The weekend is here and many of us are mobilising ‘weekend money’ to spend on entertainment and leisure activities such as eating out and drinking with friends. Whether you are married, dating or single, the weekend leaves a dent in your wallet, one way or another. In times of inflation and economic frugality, it is important to tighten the purse a bit and spend only when you must. For family people, it becomes even more costly to go out as a family in places that are considered decent. The bill will certainly leave a gaping hole in the pockets. However, there are a million other ways, so to speak, for you and your family to enjoy, without having to spend a fortune. Here is how. Go to the Car Free Zone The Car Free Zone located in the central business district is turning out to be one of the places you can go to and be a ‘tourist’ in your own city. With free Wi-Fi and benches to sit or walk ways to move up and down, the CFZ provides a perfect public space to go to and spend less. All you will need is a small amount to buy snacks, ice cream, snacks, coffee or a beer. A walk through the CBD after the car free zone can be equally refreshing. If you are the adventurous type, you can do a little bit of window shopping. Try it. Go to the outskirts of Kigali Some people drive upcountry over the weekends, whether it is Bugesera, Lake Muhazi or Rwamagana for a simple upcountry tour. It is not only refreshing but it helps discover new places. Check out farmers markets, stop and hike a hill or grab a bite in a trading centre or coffee in Musambira on your way to the south. Prices upcountry are slightly lower compared to the city. On your way back, buy a few foodstuffs and fruits because they are also less expensive in the countryside. Go camping Many Rwandans, or Africans in this case, are not conversant with camping. It is something they reserve for tourists or foreigners but camping actually can be fun and less expensive. As domestic tourism continues to pick up, many Rwandans are finding the thrill in camping. It is one of the ways to have fun without spending money for people who love outdoor adventure. If you go to Gisenyi for example or Lake Muhazi, you will find places where you can camp safely and spend a night. If you don’t have a tent, there are some on the market for rent. Be adventurous and go camping, you will thank me later. Go to the library Kigali Public Library is one of the places you can go to over the weekend not just to pass time but to spend a weekend doing something productive with yourself, reading, discovering and informing yourself. Check out different sections of the books of your choice as well as new arrivals. Once you are fully embedded, you will not know how time will pass without spending much. Go bird-watching in Nyandungu Ecopark Nyandungu Ecopark is one of the new places to be, particularly for people who love birdwatching. Even if you’re not a bird expert, you can watch and try to identify birds. It can be a fun new hobby which you can enjoy without spending a lot of money. While down there, find time to connect with nature, take long walks and enjoy bike rides. The park is even more suitable for families and groups. Go hiking One of the best ways to bond with nature and to rewind is to go hiking. Rwanda is blessed with thousands of hills, each with its own shape, elevation and attributes. It is even more fun to hike with friends or as a group. The benefits also include exercising and gaining fitness, all at no cost.
