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ABOUT US

Welcome to Ishabil.com!

I am Ikbal Valiyathodi, the founder and voice behind this platform.

My Roots and My Journey.

Ikbal Valiyathodi

Originally from the serene and beautiful village of Oorakam in Kerala, India, I grew up surrounded by the lush landscapes of the Malappuram district. Today, I am based in the bustling port city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where I balance my professional life with my lifelong passion for global exploration.

While my career keeps me in the Middle East, my heart is always on the open road—or more accurately, the low-cost flight path!

Read more about Ikbal Valiyathodi.

The Arabian Ascent: Trading the Shop Counter for the Saudi Hustle,

The Digital Nomad: From Oorakam's Hills to Jeddah's Bytes

The Philosophy of Budget Travel

I started Ishabil.com because I believe that seeing the world shouldn't cost the Earth. Many people believe that international travel is only for the wealthy, but through my own experiences, I’ve proven that careful planning and a bit of ingenuity can unlock incredible global experiences on a modest budget.

To date, I have successfully navigated 8 countries using my signature "Travel Smarter, Not Richer" approach:

  • Strategic Stopovers: I have mastered the art of maximizing airline layovers, which allowed me to explore the UAE, Qatar, and Oman at a fraction of the typical cost.
  • Backpacking Mastery: I’ve navigated high-cost destinations like Singapore, as well as cultural hubs like Malaysia, Egypt, and Thailand, all while staying within a strict backpacker's budget.
  • Deep Local Knowledge: Living and working in Saudi Arabia and growing up in India has given me a unique "insider" perspective on these two diverse nations.

Why Follow Ishabil.com?

On this blog, I share proven strategies. Whether it's finding the cheapest river boat in Bangkok or hacking safari tickets, my goal is to provide actionable, budget-friendly advice.

Connect with Me: I love hearing from fellow travelers! If you have questions about budget planning, feel free to reach out via our Contact Page.

 The Story Behind the Name

  • The name Ishabil is the heart of our family. It's a loving blend derived from the names of my children: Isha and Shabil, with a nod to my youngest, Ishwa. This home, this nest, is built on their love, and it's the anchor for all my global adventures.

Ishabil Nest: Our Home, Our Journey, Your Budget Travel Guide

Welcome to Ishabil Nest—a place we call home in the serene Oorakam Village of the beautiful Kerala state, India. My name is Ikbal Valiyathodi, and this website is a window into my world of family, collecting, and, most importantly, budget travel.

✨ Our Collections: A World Under One Roof

Step inside Ishabil Nest, and you'll find reflections of the world I've explored. We take great pride in our carefully curated collections:

  • Miniature Landmarks: As you can see from our cabinet, we have an extensive collection of miniature buildings and world-famous landmarks—a tangible reminder of the architecture and cultures I've been privileged to witness.

  • Coins and Currencies: A growing collation of coins and currencies from across the globe, each piece telling a story of a different country and economy.





✈️ Join My Journey

Ishabil.com is where I plan to share my most valuable asset: my travel experience.

  • Are you dreaming of an international trip but worried about the cost?

  • Do you want to know how to travel more for less?

Here, you will find detailed guides, practical tips, and personal stories on how to visit iconic destinations and explore the world on a budget.

Let's prove together that adventure is accessible to everyone.

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