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Budget trips: 20 of the cheapest places to travel

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updated 12.06.2024

That ever-growing travel wish list might be putting pressure on your pocket – but there are plenty of destinations where you'll get more bang for your buck. From Greece to Guatemala , here are 20 of the cheapest places to travel.

1. Thailand — for fantastic local food and more

2. south africa for safari adventures at an incredible value, 3. vietnam for an affordable country with a lot to offer, 4. uruguay — for a budget destination with beaches, 5. cuba: a cheap destination with very few tourists.

• 6. Prague, Czech Republic — one of Europe's most affordable destinations

7. Greece for popular tourist destinations on a budget

8. guatemala: one of the cheapest countries to learn spanish, 9. bulgaria for an underrated tourist destination, 10. india: an all-time favourite for budget travellers, 11. portugal for a cheap country in western europe, 12. bolivia for natural beauty on a budget, 13. mexico: one of the cheapest places to travel, 14. new orleans — one of the cheapest major cities in the usa, 15. laos for national parks and more, 16. the gambia for a cheap destination with nature, 17. shanghai, china for delicious street food, 18. save money in istanbul, turkey, 19. london — for free things to do in a capital city, 20. egypt for one of the most memorable cheap travel destinations, plan your perfect trip.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget — your essential guide to making the most of this great region without breaking the bank. You might also want to discover how to explore the world's most expensive city without breaking the bank — find out how to visit Tel Aviv on a budget .

Travel ideas for Greece, created by local experts

The Historical and Mythological Cyclades islands

The Cyclades islands include two of the most famous Greek Islands: Mykonos and Santorini. Visit these and some of the smaller, quieter, islands. With white washed houses, narrow cobbled streets, blue domed roofs and stunning beaches, they are what Greece is all about.

A secluded villa stay on Mainland Greece

Stay in a secluded private villa with magnificent views to the sea and explore this beautiful corner of Mainland Greece with your own rental car. Under the impressive Mt Taygetos in Southern Peloponnese, the region of Mani will give you a snapshot of authentic Greece.

Along the Coast of Crete: from Heraklion to Platanias

As Greece's largest island, Crete's culture and atmosphere is distinctly different from mainland Greece. Thousands of years of unique culture and rich history complement the island's untamed natural beauty. Explore Crete at your own pace with this unique self-drive trip!

Cultural and natural sites of Athens and the Peloponnese

Welcome to wonderful Athens for an unforgettable adventure. Enjoy getting lost in this maze of charming streets, where the modern sits beautifully with the ancient. Venture out into the Peloponnese on mainland Greece, and discover historical, cultural and natural wonders the region is blessed with.

An Odyssey Adventure in Ancient Greece

Learn the secrets of Ancient Greek mythology and history visiting the world-renowned site of the Acropolis, explore the unspoiled landscape of Peloponnese, become a true Spartan warrior in Thermopylae and much more - this self drive tour takes you on a real Greek adventure.

Explore Classical Greece: self-drive motorhome trip

This 15-days motorhome road trip will take you to Athens, the city of legends and some of the most fascinating classical sites, such as Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi and the man-made marvels of the Corinth Canal and Byzantine monasteries of Meteora. A perfect tour for history.

There’s a reason why Thailand remains so popular with backpackers. It’s got idyllic islands , a rich culture, beach huts aplenty, tantalising local food and adventures galore , and all are available at often staggeringly low prices.

Despite the well-trodden routes through the country, it’s not hard to get away from the crowds. Check out Nakhon Si Thammarat for some of the very best food the country has to offer or hire a motorbike to make the 600km trip along the Mae Hong Son Loop through the forested northern mountains. See why Thailand made our list of the best places to travel alone.

Find budget places to stay in Thailand

The Great Holy Relics Pagoda Nabhapolbhumisiri, Chiang Mai, Thailand - still one of the cheapest places to travel © Shutterstock

One of the great things about travelling in South Africa next to the beautiful landscapes is that it’s possible to have a safari experience here – complete with the Big Five – without encountering a budget-breaking bill. Head to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi to see a white rhino and avoid the crowds of Kruger .

Head to the Drakensberg for superlative hiking. Don’t forget to factor in at least a few days in the amazing Cape Town or Johannesburg to experience the nightlife in South Africa .

Start planning your trip with the best time to visit South Africa and our collection of the best South Africa itineraries .

Find budget places to stay in South Africa

Cape Town — popular with budget travellers © Mark Van Overmeire/Shutterstock

Vietnam is one of the best and cheapest places to travel. The country’s greatest attraction is its sublime countryside, from the limestone karsts of the north to the waterways and paddy fields of the Mekong Delta , with blissful beaches and frenetic cities crammed in between - see our reader's vote for the most beautiful places in Vietnam .

Then there’s the cuisine – pull up a stool at a pho stall and for just a few dollars you’ll eat some of the best food on offer, shoulder to shoulder with the locals. Check out our 9 tips for backpacking Vietnam and the best time to visit Vietnam , plus discover how to get off the tourist trail before you go.

Street Pho - Vietnam street food options make it a great cheap place to travel © JNEZAM/Shutterstock

If you’ve already visited Brazil and Argentina , or are just looking for a better value destination in South America, head instead to neighbouring Uruguay. You’ll be relieved to hear you can still find excellent steak here and some amazing restaurants .

Plus, there are plenty of lovely beaches to choose from – head to Cabo Polonio for quieter sands and abundant wildlife – and the gorgeous old capital of Montevideo. Want to learn more? You'll find all the information you need to plan a budget trip in our Rough Guide to South America on a Budget .

Find budget places to stay in Uruguay

Uruguay. Punta del Este - a great place to go on a tight travel budget © Chaykovsky Igor/Shutterstock

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Since relations between Cuba and the US started rapidly warming up, there's never been a better time to visit this Caribbean island. Go now before it changes beyond recognition – and before the prices start to go up and up even more.

Hit the salsa clubs of Havana , get caught up in the heady July carnival of Santiago, or dip your toes in the warm Caribbean at one of the picture-perfect beaches in Cuba – whatever you do, you’ll find it hard not to leave utterly intoxicated.

Get started with these 12 tips for backpacking Cuba , the best places to go on your first trip to Cuba , the best time to visit Cuba and how to get there .

Cuba is a great place for cheap travel © Pixabay

6. Prague, Czech Republic — one of Europe's most affordable destinations

Despite being firmly on the tourist – not to mention bachelor party – trail these days, Prague still remains one of Europe’s cheapest capital cities to visit. For just a few Czech Crowns you can enjoy a hearty meal of Czech food , washed down with decent local Czech beer (of course).

The city itself is a beauty, crammed full of history and perfect for leisurely explorations by foot - check here to see how to avoid the crowds in Prague , and a great train travel itinerary starting in Prague. Want to explore more of Europe on the cheap? Check out The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget .

• For Baroque touches with a view : Questenberk
• For gardens and views: Golden Well Hotel
• For budget stays : Adeba Hotel

Find places to stay on a budget in Prague .

Save money when travelling to Prague © Shutterstock

Greece has been having a tough time economically in the past few years. It finally started trading on financial markets in mid-2018 after years of bailouts, but for many, making ends meet day-to-day is still hard.

If anything, the financial situation is all the more reason to travel here and to support the local people. Prices are still cheaper than they once were, so you might be able to squeeze an extra Greek island or one of the beautiful beaches into your itinerary.

Pay by credit card for whatever you can in advance, but take enough cash with you for your travels, and you’re pretty much guaranteed an amazing trip. Read our indispensable travel tips for Greece by Nick Edwards, co-author of The Rough Guide to Greece , before you go - and of course, the best Greek food you need to try.

Find budget places to stay in Greece

Greece — one of the best budget destinations © Anastasios71/Shutterstock

It’s hard not to fall under the spell of Guatemala and its compelling mix of natural beauty, Mayan traditions and colonial legacies. Rock-bottom prices make this one of the best places to study Spanish.

Once your linguistic skills are up to scratch, jump onto one of the country’s famous camionetas or “chicken buses” to explore. Soak up the sights of graceful Antigua in the south of the country, explore Guatemala City or be wowed by the monumental Maya temples of Tikal .

For planning your trip , check out the best time to visit Guatemala , our tips for travelling in Guatemala and read our breakdown on how many days are the best to spend in Guatemala .

Want to ensure a carefree vacation? Also, check out our important safety tips for Guatemala .

Find budget places to stay in Guatemala

Guatemala for affordable accommodation and more © Shutterstock

Often unfairly overlooked, Bulgaria has a lot to offer budget travellers – not least some of the most deserted beaches in Europe, at bargain prices. In addition to its appealing coastline, there are also lots of lovely old towns.

One of the best and cheapest places to travel is Varna on the coast. Or the ancient Plovdiv — which made our Rough Guide list of the Best Places to Travel this year. Bulgaria also boasts a number of dramatic mountain ranges that are perfect for exploration on foot or by bike.

Find budget places to stay in Bulgaria

The underrated country of Bulgaria © Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock

India is such a vast country and remains one of the ultimate destinations among the cheapest places to travel. There are few countries where you can still travel so extensively and eat so well for so little.

If you’re after a beach break, eschew Goa for the gorgeous beaches of the temple town of Gokarna. For amazing food, it’s hard to beat the puris and kebabs of Mumbai’s street stalls or head to the Golden City of Jaisalmer from where you can explore the seemingly endless sands of the Thar Desert. Need more inspiration? Check out our favourite places off the tourist trail .

Varanasi, India © Shutterstock

Portugal remains one of the best bargains in Western Europe and is especially worth considering if you want to avoid the more crowded resorts and cities of Spain. Skip the Algarve for the ruggedly beautiful Alentejo coast (with its cheap, fresh seafood) and vibrant, uber-cool Lisbon. If you're not sure where to start, read our top tips for travelling in Portugal and discover the best of Lisbon's food scene .

Find budget places to stay in Portugal

Portugal is arguably the cheapest country in Western Europe © Shutterstock

One of the cheapest places to travel in South America, Bolivia is also one of its most misunderstood . Travelling here may be a little uncomfortable at times, but it’s more than worth it for the wealth of amazing sights on offer.

Top of the list is undoubtedly the astounding Salar de Uyuni salt flats, a two or three-day tour of which will usually set you back less than £100/$150. Plan your trip with The Rough Guide to South America on a Budget , and be sure to try at least some of these best things to do in Bolivia .

Find budget places to stay in Bolivia .

Tip from Rough Guides: Learn about the best ways to get to Bolivia .

Salar de Uyuni - Bolivia is one of the cheapest places to travel in South America © Shutterstock

Your budget will definitely stretch to tacos and tequila aplenty in Mexico – which is great news as there’s a lot of ground to cover in this vibrant country.

Whether you want to string your hammock up along dazzling white sands, sample some of the country’s best street food in Oaxaca or cool off in a crystal-clear cenote (sunken swimming hole), the country will leave you eager to come back for more. To kick-start your wanderlust, these are 12 of our favourite places to visit in Mexico .

Find budget places to stay in Mexico

Zipolite beach, Oaxaca, Mexico © Shutterstock

You can’t escape from music in New Orleans – and with buskers on what often seems like every corner, and music in every courtyard and bar, it’s not hard to experience the city’s musical heritage without spending much more than the price of a beer.

The city is best experienced slowly, and on foot; it’s hard to beat people-watching over a cup of coffee and a plate of sugar-dusted beignets at the Café du Monde. Find out where to sample the city's top cocktails with our best bar guide .

Where to stay in New Orleans

• For a budget-conscious alternative: Hotel Provincial
• For classic New Orleans charm: Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter

Find budget places to stay in New Orleans

Bourbon St, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA © Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Even in a region of the cheapest places to travel, Laos stands out. It’s hard not to be captivated by the slow pace of the country.

Head just north of elegant Luang Prabang to riverside Nong Khiaw, where for a small change you can bag a waterside bungalow and watch the boats travel up and down the karst-surrounded river over a cold bottle of Beer Lao. Get the full lowdown on this enchanting and unspoiled corner of Southeast Asia with The Rough Guide to Laos . And to better prepare for your upcoming trip to Laos read the Laos travel tips we've collected.

Find budget places to stay in Laos

Laos is famous for its national parks and more © akedesign/Shutterstock

Africa’s smallest country is already known for its beautiful beaches, but it’s well worth venturing beyond them to experience its other delights . Top of the list has to be the Chimp Rehabilitation Centre in the River Gambia National Park, where you can watch the primates in their natural habitat.

For birdlife, Baobolong Wetland Reserve is arguably the best place for ornithology on the continent and is at its most atmospheric at sunset. Read on for 8 off-the-beaten-track experiences in the Gambia.

Find budget places to stay in The Gambia

Gambia is Africa's smallest country © Dave Montreuil/Shutterstock

The biggest appeal for budget – if not all travellers – to Shanghai is undoubtedly the abundance of amazing street food on offer, from xiao long bao soup dumplings to scallion pancakes and sticky rice parcels ( zongzi ).

It’s still possible to find an accommodation bargain at the lower end of the scale, and much of the city’s appeal lies in exploring its busy streets on foot and experiencing for yourself the juxtaposition between old and new China. You'll find recommendations for where to find the city's best street eats and budget sleeps in The Rough Guide to Shanghai .

Find budget places to stay in Shanghai

Shanghai for street food and more © Shutterstock

With one foot in Europe and the other in Asia, Istanbul is undeniably alluring. Though seeing all the major sights – the Aya Sofya, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace to name but a few – can quickly eat into your lira, the city can still be great for tighter budgets.

Arguably the best ways to really soak up the city are from a Bosphorus ferry, wandering the streets of the Grand Bazaar or on a streetside terrace with a freshly-cooked kebab - read up our Turkish food guide before you go.

Where to stay in Istanbul

• For views: Hotel Poem
• For B&B: Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci
• For location: Boutique Saint Sophia

Find budget places to stay in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey © Shutterstock

First things first – we know London is not cheap. There’s no denying that even staying in hostels, using public transport and eating in cafés is going to massively eat into your budget.

But – and it’s a big but – there are few places in the world that can rival the capital city for its plethora of free sights, where you can see the Rosetta Stone and the Lindow Man, works by Monet and Dalí, not to mention dinosaur and blue whale skeletons, for absolutely nothing. Get off on the right foot by choosing the right area to stay .

Find budget places to stay in London

Hampstead Heath during the summer months in London © Chris Seddon/Shutterstock

Considering the abundance of mind-blowing ancient sights, you’d expect travel to Egypt to cost a lot more than it does. Sure, if you tick off all the major attractions – including the Pyramids, the Valley of the Kings and Abu Simbel – then costs are going to creep up, but tempered with cheap (and excellent) food and decent budget accommodation, it’s not hard to feel like you’re almost able to live like a Pharaoh.

Note, that due to safety concerns some governments currently advise against travel to certain parts of the country; check the latest advice before you go.

Find budget places to stay in Egypt

Egypt is a fantastic travel destination © Shutterstock

Want to travel without the hassle of planning and booking? Our local experts can plan wonderful trips for you to anywhere you have been dreaming of travelling. Simply get in touch when you would like to travel. We will then create a personalized itinerary, which you can amend until you are totally happy with every detail of the booking. All of our planned itineraries can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

Inspired to take a trip to Europe? Don't miss our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget for more tips on making the most of this great region without breaking the bank.

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20 Best Cheap Places to Travel in 2024

Explore a national park, see a space shuttle launch or even leave the country with these safe, family-friendly vacation destinations.

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It’s true that those bucket-list destinations might have to move to a back burner for many travelers due to financial considerations. That doesn’t mean they need to sit at home, though. More people are turning to smaller cities, national parks, and other destinations they’ve never considered as they plan their next adventure.

Utilizing chain hotels with reward programs is one way travelers can save money, as is choosing cabins or condos with kitchens. Every fourth grader in America (and their family) is eligible for a free National Parks pass , as are people with disabilities and military members. Travel does not need to be expensive to be valuable. The benefit of looking at travel through this lens is that these locations are still packed with amenities and attractions at a lower price point. Check out some of the best cheap places to travel in 2023 that might not be on your radar — yet. I was lucky enough to be invited as press by many of the locations, and got to explore all the fun they have to offer firsthand.

Looking for more unique travel ideas? Good Housekeeping's Family Travel Awards features top-tested locations, based on data from travel experts and real families.

Lassen Volcanic National Park, California

California draws thousands of tourists each year to its most widely-known national parks, like Yosemite and Joshua Tree . They are fabulous, but the state is also home to Lassen Volcanic National Park . Located in the Cascade Mountains, Lassen has everything that visitors could need within the park, including lodging, junior ranger programs and dining options. Most visitors camp or stay at cabins or the guest ranch located within the park, but neighboring towns have a slew of motels and chain hotels that are incredibly affordable. According to Priceline , the average hotel room near Lassen costs around $116. There are also some kitschy properties like the River Inn , which evokes Schitt’s Creek vibes, for around $80 bucks a night.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

An example of Rust Belt Revival, the steel city has worked hard to shed its smoggy skies and expose its award-winning skyline . With more than 400 bridges and steeper streets than San Francisco, the city often surprises first-time tourists with how vast it is and how much there is to do. Pittsburgh is home to Mr. Roger’s legacy and is still the filming location for Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood . Stop by The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh to pose by Roger’s iconic shoes and explore four floors of hands-on activities. There are also Carnegie Museums , a Smithsonian location and the National Aviary to explore. An influx of tech and medical sector workers has kicked the local food scene up a notch, too. While in town, every tourist must ride the Duquesne Incline to the top of Mount Washington to absorb that stellar skyline. An average domestic plane ticket to Pittsburgh costs around $280.

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Badlands, South Dakota

Most Americans have seen a photo of Mount Rushmore, but more than half have never been there. While stopping by the mountain carving is a cool photo opp, the Badlands of South Dakota have so many other attractions to visit in addition. It’s also ultra-affordable, with an average hotel price of under $100. The Crazy Horse Memorial is an impressive rock carving — still uncompleted — honoring the Lakota leader who fought back against colonization. Badlands National Park is one of the richest fossil beds in the world, making it particularly enticing for dinosaur lovers. Every visitor to the Badlands is also required (unofficially, of course) to stop by Wall Drug , the rambling curiosities shop that attracts millions of visitors each year.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia

Of America’s 63 national parks, New River Gorge is the most recent. The park is centered around the dramatic path of New River — which is, ironically, one of the oldest rivers on the planet. Geared towards adventure, there are more than 1,600 climbing routes , world-class whitewater rafting and amazing fishing. There’s plenty of camping within the park and hotels averaging $100 per night in nearby Beckley. ACE Adventure Resorts has everything from luxe cabins to rustic campsites as well as whitewater tours where kids raft free with an adult ticket. Locals love Tudor’s Biscuit World — a regional chain based in West Virginia — for a hearty breakfast before outdoor adventures.

Door County, Wisconsin

A popular getaway for locals, the waterfront fun of Door County is actually a great budget option for travelers from any region. Lodging in Door County ranges from chain hotels and Airbnbs to condo communities with amenities such as The Landmark Resort , with rooms starting at around $150. From sand sculpture contests to kayak and stand-up paddleboarding rentals, there are a ton of low-key affordable and free activities in Door County. While water sports are one of the biggest draws, it’s also a great winter-time getaway for ice fishing and cross-country skiing. It’s also a great spot to curl up with a good book in front of a fire.

RELATED: The Most Unique Airbnb Properties in Every State

Panama City, Panama

Who says you can't go international on a budget? Travelers who frequent Mexico’s resort towns should try Panama City, a wallet-friendly option with so much to do. While flights from the U.S. can be a bit expensive — Priceline cites an average cost of $650 — the affordability of lodging and dining makes up for it. At Riane Aeropuerto Hotel and Casino , which has a pool with swim-up bar, outdoor games and a round-the-clock airport shuttle, a standard hotel room is around $100. Hyatt’s Hotel La Compañía , located in a former Jesuit convent in the historical cultural district, offers a luxury stay for around $350 per night — half what a comparable room would be in Cancun. Along the Amador Causeway, which has a bit of a Key West Vibe, guests can explore museums, check out a sloth preserve, bike or grab dinner at a local favorite — Fishlovers Ceviche y Bar.

Québec City, Canada

Tourists regularly flock to Canada’s two largest cities, Toronto and Montreal, when it's time to head up north. But travelers shouldn't miss their third-largest metropolis, Vieux Québec, or Old Québec City. The destination is a UNESCO World Heritage site lined with cobblestone streets and 400-year-old buildings. Don’t worry about not speaking the language: Québécois kids begin learning English in first grade and residents are happy to assist tourists. With an average hotel price of $200 per night, Quebec City is often described by visitors as having a European feel due to the architecture and French language, but at a fraction of the cost of an overseas trip.

Titusville, Florida

Florida has developed a reputation for affordable oceanfront vacations, but the post-pandemic travel boom has left many top spots like Daytona and Tampa short on hotel rooms. Titusville, located near Cape Canaveral on “ The Space Coast ,” offers everything more populous beach towns do at a more affordable price. The flight to Titusville costs around $250 and hotels average just $150. The Kennedy Space Center provides a full day of space flight simulations, tours and interactive experiences for kids and adults. While rocket launches are visible from many spots in and around Titusville, Marriott has a new hotel with rooftop launch viewing. There’s also a robust ecotourism industry in the region. The Marine Discovery Center offers boat tours, exploration, and even an occasional manatee sighting.

Washington, DC

While it’s not a small city or a lesser-known vacation spot, the nation’s capital is a truly affordable vacation with endless entertainment options. The Smithsonian museums and galleries, as well as the National Zoo, are all admission-free. D.C. has a vibrant and ever-evolving food scene that is perfect for a splurge dinner during a trip, but the cafés within museums as well as the food trucks and food halls across the city are packed with options at a much lower price point. The metro system is simple to navigate, so most visitors who fly to the capital will not need to rent a car.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

A survey by Campspot for their 2023 Outdoor Almanac ranked Great Smoky Mountains National Park as one of the top five national parks Americans hope to visit in 2023. Gatlinburg, considered the gateway to Smokies, is the perfect home base for travelers who want to explore the area. There are family-friendly campgrounds packed with amenities like Jellystone Pigeon Forge ; motels and cottages like Carr’s Cottages with family suites starting under $150 and plentiful chain hotels. From Ripley’s museum to mountain coasters and even their own space needle , it's impossible to get bored in Gatlinburg.

Indianapolis, Indiana

The largest children’s museum in the world is located in Indianapolis. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis covers nearly 30 acres and draws over one million visitors each year. For families with kids, this attraction alone makes Indy a great destination for a vacation. There’s so much more to do there, though. Time your visit to coincide with the Indy 500 , or visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum to learn about the history of auto racing any time of year. For an experience with a slower pace, take a pedal boat tour on a portion of the Indiana Central Canal . Like most smaller cities, Indy is home to a plethora of hotels and Airbnbs — the average cost of a nightly stay is only $130.

Big Bear Lake, California

Located in San Bernardino National Forest , Big Bear Lake is an easy drive from Phoenix, SoCal and Las Vegas. Some visitors compare it to Lake Tahoe at a lower price point. The skiing includes more beginner trails and affordable lift tickets — and is generally less crowded than Tahoe. During the other months of the year, Big Bear has all the popular mountain town activities like kayaking, horseback riding, mountain coasters and ziplining. There’s also a vibrant mountain biking community in and around Big Bear Lake.

Leesburg, Virginia

For East Coast travelers looking for a quaint town to spend a quiet vacation in, Leesburg fits the bill. Located within Loudoun County just about an hour outside of Washington, D.C., it also makes a great home base from which to explore the city without staying in an expensive hotel. Downtown Leesburg looks like stepping into a postcard, with art galleries, restaurants and retail space tucked into historic buildings. Shoe’s Cup and Cork is a popular local spot located in a former shoe store that serves local sustainable food, wine and beer. In surrounding Loudoun County , there are tours of wineries, breweries and a woman-owned distillery, Catoctin Creek , inside a former Pontiac dealership. Flights to nearby Dulles Airport average just over $300 for domestic flights.

Flagstaff, Arizona

When tourists think of visiting the Grand Canyon , the most popular base camps are Phoenix and Las Vegas — which can be pricey. Flagstaff , which is just over an hour away, allows vacationers to explore the canyon on a smaller budget. Flying to Flagstaff can be expensive, but it makes a great road trip destination for folks who want to explore the southwest. There are many hotel and bed-and-breakfast options that average just over $100 per night. For a quirkier accommodation, the vintage Airstreams at Village Camp Flagstaff are adorably Instagrammable.

Columbus, Ohio

Half of the U.S. population lives within a one-day drive of Columbus — making it both accessible and affordable. Columbus is home to Jack Hannah’s zoo , which includes a water park called Zoombezi Bay . Visitors should give themselves two days to enjoy everything the zoo has to offer. The local science center, COSI , has been rated the best science center in America for three years in a row by USA Today . Many museums and zoos have reciprocal programs with the Columbus attractions, so check your local memberships for discounts. While in town, guests can spend a free evening walking, biking or enjoying the spray park along the river on the Scioto Mile .

Galveston, Texas

Galveston has developed a reputation for Texans as an affordable beach getaway — but with the average flight costing under $300, the Gulf Coast hotspot is a great option for any traveler on a budget. It’s easy to use hotel rewards in Galveston, but there are also RV parks like Camp Margaritaville and plenty of privately owned rentals averaging $160 per night. There is also no shortage of delicious beach-town eateries in Galveston that are uber-affordable. Playground Patio Bar & Grill has entertainment for all ages, and the Shark Shack makes a great quick lunch stop without having to brush off too much sand.

Arches National Park is one of the most stunning geographical formations in America. It’s also very, very rural. For adventure-seeking travelers who want to explore the 2,000 documented rock arches, the tiny town of Moab is a great spot to stay. Devil’s Garden Campground , located within the park itself, is traditional rustic camping with stunning desert views. Expedition Lodge , a vintage motel, is a better choice for visitors who want their own toilet and shower. Despite its rural roots, Moab has a great little food scene . The food truck park is a hit with visitors because everyone can get exactly with they want — no compromising necessary.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, visitors do not need a passport — which can be an expensive document to obtain. The average flight, according to Priceline, is also just around $300. San Juan is more than 500 years old and filled with historic buildings — with stunning beaches and rainforests surrounding it. Spotin Tours offers ecologically-conscious rainforest excursions for adults as well as kids. The Hotel El Convento is a registered historic hotel in Old San Juan with rooms starting under $150, and the Sheraton by Marriott in the same historic district is a great option for utilizing reward points.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

The sleepy sister to the more popular Saint Simon, Jekyll Island is a budget-friendly way to enjoy Georgia’s Golden Isles . The oceanfront Holiday Inn resort includes free meals for kids 11 and under at any time of day as well as sweeping views of the Atlantic with a full-service poolside tiki bar restaurant. It’s a quick trip over to Saint Simon for more plentiful dining options, but part of the draw of Jekyll Island is its slower pace. Driftwood Beach has plentiful climbing opportunities for little kids, and the Summer Waves Water Park provides a great break from the waves. It’s not easy to fly to Jekyll, but it makes a great road trip.

Estes Park, Colorado

This mountain town situated just outside of Rocky Mountain National Park is made for individuals and families who love adventure. The average flight to Estes Park is under $250, and the town is less than 90 minutes from Denver. With classic eateries like Penelope’s World Famous Burgers and Fries and more foodie-friendly spots such as Himalayan Curry & Kebab , there are great meals for any budget. ATV and horseback tours allow visitors to see the mountainous terrain, and the fly-fishing is world-class.

Meg St-Esprit (she/her) is a freelance writer chasing down and covering the most interesting and quirky ideas about parenting, home design, education and travel. She lives with her husband, four kids and way too many pets in Pittsburgh. Her work has appeared in a variety of publications including The New York Times , Washington Post , Romper , Fodor's , and more. When she's not writing, she's definitely camping. Follow her on Twitter , on Instagram or at her website .

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Best cheap summer vacations.

Thanks to balmy temperatures, long days and school recess, summer is a popular time to take a vacation. Unfortunately, it can also be one of the most expensive times to travel, making it difficult to find a budget-friendly destination. To help you in your search, U.S. News considered affordability and traveler appeal, among other factors, to determine the best cheap summer vacations. From must-see cities to scenic national parks, there are a bevy of travel destinations that won't break the bank. Vote for your favorite destination below to help determine next year's ranking.

Glacier National Park

Cannon beach, grand canyon national park, colorado springs, niagara falls, vancouver, canada, yellowstone national park, amelia island, outer banks, williamsburg.

Head to this national park in northwest Montana for stunning photo-ops within a budget. Summer is a great time to visit since conditions are ideal for driving Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the most scenic drives in the country. With the park's $35 per vehicle entry fee (which covers access for seven days), visitors can also hike Grinnell Glacier, swim in Lake McDonald and learn about the area's flora and fauna at the Apgar Nature Center. Camping in the park is cheap, too – rates range from $10 to $23 per night.

Budget-conscious travelers will be thrilled to know that you don't need to shell out an arm and a leg to visit one of the world's most beautiful beaches . This nearly 4-mile-long stretch of the Oregon coast is beloved amongst visitors for its diverse tide pools, ample birdwatching opportunities and breathtaking rock formations. What's more, many of Cannon Beach's best things to do are free or inexpensive, including the iconic Haystack Rock and Ecola State Park, which charges a daily $5 parking fee. Plus, because Cannon Beach is a walkable town, you'll also save coin on transportation costs.

It doesn't get more affordable than camping, and this UNESCO World Heritage Site in Arizona is a unique place to rough it. You'll have to contend with crowds along the South Rim, but the photo possibilities will be well worth the cramped quarters. Some campsites start at just $18 per night during the warmer months, while the park entrance fee for vehicles is $35 and lasts seven days. Pack your own food to save even more. If you're not interested in camping, plan on staying at one of the affordable hotels in Grand Canyon Village near the South Rim.

Colorado Springs, Colorado, offers ample opportunities to enjoy breathtaking scenery and inexpensive attractions. The city offers an abundance of free things to do, including biking through Garden of the Gods, hiking to Pikes Peak's summit and strolling up and down the streets of Old Colorado City. Nearby Manitou Springs is also a great stop for anyone looking to relax in healing waters. While summer is peak tourist season, lodging options remain relatively cheap, with plenty of budget hotels and motels to choose from.

Summer in San Diego ushers in warm temperatures in the 70s, which makes it a popular destination with sun-seeking travelers. When you're not sprawling out on sandy shorelines like La Jolla Cove and Mission Beach, save money on top attractions (think: the San Diego Zoo and USS Midway Museum) by purchasing a Go San Diego Card. For more free entertainment, stroll and window shop through neighborhoods like Seaport Village and La Jolla. Keep in mind that hotel prices skyrocket during Comic-Con, an annual event that takes place in July, so book your accommodations outside of these dates to save on lodging costs.

If you avoid the area's casinos, you'll find that the New York and Ontario sides of Niagara Falls are exceptionally affordable summer vacation destinations. To save money, consider purchasing one of the region's bundled passes, which may include admission to activities like a self-guided Journey Behind the Falls tour or entry to attractions like the Butterfly Conservatory. Summer may be the peak season, but booking in advance helps cut costs. Plus, nothing beats basking in Niagara Falls' mist on 80-degree days.

As temperatures begin to rise in Vancouver, so do room rates. However, travelers can offset these inflated summer prices by taking advantage of the city's many free attractions. Spend your day biking through Stanley Park, swimming at Kitsilano Beach or admiring the flora and fauna at Queen Elizabeth Park. And because no Vancouver vacation would be complete without visiting Granville Island, travelers should set aside time for exploring the popular area's art galleries, restaurants and shops. Plus, Vancouver's diverse culinary offerings mean you can find cheap eats ranging from sushi to fish and chips.

Moab, Utah, is unique in that it borders two of the state's national parks. Arches National Park (to the north) is where visitors can marvel at precarious looking sandstone monuments like the famous Delicate Arch. Meanwhile, Canyonlands National Park (which sits southwest of town) offers stunning views of Utah's expansive desert landscapes. In and around Moab, travelers will find an array of affordable accommodations, ranging from campgrounds to motels to vacation rentals. All of this makes Moab a budget-friendly destination for nature lovers.

Nestled at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers plenty of outdoor attractions for visitors. Inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the area's most popular sight, travelers will find more than 800 miles of terrain to explore. Plus, with the park only charging a nominal daily parking fee of $5 per vehicle, visitors can hike to overlooks and waterfalls while sticking to a tight budget. When vacationers need a break from checking out the park, they can visit family-friendly attractions like the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community in Gatlinburg or play a round of mini-golf at a local course.

Roaming bison, majestic mountains and breathtaking geysers populate Yellowstone's more than 2.2 million acres of Wyoming, Montana and Idaho wilderness. Travelers searching for an affordable vacation that doesn't skimp on memorable moments will likely appreciate several cost-effective aspects of this national park. Entrance fees cost $35 per vehicle or $20 per person on foot for seven days, while campsites start at $20 per night. Once you've settled in, explore the park's incredible hiking trails, which wind from colorful thermal basins to large lakes.

Bar Harbor, Maine, is basically a postcard that has found its way into the real world. The town is flanked by Acadia National Park on one side and Frenchman Bay on the other, so it has an abundance of options for both outdoor enthusiasts and water sports fans. Summer is the best time to visit because the weather is warm and dry. Plus, this season is when the town offers a variety of free activities, including outdoor movies at Agamont Park and Art in the Park, an annual art show that takes place in June.

Located about 30 miles northeast of Jacksonville, Amelia Island offers 13 miles of pristine Atlantic Ocean coastline. Families flock here in the summer to take advantage of the city's uncrowded beaches and kid-friendly attractions, including Fort Clinch State Park and Amelia Island Museum of History. Vacationers can often score good deals on mid-range hotels and vacation rentals, and activities like exploring Egans Creek Greenway and browsing the Fernandina Beach Market Place farmers market on Saturdays are available free of charge.

Although summer is this North Carolina beach destination's peak travel season, there are several ways to enjoy an Outer Banks getaway on a budget. While you'll want to book your accommodations far ahead of time, there are plenty of low-cost hotels and vacation rentals to choose from. And because the expansive beaches are these barrier island's main claim to fame, you'll likely find yourself spending most of your time with your toes in the sand. If you do find yourself tiring of the beach, explore free attractions like Jockey's Ridge State Park and Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Aruba's offseason is a fantastic time to plan a getaway – room rates have dropped and crowds have thinned, making it easy to score deals on hotels and airfare. And although temperatures often reach into the low 90s in summer, travelers can cool off by going for a dip at one of the area's many beaches (traveler favorites include Eagle Beach and Palm Beach). You can save additional coin by booking your stay at one of Aruba's luxurious all-inclusive resorts , or by purchasing a vacation package. And because Aruba sits outside the hurricane belt, it's an ideal choice for a Caribbean summer trip.

If you're seeking a serious dose of history, Williamsburg, Virginia, may be the right vacation spot for you. Step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg, visit the site of the first settlement at Jamestown and wander around Yorktown Battlefield. Should you want to check out pricier attractions like Water Country USA and Busch Gardens Williamsburg, opt for a summer combo ticket that covers unlimited access to these locations and Colonial Williamsburg for seven days. East Coast-based travelers can easily reach all of these hot spots thanks to Williamsburg's central mid-Atlantic location.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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Hot Springs, AR

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The 31 Cheapest Places to Travel in 2024

05/01/2024 by Kristin Addis 90 Comments

Which countries offer the most value? Where can you travel to in 2024 that will allow you to go for longer, enjoy a higher standard, and save more money?

I’ve traveled to over 65 countries over the past decade, and that on the ground research informs this list year after year.

The following are 31 destinations around the world that offer the essentials — accommodation, transportation, and food — for less:

Table of Contents

Our Favorite Cheap Destinations Quick List:

• Best in Southeast Asia for Food:  Vietnam
• Best in Southeast Asia for Beaches:  Philippines
• Best in Asia for Hiking:  Kyrgyzstan
• Best in Europe for Food:  Greece
• Best in Europe for Beaches:  Croatia
• Best in Europe for Quaint Towns:  Estonia
• Best in Europe for Smaller Crowds:  Georgia
• Best in the Americas:  Guatemala
• Best for Safari:  South Africa

1. Laos, $30/day

Back in my  budget backpacking days around Southeast Asia , Laos was one of the two destinations where I was able to keep my budget at $30/day, even though accommodations were slightly more expensive than most places in Southeast Asia at that time. Many of the amazing activities you can do in Laos are very affordable. For example, I paid $2.50 to see one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, $7 for a full-day tubing experience along the Vang Vieng river, and $6 for an awesome tiger-balm massage. You can also rent an inexpensive motorbike and venture off to smaller towns, where everything is even cheaper!

With more and more new hostels built to cater to the increasing number of backpackers, you can go for less money and for longer. However, if you have a bit more to spend, you can get a gorgeous room for closer to $35/night, which would easily cost $100 in the US.

• Meals:  $3–9 per day. Some hostels provide a basic breakfast
• Accommodation:   $5-10 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $6–15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills), or up to $25 for an intercity bus ticket
• SIM card with data:  $6 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity

– Read More –

A Complete Guide to Laos

2. Vietnam, $30/day

I probably had the healthiest and cheapest  street food in Vietnam . Think soup with rice noodles, cilantro, amazing broth, and a whole shank of pork for $1.50, or a cup of strong, aromatic coffee for $1. Regarding transportation, if you rent a motorbike, you are all set for the day. However, I understand that not everyone is comfortable riding one, especially in countries like Vietnam, where the traffic can be overwhelmingly chaotic. The good news is that GrabBike (similar to Uber but on bikes!) is widely available in all major cities, and the cost is as low as $0.50 for a 2km ride! Long-distance buses and trains are also affordable and reliable. Accommodation is similarly pleasant and easier to afford than almost anywhere else in the world.

• Meals:  $5–12 per day. Some hostels provide a basic breakfast.
• Transportation:  $8–15 for motorbike rental or GrabBike trips

The Ultimate Backpacking Vietnam Route Planner

A Complete Guide to Vietnam

3. Cambodia, $30/day

I know for sure that if you choose to rough it, you can easily spend a month in Cambodia with just $1000. Dorms are very basic but can be dirt cheap; the same goes for food and alcohol. I also had my haggling skills to thank, as I was almost always able to talk my way out of being charged unfairly by tuk-tuk drivers. There are some one-off expenses, such as the three-day pass to Angkor Wat, which is currently set at $62, and diving trips that add up, but there will also be days of riding a bicycle in a small village and eating cheap and delicious meat skewers when just a dollar or two could stretch very far.

Another thing is to consider the gorgeous, mostly new  boutique hotels on Booking.com . They are obviously not as cheap as staying in hostels, but for the price, they are so worth it! I’d definitely splurge on a couple of nights and have some R&R time by the pool.

READ NEXT:  23 Cheapest 5-Star Hotels around the World

• Meals:  $5–10 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast.
• Accommodation:   $5-15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $6-15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills) or for an intercity bus ticket
• SIM card with data : $2 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity (yes, it is that cheap!)

A Perfect Cambodia Itinerary

A Complete Guide to Cambodi a

4. Northern Thailand, $32/day

The north of Thailand is easy on a tight budget. As one moves south, costs for accommodation start to double, triple, and even quadruple. Stay up north if you are short on time and money for your Thailand trip. Even in popular places like  Chiang Mai  and  Pai , you can easily find basic dorms for less than $7/night. If you stick with eating street food (to each her own, but why eat pasta when you can have pad thai, am I right?), not only will you save yourself some money, the experience will be much more authentic and tasty, too.

As far as activities go, you really do not need a lot of money to enjoy your day, as most activities such as visiting the White Temple, hiking, or gathering three other people from your hostel to rent a car and  go on some day trips , are all affordable.

• Meals: $5–15 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast
• Transportation: $6-10 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills) or  a rental car split between four people
• SIM card with data: $7 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity. See the best SIM cards in Thailand .

Thailand Bucket List: 50 Best Things to Do

A Complete Guide to Thailand

5. Indonesia, $35/day

The thing about Indonesia is that  it can be really cheap , or it can be quite expensive, depending on one big thing: transportation. Intercity traveling can be very time-consuming and costly, as is traveling from one island to another in a private boat. To save costs, stick with one region or two.  There’s a lot to do and see , and spending more time in one place will allow you to travel deeper and have  a more meaningful experience  anyway. If you want to travel far and wide on a budget, my biggest tip is to take local transportation!

On the flip side, food and drinks are cheap throughout the country, not to mention absolutely yummy too! Riding a scooter through the mountains costs very little, and so does hiking,  chasing waterfalls,  and slouching in a hammock  by the  beach  all day long. Hostels are plentiful, social, and affordable, especially in places like  the Gili Islands .

• Meals:  $5–15 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast.
• Accommodation:   $7-15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $8–15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills)
• SIM card with data:  $5 for 2GB with 30-day validity

The Perfect Indonesia Itinerary for 2 Weeks to 2 Months

A Complete Guide to Indonesia

6. The Philippines, $37/day

The Philippine archipelago can cost quite a lot of money and time to get around, and the hostel options aren’t nearly as abundant as in other Southeast Asia countries. While these two factors seem like a big turn-off for travelers trying to stretch their budget as far as possible, there are ways to keep your costs there low. If you choose to travel during shoulder seasons, book your flights and plan your journey way in advance (it is not the country to always wing it!), and try to stick within 1-2 regions, the Philippines can still be affordable.

On top of that, the country has some of the  most gorgeous islands , beautiful dive sites,  affordable group island-hopping tours , and  hidden gems  that you’d have had to pay so much more to experience in other parts of the world. In that sense, the Philippines is worth every peso you spend.

• Accommodation:   $7-20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $10–15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills) or $15–20 for a boat ride from one island to another
• SIM card with data:  $6 for 2GB with 30-day validity

The Perfect Philippines Itinerary

A Complete Guide to the Philippines

7. Malaysia, $40/day

Being one of the most economically developed Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia is often  perceived as expensive . On top of that, when I visited for the first time, a few people told me it wasn’t worth staying long. However, I ended up meeting lots of locals, was more able to communicate , and found more common ground with them than I had in Cambodia or Laos. I also had so much fun exploring Cameron Highlands,  the jungles of Borneo , and the gorgeous islands.

The cherry on top?  They were all affordable . An overnight bus from Kuala Lumpur to the Perhentian Islands costs as little as $15. There are also so many interesting local neighborhoods and markets that are free to explore. Finally, Malaysian cuisine is like no other — you can find food from just about any culture, and it’s so cheap and tasty (but not necessarily healthy). Malaysia is also one of the cheapest places in the world to get a PADI scuba diving certificate .

The one thing that could make Malaysia expensive to travel in is alcohol, which is highly taxed. However, if you don’t plan on drinking every night, or maybe consider staying sober during your trip, that will not be an issue.

• Meals:  $5–10 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast
• Accommodation:   $7–15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $5–7 for a full day of train and bus rides, or $15–20 for an overnight intercity bus ride
• SIM card with data:  $8 for 2GB with 30-day validity

The Best Places to Visit in Malaysia

A Complete Guide to Malaysia

8. Sri Lanka, $35/day

Like many countries, Sri Lanka can be seen on  a backpacker budget , or one can spend a small fortune there. The biggest kicker was the price of activities, such as safaris, and admission into the UNESCO World Heritage sites.  With each running about $40-$50 per ticket, this made Sri Lanka more expensive to fully explore.

That said, Sri Lanka can be done on closer to $30 per day on the days that you don’t pay for expensive activities. Food, transport, accommodation, and the internet are relatively cheap. One thing to note about transportation is that in some cases, taking a taxi or Uber (in major cities) can be cheaper than renting a bike. Hiring a driver for the day can be as low as $5 per person if you can find people in your hostel to split the cost. The cheapest transportation is the train, which is delightful and (IMO) the best way to travel through Sri Lanka.

• Accommodation:   $8–15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $15–20 per person for a private car and driver split between four people, or $3–5 for a second-class cabin train ride between cities
• SIM card with data:  $2 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity (yes, it is that cheap!)

Sri Lanka’s Best  Plac es to Visit

A Complete Guide to Sri Lanka

9. Nepal, $25/day ($15/day if trekking)

Nepal is a very cheap country to travel through, with most food, accommodation, and transport running just a few dollars if you eat, sleep, and travel using local options. The street food in Nepal does not have the best reputation, though I never seem to get any stomach problems eating it. You can get cheap and delicious home-cooked meals in local-run small cafés though.

Be very mindful when you book your accommodation online, as big corporations have taken over homestays and turned them into boutique hotels and resorts, so the “local guesthouses” you’ve booked may very well be part of a big hotel chain. I suggest booking the first couple of nights online, and looking for accommodation from real local guesthouses when you arrive.

If you end up trekking , as long as you do so independently and avoid Mt. Everest itself, which costs tens of thousands of dollars, you can travel for as cheap as $10 per day on food and accommodation at the lower elevations, and closer to $20 USD at higher elevations on popular routes like the  Annapurna Circuit .

• Accommodation : $7–12 per night in a local guesthouse
• Transportation:  $10–15 per person for a private car and driver split between four people, or a local bus ride between cities
• SIM card with data:  $3 for 1.25GB with 30-day validity (yes, it is that cheap!)

A Complete Guide to N epa l

10. Taiwan, $45/day

Two words: street food, which is delectable and ridiculously cheap. For less than $2, you can get a plate of fragrant rice with pork or chicken on top, a large deep-fried chicken chop, or a bowl of yummy vermicelli with oysters. If you are a foodie on a budget, you know where to go!

In cities like Taipei and Tainan, you can register for city bikes, which cost less than $0.50 per hour per ride and are free for the first 30 minutes. This means you can possibly get around the city all day without spending any money on transportation at all.

That said, high-end food and clothing prices in Taiwan can sometimes be at US levels. Intercity traveling is either expensive on the high-speed rail (HSR) or time-consuming (if slightly cheaper). The internet is also not as cheap as in the countries above.

• Accommodation:   $10–35 per night in a hostel  (I highly recommend  this one in Taipei !)
• Transportation : $0–3 for a full day of bike, bus, and train rides, or $20–40 for an HSR ride between cities
• SIM card with data:  $33 for unlimited data with 28-day validity

That One Time I Became an Illegal Alien in Taiwan

11. India, $30/day

India  is one of the cheapest countries to travel to, but if and only if you’re willing to haggle and hunt for deals. Keep in mind that cheap rooms that run in the $3 range will be very basic, and it’s normal to shower with buckets of heated water. You will be hard-pressed to find cheap gems in the north, but the south, with its gorgeous beaches, may prove more fruitful when it comes to budget accommodation.

The best way to travel through India on a budget is to book things yourself. This means no agents and no online booking sites (except for some intercity travel — for that, check out  12Go Asia ). Similar to Nepal, if you walk into local guesthouses, restaurants, and tour companies, you could easily get the same things in person for half the quoted price online.

• Meals:  $3–6 per day
• Accommodation : $5–10 per night in a local guesthouse
• Transportation : $1–3 for a full day of bus and train rides, or $8–30 for an intercity train ride (sometimes a domestic flight costs as little as $30, if you want to splurge without actually splurging!)
• SIM card with data:  $3 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity (yes, it is that cheap!)

Solo Female Travel Stories: Archana from India

12. Kyrgyzstan, $25/day

Kyrgyzstan is the country of choice for most travelers interested in trying out Central Asia, and thus most well-suited to  travelers of all budgets . The cuisine is cheap and interesting, and so is getting around using the minibuses. Public transportation prices are fixed and are probably the cheapest aspect of traveling in Kyrgyzstan. If you are doing a multiday hike like the  Tian Shan Mountains , the tour price should include most things.

As for accommodation, you can find hostels in major destinations and local homestays in more rural places for less than $10/night.

• Meals:  $4–8 per day
• Accommodation:   $8–12 per night in a hostel  or a local guesthouse
• Transportation:  $0.20 for a local minibus ride, or $4 for an intercity bus ride — yep, that’s right!
• SIM card with data:  $3 for 3GB with 30-day validity, though I wouldn’t expect it to work in the mountains

A Quick Guide to Kyrgyzstan

13. Uzbekistan, $35/day

I bet Uzbekistan wasn’t originally on your radar when it comes to cheapest places to travel, but I’m here to tell you that it should be. This Central Asian country has so much to offer , including stunning architecture, the legendary Silk Road, and an awesome blend of old and new. And the best part? It’s incredibly budget-friendly. We’re talking $20 for food and drinks in even the fanciest of restaurants. On top of that, Uzbekistan is one of the safest countries to travel in , and the locals are known for their welcoming hospitality. Win-win!

• Meals:  $8–10 per day
• Accommodation: $8–10 per night in a hostel dorm
• Transportation:  $1 for a subway day ticket in Tashkent, or $9 for a high-speed train ticket
• SIM card with data: $3 for 8GB of data with 30-day validity

Things I Wish I Knew before Visiting Uzbekistan

14. Romania, $40/day

If you are planning a  European trip that’s affordable  and a little bit off the beaten path, Romania is perfect for you. While the country is known for Dracula, many charming towns and free activities remain unknown to most foreigners. Whether you’re taking a long stroll through the medieval villages or people-watching in one of the beautiful parks, Romania is great for anyone after a European experience on a budget. You can also make use of the free walking tours to check out the numerous historical sites.

Hostels run $10–15 per night, and the food is hearty and scrumptious (a money-saving tip: have your breakfast at the hostel, have a big hearty lunch, and cook your own dinner — it’s easy and affordable to get fresh produce from the local market, so make sure your hostel has a kitchen!). Public transportation is reliable and affordable.

• Meals:  $10–15 per day
• Accommodation:   $12–20 per night in a hostel  or a local guesthouse
• Transportation : $5–10 for a full day of bus and train rides
• SIM card with data : $6 for 3GB with 28-day validity

The Top 14 Cheapest European Countries to Visit

15. Georgia, $30/day

Georgia is another underrated European destination that’s absolutely beautiful and affordable. Also, get this: most of you will be able to enter Georgia  without a visa , and stay for  one year .  Say what?!

Quality hostels at a reasonable price range, a meal at a local restaurant for as low as $3, and a local minibus ride for less than $1 are just some of the great things Georgia can offer to its visitors. What’s more? Entrance fees to museums and historical sites are mostly less than $2.  The locals are extremely warm and welcoming, and hitchhiking is totally possible for short and long-distance travel. There are many day trips, hikes, and monasteries in Georgia, so one can easily spend months here and not get bored. It’s perfect if you have more time than money.

• Accommodation:   $10–15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $3–5 for a full day of bus and train rides, $5–10 for an intercity ride, or $0 if you hitchhike!
• SIM card with data:  $3 for 1GB with one-month validity

16. Greece, $45/day

Timing is crucial if you want to travel in Greece on a budget. While prices of flights, accommodation, and tours have been largely cut down since the country’s debt crisis in 2010, summer months still cost more than others. This means avoiding July and August, which are the hottest and busiest months in Greece. Instead, go a few weeks before or after summer, and you will be able to enjoy the country with smaller crowds and a lower budget. You can also cut down on food costs by buying fresh produce from the market and making your own meals, since eating out in restaurants can be expensive in certain areas. A little picnic by the gorgeous beach can be as enjoyable as a lavish meal at a seafood restaurant!

As far as activities go, opt for free walking tours, and if you are planning to do some  island-hopping in Greece , plan well and stick with a group of islands to minimize transfers. Remember that sometimes a domestic flight can be cheaper than a bus ride for any long-distance travel.

• Transportation : $10–15 per person for  a rental car split between four people  (note: scooter rental costs about $25–30/day), or $10–20 for ferry tickets around the islands
• SIM card with data : $12 for 2GB with 30-day validity

Elafonisi Beach, Greece: The Ultimate Travel Guide

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17. Czechia, $40/day

As more and more tourists flock to Czechia, or more specifically Prague, for its rich history and cheaper-than-water beer, prices have inflated over the last few years. However, it is still easily one of the cheapest Central European countries to travel in, especially if you go beyond Prague, such as Český Krumlov and Telc, to experience true Czech culture at a much lower cost. Local transportation is reliable and affordable, and if you plan to do a lot of traveling, consider getting a three-day pass for $16.

Czech cuisine is very hearty and comes in large portions. While it’s not the healthiest (most meals consist of potato and meat), it will surely fill you up, so to stretch your budget: eat out at a restaurant for lunch, and have a light snack for dinner. Entrance fees to historical sites and museums can be quite expensive ($18 to enter the Prague Castle), but you don’t always have to actually enter — the hike up is awesome, and you can always admire the architecture from outside, and pick only the most intriguing destinations to go in.

• Meals : $10–15 per day
• Accommodation :  $12–20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $5 for a full day of tram rides, $15–20 for an intercity bus ride
• SIM card with data : $13 for 2GB with one-month validity

15 of the Best European Cities to Visit in December

18. Poland, $44/day

It’s a shame that Poland is often overlooked by tourists. It’s one of those countries where you can easily spend an entire day just wandering and people-watching. There will be days when you spend nothing else but on essentials.

If you are a fan of heritage sites, Poland, rich with culture and history, has 14 to offer. It costs an average of $5 to enter museums and historical sites, which is fairly affordable by European standards. The cuisine is delicious and has a bit more variety than its neighboring countries, though it’s still heavy on the calories. (Make sure to eat at a “milk bar,” an affordable yet tasty option that’s popular with locals.)

The trains are a bit dated but cost very little. Go beyond Krakow and Warsaw, and explore other smaller towns like Gdansk, Wroclaw, and Zakopane, which are all stunning and possibly even cheaper to travel in.

• Accommodation :  $9–20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $1–3 for a full day of train rides, $10–15 for an intercity train ride
• SIM card with data:  $3 for 2GB with one-month validity

19. Croatia, $50/day

If you like turquoise waters, sunshine, and parties,  look no further than Croatia  for your next budget trip. There are thousands of islands off the mainland, excellent weather from May to October, and beach and yacht parties year-round. There is also beautiful architecture to marvel at, interesting sights such as the  Museum of Broken Relationships , and cute small towns to explore.

The essential expenses, including accommodation, transportation, and food, all come with a reasonable price tag. To travel in Croatia on a budget, you need a similar approach to Greece — go in the shoulder season. July and August are the country’s busiest months, so avoid them if possible. Also, keep your island-hopping to a group, to minimize transfers. Since Croatia is gaining more popularity each year, expect prices to keep rising, and aim to visit sooner than later if you want to snag a deal.

• Meals:  $10–15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast.
• Accommodation :  $12–30 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $12–15 per person for  a rental car split between four people , or $10-$15 for a ferry ride
• SIM card with data : $8 for 2GB with 30-day validity

20. Turkey, $45/day

Turkey can be cheap or expensive, depending on what you want to do and how deeply you want to travel through the country.  A hot-air balloon ride  costs around $400–500, and intercity traveling can be really long and costly. However, there are a bunch of other bucket list–worthy items that cost way less, and if you plan your route well, it is definitely possible, if not easy, to travel through Turkey on a budget.

The stunning Blue Mosque in Istanbul, the breathtaking white travertines in Pamukkale, and the hustling bazaars all over the country are relatively affordable to enter. While long-distance buses are expensive, if you plan well and take overnight buses, you get to save on accommodation. If you are short on time and money, stick with a city or two. Turkish food is delicious and cheap, so that’s one less thing to worry about!

• Transportation : $1–3 for a taxi ride or $30–60 for an intercity overnight bus ride

21. Lithuania, $44/day

Lithuania is a small country that most travelers skip or spend at most a night or two in, just the capital city, Vilnius. However, this charming place is not only underrated but also very affordable! If you enjoy partying, the nightlife scene in Vilnius is vibrant and fun, and alcohol is fairly affordable. If you’d like a quieter experience, check out the Old Town in Kaunas, Klaipeda, and Curonian Spit. Bear in mind that outside of the capital, hostels can be hard to come by, so book in advance or even consider Couchsurfing!

• Accommodation :  $10–20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $3–6 for a full day of bus rides within the city, or $15–20 for an intercity bus ride. Buses seem to be more reliable than trains in Lithuania!
• SIM card with data:  Get a Baltic SIM card for $7 for 3GB with 30-day validity

22. Estonia, $44/day

Nature lovers will love Estonia — 53% of the country is forested. This also means that activities like hiking and exploring the national parks are plentiful and affordable (if not completely free). The small towns are also great for walking and cycling, so transportation costs can be minimized. On that note, affordable hostels can be hard to come by in these towns, so consider basing yourself in the capital city, Tallinn, and make day trips to visit them.

• Accommodation:   $10–20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $3–6 for a full day of train rides within the city, or $10–15 for an intercity train ride

23. Latvia, $47/day

Similar to Estonia, half of the country is covered in forests. There are also thousands of lakes and rivers, perfect for canoeing lovers. One can also easily spend an entire day wandering through the enchanting forests with castles hidden in them (okay, maybe not “hidden,” but this sounds dreamier, as castles should be). The best time to go to Latvia is during fall or winter, when you can canoe down the rivers with the color-changing leaves accompanying you, or when the  Christmas vibe  is on full display at the markets. All of these activities are affordable/free, which is why traveling in Latvia can be done on a budget.

• Meals : $12–15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast.
• Accommodation:   $14–25 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $2–5 for a full day of train rides within the city, or $10–15 for an intercity train ride.
• SIM card with data : Get a Baltic SIM card for $7 for 3GB with 30-day validity

The Americas

24. mexico, $42/day.

From  Tulum  to  Baja California , Mexico is full of  endless adventures . This vast country is rich in culture, nature, and some of the best food in the world. Though it does not have the best reputation  as far as safety goes , most violence takes place in certain areas, and Mexico has  plenty of safe places to explore .

The best news? It’s easy to travel in Mexico on a budget. For less than $20, you will be able to explore  at least five stunning cenotes , like the one in the picture above; for less than $3, you can devour delicious street food like tacos (I love tacos), quesadillas, and tortillas;  the white-sand beaches  are essentially free; and the hospitality? — priceless.

While getting around within a city is cheap, intercity traveling in Mexico can be costly, mainly because of how big the country is. The best-case scenario is to  rent a car , which costs about $50–70 per day and can be split between four people. If you are  backpacking Mexico solo , try to stay in the same place for a longer time to stretch the transportation costs out. That way, you are able to  travel deeper  and experience authentic Mexico too.

• Meals:  $8–15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast
• Accommodation:   $10–17 per night in a hostel  ( click here for the best hotels in Tulum )
• Transportation:  $3–5 for a full day of bus and train rides, or $30–50 for an intercity bus ride (yikes!)
• SIM card with data:  $10 for 2GB with a 30-day validity

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25. Nicaragua, $35/day

Nicaragua is one of the cheapest  Central American destinations  to travel in, although it’s not likely to stay that way for much longer. The country is nicknamed “the next  Costa Rica ,” and we all know what that means. For now, it remains affordable, fun, and interesting, so go before the prices go up and mass tourism hits.

For outdoor lovers, Nicaragua is great for surfing, volcano hiking, and diving. For a more relaxing journey, the colonial cities are beautiful to take a stroll in, and there are plenty of gorgeous beaches to lie on all day on. the cuisine is cheap and tasty, albeit repetitive. There are hostels all over, so you don’t have to worry about finding cheap accommodation.

One thing to note is that there are unfortunately safety concerns, so check  the official advisory site  and be your own judge before going.

• Meals:  $6–10 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast
• Accommodation :  $5–15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $3–5 for a full day of chicken bus rides, or $8–15 for an intercity bus ride
• SIM card with data : $12 for 1GB with a 30-day validity

26. Guatemala, $38/day

For an amazing Central American adventure on a budget, check out Guatemala. A visit there is no complete without seeing the beautiful  Lake Atitlán , but that’s not all — the country is covered in lush jungles, volcanos, and ruins, ideal for outdoor lovers. When you need a break from outdoor sports, colonial cities like  Antigua  or unique spots like  Hobbitenango  will capture your heart with their stunning architecture and cobblestone streets.

Local food is delightful and affordable, at about $3 for a full meal (except in Antigua, where prices are actually close to US levels).

Local transportation can be very cheap but at times confusing and risky. The locals typically take the “chicken buses,” converted school buses from North America, which are the cheapest way to get around. The buses do not have specific stops, nor is there a board with prices on it. Instead, people simply wave them down and pay the collector. Watch how much the locals are paying and do the same.

• Accommodation :  $10–15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $1–3 for a full day of chicken bus rides, or $5–10 for an intercity bus ride
• SIM card with data:  $13 for 2GB with a 30-day validity

27. Colombia, $35/day

A colorful destination with a dark past, Colombia is fast becoming a popular affordable destination. If you are a history geek, you will love the museums and historical sites in Bogotá, the Lost City, and beyond. If you are into nature, the Amazon awaits. As for diving enthusiasts, Colombia also boasts some of the world’s best sites and gorgeous beaches. With accommodation, transportation and food being so affordable, you will have room for some occasional splurges, so consider booking a luxurious villa for a night or two — you won’t get a deal this great anywhere else in this part of the world!

• Meals:  $10–15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast
• Accommodation :  $8–12 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $1–3 for a full day of bus rides, or $10–50 for an intercity bus ride (be sure to check the domestic flights, which can sometimes be cheaper than buses)
• SIM card with data : $13 for 2GB with a 30-day validity

28. Arizona & Utah (for a road trip!), $45/day

While the US is generally not a super budget destination, if you are doing a road trip, you can definitely save in some areas and splurge in others to even out your overall budget. For my  American Southwest road trip , I spent  an average of $110/day , which included a camper van rental, food, gas, and camping, plus little splurges here and there. Now, it was definitely more expensive because I was solo; if you had just one other person, you’d be able to split the costs almost perfectly in half (more if you had two other people along, and so on). The more, the merrier (until you run out of room and start elbowing each other).

Some quick tips on saving money:

• Get a national park pass and for $80, you will be able to get a carload of people into any national park in the US for an entire year.
• Rent a camper van  if you are renting a car. Then your accommodation, apart from the van fee, can be absolutely free by  camping only on BLM land .
• Cook your own meals! Again, renting a camper van with kitchen facilities will enable this and save you a lot of money
• Meals : $12–15/day
• Accommodation : free
• Transportation : $9/day for a camper van split between four people
• SIM card with data : $35 for 1GB with a 30-day validity

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29. South Africa, $42/day

If you are traveling on US dollars or euros, the exchange rate alone will do you a big favor. At this time of writing, one South African Rand is equal to six cents US.

Any hostel, guesthouse, or tourist accommodation in South Africa is called a “backpackers,” and they are typically in beautiful settings and have a unique personality, not to mention they are  affordable too . Food is where the big budget eater or saver can be, as it can get expensive in South Africa. To save money, cook your own food. Grocery stores are plentiful and have reasonable prices. By at least preparing your own breakfast and the occasional dinner, you can save a lot.

Unfortunately, public transportation outside of  Johannesburg  and  Cape Town  can be pretty limited. While there are a few private companies and trains that provide transportation around the country, the best (and possibly) cheapest way to get around is to rent a car and share with three other people, and go on  an epic road trip  together.

• Meals : $12–15 per day
• Accommodation :  $14–18 per night in a “backpackers”
• Transportation : $9 per day for a camper van split between four people

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30. Namibia, $45/day

Namibia is home to some of the world’s most spectacular views, including  the gorgeous Sossusvlei , the hauntingly beautiful Deadvlei, and the massive Fish River Canyon, just to name a few. At first glance, Namibia may not seem like a budget destination, as most accommodations cater to the luxury category, and transportation from one place to another can be limited in such a vast country. However, you just need to  do things a little bit differently  to save a lot of money.

The most important thing is to choose to camp instead of staying in a lodge. The luxury lodges cost about $50–200 per night, but you can camp at their sites for about $8–10 per night; government campsites will set you back about $15–18 per night. As for transportation, ideally you would want to rent a 4×4 and share it with a few people to split the cost. If your accommodation comes with a communal kitchen, make full use of it as cooking your own meals will definitely save you money. Entrance fees are generally cheap!

• Accommodation : $8–18 per night
• Transportation : $15–18 per day for a 4×4 split between four people
• SIM card with data:  $16 for 1.5GB with a 60-day validity

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A Complete Guide to Namibia

31. Egypt, $30/day

Pyramids, ancient temples, and royal palaces once inhabited by pharaohs make Egypt seem like it would come at a high price. However, the reality is that this Middle Eastern country can be surprisingly affordable for travelers. One of the biggest expenses in Egypt is getting there, but with some planning and flexibility, you can find decently priced flights to Cairo or Luxor. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find that hostels and guest houses, food, and transportation costs are surprisingly affordable, especially if you avoid resort cities like Hurghada.

• Meals : $3–5 per meal
• Accommodation : $10–15 per night for a dorm room
• Transportation : $0.50 for a ride on a local bus
• SIM card with data : $2.81 for 12GB with a 30-day validity

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How Low Can You Go?

The suggested budget above includes basic accommodation, transportation, and three meals, with a mix of simple breakfasts, hearty lunches, and light dinners, as well as Internet and one paid activity for the day. You will need to add on the other costs, like shopping, alcohol, and little splurges here and there to understand how much exactly is needed.

Some may want to dive or ski, which are typically higher-cost activities, and some just want to walk around and explore neighborhoods. If you are on a shoestring budget, the suggested budgets can be cut down further should you choose to couchsurf, hitchhike, and skip certain activities.

Are there any destinations that you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Nicoline says

01/03/2019 at 11:00 pm

There are so many of these places I would love to visit or revisit. Especially a Namibian road trip is on top of my bucket list and I hope that I can do it this year. 42$ per day is alright and the flight tickets from Denmark aren’t that bad right now – it must be a sign! ?

Kristin says

01/05/2019 at 9:12 am

It must be!

01/04/2019 at 9:09 pm

Bosnia is one of the cheapest places in Europe with so much to see! It’s a good deal cheaper than its neighbor Croatia.

Good to know! Thank you!

Anonymous says

04/25/2021 at 5:55 pm

Absolutely! Go hungry!! Food is excellent too!!

Jessa L says

06/10/2019 at 2:35 am

Excellent info but main thought regarding SE Asia, especially regarding Vietnamese street food: #1 many foreigners do not have the gut bacteria to fight off many forms of food poisoning that occurs from street food. #2 All the food in SE Asia has loads of MSG which immediately makes it NOT healthy. Sorry but there’s no cheap Vietnamese that can be considered healthy with the amount of MSG they put in the food. Tasty, yes. Addictive, yes. Healthy, ummm nope.

06/10/2019 at 6:54 am

Fact checking this. #1: The food is mostly bought fresh from the market each day and cooked right in front of you. If you go to a stand with lots of people eating there, you can trust it’s good for you, too. I have never had food poisoning after 7 years of traveling and eating street food. #2: I’ve seen the food made fresh from each raw ingredient and I also know what MSG looks like. I’ve seen it on the stands in China but not in Veitnam. I think it really depends on which stand you eat from, and if you’re worried about MSG the restaurants you eat at can just as easily, if not more easily, add it to the food. I wouldn’t avoid street food because of these reasons. Tourist restaurants serve the same thing, but often less fresh, for more money and you DON’T see it cooked in front of you.

09/09/2019 at 11:01 pm

I agree with your comments Kristen, its also easy to ask and or learn the local word to say dont put it in as a lot of stands will add a little MSG for “extra flavour”

01/17/2023 at 3:56 am

‘Hoom, Hoom, Ajinomoto’, is what to say if you don’t want MSG

Marissa says

01/20/2020 at 12:45 pm

Agreed. Kristen

Daniel says

01/11/2024 at 9:22 am

I am a US Citizen and often travel to Vietnam at least once a year and I believe you have no idea what you’re talking about. Do not eat food sold on the street or others food stands around the corner. You have no idea what they did to the pre-made ingredients that are served to you in front of you. Most of them do not even have gloves while handling YOUR foods. Most of the times, ingredients are prepared somewhere else and none are monitored as far as food safety is concerned. Anyone can prepare foods without any inspections or licenses requirements and sell to the public whenever, where ever they want!!! Rotten meats are often used to make egg rolls by adding artificial flavorings and fried until the bad smell is gone. Food stands are notorious for being dirty and contaminated badly because they do not have enough clean water to wash or sanitize utensils used to handle their foods. There was a big issue in Vietnam recently when a street vendor was caught “recycling” leftover from the previous customer and sell it to the next customer… Just google about food safety standards in Vietnam and you’ll know.

Kristin Addis says

01/11/2024 at 4:08 pm

If there’s a long line of locals eating there, and they’re bringing their kids there, I’m also going to eat there.

04/19/2020 at 11:09 pm

You clearly dont have a clue abour vietnamese food..they are not into Msg…dont get confuse them with China Mf

06/07/2020 at 10:28 pm

Jessa, I think you should educate yourself before taking such a strong opinion on MSG because you clearly don’t have your facts straight. Vietnamese food is pretty healthy whether or not there is MSG in it. MSG alone is simply not bad for you.

If you don’t believe me read this article:

https://health.usnews.com/health-news/blogs/eat-run/articles/2018-10-10/scientists-have-known-msg-is-safe-for-decades-why-dont-most-americans

07/29/2021 at 8:16 pm

So safe it will puff many up like a puffer fish. So safe.

Hugo Lindum says

02/07/2022 at 6:15 am

Street food is about as safe as it gets. Rarely had problems, nor do most people. As for MSG being bad, it must be the most researched food product in human history and no peer reviewed researched shows there is anything wrong with it. Even the EU says its safe. MSG being unsafe is up there with antivax and Elvis being alive on the moon.

12/21/2023 at 1:14 pm

i think it sounds really delicious and MSG is very healthy for you

Jonene Oxford says

02/25/2023 at 3:45 pm

Wish I could add the scientific info on here about MSG not being bad for your health. You should read up on it. You’d be surprised

Mohsen Ghiasi says

06/14/2019 at 7:48 am

Whay you dont write iran at the top man, its cheapest in the world with much more facility.

06/15/2019 at 9:17 am

As an American I can’t go there without taking a tour so to me it’s not that cheap, unfortunately 🙁

mark doty says

07/01/2020 at 6:18 pm

who in their right mind would go to Iran?

09/23/2020 at 1:33 pm

I lived there in the 70s and would love to go back to hike the mountains and ski again. Maybe someday.

02/07/2022 at 6:16 am

I would go there in the 1970s in a heart-beat. But today is 2022.

06/18/2019 at 7:45 am

Great list! Makes my bank account seem all that bigger 😉

06/18/2019 at 9:12 am

06/19/2019 at 9:36 am

Great list! You have been very helpful in getting some unique options together for a Christmas getaway for my husband and I! Although we will probably do AirBnB places instead of hostels, I feel like I have a much better idea of how far our money will go and tips on how to avoid being overcharged.

The biggest expense for me is always the flights since we live in Colorado, but I did find a really good website that has given me fares below what places like Expedia can offer called Skiplagged. If you haven’t checked it out, it can definitely save you some $$! I’m not affiliated with them or anything. Just thought I’d put it out there for other savvy travelers like me who are looking for the best deals!

06/19/2019 at 10:09 am

Thanks Lissa! I’d also suggest travel hacking! I have tips here: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/how-to-fly-for-free/

Leena Malhotra says

06/23/2019 at 1:28 am

What about Russia ?

Russia is on my list for next year – it has so much to explore but can’t make it in a single trip. How about Russia from India ?

06/23/2019 at 9:45 am

I have heard the cities in Russia can be quite expensive but a few years ago the Ruble fell in value quite a bit which has made it much more affordable.

07/11/2019 at 5:59 am

Nice list. I am planning for Ukraine. Any specific suggestions

08/02/2019 at 12:27 pm

I have been to Ukraine many times so here is a rundown.

Kiev the capital historical city and very beautiful. Liviv cultural capital with some of the best food. Odessa seaside vacation hub and center of comedy.

Each city offers so much to see and do.

These are the cities that you are more likely find someone who speaks english, however I would recommend learning a couple of phrases. The people are hospitable but there still a language barrier.

08/03/2019 at 5:14 am

Thanks for the info!

07/17/2019 at 1:56 pm

Tanzania is pretty cheap too and the people here are very welcoming! You should try it out.

07/18/2019 at 12:05 pm

Agreed I love it there.

Brad Carss says

07/30/2019 at 6:57 pm

I love Namibia and persisted in my efforts to visit the Himba People in Opuwo by catching a taxi from my hostel in Windhoek to the pickup point for the van taking locals to the north of the country. There I arranged with the local tour hut (John Jakurama) to go on day and an overnight visit to the villages of these rarely visited people. It was a very cost-effective and engaging interaction to experience the harsh reality of their lives. At the end of my stay the elder of the family kissed my hand in blessing for seeking his village out and bringing them much needed food stuffs and supplies. My kind of travel, cheap, interactive, moving and low priority on most people’s destinations.

Augustin says

08/03/2019 at 2:16 am

You had already mentioned about a lot of places with less expensive, but the matter is that the flight charges are not economical to many of the destinations. I am from India and feel affordable rates with some southeastern Asian countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, loas, Burma, Vietnam and Sri Lanka. The flight charges to these places are about 100 US Dollars with Air Asia flights, but it is really too high to Europe, Africa or America. This makes trips costlier. Anyway it is good exploring one.

08/03/2019 at 5:13 am

That’s true, I’m not taking into consideration where you might be flying in from, since we are all coming from different places, but once you get there it’s cheaper than other countries like Norway or Iceland.

08/03/2019 at 3:12 am

Hi! I have travelled before, I worked for a long haul airline and spent a few days in most countries. However, I really want to travel properly. What place would you recommend for newbie backpackers? Do you have any tips for me? Thanks 🙂

08/03/2019 at 5:12 am

Southeast Asia! https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/best-countries-for-beginner-travelers/

MikesRoadTrip says

08/05/2019 at 7:14 am

Really great piece!

08/17/2019 at 12:14 pm

It seems you generated this list based on where you went. I’m surprised Belorus, Russia, Abkhazia, Azerbaijan are not there

08/17/2019 at 12:19 pm

I haven’t been to most of these places, actually, but thanks for sharing more places that are affordable!

08/30/2019 at 7:47 pm

Pakistan is another beautiful country to visit and also very cheap. The Northern parts of Pakistan are full of natural beauty. People of Pakistan are very friendly and when you go there you will be amazed to find out that country is so different than what it is portrayed in NEWS. The hospitality of people there is simply amazing and food is simply awesome. Highly recommended place to visit.

09/02/2019 at 9:50 am

I’d love to visit!

Marianne says

10/09/2019 at 3:24 am

Hi! My boyfriend and I took a year off to travel Asia, and about 4 months in we have spent wayyy too much money (oops). We would like to settle down somewhere cheap for a month to try and make up for it. We are hoping to find somewhere close to the beach where the food is good. If there were some (free or cheap) things to do and see so we wouldn’t be too bored that would be even better. Does such a place even exist? ? I was thinking Cambodia, maybe, or Vietnam (cause I love Vietnamese food) but really anywhere in SE Asia would be perfect. Do you have any suggestions for a specific place like that you really loved?

Also, I love this blog, I have probably visited daily in the couple of years leading up to our trip ?

10/09/2019 at 10:22 am

Hey Marianne. It happens! I’d look at Southeast Asia for sure. I’d thought about Hoi An personally. The food is good, wifi is fast, it’s cheap. You can also think about Cambodia or even southern Thailand. You could think about Kuta in Lombok, Indonesia as well. Such a place definitely exists 🙂

Keep in mind it’s usually much cheaper to go check things out in person and ask around for places to rent longer term than it is to try to find them online.

Ian Culbertson says

10/13/2019 at 5:15 pm

Hi Kristin, I’d really like to do Incan trail in Peru to MP in December, any advice on tours for doing routes less traveled? Thanks Ian

10/19/2019 at 12:02 pm

If you want to do the Inca Trail unfortunately there’s just one trail and it’s not less-traveled, but there’s also the Lares trek and the Salkantay which will end up in Machu Picchu. I liked Alpaca Expeditions for the Inca Trail.

marla braden says

11/09/2019 at 11:18 am

I second Alpaca Expeditions. I did the Inca trail in December, not really high season. I got tickets when I got to Cusco (not 6 months advance) and our group of maybe 10 people plus the guides and porters were the only people I saw for 4 days until we arrived at Machu Picchu itself. Off season is the way to go anywhere, imo.

11/10/2019 at 11:36 am

Wow that’s amazing! Definitely wasn’t my experience. Nicely planned.

Renuka Walter says

12/06/2019 at 5:13 am

That’s a great list! I’m glad India is on the list. I have been exploring it for a decade now, and I agree it’s affordable and so rewarding! Would love to experience Romania.

12/06/2019 at 11:06 am

I’d love to experience India!

Md. Shakhawat Hossain says

01/08/2020 at 11:31 am

Hello there, Thank you very much for sharing a nice as well as the well-informative article here. The information you have described herewith was really amazing! However, if you allow me to add one more place to must-visit I would be glad, and the place name Bangladesh. The place of natural beauty and many more. And, also very cheap.

Thank you very much.

01/08/2020 at 7:01 pm

I’d love to go! Yes it should be on the list.

neymasport says

01/14/2020 at 8:18 pm

Thank you for sharing the colorful collection here, thank you for this article. This country is very beautiful. Hope to come here and try it once  

Nikola Webster says

01/22/2020 at 6:10 pm

Hi there, Wow – super-comprehensive list! I’ve been to more than half on this list. A couple I have on my list to visit that I’m told a super cheap (even cheaper than India) are Pakistan and Bangladesh. I’ve also heard Laos is wicked cheap! Nikki

01/22/2020 at 8:12 pm

I’d love to see Pakistan too! Laos is indeed pretty cheap.

Doona Neace says

02/04/2020 at 1:44 am

You recommended most of the places are on my list. Next year I want to visit Croatia and Turkey.

02/15/2020 at 6:31 pm

This is such a great list which really breaks down the costs and saves a lot of research time! Thanks for sharing.

02/16/2020 at 10:55 am

Thanks for such a great post! And thanks for sharing your valuable experiences. I already traveled to Most of EA countries but i have no any idea for african and S. American countries, i will use this post for my future plan.

05/03/2020 at 11:11 am

Wow, that’s article is amazing. I did not know that you can travel to places this cheap. This article chsnge the way I look at traveling. I have always thought it costly as I spend a lot when traveling, but after reading this things have changed.

takeoffwithme says

05/08/2020 at 7:21 am

Very nice article. Will be really helpful for backpackers

Vaishnavi Omprakash Jadhav says

07/08/2020 at 4:38 am

There is lot more in INDIA. Do come. We have a lot more than expected.

Samson says

08/21/2020 at 5:38 am

How is the Covid-19 situation there?

08/21/2020 at 5:39 am

How is the Covid-19 situation in India?

08/29/2020 at 4:32 am

Great article. Thanks

Greg Christensen says

09/03/2020 at 9:11 am

Recently did southern Utah (from OH) for 6 weeks and spent 9000 dolllars … that’s about 200 dollars per day. Gasoline 1500 (8000 miles), hotels and campsites 1200, NP pass and BLM trail fees 100, topo maps/books/gifts 400, my own jeep routine and unexpected service 500, jeep rubicon 4WD 10 day rental for The Maze 1950, 4WD and backpacking supplies 400, laundry 50, food/beverages/snacks/water 2900. Biggest expenses are always food from restaurants and the remote expensive trips that are hard to access.

09/03/2020 at 9:40 am

Yes restaurants can be a lot. If you have to rent the 4×4 yes that really adds up!

Amogue says

09/15/2020 at 3:54 am

all this country are awesome I am going ti visit vietnam after the covid situation

10/09/2020 at 2:22 pm

Maybe Nicaragua is not safe, but I think it’s way safer than Guatemala. Please, be careful if planning to travel to any of this countries. Specially women travelling alone.

Michelle says

11/30/2020 at 12:03 pm

Yes, very surprised you didn’t include Morocco! Marrakech (or Casablanca) can get expensive if you want the most luxurious accommodations/prefer gambling, but overall a very cheap country to travel. You can get around easily if you wish to visit multiple cities, for as little as $8 or so intercity. (overnight sleeper trains will cost a bit more) You can even fly from Madrid or Lisbon to Marrakech for around $100 if you know where to look 🙂 I’d say to definitely visit Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen if you are not sure where to travel. Stay in riads or hostels. Walk around the souks, and take in all the sights the cities have to offer. Getting to the desert is a little more difficult and costly, but worth the experience if it is something you have always dreamed of doing!

12/03/2020 at 8:57 am

Good to know!

Catherine says

05/16/2021 at 5:54 am

India very risky for woman, last time I went there was groped, not once but multiple times. In india get used to man staring at your cleavage, boobs and ass all the time.

01/12/2023 at 8:24 pm

Did that happen in North India?

08/17/2023 at 3:52 am

Only in Punjab . Rest of India is very safe

Linniey???? says

05/22/2021 at 7:51 pm

Thank you for sharing… Very interesting and nice places for backpakers… South Korea is also very cheap and beautiful nature for nature lovers… ????

Tina Hallmark says

07/15/2021 at 2:27 pm

I know you are already bogged down with reply’s and on to your next adventure but I wanted to pick your brain. Myself, husband and our daughter, age 10 want to spend a month next year in another country (if all goes well, we may make it into an annual thing). We are great outdoors, we love food, we love history and love animals and we are all well traveled. We would like to pick our first month long trip for June 2022 (climate has to be below average of 85 degrees F). Basically we can’t decide on where we should go to stay around 10k for all 3 of us and how best planning for a month in a country. Any insight would be wonderful! We have thought about Bali/Philippians, Greece or Italy but I saw you mention Namibia and that sounds wonderful too! PS We do not want to stay in hostiles. Thank you for any information you may want to send our way! Tina

07/17/2021 at 12:40 pm

I’m not sure all of those places fall under your temperature requirements but it really depends on what kind of experience you want. I think they could all be wonderful.

05/25/2024 at 1:15 pm

Malaysia,muslim country, respectful (i cannot remember one time the call to prayers through loud speakers from the Masjid,like inTurkey ,to wake you up) ,nice roads, good infrastructures,cheap tolls on expressways,good variety of landscapes,mountains (hills as they call them) in the north, definetly mountains, to cool off, a lot of coast lines, a big variety of cuisines, prices quite reasonable overall, you can bargain ,a lot of people speak English (previously British colony of Malaya),ONLY country in south east Asia where you can buy outright a piece of land or an house or start a business without having a partner or local spouse, politically stable and quite safe, compared to the many neighbours and others places in the world. If you drink, it is widely available but heavily taxed ! And gasoline is very cheap as well but cars are not so but definitely cheaper that Singapore, world record !

02/20/2022 at 4:29 pm

03/01/2022 at 11:02 pm

Excuse me, but Georgia is not in Europe!! It is part of the Caucasus, which is in Asia. And as for Vietnam & most of southeast asia, can we say KRAITS!!! You fail to mention this very big danger…many people have gotten bitten by these snakes and died! Last but not least, that chicken or pork you get in Taiwan and China: might be DOG or CAT!!! Think about that B4 you scarf down just any streetfood!!

03/02/2022 at 11:19 am

lol I don’t think they’re eating cat or dog in Taiwan and I don’t know a soul who has been bitten by that snake you mention.

12/21/2023 at 1:21 pm

John im glad you got all your anger out on this message but no one really cares and all u did was waste everyones time thanks a lot JOHN!!

07/14/2022 at 9:22 pm

Ukraine really?

07/23/2022 at 11:50 am

Prior to the current situation it was a great place to travel, and it will be again one day.

Grace Christopher says

01/22/2023 at 9:01 am

I would love if someone can put me through how to go about the process of applying to any of the country mentioned above. That is work visa

01/26/2023 at 6:38 am

Hi I am planning to travel to Greece combined with some islands. Could you please tell me more about which places and accommodations you recommend and suggest. I will be traveling with my 21 year old son .

07/01/2023 at 9:54 am

Hi Nora: Recommend looking at this great BMYM post: 31 of the Absolute Best Things to Do in Greece It includes a huge variety of things to do which I am sure your 21 year old son would enjoy too! Also, in BMTM website, click on “Destinations” at the top of this page and pick “Greece” and it has other great resources! Good luck!

Austin A. McCary says

06/02/2023 at 8:27 pm

This article on the cheapest destinations to travel to is a goldmine of budget travel inspiration! I appreciate the thorough breakdown of affordable destinations across different continents. The inclusion of budget-friendly activities and accommodation options is incredibly helpful for planning a cost-effective trip. I’m excited to explore some of these destinations that offer incredible experiences without breaking the bank. Thanks for sharing this valuable resource!

Mani Venkat says

05/09/2024 at 2:59 am

Nice blog!!! Thanks for information

• Work With Us

22 Best Budget Places to Travel This Year (2024)

Written by Becca

Updated on May 15th, 2024

What are the cheapest places to travel in the world? Check out these budget-friendly travel ideas for your next domestic or international travel.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Best Budget Places to Travel

• Medellin and Guatape, Colombia: Best for backpacking
• India: Good for everyone!
• Argentina: Search for your Latin soul
• Porto, Portugal: Keep an eye on the sunsets
• Tenerife, Canary Islands: Experience the island life
• Peru: skip Machu Picchu
• Tallinn, Estonia: Enjoy the long summer days
• Guatemala: See Mayan ruins, volcanic eruptions and culture
• Sri Lanka: Get adventurous
• Panama: See beaches, mountains and cities
• Taipei, Taiwan: Eat your way through!
• La Paz, Bolivia: See indigenous Bolivian Culture
• Mexico City, Mexico: Explore tacos, museums and mezcal
• South Africa: Must-see vineyards, safaris and hiking
• Vietnam: Let your budget take you far
• Thailand: Trekking, Markets, Nature and amazing food
• Philippines: Under-the-radar natural and cultural finds
• New York City, USA: Find free things to do
• Nicaragua: Climb volcanoes and visit colonial towns
• Ecuador: Enjoy high-altitude living

Lithuania: Travel the less-visited country!

• Laos: Take an adventure

Travel doesn’t have to be expensive! In my years of taking trips, I’ve felt the most confident (and happiest) when I’m in a destination with a budget-friendly cost of travel.

Some of my favorite places for travel are the cheapest, like Mexico, India, Colombia and Vietnam. I now make it my mission to travel to the affordable places with a bang for my buck.

Here’s muy list of the consistently most affordable places to travel where you can take a trip on the cheap.

Medellin and Guatape, Colombia: Best for backpacking

There are so many things to do in Medellin and its neighboring town Guatape that make them excellent destinations for any time of year.

Medellin is known as having ‘eternal spring,’ meaning it’s slightly cooler in Northern Hemisphere winter time, and a bit warmer in summer.

As for rainfall, it’s slightly “lower” in fall (September - December), but, as it rains mostly every day anyway, every month of the year is a fair time to visit Medellin and the surrounding region.

Despite what you may have heard, Medellin is an awesome place to be as a traveler, from heaps of types of accommodation for every budget, to delicious food options ranging from Colombian to other types of South American for every taste bud.

You can eat great early, late and for inexpensive prices. One of our favorite things to do is to try Colombian coffee at some of our favorite cafes near El Poblado and take the free city walking tour .

As for the rest of the region and to get out of the city, two of our favorite weekend or two-day breaks are Guatape and Santa Fe de Antioquia .

Guatape is easy to get to from Medellin and even if you don’t speak Spanish, people will help you navigate the bus station. And if you’re wondering about safety, head over to our article answering the question, “Is Medellin safe for travel?”

India: Good for everyone!

Yeah… India is really cheap for backpacking and international travel, and the rumors are true. The cost of accommodation is cheap in India. The cost of food is cheap. It’s a great place to pick when you need to travel for super cheap .

The only thing you have to watch out for in India is being gawked at as a foreigner or from looking different from the locals (and it’s likely you will), but the food is incredible, the markets are a shopper’s dream and basically everything is incredibly cheap.

On my first day in India, I picked up a pair of backpacker balloon pants for $4, and it felt expensive.

The currency in India is the Indian Rupee, and you can exchange it widely to and from the USD or other major currencies like EUR and GBP.

Bonus: if you’re gluten-free like I am, you’ll find Indian food rather gluten-free-friendly , so put it on the list.

Argentina: Search for your Latin soul

It happens to be an interesting time to visit Argentina , as the currency recently became favorable to holders of the US Dollar. In fact, (as of 2021), very favorable.

Argentina’s peso has fallen very sadly and incredibly against the USD, giving Americans lots of unexpected buying power in this otherwise slightly-pricey country for travelers.

Among some chilled-out things we have done in Argentina are exploring the cafe scene in Buenos Aires and walking for miles soaking in lots of the free sights of the downtown areas and cool neighborhoods.

If you venture westward toward Cordoba and the Sierra region, you’ll find that Cordoba, Argentina’s “second city,” has some unique things to do that travelers often overlook, and you can rent a car to road trip to small towns with scenic views.

Porto, Portugal: Keep an eye on the sunsets

We found Porto to be an absolutely wonderful place to be in summer, with late sunsets, great weather (most of the time) and friendly locals.

In summer, it’s a great time to picnic in Porto and watch the sunset near Gaia, or walk for hours seeing the different neighborhoods and beautiful tiled buildings.

For us, the highlights of Porto were all the places to see architecture, the trendy cafes, the views from Dom Luís I Bridge and the hilly streets of Ribeira.

Oh, and don’t forget the national artistic treasures all over the São Bento Train Station. This is a great sight to see, and it’s free.

We loved Porto and wished we had more time during summer to explore the nature not too far away. We continued on to the capital city of Lisbon , just a train ride away (book in advance for sure!).

Tenerife, Canary Islands: Experience the island life

In going back to Spain , we had no idea what to expect from Tenerife, a volcanic island famed for Carnival and the highest point in all of Spain, El Teide .

Summer is a great time to go, as rainfall is typically lowest during summer months, and this will be a pretty great time to travel there and enjoy the nature!

To get there, we had a layover and quick stop in Madrid that got our rusty Spanish back for the next few days we’d have in the Canary Islands.

In Tenerife, we spent some time in the absolutely lovely and relaxing town of La Orotava , working our legs on the hilly streets.

Tenerife has its own culture that’s similar yet different to that of mainland Spain. There are interesting outside influences (like an accent influenced by Cubans) and local cuisine as well.

For a coliving experience, if you’re traveling while working remotely or looking to stay in a house among some experienced travelers with a professional mindset, check out Nine Coliving , which was by far the best thing that happened to us in Tenerife!

With more time, you can island hop to Gran Canaria , which is worth a visit to see some awesome sand dunes in the south and the spectacular views along the roads in the southwest.

While we didn’t feel the Canary Islands were as budget-friendly as we had hoped, when it came to renting a car, but it was not terrible, either.

If you really want to keep your budget down, you can travel the entire island of Tenerife or Gran Canaria by public bus. Just keep in mind that you won’t be able to access every village or off-the-beaten-path beach inlet with the Canarian mass transit system.

Peru: skip Machu Picchu

Peru is an affordable destination for travel if you skip the hyped super-touristy path that has now become a mainstay in ‘wonders of the world’ and bucket lists.

Peru is much more than Machu Picchu, which has come to be such a bucket-list item that you’ll find long lines, strict rules and crowds.

The cost of heading up to Machu Picchu for a few days will also set you back a few hundreds of dollars (even thousands, depending on which level of excursions you buy) as everything is priced for tourists, and even the train has a different prices for foreign nationals than for domestic travelers.

So, what to do in Peru, and why should you go there? Peru is massive, and for that reason, it can’t possibly be all touristy.

Get out to places like Arequipa, Iquitos, Mancora, Huaraz and Puno, if you want to skip Cusco, with its higher prices geared toward foreign tourists.

In Lima alone you can see authentic Peruvian-Chinese culture , a city park with rainbow fountains and heaps of other things to do in Lima on a modest budget like trying ceviche, ice cream made from local fruits and beer bars in Miraflores.

In Lima, we walked for miles, taking photos and eating street food, getting to know the city by foot. Do as the locals do: shop in the big markets, rent a bicycle and see some nice neighborhoods, sip a coffee at a cafe and people-watch in Barranco.

Then, take buses to the out-of-town destinations like Ica to go sandsurfing in Huacachina or Arequipa, one of my more favorite places, where Colca Canyon is another weekend trip away for hiking.

Tallinn, Estonia: Enjoy the long summer days

All of Tallinn, Estonia , was like a big surprise for us. In fact, we wish we could have stayed a whole lot longer in Estonia.

The charming city of Tallinn seems best to enjoy during summer, when the sun sets as late as 10:45 pm! (And you better have blackout curtains, because it rises at 4:00 am in July! Bring a sleep mask for sure).

Around the summer solstice, Estonians (and other cultures in the region, from Finland to Latvia) celebrate the Midsummer Festival, which means people take off from work, go to spend some time in the countryside and party all night (which is very short, because of how little darkness there is).

In Tallinn, walking around the compact Old Town is a great way to see architecture, history and lots of food, pubs and cafes. We stayed at one of the best hostels in Tallinn and found the city’s best cafes for digital nomads .

What we also liked about the Baltic region, especially in summer, is that it was easy (and picturesque!) to get from Estonia to Latvia .

With the stops along the way, we saw all the greens and other colors of Estonia (and the north of Latvia) that we had yet to see because we hadn’t left the Tallinn metro area.

Tallinn, Estonia, is a destination that will set you back in your budget more steeply than the Latvian capital of Riga or the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius, but believe me, the prices in Tallinn are a far cry from Western European destinations like France, Switzerland and England.

Guatemala: See Mayan ruins, volcanic eruptions and culture

I went to Guatemala specifically because I wanted to travel somewhere very cheap. I also lucked out because I chose Guatemala and it’s a fantastic budget destination.

Guatemala is one of the cheapest places to travel to in Latin America. If you’re deciding between a destination like Costa Rica and Guatemala, and you have a budget to stick to, you can go to Guatemala and spend half of what you would in Costa Rica.

Guatemala is a special place because the cheap-to-thrilling ratio is certainly at one end of the spectrum, meaning you can spend very little money and have an AMAZING time.

In Guatemala, I have stayed in super cheap hostels at Lake Atitlan and splurged for great value local coffees at Antigua’s cafes .

You can do a lot for free in Guatemala, too. There are markets abound, and volcanic eruptions you can watch as you walk down the street in Antigua .

It’s worth putting together some money to go on a day trip from Antigua to places like Volcan Pacaya, Chichicastenango, Acatenango or Guatemala City.

Planning to work remotely? Coworking spaces like Impact Hub Antigua cost only $6.50 per day for the use of a hot desk with unlimited coffee and tea.

A travel budget of $35 USD per day would get you a pretty fun time in Guatemala for your next adventurous international trip on the cheap.

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Sri Lanka: Get adventurous

All of Sri Lanka is affordable as a destination and all of Sri Lanka is good for all-year travel.

We went in the middle of July, expecting rain showers or monsoons, but we got lucky, and you can, too! We counted rain on two occasions in total, and it goes to show that ‘general climate reports’ may not accurately picture your 12-day holiday. We were mostly greeted with lush and green nature !

There are a few things to know about Sri Lanka , so it pays to see if this is a good place for you and your travel style.

Sri Lanka is an island near India and it’s a fascinating country where the people are peaceful and kind.

It has lots of tropical sub-climates, so it’s hot all year round on the coasts, and pretty moderate, to even chilly, in the center where the altitudes get higher.

Because of Sri Lanka’s location, it has two rainy seasons: at one point in the year, the East has rain, and at another point, the West does.

Again, summer was a fine time to go to Sri Lanka (and winter is as well). During July, we experienced rain no more than twice, which was a miracle, and could happen randomly whenever.

We were amazed at how budget-friendly Sri Lanka is, from guesthouses to meals in restaurants to admission fees at cultural sights like temples and Buddhas. We did awesome things that taught us all about the country.

We loved our visit to the Mackwoods Tea Plantation , which in summer, had a rather temperate climate (I needed a sweater as the sun got lower).

We also spent a half day in Galle Fort , which has a fascinating mix of cultures, from colonial influences to several religious groups all calling this place home.

Walking around Galle Fort was completely free, as was walking along the fortress wall, seeing the famous lighthouse and exploring the historic quarter.

Your budget will take you farther than you ever imaged in Sri Lanka, so with your leftover money, be sure to tip generously, only haggle if you feel you are being seriously ripped off and let shop owners keep the change. It means a lot to them.

Planning to pull the trigger and take that trip soon? Don’t miss our checklist for international travel prep and favorite apps for travelers .

Panama: See beaches, mountains and cities

Panama is the gateway of North America to South America, and it’s a fascinating narrow country to spend some time in.

In case you hadn’t heard, traveling in Panama is pretty cheap, and it feels that way especially if you’re coming from Costa Rica, like I was.

Panama is a mix of urban (Panama City and the Panama Canal) and rural (Boquete, Volcan Baru) and beachy (Bocas del Toro).

In recent years, places like Bocas del Toro have become incredibly popular with backpackers looking to travel on the cheap, and the standard of accommodations and eating has taken to a touristic level, meaning prices going up.

However, bargains and deals are still around in Panama, because the country is BIG, despite how it looks on a map, and there are lots of things to see if you travel by land from Costa Rica onward to Panama City (it’s around ten hours).

I certainly ate cheaply in Panama as a backpacker, and I stayed in hostels (my favorite was Mamallena in Boquete, as I detail in our guide to booking accommodations ), always dorm rooms, and always with friends.

In fact, I met friends on my Panama backpacking trip with whom I’m still close in touch with, to this day!

Back to the budget, though, you can surely eat for $2-3 in Panama, travel for a few dollars more, and stay in a hostel for $10 or less, per night.

This is a rather straightforward destination to visit if you’re looking for one of the cheapest places to travel in North America.

Taipei, Taiwan: Eat your way through!

Taipei is one of our favorite new destinations, and although summer is high (and hot and humid) season, what’s interesting is that Taipei gets rain all year round.

It can rain any day and sometimes unexpectedly, throughout the year, so considering summertime is a fine thing to do.

In the rest of Taiwan , you can find different climates as altitudes change, and what many tourists fail to do is to go hiking in the center of the country.

This region is tons less touristed , and you could find yourself alone with nature.

As for Taipei, there’s so much culture to see, and we liked learning more about a history we had never been exposed to.

For when you need a break from sun and humidity, there are lots of large shopping malls with huge food courts that have an array of Asian foods from all over the region.

You can have Taiwanese cuisine, Mongolian BBQ, Japanese sushi and Korean kimbap, all in the same spot. It’s impossible to choose!

In Taipei, there are lots and lots of things you can do for free .

We went to night markets (free entrance), famous memorials and their plazas like Chiang-Kai Shek Memorial and even the changing of the guard ceremony that happens daily and the many hikes that exist within the city (all free).

To cool off, try Taipei’s best cafes with WiFi.

It’s easy to spend a lot of time in Taipei and never spend too much money.

Take mass transit like the beautiful and immaculately clean Taipei metro, stay in a local hostel or guesthouse to support local businesses, and shop at local markets, where you’ll find beautiful produce like fruits, veggies and local treats.

La Paz, Bolivia: See indigenous Bolivian Culture

Bolivia is one of my favorite countries because it represents Old World South America.

It is one of the South American countries with the highest percentage of indigenous people, and it makes it a rich cultural experience to visit.

In La Paz, take the city free walking tour and learn about the city prison (I won’t spoil the details), the witches market and why Bolivian women wear Italian bowl hats.

Don’t forget to try the local treats and stay in any of the awesome hostels that provide nightlife for backpackers in La Paz, like Wild Rover or Loki.

In Sucre, see the White City, all for not too much money at all! A dorm bed in Bolivian hostels will be between $7 and $12 USD, and all have great security. Sucre has a laid-back atmosphere and lots of local life. It’s high up, altitude-wise, so make sure to take it easy.

In the middle of your trip, savor the experience of the once-in-a-lifetime trip to the high-altitude Uyuni salt flats. Any tour operator will take you to the highlights on a sunset one-day trip or a three-day trip, during which you’ll stay in a salt hotel (bundle up!).

In Potosi, a mining town, see local markets, local Bolivian street life and a history of silver mining.

Best of all, it’s pretty safe to take night buses in Bolivia, which helps with saving money and traveling sustainably , at the same time!

You can even try to haggle for a two-person deal if you are traveling as a couple .

Bolivia is one of the best value destinations in South America, and because of its landlocked location and the fact that its tourism infrastructure is newer than, say, that of Peru, every visitor is in for a real treat.

Mexico City, Mexico: Explore tacos, museums and mezcal

We couldn’t find anything that we did not love about Mexico City, and for anyone who lives in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s never too long of a flight.

Also, without giving the secret away too much, Mexico City is not expensive to visit (neither is our honorable mention of Merida, Mexico ).

With heaps of things to do Mexico City for every type of traveler, Mexico City is an incredible place to try lots of new foods with a food tour , see the local markets, try a margarita (or three) at a variety of bars (some on rooftops) and cool off with a cold brew at any of the popular specialty cafes .

Travelers like Mexico City for its value. You can Airbnb within your budget, and you can try new hostels like Selina Mexico City , which also has a coworking space and bar.

If we could move to Mexico City, we would. In fact, I’m not sure why we don’t live there. I can’t get enough of the food, the people, the scenery and the culture, and with a trip on the Mexico City costing only USD 0.25, it was hard to leave.

Regarding safety, check out “Is Mexico City Safe?” , our guide to scams, safety and health concerns in CDMX.

South Africa: Must-see vineyards, safaris and hiking

One thing I have tried to research really intently is where in Africa to travel for cheap. It’s harder than it sounds.

In speaking with a really experienced traveler like my friend Daniel Herszberg , what I’ve learned is that a lot of Africa might be cheap for locals, but plain and simple: as a traveler, you’re in for a pretty penny.

I did not find this to be the case in South Africa, however.

For many reasons, South Africa is not like the rest of Africa. Its major cities have infinitely more Western influence, and South Africa’s European-descent population is about 9%, which is by far higher than other African nations.

This aside, South Africa has had a funny thing happen to it in recent years since about 2015. The currency took a big slide downward in value, and I talk about how this benefits the foreign traveler in my money tips for international travel .

What’s going on here is that the South African Rand (the national currency) devalued three to four times its former value pre-2015. This means thing started costing you, the visitor, only 25% of their previous prices.

So, for cheapest places in the world to travel, South Africa came out as an incredible destination of value. A $100 dinner cost $25, and that’s including steak and wine. A cocktail came out to $3 at a nice bar.

I could’ve done without these luxuries, and could’ve kept my budget even lower, to travel super cheaply in South Africa (but instead, I lived like a king).

My best recommendation for “know before you go” tips for South Africa is to check the exchange rate several months before you plan to travel, to determine what things like travel within the country and accommodation will cost.

I think food was my cheapest expense (it was continually unbelievable) in South Africa, because of that ZAR to USD conversion. These are the types of tricks that will keep you winning if you plan to travel the world cheaply and tick off all those super cheap places to travel (safely).

Vietnam: Let your budget take you far

Vietnam is incredibly affordable, even as prices might rise in summer (high season). Okay, Vietnam is actually one of the cheapest places I’ve ever been (I haven’t been to Pakistan, which many people say is the cheapest country in the world.)

During the summer, heaps of visitors from all over the world come to Vietnam, whether Europeans on summer holidays, Australians on their winter breaks, or Americans coming out for a big month-long Southeast Asia bender.

If you can book your Vietnam trip in advance, you’ll probably do fine, as most major Vietnamese holidays fall in January-February, when prices go up and have surcharges due to the new year festivals.

Vietnam is where your Dollar (or Euro) will for sure go further, from eating out to accommodation at great value. For example, it’s hard to get bored in the capital city of Hanoi, with all these things to do . Hanoi is a special place for us and we loved talking pictures to capture everything Hanoi has to offer.

You can drink Vietnamese coffee every day at [awesome cafes], take a trip to Ninh Binh or Sapa for the northern cultures, and see an impressive amount of the country without breaking the bank.

While summer is known as being wetter, with rainfall on average surpassing that of summer months in Vietnam, this is when places like the Sapa rice terraces will be vividly green, making for an incredible sight to see.

In winter, the same region of rolling hills is dry and brown because of lack of rainfall. Summer brings back the brilliance and the fresh crops.

Eat whatever’s on the street in cities in Vietnam. You can usually have a meal for 2 USD.

Thailand: Trekking, Markets, Nature and amazing food

I’m sure you’ve heard of Thailand, and I’m sure you have heard that Thailand is cheap.

How do I put this simply…. yes, Thailand is cheap (but Vietnam and Laos are cheaper - ha!).

But really, Thailand is an affordable place to travel on a budget. If you stick to Bangkok alone and you take guided tours or excursions, you will probably spend more than you thought you would.

However (!), if you head up north to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, and you go to smaller towns with equally-beautiful things to do like hikes and minority cultures and eco-tourism, you’ll be very satisfied with a small budget in Thailand for travel.

Having been to Thailand three times, I’ve stayed in cheap hotels, cheap hostels and also really expensive hotels (on my friend’s frequent flyer miles points).

There are many ways to ‘do’ Thailand, and there is something for everyone.

If you’re on an extreme travel budget, you can make Thailand work, and have an amazing time. Things also change very fast in Thailand due to the fact that it is one of the most popular travel destinations on the planet .

In January 2012, I stayed in Julie’s Guesthouse in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for $2.50 USD per night. It’s true. And I was a broke backpacker looking for a good deal.

Places like Chiang Mai have since skyrocketed in popularity, bringing the type of luxe travel to become quite mainstream there, but you can still find good deals, bargain for prices and stick to a low trip budget.

If your budget is on the extreme low end and you’re seeking the cheapest things to do, I recommend going to smaller locales in the center and northeast of the country, where tourism is newer.

I’d recommend avoiding the south of Thailand and the islands, where you’ll have to dish out for ferries, and where tourism has been strong for 30+ years, making competition rather tough.

Philippines: Under-the-radar natural and cultural finds

I bet you don’t know many people who’ve been to the Philippines and haven’t been to Puerta Princesa or Boracay. I personally have not been to either.

I’ve had two low-budget trips to the Philippines, traveling in the Manila metro region and in Cebu and Bohol.

What I am positive of is that the Philippines is one of the cheapest places to travel to in Asia. I really mean that. It is up there with Vietnam.

For a small fee, you can stay in a hotel or hostel, and for only several dollars you can take a taxi to a beautiful beach.

The street food will cost you less than what you could imagine, and bargaining is fair game. While awesome natural landmarks like the Chocolate Hills (Bohol) may have an entrance fee, it won’t be hefty.

A small budget will take you a serious long way in the Philippines, where there are more than 7,000 islands (you probably can’t see them all, nor would you need or want to) and a heap of things to keep you occupied on a trip of a month or more.

New York City, USA: Find free things to do

Now, we know what you’re thinking: isn’t NYC one of the most expensive places to travel ? The short answer is yes, but the long answer is no.

Let me explain.

If you know what to do in NYC, you can have a fantastic time on a low budget. NYC can be a value destination if you know how to stretch a budget thinner and do all the free amazing things in NYC during your trip.

First, I’d really recommend finding a friend, family member or friend’s family member to stay with. Accommodation in NYC is one of the things that will cost the most, but if you can pin that down as a freebie, the rest will work itself out. See here.

If you’re okay with skipping the “must-see” tourist attractions that every book says you have to do, such as the viewing platform at the Empire State Building , the Top of the Rock, the MoMA and any type of entertainment (save it for another time), you can have a budget in NYC of around $50 USD per day (if you travel with a buddy) or if you stay in hostel dorms .

If you’re a traveling digital nomad , check out our favorite laptop-friendly NYC cafes where you can spend time in cafes with WiFi and sometimes even a backyard or two.

If you’re a coffee fanatic, we’ve already listed our favorite cafes in Brooklyn , which make for a great way to venture into different areas, for coffee. Lastly, bookmark our guide to safety and avoiding crime in NYC , which will be very helpful indeed.

A few budget hacks for traveling in NYC on the cheap and not breaking the bank are these following tips:

• Stay in a hostel-hotel like The Local , which books up fast, but plan ahead! They’ve got coworking space, rooftop views, a cool cafe-bar with friendly staff and clean, quiet shared rooms and privates.
• Skip the paid attractions and opt for walking endlessly through NYC’s many neighborhoods like the gorgeous and walkable Brooklyn Heights and ethnic enclaves. Check out Coney Island, Jackson Heights, Flushing Chinatown and Little Italy of the Bronx (Arthur Avenue) and ‘pass’ on those lists of hot restaurants that ‘every visitor to NYC must visit.’
• Take the subway and buses, always. This is the best way to get around New York, and if you opt for an unlimited weekly subway card, it’ll pay for itself in only a few days.
• If you don’t want to hostel, Airbnb in one of Brooklyn or Queens’ outlying neighborhoods and get a feel what it is like to stay outside Manhattan (the center of it all, of course!). You’ll find the most affordable Airbnb options in Greenpoint, Williamsburg, Bed-Stuy, Ditmas and Forest Hills.

Nicaragua: Climb volcanoes and visit colonial towns

Nicaragua is a place that’s great for travel at any time of year and you can be sure that your budget will take you far.

From eating in markets for prices comparable to $2 for a vegan meal of rice, beans and avocado, to taking 2-day treks for around $70 with all-included guides, transport and camping for a night with Quetzaltrekkers, you can do everything you ever dreamed of in this Central American nation.

For beaches, don’t miss San Juan del Sur, the center of all backpacker life on the coast.

Take chicken buses, the quintessential Central American transport on old yellow school buses that have new lives in countries like Nicaragua, and sit next to locals, plants and sometimes… chickens.

This is the way to get around for around a dollar or less.

Ecuador: Enjoy high-altitude living

Ecuador might be a country you skip over in your mind. Did you know that its name means Equator in Spanish? Now you know why this country was named after its location, with the Equator running right through its middle.

What’s there to do in Ecuador? You can explore Cuenca, a beautiful colonial city, by foot, and see the birthplace of the Panama hat (yep, a bit of a mis-nomer).

For beaches, there’s Montanita, the hippie-dippie backpacker hub of the Pacific coast.

For museums, there’s the culture of Quito, the hilly capital, where you can climb a cathedral and look out at a rolling expanse of scenery before climbing down and exploring colonial architecture in the old quarter.

Lastly, get lost in Parque Nacional Cajas, named for ‘boxes,’ which will remind you of mossy scenes from Scotland.

Ecuador will give you highs and lows, from high-altitude cities where you really have to watch your health and how your body handles altitude high up, to the coast — Guayaquil and the lowlands.

There’s something for everyone, and the prices will not set you back much at all.

If we told you we wished we had more time in Lithuania, would you believe us? We were lucky enough to have a whirlwind tour if Lithuania’s top sights by traveling from Riga, Latvia, to Vilnius, Lithuania with Traveller Tours.

What we liked best was the mythical Trakai castle, the pastel walls of Vilnius’s Old Town, the bizarre Hill of Crosses and beautiful and medieval Kaunas.

Had we had a week to spend, we would’ve loved to see all of Lithuania’s historic and cultural sights, including more about its Jewish history, by renting a car and going around.

Check out how excited we got about Lithuania in our interview on the Voyages of Tim Vetter podcast .

What’s more is that Lithuania is the most affordable of the three Baltic countries — we stayed at a hostel on Airbnb for under $30.

Wondering how we decide where to stay? Check out our comparison of Airbnb vs Hostels vs Hotels .

Laos: Take an adventure

Laos is a diverse and often forgotten-about country bordering Thailand, China, Vietnam and Cambodia. Why go here?

Laos is interesting because it’s landlocked, and so many travelers arrive by land via China, Thailand, or Vietnam. Well, what’s there to do?

The fact that tourism is newer in Laos than it is in Thailand makes Laos a bit less discovered. And being less discovered means that it’s a great place to travel to avoid other tourists !

See Buddhist culture at its finest in Luang Prbang, where you can also explore exquisite waterfalls and nature.

See the stars and give night photography a try at night in places like Vang Vieng, and explore a city through its cafes in Vientiane.

For the adventurous, there’s the Plain of Jars (it’s weird) and Phonsavan with its temple ruins.

If you’re not afraid to get off the beaten path, while not spending a lot of your savings, try some time in Laos and you could be surprised at what this modest country has to offer its visitors.

You can stay in hostels in Laos at prices as low as $4 USD per night for a dorm bed, depending on the city or town.

Can you beat that?

We hope you got tons of ideas from this list about where to travel on a budget and save money on your summer trip this year.

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11 Cheap Places to Travel on the US Dollar

It’s never been easier to travel with almost no money . While post-COVID “revenge travel” has driven up prices in the short term, those are already starting to drop back down to pre-pandemic levels. And, with the spread of the sharing economy, plentiful cheap flights , and access to budget accommodation, getting away has never been more affordable.

If you’re an American, the strong dollar has made many places very cheap (or at least cheaper) to visit. While that’s not great for other folks, it is good for us Americans, as we’re getting the best exchange rates we’ve had in years. And although absolute prices are up, you’re still getting a ton of value right now.

While there are lots of great destination options, I wanted to list a few of my favorites. These are places I think are the most interesting, fun, and easy to get to, and offer excellent value for your money.

For a quick list, here’s a look at some of my favorite destinations where the US dollar does a long way (or longer than it used to):

Want more information? Here’s my full breakdown of 11 cheap places to travel on the US dollar:

Table of Contents

1. Costa Rica

5. argentina, 6. south africa, 7. cambodia, 8. south korea, 10. the united kingdom, 11. everywhere.

Costa Rica is my favorite Central American country. Though it’s one of the most expensive in the region, your money will still go far here. It also strikes a balance between budget-friendly and safe , while still offering plenty of amazing sights and activities.

In this magical place, there is a ton to see and do . You’ll find cloud forests, endangered turtles, incredible surfing, towering volcanos, epic white-water rafting , fantastic nature preserves, deep-sea diving, and some of the happiest and nicest people around.

And on the budget travel side, you’ll only need about $50 USD per day, if you use hostels and buses and cook your own food; you’ll also be able to do a few budget activities, like snorkeling or hiking trips. As a bonus, flights from the US are also very cheap. If you’re flexible, you can find round-trip flights for under $250 USD.

On a mid-range budget of $125 USD per day, you can stay in an Airbnb, eat out for all your meals, take the occasional taxi to get around, enjoy more nights out, and do more paid activities (like guided tours, surf lessons, and museum visits). In short, you won’t want for anything on this budget.

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to traveling Costa Rica !  

Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries in an already budget-friendly region. If you budgeted $25-30 USD per day, you would want for little. Hostels are just a few bucks a day, and you can get delicious street food for as little as $1 USD. (You can visit the country comfortably quite comfortably for $50-75 USD per day if you’re looking for more luxury.)

Be sure to spend some time in the hectic capital of Hanoi , and visit HaLong Bay when you’re in the north.

In the south, don’t miss the Chu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City (tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the war with the US). They offer an eye-opening look at the conflict.

For some adventurous activities, like canyoning and cliff jumping, head to Da Lat. If you’re looking for beaches, Nha Trang and Mui Ne should be at the top of your list!

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to traveling Vietnam !  

Not only is Romania an underrated destination in Europe , but it’s also a budget-friendly one. Bucharest is a modern, up-and-coming capital, and the entire Transylvania region is breathtaking. Brasov, my favorite city there, offers lots of history ( including the infamous Bran Castle, known as “Dracula’s Castle” ). Transportation is cheap, and both ridesharing and hitchhiking are common. It’s a huge country, too so you can easily spend a few weeks and still just scratch the surface. In fact, I love it so much that I used to run tours there!

Backpackers can comfortably enjoy their time here for as little as $35-40 USD per day, which is a steal in Europe. And if you want to splurge and stay in hotels, eat out more, and enjoy a few drinks, you can easily do that for under $100 USD per day (or less).

Now that Romania is a (partially) part of the Schengen Area and there are no border checks via sea or air, I suspect the country will become more popular. That means more people and higher prices, so don’t wait to visit!

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to Romania !  

While India has always been a cheap country, with the US dollar doing so well, it’s even cheaper! You can get by on as little as $25-30 USD per day — often less! Mouthwatering meals can be found for under $2 USD, and accommodation is just $5-10 USD per night, depending on where you are.

Even if you go for mid-range accommodation and food, you’ll be hard-pressed to spend more than $50 USD per day unless you’re staying at fancy resorts — and even they are quite affordable! While flights to India can be expensive, once you arrive, everything is a bargain.

Be sure not to miss the epic Taj Mahal , the laid-back beaches of Goa, the holy city of Varanasi , and sweeping metropolises like New Delhi and Mumbai.

Learn more and plan your trip with my list of the best things to see and do in India !  

Argentina is brimming with history, culture, wine, football, and outdoor wonders like Patagonia . It’s one of my favorite countries in South America. Its capital, Buenos Aires, is considered one of the liveliest cities in the world. (Most people speak English, which makes it easier to get around.) I’ve never drunk so much wine or eaten as much steak as I did here (which blew my budget, but it was worth it!).

The only problem is the rampant inflation, so prices are always in flux (especially now that their current leader is making some sweeping changes). But even with that, you can still get by on around $40-50 USD per day by staying in hostels and sticking to cheap and free activities like museum visits, hiking, and free walking tours.

Patagonia is the main draw here, offering stunning landscapes and world-class hiking. Nature lovers will also want to visit Iguazú Falls , the largest waterfall system in the world! And while guided hikes cost upwards of $450 USD for a multiday trek, that’s still super cheap considering it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I’m not a big hiker or camper but even I thought it was amazing!

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to Argentina !  

Safaris, wineries, mountains, and an endless coastline that is perfect for road trips. That’s South Africa. As a backpacker or budget traveler, this country is an amazing destination to visit as there are a lot of work opportunities as well as plenty of adventurous activities (and some great hiking) to keep you busy.

While it’s true that South Africa struggles with corruption and petty crime , it has a booming tourism industry and a growing backpacker and digital nomad scene. It’s an amazing place to road trip too.

With $50-60 USD per day, you’ll be able to enjoy the amazing beaches and laid-back lifestyle that makes South Africa so appealing. While there are definitely cheaper places on the continent, you’ll get a lot of value here.

Don’t miss hiking up Table Mountain or visiting the penguins when you’re in Cape Town . And if you’re looking for a world-class safari experience, head to Kruger National Park!

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to South Africa !

Cambodia is one of my favorite countries in the world. The people are so incredibly welcoming, and even after a long absence between visits , I still found it to be one of the best destinations in Southeast Asia: affordable, friendly, and safe.

Prices have increased a little over the years, but not by much (it’s still cheaper than Thailand). Backpackers can easily get by for $45-50 USD or less per day. Street food is cheap and delicious (Phnom Penh is an amazing foodie city), and hostels cost under $10 USD per night. You can travel across much of the country via bus for $20 USD too.

Plus, Angkor Wat is one of the most amazing historical sites in the world. It’s $37 USD to enter, but it’s a Wonder of the World and should not be skipped (a three-day pas is $62 USD, and I do suggest spending more than one day here).

Be sure to  also visit the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh for a sobering look at the country’s violent past. It’s heavy but necessary.

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to Cambodia !  

I don’t know why most people don’t talk about it, but if you want a cheap East Asian country with stunning countryside, South Korea is it. The country offers a lot of value!

When I went to South Korea a few years ago, I was stunned by how cheap everything was. Sure, it’s not as inexpensive as Southeast Asia , but compared to Japan or Europe, it’s quite affordable. With the South Korean won  at 1,309 KRW per USD and most everything costing only a few thousand won , I can’t imagine busting your budget here (unless you’re a huge foodie, because the cuisine here is delicious).

You can pick up bottles of beer at 7-11 for a couple of dollars. Hostels in Seoul start around $16 USD per night (hotel rooms start at $25 USD per night). Backpackers can get by for only $60-75 USD here.

Be sure to indulge in Seoul’s culinary scene while you’re here, and visit the Gyeongbukgung Palace (it’s the most stunning royal palace in Seoul). For a more luxurious getaway, head to Jeju Island for beaches and some fun in the sun. And if you want to learn about the country’s temultuous relationship with North Korea, take a guided tour of the DMZ .

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to South Korea !  

I confess, I was late to the party on Mexico . While I had visited some of the touristy areas, it wasn’t until recently that I finally explored beyond the resorts. And I loved every minute.

Mexico City is a world-class metropolis with amazing food and nightlife, Oaxaca has incredible historic sites and an abundance of delicious eateries (and all the mezcal you can drink), and the Yucatán Peninsula is perfect for road trips and swimming in secluded cenotes (sinkholes).

While the country gets a bad rap in the US (thanks to overzealous media coverage), it’s actually much safer (and cheaper) than people think. Travelers can get by on as little as $50 USD per day ($100-120 USD if you want hotels and not hostels), and flights from the US are often just $200 USD round-trip.

In short, it’s a great option for US travelers who are short on time but still want to explore somewhere fun, sunny, and cheap.

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to Mexico !  

In years past, the British pound (GBP) has been worth up to double the US dollar. That’s not the case anymore. Still struggling post-Brexit, it’s now worth just 20-30% more than the dollar. So, while the UK isn’t exactly a cheap place to visit, the weakened pound and strong dollar mean that now you’ll get a lot more value compared to years past. Backpackers can get around for as little as $75 USD per day by sticking to hostels, free museums, and cheap pub food. There’s tons of free things to do in London so you don’t have to break the bank here.

If you do want to splash out, skip-the-line tickets of the Tower of London are a must.

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to England and Scotland !  

A strong US dollar makes traveling the world much cheaper than it would be otherwise — especially if you want to head to Europe and visit some “traditionally expensive” destinations. And while a strong dollar doesn’t mean “free,” it can definitely help you travel longer or in more luxury.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity while you can. Because who knows how long the strong dollar will last?

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• InsureMyTrip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Cheapest Nicest: 10 European Cities to Visit on a Budget

Getting to Europe is expensive these days—by the time you're there, you might feel like you can't afford to do anything. Fear not, some of the cheapest cities in Europe can be just as exciting as a Venice or a London (some of the continent, and the world's, more expensive places to spend time). There's some equally beautiful tourism spots where you can get around much more cheaply. We've broken down some of the latest data to find the cheapest cities in Europe to visit in 2023. A coastal cosmopolis, snow-capped city, and more await without breaking the bank.

Note: you’ll notice some wonderful European cities missing from this list, namely Kiev in Ukraine . It has been tragically affected by the war in Ukraine, and should be avoided until safe to visit – until then, find out how to help the people of Ukraine right now.

Athens, Greece

This year’s Post Office City Costs Barometer ranked Greece’s historical capital as the cheapest location for an autumn city break in Europe, and noted that priced have dropped by 15 per cent since 2021. Hotels in Athens are of particularly good value, with plenty of small, family-run and boutique spots. According to the survey, two nights at a three-star hotel for two guests average $110–but super-central One Three One is steps away from Monastiraki Flea Market and goes as low as $68 per night, while guests will find balcony views of the acropolis at Hotel Adonis, which has a rooftop terrace and costs as low as $102 for a double room (breakfast included).

Lisbon, Portugal

While the pretty Portuguese capital is known for its award-winning restaurants , travelers can still dine out on a dime–after Athens, it’s the cheapest city for a three-course meal (averaging around $50). On the move, you’ll get change from a two-euro coin when buying coffee or a mandatory pastel de nata from Pastéis de Belém, a beer costs around $3 (putting London’s £6 pints to shame) and a $0.75 Viva Viagem card can save you up to half off tram journeys. For a place to stay, there are plenty of affordable hotels in Lisbon . We love Hotel 1908 , where smart rooms in one of the city’s most iconic buildings can be booked from $160 per night. Or you can save further by opting for an Airbnb. Some of the city's top trending Airbnbs, like this pretty apartment with a private balcony in Lapa , can be taken over for around $60 per night.

Klagenfurt, Austria

Klagenfurt is one of Austria’s most affordable cities to visit (main courses are around $7; the farmers’ market on Benediktinerplatz is a great place for local bargains), and its spectacular setting on the eastern bank of Lake Wörthersee makes it one of the most scenic, too. June is the cheapest time to go, before the summer crowds and wild swimmers descend on the waterfront.

Kaunas, Lithuania

Vilnius has long been topping lists of the cheapest places to go on holiday, but Kaunas to the west is even less expensive, and earlier this year was named as one of 2022’s European Capitals of Culture for its music, art and theatre. Its yearly CityTelling Festival hosts a wide variety of performances and exhibitions that place the city’s Jewish heritage centre stage, and access to most events is free, while four-star hotel rooms are as little as $75 a night. For the best views of the Baltic city, a funicular up Aleksoto Hill will cost just a couple of euros. The best bargain in town? Spurginė’s $0.92 spurgos (or doughnuts).

Riga, Latvia

According to the Post Office, Riga is one of the cheapest cities in Europe, coming in a close second after Dublin for culture and Athens for accommodation. Wind your way through the narrow alleyways of the charming Old Town, find €2 samsas for lunch at the central covered market located in converted Zeppelin hangars, watch free live music in Dome Square and see striking architecture such as the House of the Blackheads ($7 entry) and the medieval Swedish Gate. But one of the most underrated ways of seeing Riga is on the water–rent a paddleboard for just $18 on the banks of the Daugava River.

Berat, Albania

Like Puglia’s trulli or Chefchaouen’s all-blue buildings, Berat’s unforgettable white Ottoman houses are totally unique in their collective existence and visual impact. The simple, traditional rooms inside also provide a super-affordable way to stay here, as many are guest-houses or independently-run hotels, such as Hotel Vila Aleksandar or Hotel Mangelemi , both around $43 per night. Head up the steep cobblestoned streets to see the 13th Century Berat Castle (entry is free) and take in the ‘town of a thousand windows’ from the top.

Brașov, Transylvania, Romania

A cheaper alternative to Bucharest (which is still, by European standards, incredibly good value), Brașov is surrounded by the scenic Carpathian Mountains. A cable car up to the top of Mount Tampa costs just 20 lei ($4.20) for aerial views of the brick-red rooftops, whilst local tour operator Walkabout provide a free walking tour every morning at 10.30am, setting off from the fountain in Piata Sfatului. Pick up local delicacy kürtőskalács (a spit-roasted, sugar-covered ‘chimney cake’) to maintain your energy levels from the stall nearby.

Sofia, Bulgaria

Not only did Bulgaria take the lead (side by side with Turkey ) as cheapest all-round destination in Europe in the Post Office’s Holiday Money Report 2022, but the country is also home to some of the world’s cheapest ski resorts. Sofia, the capital, is just over 10km away from the Vitosha Mountains which provide impressive winter conditions for snow bunnies and cost a fraction of the price of resorts in France or Italy. Wine and Bulgarian beers are notoriously cheap, and downtown Sofia is known for its high-energy party atmosphere. Entry to clubs is seldom more than $13, with live DJ sets and late-night events at Maze or Culture Beat (which also has a great summer terrace for cocktails).

Izmir, Turkey

Travelers to Turkey can get great value for money. On Turkey’s Aegean coast, Izmir has resisted the price hikes of Istanbul and tourist traps of Ankara whilst preserving its 8,500-year-old Kemeraltı bazaar and ancient Roman agora. The historic sites and architectural relics coexist with cosmopolitan culture and traditional cuisine–try pide on the pier or baked potatoes with a choice of toppings at Atıştır Café. An hour out of town is Ephesus, an ancient city built by the Greeks and well worth a detour.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Whilst the transcontinental city of Tbilisi is the most expensive place to live in Georgia, by European standards it’s exceptionally affordable for holidaymakers. A cascade of new hotels have opened in the last few years, such as the lovely Guest House Lile with double rooms from $25 per night. Foodies should book a table at Barbarestan, a family-run restaurant with authentic recipes and local ingredients, where you can eat for around £40 each – not bad for somewhere given a nod by the crew behind the World’s 50 Best Restaurants .

This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller U.K. All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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The 12 Best Places To Go In August 2024

All products and services featured are independently selected by forbes vetted contributors and editors. when you make a purchase through links on this page, we may earn a commission. learn more, latifah al-hazza , contributor, forbes vetted.

T he best places to go in August allow you to enjoy a relaxing summer getaway without the swarming crowds. Throughout the month, weather is warm and there’s plenty of sunshine to be had, making it a pleasant time to hit the road. But traveling during August also requires strategy: You’ll want to avoid long lines and hard-to-get reservations.

If you’re looking for a sandy island getaway, Bonaire and Aruba avoid the hurricane seasons and maintain good weather throughout the month. August is also a perfect month to travel to lesser-known European destinations such as Milos and Bodrum, where getting lost wandering through charming beach towns is a must. Below, the best places to go in August 2024.

Where To Stay In The Best Places To Go In August:

• Chicago: The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection ; 21c Museum Hotel ; Hip Launching Pad Airbnb
• Virginia Beach: The Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club ; Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort ; The Pink House
• Aspen: Limelight Hotel Aspen ; Mollie Aspen : Modern Riverfront Condo
• Washington, D.C.: The Morrow ; Lyle Washington DC ; Luxury Escape AirBnB
• Sicily: Hotel Principe di Salina ; Médousa Bistrot & Suites ; Terre e Mare AirBnB
• Aruba: Aruba Ocean Villas ; Boardwalk Boutique Hotel ; Shoco Cabin AirBnB
• Belize: Cayo Espanto ; Gaïa Riverlodge ; Modern Luxury Cabin
• Bonaire: Delfins Beach Resort Bonaire ; Buddy Dive Resort ; Little Gem AirBnB
• Milos: Domes White Coast Milos ; White Pebble Suites ; Villa Eva
• Geneva: La Réserve Genève Hotel and Spa ; Hôtel Longemalle Genève ; Loft Airbnb
• Galápagos Islands: Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel ; Ecoventura ; Ocean View Airbnb
• Bodrum: Scorpios Bodrum ; Birdcage 33 Hotel ; Gorilla Suite Airbnb

Chicago skyline aerial drone view from above, lake Michigan and city of Chicago downtown skyscrapers cityscape, Illinois, USA

Chicago, Illinois

Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for a mix of big city activities and outdoor recreation

All-Star Attractions: Lollapalooza; Cubs and White Sox Games; Chicago Air and Water Show

What Not To Miss: Listening to jazz on the patio at Jazzin’ at the Shedd Aquarium; catching a movie at Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market

Where To Stay: The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection ; 21c Museum Hotel ; Hip Launching Pad Airbnb

There’s no better time to visit Chicago than in the summer. While this Midwestern city may be landlocked, nearby Lake Michigan and the Chicago River remain huge draws for visitors. Locals and tourists alike spend the summer months boating and partying in “The Playpen,” Chicago’s floating day party, or kayaking along the river. August is a particularly great time to visit, as the city’s largest music festival, Lollapalooza, is held at Grant Park. Sports fans can also catch Cubs and White Sox baseball games all summer long at Wrigley Field and Guaranteed Rate Field.

Where To Stay:

The LaSalle Chicago, Autography Collection : This upscale boutique hotel is in the heart of downtown Chicago and embodies early 1900s architecture. It’s located a few blocks from the Willis Tower and a 15-minute walk to Millennium Park.

21c Museum Hotel : Chicago’s 21c offers guests museum-quality artwork exhibitions throughout the year. Guests can peruse the work of world-renowned artists, take a free tour of the exhibitions, or take a stroll to the Riverwalk, just ten minutes away.

Hip Launching Pad Airbnb : This well-located three-bedroom apartment on the first floor of a two-unit building in West Town is within walking distance of Ukrainian Village, the Brewery District and many art galleries, cafes, and restaurants.

Virginia Beach

Aerial view of the Virginia Beach oceanfront and hotels looking south

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for an East Coast beach town getaway

All-Star Attractions: Atlantic Coast Kite Festival; East Coast Surfing Championships; Live! on Atlantic Summer Concerts

What Not To Miss: Trying an orange crush drink at Waterman's Surfside Grille; pottery classes at Jars of Dust; attending the Water Lantern Festival

Where To Stay: The Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club ; Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort ; The Pink House

East Coasters should look to Virginia Beach this August, when weather is warm and sunny, but not too hot. The Virginia Beach oceanfront has an expansive boardwalk that allows for bike riding, walking, roller blading and running all summer long. In particular, August offers a slate of fun festivals, such as the Atlantic Coast Kite Festival and the weeklong East Coast Surfing Championships, where some of the best surfers from around the world gather to compete. Live! On Atlantic offers nightly entertainment, the Oceanfront Concert Series happens every Wednesday and the city’s outdoor Beach Blanket Cinema takes place every Thursday.

The Historic Cavalier and Beach Club : Virginia Beach’s most historic hotel is also its most luxurious property. Here, guests can indulge at the city’s best spa, as well as enjoy three restaurants, a distillery and an indoor pool. Guests also have access to the resort’s exclusive beach club that features a clubhouse, an outdoor pool and beach access.

Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort : This hotel is located right on the beach and offers rooms with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. One of the hotel’s notable features, as well as a favorite among locals and tourists, is its rooftop bar and restaurant, Orion’s Roof.

The Pink House : This chic rental property is quite literally pretty in pink. It has three bedrooms and comes equipped with high-end appliances, an outdoor saltwater pool and, of course, a pink golf cart for use during your stay.

Sunrise hits snow dusted peaks of Maroon Bells while being reflected in lake below, along with Aspen trees in their full fall foliage display of golden colors.

Aspen, Colorado

Who Will Love It: Travelers in search of outdoor adventure

All-Star Attractions: The Aspen Music Festival and School; Aspen Mountain Yoga

What Not To Miss: A visit to the Aspen Art Museum

Where To Stay: Limelight Hotel Aspen ; Mollie Aspen : Modern Riverfront Condo

Aspen may be best known as the winter playground of choice for A-listers and jet setters alike, but this town also happens to be a very underrated summer destination. For culture lovers, the Aspen Music Festival and School offers daily classes, performances and seminars, and the town offers plenty of outdoor recreation. Whether you’re getting your zen on at Aspen Mountain Yoga or hiking the trails of Roaring Fork Valley, the weather here in August is superb. Aspen is also home to rejuvenating spas, world-class boutiques and outdoor movies, not to mention foodie hot spots like Matsuhisa, French Alpine Bistro and the patio at Ajak Tavern.

Limelight Hotel Aspen : Located in the heart of Aspen’s downtown, Limelight Hotel is a great combination of casual and chic. The hotel offers live music in its lounge along with museum-quality artwork throughout the property. QR codes are placed next to the art pieces for visitors interested in learning more.

Mollie Aspen : New to the Aspen scene, this stylish boutique hotel offers a calming retreat with Japanese and Scandinavian design elements. Rooms have views of either Aspen Mountain or Main Street.

Modern Riverfront Condo : This condo is situated along Roaring Fork, minutes away from downtown and the gondola, with spectacular views of the river. It comes complete with a fireplace, kitchen and riverfront deck.

Washington, D.C.

Washington DC, USA at the Jefferson Memorial and Tidal Basin during spring season.

Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for a city escape with both indoor and outdoor activities

All-Star Attractions: Summer Restaurant Week; Washington Nationals games

What Not To Miss: The International Spy Museum; a walk along District Wharf

Where To Stay: The Morrow ; Lyle Washington DC ; Luxury Escape Airbnb

America’s capital is jam-packed with both indoor and outdoor activities during August. History buffs can spend time at the National Mall, home to numerous historical monuments, while sports fans can catch a ball game at Nationals Park. With so many excellent museums, travelers looking for an air-conditioned reprieve will have plenty to discover at any of the Smithsonians, including the National Portrait Gallery. It’s also a great time to visit for foodies, who will be able to sample a variety of highly-rated restaurant menus at decent prices during the city’s restaurant week, which takes place in August.

The Morrow : Located in the city’s NoMa district, a few minutes from Union Market, The Morrow is themed around the train tracks it overlooks. The rooftop lounge, which offers epic views of the Capitol, is not to be missed.

Lyle Washington DC : Housed in what was once an Art Deco apartment, Lyle, located in Dupont Circle, feels more like a charming condo than a hotel. Its spacious rooms are light and airy, while the service here is warm and approachable.

Luxury Escape Airbnb : This dreamy one-bedroom apartment is located on the third floor of a 123-year-old Victorian home and has a private rooftop deck with a pergola. The rental also has a gas fireplace, solar powered black-out blinds and a washer and dryer.

Beautiful old harbor with wooden fishing boat in Cefalu, Sicily, Italy.

Sicily, Italy

Who Will Love It: Travelers in search of history and quaint villages

All-Star Attractions: The town of Taormina, where White Lotus season 2 was filmed; island hopping the Aeolian Islands

What Not To Miss: International Festival of the Arts; Festa del Santo Salvatore; Ferragosto

Where To Stay: Hotel Principe di Salina ; Médousa Bistrot & Suites ; Terre e Mare AirBnB

The island of Sicily has plenty to offer in the summer, with charming cobblestoned towns, hidden villages, beautiful coastal enclaves and historic sites. The weather in August is particularly excellent for a beach vacation. Lots of festivals are to be found here during August, like the International Festival of the Arts in Taormina, Festa del Santo Salvatore in Cefalù and Ferragosto, which takes place across all of Sicily and consists of a yacht regatta and a longboat race. The Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago in Sicily, are also worth a visit, offering outdoor adventures and remarkable views from every corner.

Hotel Principe di Salina : Located on the Aeolian Island of Salina, a short ferry ride from Sicily, this all-white hotel offers rooms with terraces that have stunning views of the Aeolian Sea. Cooking classes and boat trips are also available.

Médousa Bistrot & Suites : Situated on a hill in Taormina, this family-owned hotel was once a convent. Its lower floors were renovated to reflect a Sicilian villa; the family still resides on-site.

Terre e Mare Airbnb : This home on the island of Lipari overlooks the sea and has plentiful outdoor spaces nestled between lush vegetation. The entire place is eco-friendly with purified water, vegetable foam mattresses, recycled plastics and glass and photovoltaic panels to charge cars and bikes.

Aruba beach with pink flamingos at the beach, flamingo at the beach in Aruba Island Caribbean. A colorful flamingo at beachfront

Who Will Love It: Travelers craving the Caribbean Sea

All-Star Attractions: The Butterfly Farm; Natural Bridge Aruba

What Not To Miss: A kayak and snorkel tour with Aruba Outdoor Adventures; First Class Aruba airport fast-track service

Where To Stay: Aruba Ocean Villas ; Boardwalk Boutique Hotel ; Shoco Cabin Airbnb

Aruba rarely experiences the effects of hurricanes, making it a lovely destination to visit in August. The Caribbean island offers thrilling outdoor experiences, such as ATV tours in Arikok National Park, horseback riding, hiking and some of the best underwater life for snorkelers and divers. The island is also home to some amazing restaurants, such as Flying Fishbone, where tables are placed in the water, over-water dining at Pinchos Bar & Grill and Fred Royal’s three-and-a-half-hour intimate dinner experience. In August, the streets turn into a vibrant scene at the weekly Island Fest, while August 14 marks the Caribbean’s largest vow renewal ceremony.

Aruba Ocean Villas : Aruba Ocean Villas is home to some of the most stunning overwater villas and beach bungalows on the island. Each villa utilizes wood, marble and stone all handpicked by the owner and sourced from places like Brazil, Indonesia and Suriname. Breakfast is served in the villa with a chef cooking in front of you, in the pool as a floating breakfast or on the beach.

Boardwalk Boutique Hotel : This boutique hotel run by local twin sisters was once a coconut plantation. Today, the hotel has complimentary beach huts and sun beds where guests can order food on the beach served by The Ritz-Carlton. Its colorful casitas are the epitome of island vibes.

Shoco Cabin Airbnb : A nature lodge for true outdoor lovers, this rental showcases Aruba’s natural beauty. Guests can take a dip in the pool, go on a nearby hike, take a nap in the hammock or read a book by the fireplace. A car is recommended when staying here so that you can easily explore its surroundings.

Palm tree covered island in Belize just off the main coast, with calm blue waters.

Who Will Love It: Marine and nature lovers

All-Star Attractions: A visit to Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye

What Not To Miss: A helicopter tour over the Blue Hole; swimming in Shark Ray Alley

Where To Stay: Cayo Espanto ; Gaïa Riverlodge ; Modern Luxury Cabin

Belize offers a balanced mix of history, culture and outdoor activities. Explore the Mayan Ruins on the mainland before adventuring through the rainforest, followed by taking a helicopter tour over the infamous Blue Hole, a giant sinkhole off the coast of Belize. Swimming, snorkeling or diving in Shark Ray Alley and Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a must. Round out your trip by partaking in a cultural festival. In August, the country celebrates the Deer Dance Festival in San Antonio, where visitors can watch traditional dance rituals that imitate the hunting of a deer. Also taking place this month is San Pedro’s International Costa Maya Festival, one of the largest festivals in Belize, and the Tres Pescados Slam Tournament, where travelers can watch tarpon, bonefishing, casting and boat poling competitions.

Cayo Espanto : This luxurious private island resort offers bungalows right on the water and activities such as kayaking, catamaraning and paddleboarding. Guests can also opt to book private diving, snorkeling, fishing and sunset boat cruises from the island. Private meals are made-to-order and creatively served in different locations on the island each night.

Gaïa Riverlodge : Nature lovers will want to book this lodge, which is well-located for exploring the country’s natural wonders. The lodge sits at the top of Five-Sisters Waterfalls in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, surrounded by native birds and indigenous plant species.

Modern Luxury Cabin : This two-bedroom cabin is a hidden gem in the jungle, completely immersed in nature. A car is needed to visit nearby tourist attractions such as San Ignacio, the ATM Cave and the Xunantunich Maya ruins. The space is particularly great for a work-from-home getaway as it offers strong Wi-Fi with beautiful views.

The Colorful waterfront and harbor of Bonaire

Who Will Love It: Travelers seeking the island life

All-Star Attractions: Jibe City and Bonaire National Marine Park

What Not To Miss: Windsurfing; scuba diving; cactus liqueur; iguana soup

Where To Stay: Delfins Beach Resort Bonaire ; Buddy Dive Resort ; Little Gem Airbnb

Bonaire is a Caribbean island located outside of the hurricane belt, making August a wonderful time to visit. The island is home to the oldest marine reserve in the world, a dreamy destination for divers and those looking to get PADI certified while on the island. The tiny island also has a national park, Washington Slagbaai National Park, which is a perfect place for hiking followed by a dip in the sea. Foodies will love Senang’s sushi platter, Sebastian’s romantic over-water setting and Kite City food truck’s tuna burgers.

Delfins Beach Resort Bonaire : This waterfront resort offers studios, flats, penthouses and villas. It is home to a very large gym, a diving school and one of the best Japanese restaurants on the island. Delfins also has a private beach; the property’s beautiful tropical gardens can be admired while walking from your room to the shore.

Buddy Dive Resort : This resort is a haven for scuba diving lovers or those wanting to become certified. The resort has a classroom on-site, and dives take place right from the hotel’s dock. The resort is also home to Blennies, an oceanfront restaurant where shoes are optional and live Caribbean music fills the air.

Little Gem Airbnb : This one-bedroom Airbnb has a fully equipped kitchen and a dedicated workspace. It’s perfect for travelers looking to relax outside, as it offers a garden and a private outdoor pool.

Famous Sarakiniko beach on Milos island, Greece."n

Milos, Greece

Who Will Love It: Travelers who love discovering small beachy towns

All-Star Attractions: Sarakiniko beach; Plaka town

What Not To Miss: A tour of Kleftiko and the sea caves

Where To Stay: Domes White Coast Milos ; White Pebble Suites ; Villa Eva

Milos typically gets overlooked by its neighbors, but this charming Cycladic island has plenty to offer. The moon-like landscape of Sarakiniko beach is one of the most picturesque in the world, while Tsigrado beach is one of the most remote, requiring a ladder climb down a cliff and passing through a hole via a rope. The weather in August is perfect for strolling through the picturesque villages of Plaka and Pollonia or taking a boat excursion to visit the sea caves. August is also when one of the island’s largest and most important festivals takes place: Feast of the Dormition. Every evening until midnight, the streets are filled with dancing, singing and local delicacies. Foodies will love Gialos, a restaurant set on the waterfront that serves some of the freshest seafood on the island, as well as Sirocco restaurant, where fish is prepared in volcanic sand right next to you.

Domes White Coast Milos : This luxury waterfront hotel is the epitome of sleek. All suites come with a private infinity pool and sea and sunset views. A fine dining restaurant as well as a bar is located on the property.

White Pebble Suites : This boutique hotel located in Pollonia features architecture of the Greek islands and local materials such as marble, wood and polished cement. All suites offer beautiful coastal views.

Villa Eva : The spacious villa of this family-run property has four bedrooms, a pool, a BBQ set, a cabana, a patio and a large garden. Homemade breakfast awaits you on the veranda each morning. The owners are beyond hospitable and are always there to provide local recommendations.

Geneva skyline cityscape, French-Swiss in Switzerland. Aerial view of Jet d'eau fountain, Lake Leman, bay and harbor from the bell tower of Saint-Pierre Cathedral. Sunny day blue sky.

Geneva, Switzerland

Who Will Love It: Shoppers; chocolate lovers; watch enthusiasts

All-Star Attractions: Bains des Pâquis; The Flower Clock

What Not To Miss: Pregny Alp Festival; Pachamama Connexion Festival; swimming in Lake Geneva

Where To Stay: La Réserve Genève Hotel and Spa ; Hôtel Longemalle Genève ; Loft Airbnb

This vibrant European city comes alive during the summer months, and August in particular finds Geneva filled with outdoor music, open-air movies, lake swimming and numerous festivals. Lake Geneva provides a picturesque center around which all shops and activities revolve. Known for being the watch capital of the world, visitors can take a Geneva watch tour, visit the Patek Philippe Museum or admire the The Flower Clock. Festivals to attend this month include the Pregny Alp Festival, which commemorates Swiss culture, and the Pachamama Connexion Festival, which celebrates the connection between music and nature.

La Réserve Genève Hotel and Spa : This beautiful hotel has a safari theme and is home to three restaurants, a spa, outdoor and indoor swimming pools and a range of activities. The hotel also offers a summer kids program and a kid’s club.

Hôtel Longemalle Genève : Having undergone a renovation in 2019, this hotel offers four types of rooms in the heart of the city. The hotel is home to a Lebanese restaurant as well as a restaurant that offers seasonal dishes.

Loft AirBnB : Book lovers will fall in love with this spacious, centrally located loft duplex, which features an entire wall lined with books. A queen bed, sunken bath, living room, open kitchen and small garden can be found on the ground floor, while the lower floor has twin beds and a bathroom with a shower.

Galápagos Islands

View of the beach in front of Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island in the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Who Will Love It: Wildlife lovers and explorers at heart

All-Star Attractions: The Tortoise Center on Santa Cruz

What Not To Miss: Leaving a postcard at Post Office Bay on Floreana Island

Where To Stay: Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel ; Ecoventura ; Ocean View Airbnnb

Exploring the Galápagos Islands is a bucket list item for many travelers, and August is a great time to visit. In August, weather is cool and dry, allowing for comfortable exploration temperature. It’s also an active month for the wildlife, as this is the month the California sea lions and the Galápagos fur seals typically give birth and are nursing. It’s also when the celebrated Galápagos giant tortoises lay their eggs and when blue-footed boobies nest. Visitors can choose between a land-based visit or a cruise visit, which allows for entrance onto more islands.

Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel : Located on the island of Santa Cruz, the hotel is situated within steps of the beach. All rooms and suites offer shared or private balconies with hammocks. Yellow warblers can be spotted zipping across the mangroves from your window.

Ecoventura : This luxury cruise expedition offers two routes; volcanic wonders and beaches and bays. The routes allow travelers to explore islands they wouldn’t be able to access without a cruise, with an experienced naturalist pointing out the fascinating wildlife and flora.

Ocean View Airbnb : This one-bedroom ocean view suite with a private terrace is located in Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island. It offers all of the essentials but is most notable for its stunning sunrise views.

View of Traditional white buildings at sunset, Bodrum, Turkey

Bodrum, Turkey

Who Will Love It: Nightlife lovers; culture seekers

All-Star Attractions: Bodrum Castle

What Not To Miss: Bodrum International Ballet Festival; Bodrum Music Festival

Where To Stay: Scorpios Bodrum ; Birdcage 33 Hotel ; Gorilla Suite Airbnb

With stunning beaches, chic beach clubs and stylish hotels, Bodrum is a place to see and be seen. Not only are beach clubs in full swing during August, but festivals such as the Bodrum International Ballet Festival, which welcomes ballet companies from around the world, and the Bodrum Music Festival, which displays the prestigious works of orchestras and soloists, also take place during this month. For partygoers, some of the best beach clubs in Bodrum include The Bodrum Edition and Maca Kizi Beach, while Gumusluk Fenerci and Orfoz are some of the best restaurants for foodies.

Scorpios Bodrum : If you’re a fan of the original Scorpios Mykonos, the Bodrum location offers the same great ambience. Sumptuous amenities include ocean views, terraces, rain showers and an infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea. Guests can relax and recharge at the hotel’s ritual space, and music performances take place almost daily on the property.

Birdcage 33 Hotel : Having opened its doors in 2022, this hotel is perched on a hill surrounded by olive and oak trees with views of both the town and the lively marina. All stays include a welcome bottle of local wine, fruit platter, homemade Turkish Delight, daily a la carte breakfast and daily afternoon tea​ with a selection of sweets and cookies.

Gorilla Suite Airbnb : Located in the center of Bodrum, right along the waterfront, this Airbnb offers exceptional views of Bodrum Castle. The one-bedroom and living room suite also has direct beach access and is within walking distance of a pedestrian street that features many restaurants, shops and bars.

About Latifah Al-Hazza, Your August Vacation Guide

I am an Emmy Award-winning travel journalist and documentary filmmaker who graduated with journalism degrees from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (BS) and the University of Southern California (MS). I enjoy writing about all things travel, whether it's about a tribe in the Omo Valley or the latest luxury hotel opening in the Maldives. My first international flight was when I was three months old; since then I've traveled to over 55 countries. When I'm not writing, you can find me (still) traveling solo, with my parents, or with my 4 pound Pomeranian. In addition to Forbes Vetted, my work can be found in Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Travel + Leisure, Fodor's, INSIDER, CNN Travel, The New York Times, TimeOut , and more. I am also the co-founder (along with my mother) of Femscape Sojourns, a boutique women’s travel company. I currently reside between Virginia, Chicago, and Kuwait. Follow my adventures on Instagram @tifahtravels .

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7 of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia

Jul 10, 2024 • 6 min read

Start planning your route through Southeast Asia with our guide to the best places to visit Pakin Songmor / Getty Images

Traveling through Southeast Asia is a rite of passage for many backpackers on a budget, but this stunning region also appeals to adventurers and nature lovers too, with people coming back year on year. Whether you are learning how to drive a motorbike or heading out in scuba gear to dive with reef sharks, Southeast Asia offers fantastic experiences at a fraction of the price found elsewhere.

Leading with curiosity and patience will serve travelers well as they navigate their way through the region. There are many highlights, but the spots that you stumble upon are likely to be the ones you remember most fondly. To help you plan your route, and find your own favorite places, here are our picks of where to visit in Southeast Asia and what makes them so special.

1. Siargao, Philippines

Best for surfing 

Siargao is a tropical paradise known for its quality surfing, which includes the Cloud 9 break, regarded as one of the best waves in the world. Surfers can take a boat out to Rock Island or Daku, or ride the left reef break at Stimpy’s. Not quite ready for that yet? Surf lessons are available for all levels, then make time to see the island beyond the waves. 

Enjoy live music performances at local bars and cafes, such as the Extension or Strum , ride a motorbike out to the North to visit caves, or go to a yoga class and take an ice bath. Whatever you decide, expect to be welcomed warmly into the local community.

Planning tip: Base yourself in General Luna. By staying at least a week on Siargao, you'll be able to experience the best of the island and explore beyond the main town. 

2. Amed, Bali

Best for diving and snorkeling sites

Amed — a coastal area located in northeast — has maintained the local charm and warm welcome that initially made the island of Bali so popular. Snorkelers and divers in particular love it here because it's home to iconic dive sites like the Japanese Shipwreck – shallow enough to snorkel – and Jemeluk Bay, packed with colorful coral. From here, take a trip to Bali’s famous Gates of Heaven, Pura Lempuyan , to see one of the holiest temple complexes on the island. Sunsets here are stunning: go to Lahangan Sweet viewpoint or Sunset Point for views over Mt Agung , Bali’s highest peak. 

Planning tip: From Canggu , it takes about four hours to get to Amed by taxi. However, if you come from Lombok or the Gili Islands, the ferry is less than two hours depending on the season.

3. Cao Bang, Vietnam

Best for getting off the beaten track 

Cao Bang, in the north of  Vietnam , has some of the most impressive natural sites in the country, but without the crowds. Start at Phat Tich Truc Lam , a temple near the Chinese border, that offers wonderful views over the region’s rolling hills.  Ban Gioc Waterfall  – one of the most magical waterfalls in Southeast Asia and the largest in Vietnam – cascades over multiple tiers and can be visited on a boat trip or bamboo raft. The nearby Nguom Ngao Cave  system extends for several kilometers underground, and is home to many breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites. 

Planning tip: This is a place to get a glimpse of true rural Vietnamese culture, so be prepared to taste dishes you've never heard of and expect to rely on Google Translate to help you with communicating. Even though it is far off the typical backpacker route (for now), Cao Bang is very safe and has great infrastructure for visitors. It takes about six hours from Hanoi by car.

4. Khao Sok National Park, Thailand 

Best for animal lovers 

Khao Sok is a stunning national park that is home to hundreds of animal species including bears, monkeys, leopards and wild elephants. If you're lucky, you can see them wandering around on a safari or boat trip. Located just a few hours north of Krabi , Khao Sok National Park also boasts ATV tours, cave trekking, and Elephant Hills , a sanctuary where rescued elephants are allowed to roam freely in the nature park. 

Chiaw Lan Lake ’s limestone cliffs and dense rainforest will make you feel like you've been transported to another planet. For the ultimate experience, book a night on the lake in a floating bungalow where you can soak in the park's natural beauty from late-night stargazing to a sunrise safari.

5. Luang Prabang, Laos

Best for Buddhist culture

The former royal capital of Laos , Luang Prabang , is nestled in a valley in the north. It remains an important site for Buddhist culture with its wonderfully preserved temples (wats) and other spiritual sites.

Those who visit are encouraged to participate in almsgiving, a centuries-old daily ceremony where monks collect alms from locals and visitors. Wat Xieng Thong is one of the most spiritually significant temples in Laos. It was built in 1560 for coronations, and is home to large mosaics and an elaborate library. Another important site is Phu Si , which translates to “sacred mountain” and is dotted with temples and shrines. 

Luang Prabang is also close to one of Southeast Asia’s dreamiest waterfalls,  Tat Kuang Si , made up of three tiers that cascade into natural pools of mineral-rich water colored milky white by limestone. 

Planning tip:  For those looking to delve even deeper into Laos’s natural beauty, Luang Prabang is a great jumping point to Nong Khiaw , a village known for its limestone cliffs and outdoor activities.

6. Penang, Malaysia

Best for history and culture 

Penang , Malaysia is a vibrant mosaic of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures, all of which are reflected in its food, architecture and traditions. 

The capital of this tropical island, George Town , manages to transform its heritage into something that can accommodate tourists all while tastefully maintaining its authenticity. In just one city, you can tour through Chinese clan houses, mosques, Hindu temples, and British Colonial buildings. 

Outside of George Town, Penang National Park is home to beautiful beaches and hiking trails through the jungle. Learn more about local fauna at the Tropical Spice Garden  packed with spices, medicinal plants and deadly natural poisons – guided tours are available.

Planning tip: As a general rule, it's wise for female travelers to cover their shoulders, chest and knees. While most sites do not require you to cover your head, you may want to bring a head scarf or sarong to enter certain religious or government buildings.

7. Gili Air, Indonesia

Best for relaxation

The Gili Islands — located between Bali and Lombok — consists of three small islets : Gili Trawangan , Gili Meno , and Gili Air . Each island offers its own, unique atmosphere, but for someone looking for peace, relaxation and serenity, they will want to linger on Gili Air with its strong focus on wellness. Motorbikes and cars are not allowed on the island, so visitors can lay back and truly relax on the white sandy beaches, with yoga classes and affordable spa treatments and massages.

One of the top attractions among the Gili Islands are the underwater sculptures, Nest , by artist Jason deCaires Taylor. This site is best enjoyed in the early morning before the crowds arrive, so be sure to book the earliest boat trip possible. There are also opportunities to scuba dive with the area’s many turtles.

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The 25 Best Affordable Places to Live in the U.S. in 2024-2025

When it comes to housing costs, these cities allow your paycheck to go further.

Best Affordable Places to Live 2024-2025

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When choosing a new place to settle, the cost of living is a major consideration. It's no surprise that a survey of more than 3,000 U.S. residents on the importance of various factors in determining where to live reflected rising consumer concerns about housing affordability and increased cost of goods and services. U.S. News weighted its value at 27% – making it one of the key metrics used to calculate the Best Places to Live ranking.

To pinpoint the most affordable places on the list, we looked at the proportion of the median annual household income that goes toward the average cost to own or rent a home, including the typical cost of utilities and taxes, as well as price parity, which compares the cost of goods and services across the country. Here are the Best Affordable Places to Live in the U.S.

25. Dayton, Ohio

24. tulsa, oklahoma, 23. kansas city, missouri, 22. mcallen, texas, 21. indianapolis, indiana, 20. rockford, illinois, 19. toledo, ohio, 18. south bend, indiana, 17. louisville, kentucky, 16. peoria, illinois, 15. lincoln, nebraska, 14. brownsville, texas, 13. omaha, nebraska, 12. lafayette, louisiana, 11. lexington, kentucky, 10. oklahoma city, oklahoma, 9. little rock, arkansas, 8. green bay, wisconsin, 7. montgomery, alabama, 6. hickory, north carolina, 5. davenport, iowa, 4. springfield, missouri, 3. wichita, kansas, 2. huntsville, alabama, 1. fort wayne, indiana.

Best Places 2024 Rank: 101 Population: 148,668 Median Household Income: $48,948 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 24%

Dayton is Ohio's Gem City, with a rich history in aviation. It's the hometown of Orville and Wilbur Wright and the current home to the Wright Brothers National Museum, and nearby is Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, among other aviation-centered facilities and attractions. An hour's drive from two larger Ohio cities, Cincinnati and Columbus, Dayton offers the perks of a midsize urban environment with the accessibility of a rural countryside. Residents benefit from a fairly inexpensive cost of living. Dayton ranks No. 29 out of 150 for the cost of typical goods and services as they compare with the rest of the U.S.

Learn more about Dayton .

Tulsa skyline, pond, and fountains

Best Places 2024 Rank: 76 Population: 418,792 Median Household Income: $67,688 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 24.4%

Tulsa is a bustling metropolis built on the banks of the Arkansas River at the crossroads of the Midwest, the South and the Southwest. T-Town hosts an abundant cultural hub with displays of its Native American heritage as well as its cowboy history. Route 66 cuts through Tulsa, bringing droves of tourists each year and pumping dollars into the local economy. The median price for a house in Tulsa is $196,837, well below the national average of $281,900. With a price parity ranking of No. 19, paychecks stretch a little further in Tulsa.

Learn more about Tulsa .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 52 Population: 510,251 Median Household Income: $75,108 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 23.54%

Missouri is the Show-Me state. Nowhere is that more true than Kansas City with its rich cultural history and fanatic sports scene. Kansas City sits right on the Missouri River and is home to a diverse population of people from all ages and walks of life. When this city's residents are not cheering on their Super Bowl-winning football team, they are enjoying some of the most affordable housing in the country. The median home price is $223,224, which accounts for Kansas City's No. 19 ranking for housing affordability.

Learn more about Kansas City .

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Best Places 2024 Rank: 48 Population: 144,296 Median Household Income: $63,239 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 26.14%

McAllen is known for its vibrant culture, scrumptious food scene and year-round warm temperatures. Located in the Rio Grande Valley of the Lone Star state, the tourism industry of this border town helps pump millions into the local economy. Residents also benefit from a fairly inexpensive cost of living. With housing costs that require 26.14% of the area’s median annual household income, McAllen is more expensive than many other cities that make the 25 Best Affordable Places to Live list, but the city ranks No. 4 when comparing the prices of goods and services.

Learn more about McAllen .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 66 Population: 985,607 Median Household Income: $69,145 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 22.66%

Known for its fast cars, walkable downtown and thriving sports scene, Indianapolis is where livability and affordability come together. The median household income is $69,145, which is on par with many of the other cities on this list. The median home price is $194,273 and the median monthly rent is $1,168. For a city in the Midwest that has many of the amenities that come with a major U.S. metropolis, these prices are hard to beat and give Indianapolis its No. 8 ranking for housing affordability, determined by dividing the blended annual housing cost by the blended median annual household income.

Learn more about Indianapolis .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 105 Population: 163,783 Median Household Income: $57,070 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 24.04%

Rockford is another small city with a big heart in the Midwest. Its claim to fame is Jane, the world's most complete skeleton of a juvenile Tyrannosaurus rex. Residents know it for so much more, including a bustling downtown and low cost of living. The cost of goods and services in Rockford is low, ranking No. 20 among the 150 top cities on this list, and it ranks No. 27 for housing affordability.

Learn more about Rockford .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 98 Population: 280,528 Median Household Income: $52,352 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 24.17%

Affectionately named the Glass City for its history in the glass-making industry, Toledo has all the big-city amenities of nearby metropolises Detroit and Columbus, minus the bustling congestion. Located at Ohio’s border with Michigan on Lake Erie’s Maumee Bay, Toledo's low cost of living is backed by a median rent price of $901 and a median home price of $104,937, well below the national average of $281,900; however, the median household income is also well below the national average. Residents enjoy local attractions such as the Toledo Museum of Art and Metroparks Toledo.

Learn more about Toledo .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 25 Population: 119,280 Median Household Income: $56,890 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 23.13%

South Bend is the home of the Fighting Irish at the University of Notre Dame . A day's drive from Chicago, South Bend boasts a lower cost of living than the Windy City and all the perks of a major college town. These perks do not come at the cost of safety, as South Bend ranks No. 3 on the list of Safest Places to Live in the U.S. In recent years, this Indiana city has enjoyed a revitalization without a steep rise in costs. Households in South Bend have a median income of $56,890, paired with a median monthly rent cost of $962 and a median house cost of $133,774. Taken together, the low cost of living and the energy of a spirited college town make an affordable and attractive combination. Ranking No. 25 on the overall Best Places to Live in the U.S. list, South Bend also ranks No. 9 out of the 150 cities on the list for its low risk of and high resilience to extreme weather.

Learn more about South Bend .

Louisville, Kentucky

Best Places 2024 Rank: 42 Population: 642,545 Median Household Income: $73,818 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 23.05%

Louisville is known for the Kentucky Derby, delicious barrels of bourbon and the famous Slugger baseball bat. Pronounced "Lou-uh-vull," loud and proud, this city on the banks of the Ohio River boasts a rich history and an affordable metropolitan area with plenty to do. The low cost of living is reflected in the median monthly rent of $1,137 and a median home price of $227,414, giving the Bourbon City its No. 14 ranking for housing affordability. Come to Louisville for the reasonable prices, stay for the mint juleps.

Learn more about Louisville .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 82 Population: 114,817 Median Household Income: $62,383 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 24.24%

“Will it play in Peoria?” goes the old saying. This was often asked among traveling entertainment troupes and reflects Peoria's position as a city with Midwest values. This central Illinois city has come a long way from that phrase but has retained its communal glow and attractiveness. Sitting on the banks of Peoria Lake, this city blooms with lively riverfront and entertainment districts and access to an international airport. Peoria residents enjoy an affordable cost of living. When it comes to the cost of goods and services compared with the rest of the U.S., Peoria ranks No. 14.

Learn more about Peoria .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 24 Population: 297,005 Median Household Income: $77,421 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 23.09%

The state capital of the Cornhusker State, Lincoln is another vibrant college town on this list. Home to the University of Nebraska -- Lincoln , students and residents make use of the city's thriving music scene, active community government and outdoor trails that connect surrounding parks. Lincoln ranks No. 15 for housing affordability, and residents benefit from an average 23-minute commute, with a rank of No. 7. Residents of Lincoln enjoy a median household income of $77,421, the third highest of the 25 places on this list.

Learn more about Lincoln .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 87 Population: 201,134 Median Household Income: $53,014 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 26.11%

Located at the southernmost tip of Texas, Brownsville brings together the cultures of Texas and Mexico with access to a major body of water. The Gulf Coast city's low cost of living draws from its robust local economy as a border town and tourist destination. Housing costs in Brownsville are still below the national median, but they’re the second-most expensive of the 25 places on this list. What makes Brownsville so affordable, however, is the fact that when comparing the cost of goods and services in the area with the other 149 places on the list, Brownsville ranks No. 1. This affordable town also ranks No. 15 on our list of Fastest-Growing Places in the U.S.

Learn more about Brownsville .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 18 Population: 544,284 Median Household Income: $85,942 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 22.60%

Omaha not only ranks high on this list, it's also No. 18 on the overall Best Places to Live list. Families and individuals enjoy the city's expansive public spaces, cultural hubs and education options. The Gateway to the West ranks No. 6 for housing affordability, with a median monthly rent of $1,252 and a median home price of $232,816. At $85,942, the median household income for Omaha is the highest of the 25 cities on this list. It might help that one of Omaha's notable residents is Warren Buffett.

Learn more about Omaha .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 84 Population: 140,524 Median Household Income: $74,172 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 23.77%

Lafayette is the fifth most populous city in Louisiana and offers all the lively jazz music, French-influenced culture and Cajun and Creole cuisines people come to expect from a city in the Pelican State. The parish of Lafayette, and the surrounding region, boasts a big corporate presence with the feel of a medium-sized city, both of which help keep prices low. Lafayette ranks No. 13 for the cost of goods and services among 150 top U.S. cities. Lafayette is a day's drive from both Baton Rouge and New Orleans, making it a prime spot to live for commuters to either of those cities.

Learn more about Lafayette .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 15 Population: 328,225 Median Household Income: $76,765 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 22.97%

Lexington can be found at the crossroads of the Midwest and South, with plenty of unique characteristics that make it a one-of-a-kind home for those who live there. Aside from the University of Kentucky as a claim to fame, Lexington is also a horse racing mecca and cultural hub for bluegrass music. A longstanding festival tradition is carried on at the Spirit of the Bluegrass, held the first full weekend in June at the beautiful Kentucky Horse Park. Residents of this central Kentucky city enjoy a housing affordability index of No. 13. This city's affordable cost of living and rustic, country culture has made it an inviting destination that ranks No. 15 out of the 150 on the overall Best Places to Live list.

Learn more about Lexington .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 16 Population: 681,446 Median Household Income: $74,604 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 22.8%

In the heart of the heartland rests Oklahoma City. The sprawling capital city of the Sooner State offers all the perks of a modern metropolitan area with the affordable cost of living residents come to expect from this area of the country. The median price of a home sits at $199,303 and the median monthly rent is $1,175, giving the city its housing affordability rank of No. 9. The distinct cowboy aesthetic is prominent and inviting in the Big Friendly, which helps Oklahoma City land in the top 10 of this list.

Learn more about Oklahoma City .

Little Rock, Arkansas

Best Places 2024 Rank: 53 Population: 209,061 Median Household Income: $74,013 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 23.29%

Despite its name, Little Rock is a big deal. Nestled comfortably in the curves of the Arkansas river, the City of Roses combines the booming energy of a big city with endless accessibility to the great outdoors. Hot Springs National Park, Ouachita National Forest and the Ozark Mountains are all within a day trip from downtown. Aside from the ample greenspaces, Little Rock is known for its affordability, where residents pay less for goods and services than other cities, with a price parity rank of No. 10, and for housing, with a rank of No. 17.

Learn more about Little Rock .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 12 Population: 111,006 Median Household Income: $63,931 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 22.58%

Green Bay is the northernmost city in the top 10. Its revitalized city center, nearby college campuses and energetic football scene makes this city not only lively but affordable. This affordability also helped Green Bay land at No. 16 on the Best Places to Retire in the U.S. list . Despite Wisconsin's high property taxes, residents enjoy low costs of living like a median monthly rent of $927 and a median home price of $180,066, leading to Green Bay's No. 5 ranking for housing affordability. With all the money they save on housing and amenities, residents can buy a share of the city's football team, the Green Bay Packers. They are the only NFL team owned by the fans.

Learn more about Green Bay .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 54 Population: 204,512 Median Household Income: $61,980 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 22.84%

Located in the heart of the Deep South, Montgomery is a major destination for anyone looking for high temperatures and a low cost of living. This city is steeped in history, with landmarks that date back to the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement. Its low housing costs give Montgomery its No. 10 ranking for housing affordability, and it ranks No. 12 for the cost of goods and services compared with other cities. Median monthly rent is $1,100 and the median cost of a home is $154,107, one of the lowest on this list. Safety is priceless: Montgomery ranks No. 2 on our list of Safest Places to Live .

Learn more about Montgomery .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 26 Population: 58,242 Median Household Income: $63,531 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 22.48%

Nestled in the rolling mountains of Appalachia, Hickory offers a small-town atmosphere that is seeing growth from larger metro areas within a couple of hours’ drive, including Charlotte and Asheville . With a bustling arts district, endless mountain ranges to roam and a notable stock car speedway, Hickory is home to many retirees and families, and is quickly becoming a destination for young professionals. The city's population remains under 60,000, giving residents a tight-knit community with the amenities of a bustling city but with attractive costs: With a median home price of $213,934 and a median monthly rent payment of $890, Hickory is ranked No. 4 for housing affordability.

Learn more about Hickory .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 43 Population: 101,979 Median Household Income: $67,197 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 22.92%

Davenport is one of the busiest cities along the Mississippi River, featuring casinos, lively breweries and America's largest truck stop - Iowa 80 - right next door. The city is between Des Moines and Chicago, sharing each city's enthusiasm but with a much lower cost of living. When it comes to price parity for goods and services across the U.S., Davenport ranks No. 7 out of 150 top U.S. cities.

Read more about Davenport .

Historic downtown Springfield, Missouri.

Best Places 2024 Rank: 58 Population: 211,147 Median Household Income: $56,310 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 23.61%

No matter what time of year it is, Springfield is home to festivals like the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival, Artsfest and Cider Days. Its lively traditions, coupled with a low cost of living, attract a new generation of Springfieldians to join the fun. Residents of the Queen City of the Ozarks keep a bit more in their pockets when paying for housing and regular items on a daily basis. With housing costs that require 23.61% of the area’s median annual household income, Springfield is more expensive than many of the other metro areas that make the 25 Best Affordable Places to Live list, but price parity for goods and services helps Springfield take the No. 4 spot. Springfield ranks No. 3 when comparing the prices of goods and services with the other cities on the list.

Learn more about Springfield .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 72 Population: 402,799 Median Household Income: $71,484 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 22.28%

Wichita, known for its aviation history and entrepreneurship, takes the No. 3 spot on this list. Located in south-central Kansas, the people of Wichita have created a fun, engaging city in the middle of the prairie with a low cost of living that can attract people from both coasts. Its median monthly rent is $1,097 and the median home price is $173,799, well below the national average of $281,900, cementing its No. 3 rank for housing affordability.

Learn more about Wichita .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 7 Population: 237,887 Median Household Income: $83,856 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 20.43%

Huntsville made a name for itself during the Space Race when NASA sent scientists there to design rockets that would help put man on the moon. Since then, this city's quality of life has soared while its cost of living has remained low. Housing costs are higher than some of the cities on this list, with median monthly rent of $1,226 and a median home price of $245,381. However, an above-average median household income and low cost of living mean Huntsville residents are keeping more money in their pockets to devote to other things. Just 20.43% of the median household income in Huntsville goes toward housing costs, the second-lowest on this list.

Learn more about Huntsville .

Best Places 2024 Rank: 20 Population: 324,953 Median Household Income: $71,507 Income Spent on Living Expenses: 19.56%

Summit City is known for its thriving sports scene, active community and prime location in the heart of the Midwest. The median price of a home in this Indiana city is $169,485 and the median monthly rent is $1,078. Fort Wayne residents enjoy a lower cost of living than those in other top U.S. cities and spend just 19.56% of the median household income on housing, making it the Best Affordable Place to Live in the U.S. in 2024-2025.

Learn more about Fort Wayne .

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20 Cheapest Places to Travel Around the World in 2024

Find your budget-friendly vacation in the U.S. or beyond.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

The travel bug continues to bite in 2024, and data indicates growth in both domestic and international trips, along with a cost increase for hotels and transportation. But don't worry as it’s still possible to take an economical vacation whether you want to travel near or far.

Kayak , one of the world’s leading travel search engines, shared with Travel + Leisure a list of domestic and international destinations for low-cost trips. To determine the most wallet-friendly locations, the company analyzed flight searches from July 2023 through December 2023 for travel during 2024. The top 250 most-clicked destinations with the lowest average combined flight and hotel price were considered, excluding outliers based on certain criteria such as travel restrictions and security concerns. Prices and percentages are on average and subject to change.

With that in mind, here are some of the most affordable places to travel in the U.S. and around the world in 2024.

Denver, Colorado

Brad McGinley Photography/Travel + Leisure

With an average price of $486 for flight and hotel, the Mile High City features a walkable downtown with restaurants, museums, entertainment, and shopping. Low-cost rail service from Denver International Airport to Union Station is not only convenient, but it also takes travelers to the historic Beaux-Arts terminal, where there’s an array of restaurants, stores, and a hotel. Visitors can catch a major league baseball game in town or a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre .

Chicago, Illinois

Cory Giguere/Travel + Leisure

In addition to its excellent restaurants, stunning architecture cruise on the Chicago River, and Navy Pier amusement area, Chicago offers museums like the Art Institute and the Museum of Science and Industry . For an average price of $493 for hotel and flight, visitors can enjoy low-cost fun on Lake Michigan’s beaches, the Riverwalk , and Grant Park . Another favorite is Millennium Park, where the gleaming Cloud Gate sculpture — nicknamed “The Bean” — provides a popular photo op. 

Atlanta, Georgia

Jackson Vance/Travel + Leisure

For an average of $495 for hotel and flight, vacationers can land in Atlanta, home of world-class restaurants and a lively cultural scene that includes concert venues, theaters, museums, and galleries. For a low-cost way to get to know the city, stroll among its murals and street art. You can also explore Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park , Centennial Olympic Park (which commemorates the 1996 Summer Olympics), the Georgia Aquarium , or Zoo Atlanta .

Minneapolis, Minnesota

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Kayak’s average of $503 for flight and hotel can be the start of an enjoyable affordable vacation in Minneapolis. A stroll through the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden at the Walker Art Center takes you through 11 acres of outdoor exhibits. Browse the 500-plus stores in America’s largest shopping mall, the Mall of America , or on a smaller scale, there’s the Midtown Global Market with food, crafts, and cultural events. Bike, boat, or jog at the Chain of Lakes Regional Park , or walk the enclosed elevated pathways of the 9.5-mile Skyway.

Portland, Oregon

paulacobleigh/Travel + Leisure

Plan around Kayak's average of $509 for hotel and flight, and you can enjoy Portland’s culinary offerings without breaking the bank when you head for the food carts . When in the Rose City, explore the free International Rose Test Garden , home to more than 10,000 roses as well as great views of downtown and Mount Hood. If you visit between March and December, browse the Portland Saturday Market for art, crafts, and food. Book fans will want to check out Powell’s City of Books , the largest used and new bookstore in the world.

Charlotte, North Carolina

espiegle/Travel + Leisure

You don’t have to be a car fan to enjoy the Nascar Hall of Fame , where interactive exhibits and racing simulators entertain and educate. Your $512 average cost for flight and hotel will go far with meals at The Market at 7th Street , an indoor food court. At Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden , spend a relaxing day among flowers, fountains, and walking paths. There’s more action at Whitewater Center , which has more than 30 land and water activities, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and more.

Orlando, Florida

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

For an average of $516 for flight and hotel, you can get to Orlando, where you’ll find there’s more to enjoy than the famous theme parks. Get to know the historic Winter Park area on a cruise among lakes, canals, opulent homes, and wildlife. Rent a pedal-powered swan boat at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando or stroll through Lake Nona Sculpture Garden , an outdoor art gallery set among lush landscaping. When you get hungry, browse and nosh on fresh fruit and local specialties at one of Orlando’s farmers markets .

Tampa, Florida

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Walk along Tampa’s 2.6-mile Riverwalk , visit the Tampa Museum of Art , hop on the Pirate Water Taxi , or tour the American Victory Ship . Save on these attractions and more with a Riverwalk Pass , making the most of the average flight and hotel cost of $534. At Armature Works on the river, you can grab a snack, shop, or enjoy the view. Take a walking tour of historic Ybor City, once the Cigar Capital of the World. Today, it's home to vintage buildings and Cuban restaurants.

Dallas, Texas

4kodiak/Travel + Leisure

For an average flight and hotel cost of $553, you'll touch down in Dallas, where you can get a bird’s-eye view of the city from Reunion Tower . Then, head to the Arts District , which is home to museums and Klyde Warren Park . Hungry? Food trucks are there every day, and you might catch some live music or a fitness class. Visit one of the many Dallas parks or experience Trinity Groves for dining, entertainment, and views of the Trinity River.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

The historic City of Brotherly Love offers museums, Independence National Historical Park , and public art such as the Rocky statue and Love sculpture for free and entertaining ways to get to know the city. For an average of $564 for flight and hotel, a trip to Philadelphia is also a delight for foodies. At Reading Terminal Market , there’s food from around the world along with vendors selling handicrafts. The open-air South 9th Street Italian Market ’s gourmet selection includes cheeses, meats, and chocolates — fun for both browsing and dining.

Mexico City, Mexico

Itzel Garrido/Travel + Leisure

For an average cost of $673 for flight and hotel, Mexico City offers an exciting getaway with museums, parks, restaurants, and history. You can spend a day in Bosque de Chapultepec , Mexico City’s largest park featuring a zoo, monuments, a lake with pedal boats, restaurants, and museums, including the Museo Nacional de Antropología . One of the city’s most popular museums is La Casa Azul , once the home of Frida Kahlo and now the place to see work from the artist and her husband, artist Diego Rivera.

Toronto, Canada

BrakeThrough Media/Travel + Leisure

Both locals and visitors enjoy St. Lawrence Market in the historic Old Town, where there’s fresh produce, handcrafts, and gourmet specialties. But for an average flight and hotel cost of $692, Toronto offers even more to see and do, from lively nightlife and sports events. Browse the street art in the Kensington Market neighborhood, explore the Queen Street West area, and check out the shops, galleries, and dining spots in the popular Distillery District . You'll also want to visit Casa Loma , a 1914 castle in the heart of Toronto.

Montreal, Canada

For an average flight and hotel cost of $705, your trip to Montreal might start with one of the city’s famous bagels. Still hungry? Head to the open-air Jean-Talon Market in Little Italy, which sells fresh produce, spices, chocolates, cheeses, and more. At the (free) Barbie Expo , more than 1,000 dolls in designer outfits are on display. Parc du Mont-Royal is a year-round attraction with row boats on the lake during the summer and stunning city views from the top of the hill.

Panama City, Panama

Anna Haines/Travel + Leisure

You can arrive in Panama City for an average flight and hotel cost of $745. First-time visitors will want to see the Panama Canal, and the Miraflores Visitor Center houses a museum and viewing platform. Browse or tour Panama City’s historic Casco Antiguo neighborhood, dating to 1673, with colorful buildings, restaurants, and nightlife. The Amador Causeway features views of the sea and city skyline, restaurants, an artisan market, and places to walk or bike.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Ana Alarcon/Travel + Leisure

For $836 for a flight and hotel, you can enjoy a sunny escape to Puerto Vallarta. This vacation destination has plenty of free and low-cost entertainment, plus you can manage your budget with an all-inclusive hotel. Stroll along the Malecón bordering Banderas Bay to see sculptures, music performances, and street vendors. Visit the Zona Romántica for restaurants, shops, and the popular Los Muertos Beach. Los Arcos National Marine Park offers swimming, paddleboarding, snorkeling, gorgeous scenery, and marine life.

Cozumel, Mexico

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You can get to Cozumel, off Mexico's east coast, for an average of $846 for flight and hotel, and once there, the beaches are perfect for kayaking, sailing, and water sports. Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park’s marine life and coral reef make it a favorite among divers and snorkelers. The Celarain Lighthouse at Punta Sur Eco Beach Park is popular with hikers who come for the view and visitors who enjoy the museum.

Vancouver, Canada

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Arrive in Vancouver for an average flight and hotel price of $863. One of your first stops in the city should be Stanley Park , an urban oasis with a nearly 20-mile seawall, views of the waterfront, walking paths, forest trails, and more — all for free. Granville Island , popular with locals and visitors, features boutiques, entertainment, restaurants, and an indoor public market . For skiing, ice skating, and year-round dining and entertainment, head to Grouse Mountain , which also has a zip line, a cinema, a wildlife refuge, and spectacular views.

San José, Costa Rica

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At an average of $904 for a flight and hotel, San José, Costa Rica’s capital, is an exciting destination with incredible architecture, history, parks, and museums. The National Theater of Costa Rica offers tours of its opulent building with marble statues and plush decor, and La Paz Waterfall Gardens , about 1.5 hours outside the city, includes a butterfly garden, bird sanctuary, rain forest hiking trails, waterfalls, and the largest animal sanctuary in Costa Rica.

Cancun, Mexico

Located on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Cancun is popular for its beaches, downtown, restaurants, hotels, and all-inclusive resorts. For an average of $935 for hotel and flight, you can arrive at Cancun International Airport for a sunny getaway. Explore Mayan ruins at Chichén Itzá , take the ferry to Isla Mujeres, or find a secluded beach at Playa Delfines. Look for street food and live music at El Parque de las Palapas, a small downtown plaza.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

For an average of $943 for flight and hotel, you can be in the land of the northern lights and Blue Lagoon . Iceland is home to the nearly 200-mile Golden Circle , where visitors can see waterfalls, geysers, volcanic craters, hot springs, and Thingvellir National Park . In downtown Reykjavik, there’s shopping and dining along Laugavegur, and the must-see Sun Voyager steel sculpture has gorgeous waterfront views.

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What Is Project 2025, and Why Is Trump Disavowing It?

The Biden campaign has attacked Donald J. Trump’s ties to the conservative policy plan that would amass power in the executive branch, though it is not his official platform.

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By Simon J. Levien

Donald J. Trump has gone to great lengths to distance himself from Project 2025, a set of conservative policy proposals for a future Republican administration that has outraged Democrats. He has claimed he knows nothing about it or the people involved in creating it.

Mr. Trump himself was not behind the project. But some of his allies were.

The document, its origins and the interplay between it and the Trump campaign have made for one of the most hotly debated questions of the 2024 race.

Here is what to know about Project 2025, and who is behind it.

What is Project 2025?

Project 2025 was spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation and like-minded conservative groups before Mr. Trump officially entered the 2024 race. The Heritage Foundation is a think tank that has shaped the personnel and policies of Republican administrations since the Reagan presidency.

The project was intended as a buffet of options for the Trump administration or any other Republican presidency. It’s the latest installment in the Heritage Foundation’s Mandate for Leadership series, which has compiled conservative policy proposals every few years since 1981. But no previous study has been as sweeping in its recommendations — or as widely discussed.

Kevin Roberts, the head of the Heritage Foundation, which began putting together the latest document in 2022, said he thought the American government would embrace a more conservative era, one that he hoped Republicans would usher in.

“We are in the process of the second American Revolution,” Mr. Roberts said on Real America’s Voice, a right-wing cable channel, in early July, adding pointedly that the revolt “will remain bloodless if the left allows it to be.”

A representative for Project 2025 said it did not speak for any candidate, adding that “it is ultimately up to that president, who we believe will be President Trump, to decide which recommendations to implement.”

What does Project 2025 propose?

Much of the plan’s nearly 900 pages detail extreme executive-branch overhauls. Among many recommendations, Project 2025 lays out plans for criminalizing pornography, disbanding the Commerce and Education departments, rejecting the idea of abortion as health care and shredding climate protections.

It calls out the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which includes the National Weather Service, as “one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry.” And it backs deploying the military “to assist in arrest operations” along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Beyond the policy proposals, something else comes up over and over again in the document — Mr. Trump and the Trump administration, which are mentioned hundreds of times.

What are Trump’s ties to Project 2025?

Project 2025 is led by the Heritage Foundation. It does not directly come from Mr. Trump. But that’s only part of the story.

Portions of the plan were driven by people who were top advisers to Mr. Trump during his first term and would most likely serve in prominent roles if he wins in November.

Russell T. Vought, Mr. Trump’s former budget director, led a section of Project 2025 that dealt with executive orders. Mr. Vought is the policy director for the Republican National Convention, and the national party is controlled by Trump allies. The party on Monday adopted a new policy platform that reflect priorities laid out on the Trump campaign website. Another person involved in Project 2025 is John McEntee, a former White House personnel chief who began Mr. Trump’s systematic attempt to sweep out officials deemed to be disloyal in 2020.

Mr. Trump has recently gone to great lengths to distance himself from the project, even falsely claiming that he knows nothing about it or people involved in it.

Mr. Trump wrote in a post on his social media site on Friday that he knew nothing about Project 2025 but also that he disagreed with parts of it: “Some of the things they’re saying are absolutely ridiculous and abysmal.” He did not specify which items he was talking about.

What are Trump’s plans for a second term?

The former president has been historically disengaged, even hostile, toward any type of transition planning for a possible second term.

But he has made no secret about his plans to gut civil-service protections, conduct the largest mass deportation effort in history, impose sweeping tariffs and target his enemies using presidential powers. His allies have developed a legal rationale to erase the Justice Department’s independence from the president, and several of his closest advisers are now vetting lawyers seen as more likely to embrace aggressive legal theories about the scope of his power .

Some of this, though not all of it, can be found in the Trump campaign’s own policy platform called Agenda47 . It is more sparse than Project 2025. And even though Agenda47 is his campaign’s official list of policy priorities, Mr. Trump himself rarely mentions Agenda47 by name on the campaign trail.

Mr. Trump won in 2016 in part by saying any number of things, some of them contradictory, about policy, letting different people hear what they wanted in his words. In keeping with that approach, the Republican Party platform released Monday presents a less-specific agenda he directly approved that he can point to. The platform reflects a softening on abortion — the issue he views as his biggest vulnerability after the Supreme Court’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade.

How do the Trump campaign plans and Project 2025 differ, and overlap?

There are a few ways the two plans differ.

One is on abortion. Project 2025 takes an aggressive approach to curtailing abortion rights, stating that the federal Health and Human Services Department “should return to being known as the Department of Life” (it was never known by that name) and that the next conservative president “has a moral responsibility to lead the nation in restoring a culture of life in America again.” Agenda47, however, does not mention abortion once.

Mr. Trump’s public position on abortion has regularly shifted. When he ran in 2016, he pledged to install justices who would overturn Roe v. Wade. He called the ruling that overturned it “a great thing” at the presidential debate this year. He also said at the debate that abortion rights should be decided on a state-by-state basis.

Despite the differences, there are numerous similarities. One overlap: eroding the independence of the Justice Department. Mr. Trump has frequently criticized the legitimacy of the department’s investigation into attempts to overturn the 2020 election. Project 2025 argues that the department suffers from bureaucratic bloat and must be reined in, teeming with employees committed to a “radical liberal agenda.” On immigration, Mr. Trump has made no secret of his plans to hold the largest mass deportation effort in history. Project 2025, likewise, suggested the removal of any and all “immigration violators.”

The campaign and Project 2025 also share equal demands to end diversity, equity and inclusion programs and the “toxic normalization of transgenderism” as Project 2025 calls it. In many rallies, Mr. Trump asserts he will “keep men out of women’s sports.”

On international policy, Mr. Trump and Project 2025 both emphasize a protectionist outlook, often called “America First” policies by the Trump campaign. Sections in Project 2025 and in Agenda47 both suggest higher tariffs on competitors, and increasing competition with China.

One of Project 2025’s proposals to turn more federal jobs over to appointees loyal to the president mirrors a Trump-era policy. The back story: During Mr. Trump’s presidency, he issued an executive order making it easier to fire career officials and replace them with loyalists. Mr. Biden rescinded the order, known as Schedule F , but Mr. Trump has said he would reissue it if he wins a second term. Project 2025 also calls for Schedule F to be reinstated.

What are Democrats saying about Project 2025?

President Biden’s campaign and his supporters have yoked Project 2025 around Mr. Trump’s neck, repeatedly warning that it is his shadow platform and that it is evidence of an extreme second-term agenda. They have called it an authoritarian blueprint in an onslaught of news releases, social media posts and TV appearances.

In a rarity for an in-the-weeds policy memo, Project 2025 has made its way into the wider public, drawing condemnations on late-night shows, podcasts and awards programs. Since February, @BidenHQ , the campaign’s social media account, has posted about Project 2025 hundreds of times, associating it with Mr. Trump. The effort has received more engagement than most of the account’s posts, according to a Biden campaign official.

“Project 2025 should scare every single American,” Mr. Biden said in a statement. “It would give Trump limitless power over our daily lives.”

Late last month, John Oliver, the host of “Last Week Tonight,” dedicated a nearly 30-minute segment to criticizing Project 2025 and dissecting its dangers; it received over seven million views on YouTube. Taraji P. Henson, the actress and Biden campaign surrogate, encouraged people to vote against Republicans in a speech at the BET Awards by focusing on Project 2025.

Elected Democrats, particularly those on the left, have used the project to highlight the dangers of a second Trump term. Liberal members of Congress like Ayanna S. Pressley of Massachusetts have taken to news programs and congressional hearings to highlight what they say is Mr. Trump’s unspoken platform.

At a June 11 hearing , Ms. Pressley called Project 2025 “a far-right manifesto” that would “destroy the federal government as we know it.”

What are Trump’s aides and other Republicans saying about Project 2025?

Last year, after Project 2025 gained traction in the media and the Biden campaign incorporated it as a core part of its messaging, top Trump campaign officials issued a statement.

Mr. Trump’s top aides, Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita, said in a December statement that unless indicated by campaign staff or the former president directly, “no aspect of future presidential staffing or policy announcements should be deemed official.”

Ms. Wiles and Mr. LaCivita have been continually frustrated with press coverage of Project 2025. They see much of it as potentially damaging in a general election. They are especially anxious about anything to do with restrictions on abortion, a sign that Mr. Trump is trying to appear more moderate on the issue as his focus shifts from the G.O.P. primary concerns of his base to the broader electorate in November.

Following the overturning of Roe, a decision put in place by conservative justices he appointed, Mr. Trump has grown ever more convinced that hard-line abortion restrictions are electoral poison. The new official Republican Party platform, which Mr. Trump directly approved, significantly waters down the abortion section compared with the 2016 and 2020 G.O.P. platform.

Beyond the abortion issue, many conservatives do not contest the radical nature of Project 2025, and they embrace the publicity.

Steve Bannon, a close Trump ally, told ABC News in late June, before he reported to federal prison to begin a four-month sentence for contempt of Congress, that Project 2025 would “take apart the administrative state brick by brick” as he brandished a copy of the report.

Michael Gold and Neil Vigdor contributed reporting.

Simon J. Levien is a Times political reporter covering the 2024 elections and a member of the 2024-25 Times Fellowship class, a program for journalists early in their careers. More about Simon J. Levien

Keep Up With the 2024 Election

The presidential election is 110 days away . Here’s our guide to the run-up to election day.

Tracking the Polls. The state of the race, according to the latest polling data.

Campaign Tracker. How the candidates are spending their time on the campaign trail.

Issues Tracker. Where Biden and Trump stand on abortion, immigration and more.

Trump’s V.P. Pick. Here’s how J.D. Vance won over Trump and became his running mate.

Can Democrats Replace Biden? While it is possible, it could lead to political upheaval.

Trump’s 2025 Plans. Trump is preparing to radically reshape the government.

Mass IT outage: here's a list of companies and operations affected

• A huge global IT outage is disrupting flights, banks, retailers, and media outlets.
• The widespread disruptions have been linked to an issue with the cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike.
• Operations affected include airlines in the US and Europe, supermarkets, and some 911 lines.

A mass IT outage has hit flights, banks, retailers, and media outlets around the world.

The issues appear to be linked to the cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike .

Microsoft also acknowledged the issue in an X update early Friday, writing, "Our services are still seeing continuous improvements while we continue to take mitigation actions."

Here are some of the companies and operations affected.

Numerous airlines grounded flights early Friday morning, including the big three US carriers: United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines. In statements, they all cited technology issues.

Delta and American had both canceled their ground stops by 7 a.m. ET.

A United spokesperson told Business Insider that it was holding all aircraft at their departure airports while it works to restore systems. "Flights already airborne are continuing to their destinations," they added.

American has blamed the issues on CrowdStrike, saying they were because of a "technical issue with Crowdstrike that is impacting multiple carriers," according to BBC News.

The budget airlines Frontier, Allegiant, and Spirit also issued ground stops which were later canceled.

Frontier's was issued on Thursday night. "Flight operations are currently being impacted by a major Microsoft technical outage," it said in a statement.

Spirit said it was unable to rebook affected customers because of the outage.

Disruption also extended to Europe. The continent's largest airline, Ryanair, advised passengers to arrive early as the outage caused "disruption across the network."

KLM also said it had to "largely suspend operations" as the outage made "flight handling impossible."

British Airways, Wizz Air, Turkish Airlines, Eurowings, Lufthansa, and Qantas were also among those who said they were affected.

According to a Facebook post from Alaska State Troopers , emergency lines in the state are also affected.

The post said: "Due to a nationwide technology-related outage, many 911 and non-emergency call centers are not working correctly across the State of Alaska."

"We appreciate your patience and will update you when we know more," the statement added.

The major UK airports Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton have reported issues, with some warning of delays and disruption.

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An X post from Gatwick Express , a train service for the airport, said the company was unable to access driver diagrams at certain locations, "leading to potential short-notice cancelations, particularly on the Thameslink and Great Northern networks."

A spokesperson for Belfast International Airport confirmed to BI that whiteboards were being used to handwrite flight information before systems were later restored. Whiteboards were also used at Singapore Changi Airport.

Hospitals and doctors' surgeries

Several hospitals and doctors' practices appear to have been affected by the outage.

In the UK, the NHS' EMIS system, which doctors use to book appointments, view patient notes, order prescriptions, and make referrals, appears to be having issues .

A spokesperson for the NHS told BI in a statement: "The NHS is aware of a global IT outage and an issue with EMIS, an appointment and patient record system, which is causing disruption in the majority of GP practices."

They said that long-standing measures were in place to manage disruption and that there was no known impact on 999 or emergency services, so people should use these services as normal.

"Patients should attend appointments unless told otherwise and only contact their GP if it's urgent, and otherwise please use 111 online or call 111," they added.

Two German hospitals canceled elective operations scheduled for Friday, Reuters reported.

NYCT Subway

Commuters in New York City and DC may also face delays Friday morning.

In an X post, the NYCT subway said: "Train arrival information is unavailable for A/B/C/D/E/F/G/J/M/N/Q/R/Z/Rockaway Park Shuttle/Franklin Av Shuttle due to a worldwide technical outage. Train service is unaffected."

The post said the tech outage also impacted Subway officials' ability to see train locations.

Broadcasters

Sky News also appears to have been hit by the outage. The UK news channel has been showing archive footage and briefly displaying an error message.

The news site appears to be up and running at the time of writing.

London Stock Exchange

The London Stock Exchange's website was also experiencing issues.

"RNS news service is currently experiencing a third-party global technical issue, preventing news from being published on www.londonstockexchange.com ," the company said in a statement.

"Technical teams are working to restore the service. Other services across the group, including London Stock Exchange, continue to operate as normal," it continued.

Retailers and fast-food giants

Bloomberg reported that McDonald's Japan suspended about a third of its stores in the country on Friday. The issue was with the stores' cash registers, the report said.

The grocery-store chain Woolworths told BI that some stores had "been impacted as a result of the global IT issue." All but six stores were open for business, but some had fewer functioning checkouts.

Delivery delays

FedEx and UPS are warning of delivery delays because of the outage.

In a statement on the company's website , FedEx said it was experiencing "substantial disruptions throughout our networks due to a global IT outage experienced by a third-party software vendor." The company said parcels due to be delivered on Friday might face delays.

A UPS spokesperson told BI that it continues to operate effectively but there may be some service delays due to third-party outage "impacting some UPS computer systems in the U.S. and Europe."

Some US state driver services are down

Drivers in some states are unable to access services because of the outage.

Georgia's Department of Driver Services posted on X that "due to the global Microsoft/Crowdstrike outage, DDS services are unavailable at this time."

Tennessee's Department of Safety and Homeland Security said some Driver Services Centers may not be able to process transactions, according to a post on X.

North Carolina's Department of Motor Vehicles driver license and plate agencies are also impacted and unable to assist customers, according to a CNN report.

Bloomberg reported that at the Ocean Park Marriott in Hong Kong, staff were using pen and paper to check guests in and said the outage was affecting their systems globally.

Marriott International later told CNN in a statement that "certain hotel systems" have been affected.

"We are actively working with our vendors to resolve issues that have impacted certain hotel systems," the company said in a statement to the publication. "We apologize for any inconvenience that guests may experience."

Watch: Global computer glitch grounds flights, knocks out 911

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