If you like to go on a big vacation in the summer, now is the time to start planning. Where should you go this year? There are lots of countries with cheap lodgings, food, and entertainment, so check out these six:
Argentina
Argentina is going through some economic troubles this year, which isn’t good for locals, but if you’re traveling to the country, the exchange rate for dollars is great. In 2012, a US dollar equaled about 5 pesos, while this year, it gets you around 40. That rate changes a lot, so double check before booking anything. For good prices and nice places, consider AirBnB. Food and services like bus rides and taxis will be very affordable, since they are priced for the locals. Depending on if you’re in the north or the south, there is lots to see, like waterfalls, mountains, and even penguins.
Laos
Found between Vietnam and Thailand, this small country is an adventure-lover’s dream. It has lots of mountains and 70% of it is still covered in forest. That means great hiking, kayaking, and even zip-lining and hot air balloon rides. In January 2019, the exchange rate was $1 US to 8500 Kip. That means it’s easy to get meals for way under $5, while an AirBnB Superhost loft apartment in the capital city, with room for three people and WiFi, costs $35 a night.
Ukraine
Lviv, Ukraine is one of the most visited cities in the world, but manages to also be the most affordable European place to travel to. If you’re worried about conflict because of the country’s politics, just stay away from remote areas. The big cities are perfectly safe for tourists. Food, lodging, and activities are all very affordable, too. For an apartment for two complete with kitchen and fireplace, it’s only $20 a night. If you’re in the city, be sure to check out the historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Thailand
Thailand
Thailand is popular, but still cheap for most travelers. It’s easy to avoid overpaying if you stay away from the tourist traps. For the cheapest option, consider Northern Thailand, specifically the Chiang Mai region. It is peaceful and beautiful, with lots of temples, a national park with Thailand’s highest mountain, and markets, like the Night Bazaar, which is open every night. If you want to hang out on beaches, consider Pattaya, which is relatively affordable despite its popularity.
Cambodia
For the cheapest travel option in Cambodia, head to Phnom Penh, the capital city. It is packed with cool things to do and see, like the Silver Pagoda. Hotels are pretty cheap, and if you want go with AirBnB, the average price is $50, with some entire apartments costing under $20 a night. If you want to immerse yourself in nature, travel southwest, which is mostly still rich with jungles. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, seek out the Peam Krasop protected mangrove forest and get a kayak. You can also hike and go on boat rides for a good price.
Indonesia
While Bali is the most famous island in Indonesia, too many tourists take away from the experience. Batam is cheaper and just as cool. It has beaches, shopping, and more, which all made it one of the top 100 most visited places in the world for 2019. It’s also very close to Singapore, so if you want to see two countries on your trip, hop on a boat. Other water activities include skiing and wakeboarding at the Batam Cable Ski Park. Unlike many cities in Indonesia, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg to have fun.
——–
Interested in island vacations? Check out this article.
