Top 5 Affordable Countries to Visit on a Budget

Mention of international travel brings to the forefront of American collective mentality of glamorous trips through the luxurious Swiss Alps, exotic African Safaris, and classy European getaways. While certain locales in the world may prove difficult to visit unless you are in the upper echelons of the rich and famous, there are plenty of affordable and cheap destinations for travel. It is certainly not uncommon for people with limited disposable income to travel throughout the world on a budget. The locations may be off the beaten path; however, you will find hidden gems in these exotic locations, in other regions of the world.

The following are some incredible, inexpensive, and affordable trips that you can take while on a budget—and still enjoy an once-in-a-lifetime experience. Scratch that—if you get away spending less than US$500 for on-the-ground expenses for a week or even two (excluding airfare) during the whole trip, then international travel might not just be an once-in-a-lifetime experience for you. Rather, it can be quite frequent.

This Southeast Asian nation has topped the list for backpackers on a budget for decades. With cheap accommodation and even cheaper dining, this country practically beckons for people looking for an affordable vacation to visit. High shock value for those seeking the exotic ensures that you will have quite the story to share upon return. Beautiful beaches and breathtaking mountain views interspersed with pockets of bustling metropolises like the capital of Bangkok ensures that there is something for everyone—those seeking nature and those seeking urban.

Warm, friendly, yet distinct from Western culture, it provides many a sense of culture shock when visiting—and perhaps that is exactly what you want. Thai cuisine is one of the most diverse in the world, with many gourmet Thai fusion restaurants sprouting up all around the world. But here, in the birthplace of this cuisine, you can survive off of US$5/day for food—and it is guaranteed to tingle your tastebuds.

Whether you visit the backpacker enclaves of Khao San Road or Sukhamvit, the bustling city of Bangkok or its calmer urban counterpart in the north, Chiang Mai, you will be sure to have a great time. Plus, what can beat getting snorkeling and elephant tours at bargain prices?

In general, the whole ofSoutheast Asiais a budget traveler’s paradise. These nations are situated in an area with tropical weather, speckled throughout with hidden natural gems of beaches, lakes, and mountains. And thePhilippinesis no different. While it is perhaps one of the most underrated backpacking destinations inSoutheast Asia, it has recently gained tract among budget travelers. The tasty food, the amazing weather, breath-taking sights and the friendly people (who, as an added plus, speak English) are all more than valid reasons to book a ticket here the next chance you get. However, on top of that, the bargain prices should most definitely solidify that decision!

Composed of more than 7,000 islands (including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Banaue Rice Terraces, beach paradise getaways like Boracay and Cebu), the Philippines has perhaps some of the world’s most gorgeous natural beauty—and with the low prices, you should take advantage before the swarms of travelers make their way to these Pacific Islands.

Often referred to as the land of lakes and volcanoes,Nicaraguahas often escaped the international travel radar, given its proximity to the tourism-giant ofCosta Rica. For the most part, if someone were to travel to Central America, they tend to be drawn towards the tropical and surf image of its much wealthier neighbor; however,Nicaragua, too, boasts many incredible sights and sounds to experience—of course, at a bargain price, even cheaper than the already affordable Costa Rica.

Ecotourism, scenic sights, and surfing are some of the biggest draws of this tiny Central American nation. And because of its geographical size, you can easily navigate through the nation easily and cheaply. A few attractions include the quaint colonial city of Granada, the Ometepe Volcano situated in Lake Nicaragua, and the surfing beach town of San Juan del Sur.

And despite public perception of this country,Nicaraguais actually ranked with the lowest crime rate in Latin America, according to Interpol. It is the least visited nation in the entire region, but with all its unspoiled natural beauty and affordable prices, why not check it out yourself?

While this Andean nation is often overlooked by many in favor of its other South American neighbors such as Brazil for its beaches and Peru for its Incan ruins,Bolivia boasts many tourist attractions worth visiting—at a fraction of the cost of its much more expensive neighbors. Natural attractions are many, among which include the beautiful Andes mountains. Lake Titicaca is one of the world’s highest commercially navigable lakes and offers many breathtaking views. It is also home to the Uros, a pre-Incan people that reside on man-made floating islands on the lake. And perhaps, one of the biggest draws to this country is the Salar de Uyuni, the word’s largest salt flat.

Even though increased political instability in recent years and the relative lack of first class accommodations might at first deter you from deciding to visit this country, it is a country rich in culture and political history that is worth checking out. Moreover, it is a nation that prides itself on its indigenous culture, with the majority of the population that considers themselves of indigenous heritage. And at budget prices, you can experience all of this culture and nature at a miniscule fraction of a cost of a trip within theUnited States or Europe.

Because of the recent currency crash, Iceland has signaled the radar of bargain travelers, as you are now able to tour the nation for virtually half the price that it was three years. While it an off-the-radar travel destination as far as a European country goes—and you might be wondering to yourself “What would I see inIceland?”—there are a myriad of mind-blowing sites to experience and breath-taking views to see.

Perhaps the biggest draw to Iceland, the Blue Lagoon—the country’s famous geothermal pool—draws thousands of tourists annually. Regardless of the actual temperature, the pool remains warm for its visitors. As you relax in the milky-blue spa, which is fed mineral-rich heated seawater from a nearby plant, you can gaze onto the snowcapped mountain surrounding the pool as people nearby are covered in gooey white mud. It is reminiscent of the Twilight Zone.Another tourist attraction is the from September to April, the Northern Lights are visible, without nothing to impede your experience of these dancing colorful, awe-inspiring lights.

While it is much cheaper than it once was, it might still be a little pricey for the bargain hunter. It definitely doesn’t compare to any of the other countries on this list; however, if there were any time to visit this European nation of many natural beauties, the time is now, when its economy is faltering. It is much cheaper, but definitely not dirt cheap.