the Floibanen Funicular. We were fortunate this time to enjoy a blue-sky day which made the view of the city, the harbor, and the surrounding mountains from the top of the hill spectacular. (On our first visit to Bergen, it was rainy and foggy, so we didn't even bother to go up.) A round-trip ride cost 95 NOK per adult (about $12) but we were able to buy a one-way ticket for 50 NOK, slightly more than half, and then walk down. A great way to savor the view on a beautiful day. People were walking up as well, but we're not that spartan.

Obviously, walking several miles round trip is not feasible for people with limited mobility or other medical issues. But for the able-bodied, it was a great way to work off some of the calories we'd consumed on board and help maintain the physical fitness with which we were blessed. Who needs to hit the treadmill at the gym after tramping around a foreign port for a few hours?

Do you enjoy walking when exploring a new destination? I'd love to hear your comments.

Sharon Marchisello is the author of Live Cheaply, Be Happy, Grow Wealthy.