If you love to travel, then you probably have a bucket list of destinations you want to visit in your lifetime. If you’re under the impression that getting there means you’ll have to wait until you are overflowing with cash, then we’ve got some good news for you:
There are many exotic and unforgettable places that do not require you to splurge and are entirely doable on a budget.
Here are some of the budget-friendly destinations that will offer you an unforgettable experience:
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Portugal
Not all Euro countries are created equal. That said, Portugal is one of the bargain countries in the region!
Fall in love with this country and its jovial locals, stunning cliffs, wine country, beautiful beaches, historic cities, and delicious food all at a bargain price.
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In recent years, Portugal has become extremely popular and crowded, particularly Lisbon. However, once you choose any place outside of Lisbon, prices are cheaper even if the crowds are larger these days.
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South Korea
A country not talked about enough, South Korea is a great travel destination if you’re on a budget! Prices are relatively affordable— plus the food and tech advancements are mind-blowing! The countryside comes with jaw-dropping beauty and a nightlife that is out of this world!
With almost everything costing only a few thousand won and the South Korean currency at 1,100 won per $1, it is hard to bust your budget here!
Go out for a Korean barbecue complete with drinks and only spend $8 USD. You can even buy a bottle of beer in convenience stores for less than a US dollar! Trains are also cheap, so getting around won’t break the bank.
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South Africa
As one of the most naturally-blessed and adventure-packed countries in the world, South Africa offers you so much that visiting for even a whole month is not enough! With the incredible diversity of wildlife, stunning and rugged coastline, friendly locals, tasty foods, rich culture offered at such an affordable price, nothing really beats this sunny country.
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Since it is still a developing country, paying with rands in South Africa is still super cheap. You can hire a car (very much recommended) for less than $20 a day with insurance included. A rest camp in Kruger can cost you only $10 per day. Experience safaris like no other or indulge in their great tasting wines from Stellenbosch boutique wine farms, without hurting your budget!
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Costa Rica
Unleash your wild side and visit this tropical landscape! Costa Rica offers two lush and stunning coastlines worth exploring. For the most part waterfall entrance fees only cost $10 and hikes are free.
Just beware of pricey tourist traps. If an area receives a lot of visitors you can expect an increase in the price of parking and food, however, you can still have a fresh fish for as little as $5 – $10 at smaller cafes.
In Tamarindo, renting a surfboard can cost you $10 as long as you go before the start of happy hour. Additionally, most bars offer karaoke and give you free shots every time you sing!
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Mexico
Want to have your mind blown by waterfalls, canyons, jungles, and 2,500-year-old ruins? Mexico has it all! You’ll want to head south to Chiapas and Oaxaca that have backpacker-friendly accommodations such as Palenque and San Cristobal de las Casas where you can find a single room for as low as $12 per night.
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Tour companies also offer all day adventures that allow you to climb the Mayan ruins and splash on the turquoise waterfalls of Agua Azul for as little as $25 per person.
In Oaxaca, munch on a tostada spread the size of a manhole cover with steak, cheese, and beans (with insects, if you please) called tlayuda and still have a few bucks left for a couple of shots of great-tasting mezcals served right at the source.
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Indonesia
You would have to try really hard to work through more than $50 a day in this country! One of Southeast Asia’s top travel destinations, The Island of Bali offers hostel rooms for under $10!
The next morning, you can go and dive to see the USS Liberty wreck for just $21. Make your way to Ubud where you will find trendy restaurants, boutique shopping and more single-digit price hotels!
For exceptional dinners with an amazing view at a fraction of the cost of a US dinner, visit Lesehan Segara Tegeh. You can even have street food and go around trying different delicacies and foods for just $3 a day!
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