Traveling the world doesn’t have to be expensive. There are quite a number of destinations that are not only affordable, but also rich in culture, pristine beaches, beautiful ruins, and great people. Pack your bags and visit these 10 budget-friendly destinations around the world.
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1. Vietnam
Although you can get a luxurious vacation in Vietnam, it’s still one of the cheapest destinations. In fact, Hanoi ranked as the second most affordable city in Asia. Other cheap cities include Hoi An Ancient Town and Ho Chi Minh City. The latter has the best and the cheapest eats in Vietnam. And the best thing about their food is they never sacrifice quality. Albeit cheap, it’s still tasty! Their food is affordable yet wine is expensive. Beer and vodka are cheap though!
Vietnam
Website: Vietnam Tourism
2. Guatemala
You can splurge in Guatemala as there are plenty of cheap activities that you can do. Even learning how to speak Spanish is affordable. Cuidad Vieja is one of the best budget cities in the country. You can stay longer because of its affordable accommodation. And there are beautiful attractions that are worth a visit. You will be rewarded with beautiful views of volcanoes and mountains. Guatemala will surely give you a different experience.
Guatemala
Website: Visit Guatemala
3. Chile
If you want to see Santiago’s colonial architecture, take a morning hike to the peak of Cerro Sta. Lucia. You will have a good view of the entire capital city of Chile. Other cheap things that you can do at the capital city is visit the cultural center that was once a railway station, see the Cathedral and the museum, and the presidential offices that were built in 1794. They also have a cheap vegetable market where you can get fresh produce. You can also get accommodation for as low as 18 USD.
Chile
Website: Chile Travel
4. Costa Rica
Do you know that Costa Ricans are one of the friendliest people in the world? You will feel at home in their country because they’re also hospitable. And getting a Caribbean vacation is a lot more affordable than you think. Their beer is also really, really cheap. Try visiting their national parks; they have about 20 of them. And the entrance fees are not pricey. Visiting museums and other local spots is also best. If you’re into butterflies, Costa Rica has a lot of them.
Costa Rica
Website: Visit Costa Rica
5. Cambodia
While some activities in Cambodia are a little expensive, there are still interesting things to do that will either not cost you anything, or would only cost a few bucks. You could go on a tour by yourself in the capital of Cambodia while enjoying the beautiful architecture. And guess what, you can even get free pizza every Wednesday night at Italian Afterwork. Don’t forget to visit beautiful temples and the vibrant street art of Phnom Penh.
Cambodia
Website: Official Tourism Website Of Cambodia
6. Nepal
If you don’t really mind walking, just get yourself a guide and tour some parts of Nepal on foot! The country is full of interesting and stunning sights that are mostly free, although some of them have entrance fees. Buddha Park is free and the place is really peaceful. Visiting monasteries is also free, but visitors are encouraged to make a donation. Nepal is a beautiful country. If you’re going on a vacation, make it worth your while by staying for at least a week. You won’t regret it.
Nepal
Website: Department Of Tourism Nepal
7. Eastern Europe
Eastern Europe is becoming increasingly popular with budget travelers. Poland’s beautiful and quiet beaches are a must-see. Canoeing in one of Poland’s lakes is also a must-try. Other Eastern European places you should visit that are close to Poland are Estonia and Montenegro.
Poland
Website: Poland Travel
Estonia
Website: Visit Estonia
Montenegro
Website: Visit Montenegro
8. Portugal
Lisbon is exciting and it’s one of Europe’s most affordable city capitals. It’s culture-rich and has beautiful arts, especially contemporary arts. The best thing is you can admire them for free. See Picasso’s and Rothko’s original works for free. Lisbon also has a flea market for souvenirs that you can bring home with you. Some attractions are pricey but most are completely free or with a minimal fee.
Portugal
Website: Visit Portugal
9. Thailand
Getting inside Lumpini Park in Bangkok, Thailand is completely free. It’s perfect for an afternoon walk. While at the park, try the street food. It’s cheap and it’s delicious. There is also a lake inside the park and you can rent a paddleboat to explore it. If you have more time, visit the man-made island and be delighted with the view. Best to explore the entire island with a bike. Find time to also visit the Chinatown and buy some souvenirs. And of course, don’t forget the beaches and the temples! You can’t go to Thailand and not see the stunning beaches that will remind you of Palawan in the Philippines.
Thailand
Website: Tourism Thailand
10. South Korea
Are you into exotic cuisines? Then go visit Seoul, the capital of South Korea. Seoul is also rich in history which makes it a great place for history buffs. Try visiting the Gyungbok-gung Palace and admire its architecture. If you want to learn more about Korea’s culture, go visit the museum just beside the 16th-century palace. Seoul is the capital city of Korea yet it’s also full of mountains! You can actually hire a tour guide and go trekking. Climb Namsan Mountain peak and enjoy the clean air and the stunning view of the city.
Seoul
Website: Visit Korea
What are you waiting for?
By now you should have a pretty good idea which countries to visit first. You can start with Asia as there are more affordable cities there fit for your budget. Plan your trip well so you can really get the most of it!
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