Best Countries to Travel If You Are On A Budget

Who doesn’t want to spend days on balmy beaches sipping on a margarita or exploring the beautiful ruins in Machu Picchu! If you’re already planning your next holiday but don’t want a hole in your pocket, we’ve got you covered.

The more affordable the destination, the longer you can stay and have a better travel lifestyle. However, travel costs vary significantly. A visit to Japan on a shoestring budget will cost you as much as a luxury spa holiday to Thailand or a beach holiday in Mexico. We look at a few holiday destinations for 2020 that offer more value for your money. With some extra cash saved up, you can book a luxury hotel at Koala. Read on.

1. Greece

This is one Mediterranean country that’s affordable and looks picture perfect with its turquoise blue sea alongside iconic white buildings, numerous islands, and gorgeous ruins.

Though the entire country offers scenic views and amazing Mediterranean weather, Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos are the most visited cities. Athens is an energetic mix of culture and modernity. In Athens, explore the Byzantine churches and Parthenon looms and other ruins tucked away in every nook of the city. For the quieter lot, Athens has a beautiful coastline dotted with resorts. You can also take a day trip to Delphi to view the famous archeological sites and temples of Apollo. 

Santorini and Mykonos have arid and rocky terrain and are highly popular amongst tourists. Santorini is famous for its stunning sunsets. A few hotels in Santorini offer views of a gorgeous caldera, a volcanic crater. The islands are spotted with restaurants offering delicious Greek food at affordable prices. Wine tasting, sailing, and olive oil tasting are a few things you can do in Greece.

2. Mexico

Mexico is a diverse country that offers all, from cultural sightseeing to rustic folklore, amazing food, and stunning beaches! If your idea of a holiday is to spend your nights dancing at hip night clubs and spending your days in leisure on pristine beaches or swimming in crystal clear waters, Playa del Carmen is perfect for you.

For a laid-back getaway, head to the dreamy Tulum. Besides being a sea and sand destination, Tulum offers much more, like the Mayan ruins or the cenotes (caves filled with crystal clear waters). You can also visit the various lagoons to float in or explore the jungles. The natural beauty and untouched nature make Tulum a hippie haven. Try some yoga or meditation classes to imbibe the mystic vibe of the place.

3. Colombia

Colombia is a beautiful landscape of scenic beauty, culture, and cuisine. The Sierra Nevada mountains, Caribbean Sea, Pacific Ocean, and Amazon offer diverse experiences. Famed for its coffee, the Quindio region is dotted with many coffee farms. You can visit a coffee farm to watch the coffee-making process.

 

If you’re heading north to the Colombian Caribbean forest, spend a day hiking in the Tayrona National Park or visit the old city of Cartagena. Cartagena is a walled city with a myriad of lanes dotted with old colonial homes and churches. Trekking to the lost city of Teyuna is another must-do in Colombia. This mysterious place is inhabited by indigenous groups who act as protectors of the area. Usually working as guides, they take you through their food, culture, folklore, giving a beautiful glimpse of their lives in the lost city.

4. Thailand

One of the most budget-friendly destinations around the World, Thailand has a lot to offer. From island hopping to floating markets, this Asian country is known for its pristine beaches and vibrant culture.

It’s best to start your Thai journey from Bangkok. It’s a melting pot of the country’s diversity and is steeped in history. Visit the breathtaking, 200-year-old grand palace, which is home to the kings of Siam (or Thailand). Also, visit the temple of dawn for the gorgeous sunsets. Visit the weekend floating markets for an authentic experience of shopping like a local. While you’re there, try some local fresh Thai fruits too.

Known for its white-sand beaches and crystal clear seas, Thailand boasts of many pristine islands, out of which Phuket is the biggest. While in Phuket, you can spend time by the beach and relax or go scuba diving to explore colorful coral reefs. Head to the weekend Phuket night market to gorge on some amazing local delicacies. This lively local market attracts both locals and tourists. 

Conclusion: Before you decide which budget-friendly country you want to visit, look for ways to optimize your cash stash. Find hotels that are offering the best deals, cheap airfares, and tempting offers on day tour packages. If you plan to visit any historical sight, book your tickets online as this will save you the time you would otherwise spend in line. Always remember to get your travel insurance done. Read the tips above to visit these budget-friendly countries.

 

Feature image courtesy of Pixabay