While it may be easy to picture yourself sipping wine in Tuscany or laying out on your own private dock in Bora Bora, the reality is it’s a lot less easy to afford. The good news? Many lesser-known tourist destinations can give you the same dream vacation on a much smaller budget.
Here are 7 cheap travel destinations that will have you living like a queen, that you probably didn’t know about.
1. Zanzibar, Tanzania
Dreaming of the Bahamas? Zanzibar boasts a lively young crowd and buzzing nightlife on an island surrounded by perfect turquoise water. Not only can you easily find your own waterfront apartment for under $50 on Airbnb, you can also take a $35 ferry back to mainland Tanzania for a safari in the Serengeti or a hike on Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Also Read: 5 Must-Have Smart Tools for Your Next Trip
2. Siem Reap, Cambodia
As Thailand and Bali have become top tourist destinations, neighboring Cambodia is keeping its charm and remaining very inexpensive. For resort hotels at $40 a night, upscale restaurants, lush jungle trails, gushing waterfalls, and not to mention Angkor Wat, the largest religious temple in the world, visiting Siem Reap is a must!
3. Karpathos, Greece
Travelling Santori on a strict budget won’t get you far. However, the lesser known island of Karpathos is surrounded by white-sand beaches, covered in hillsides of wildflowers, and offers the same traditional Grecian architecture, culture, and tasty dishes at a much lower price point.
Also Read: 5 Must-Have Smart Tools for Your Next Trip
4. La Paz, Bolivia
If skiing the Swiss Alps is your dream, head to the Bolivian Andes where all-inclusive day tours to ski some of the highest slopes in the world will cost you a whole $70. The city of La Paz is rich in culture with local craft markets, in addition to a vibrant nightlife. Even during peak winter season, most five-star hotels are only $100 per night.
5. Montenegro
Many of us imagine ourselves sipping wine in Tuscany or a small French village, but imagine the same rolling green hills with a view of the Adriatic Sea. Oh, and your glass of wine cost a whole $3. While sharing a coastline with Croatia, Montenegro is both charming and cheap, and the vineyards are plentiful.
Also Read: 5 Must-Have Smart Tools for Your Next Trip
6. Mo’orea
While French Polynesia encompasses the famous islands of Bora Bora and Tahiti, it also is home to Mo’orea. Known as “The World’s Most Beautiful Island You’ve Never Heard Of,” Mo’orea offers the same lush forests and warm turquoise water at a fraction of the cost.
7. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
For the same cobblestone streets and a rustic European charm, the post-colonial city of San Miguel de Allende is a cultural highlight of Mexico. While a single bed at any European hostel can cost upwards of $40, an entire apartment in the heart of San Miguel costs an average of $30. With a flourishing arts scene, many lively festivals, and a tropical climate, this city is not to be missed!
Happy traveling, Queen!
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