Cheap Travel Destinations
While some destinations are pricier than others, there are many affordable places to travel in the world. From stunning beaches to incredible culture, these cheap vacation spots will make your money stretch further than you might think.
Bali is a top budget destination, where you can stay in a gorgeous jungle villa for $100 per night and enjoy a healthy smoothie bowl for $4.
Thailand
With pristine beaches dominating the south and verdant mountain villages characterizing the north, Thailand is an exotic destination that’s both affordable and filled with bucket list experiences. Scuba dive world-class reefs, hike mountains with waterfalls and elephants, or enjoy a classy rooftop cocktail overlooking Bangkok’s skyline for a fraction of the cost of similar experiences elsewhere in the world.
Indulge in the city’s famous street food or take a riverboat tour for a taste of local life in neighborhoods you would have missed otherwise. Even visiting the forbidden city is surprisingly affordable, as are most of the country’s major tourist attractions.
Indonesia
Traveling the world can be an expensive experience, but it doesn’t have to be. In order to keep your expenses low, look for budget destinations that offer affordable transportation, lodging, and food.
Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital, has a fast-paced energy that is a departure from the country’s serene nature. This bustling city is a must-see for those looking to experience a new side of the country.
The UNESCO World Heritage town of Georgetown in Malaysia is another one of the cheapest places to travel, thanks to its cheap accommodations and excellent street food options.
Malaysia
Malaysia is a vibrant Southeast Asian nation with a growing economy and a diverse culture. Steel-clad skyscrapers and mega malls sit alongside renowned monuments and bustling markets in the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, while serene beaches and rainforests beckon in the coastal regions.
Visit the famous Petaling Street to find stall after stall of bargain-priced souvenirs, t-shirts and bangles in the heart of Chinatown. You can also take a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Malaysian cuisine.
Located on the west coast of peninsular Malaysia, Penang is known for its Tropical Spice Garden and colonial heritage. It’s also a foodie’s paradise.
Laos
Laos is one of the least-visited countries in Southeast Asia, but it’s a hidden gem that’s full of breathtaking waterfalls, rivers, and nature. It’s also home to peaceful temples and remote villages.
Lavish Buddha statues crammed into temples are one of the most popular tourist attractions. Wat Si Saket, for example, is a busy Buddhist temple in the capital city of Vientiane where devotees present respect and food to monks during morning procession.
Another must-visit attraction is the Bokeo National Park, which offers a variety of activities like kayaking and hiking. Those looking for more action can enjoy the world-famous Gibbon Experience, which offers a jungle canopy view from high-up tree houses connected by ziplines and suspension bridges.
Vietnam
Hanoi’s evocative historic quarters are packed with centuries-old legacies to explore. Among the most notable attractions are the colossal 19th century Imperial Citadel, featuring temples, palaces and gates.
Take a day or overnight cruise around the dazzling karst limestone peaks of Halong Bay for stunning scenery. If possible, book an overnight trip so you can rise for an ethereal misty dawn or pilot your own boat into hidden grottoes and lagoons.
Mai Chau’s verdant peaks, picturesque paddy fields and traditional thatched roof houses are a magnet for visitors. The region is also home to two wildlife rescue centres, which shelter endangered primates and sun bears.
Iran
Iran has a lot to offer tourists. It is home to breathtaking natural sights and rich historical monuments. It is also known for its hospitality. Tourists can stay with locals and experience their lifestyle, traditions and heritage. They can also meet them for coffee and chit chat which is a great way to learn about the country.
Kish island attracts visitors with its duty-free shopping and dazzling beaches. It is a paradise for beach lovers and can be found in southern Iran.
Khajou Bridge is another highlight. It is known for its unique acoustics and many local people gather here every evening to sing together.
Ecuador
A small South American country, Ecuador is renowned for its indigenous cultures, colonial architecture and scenic landscapes. Visitors are drawn by the Amazon jungle, Andean highlands and the wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands.
The capital, Quito, is a cultural hotspot with a largely intact Spanish colonial center. Its highlights include the ornate Compaa de Jess Church and numerous decorated 16th- and 17th-century palaces.
The city of Otavalo is known for its artisan markets, where hand-crafted goods like jewelry, wood and stone carvings and woven clothing are sold. For a more laid-back experience, head to Banos for a soak in one of its many thermal pools with volcano views.cheap travel destinations