July is a popular month for travel, but it can also be a costly time to hit the road. If you’re looking to stretch your budget further, consider visiting one of these affordable destinations:
- Vietnam: This Southeast Asian country is an excellent choice for budget travelers, with its low costs and beautiful natural scenery. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the peaceful rice paddies of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam has something for everyone. Accommodation is cheap, with a wide range of options available, from basic guesthouses to more luxurious resorts. Food is also inexpensive, with delicious local dishes like pho (noodle soup) and banh mi (sandwiches) available for just a few dollars.
- Thailand: Thailand is another budget-friendly destination in Southeast Asia, with a rich culture, beautiful beaches, and delicious food. Accommodation ranges from basic guesthouses to more upscale resorts, and the country is known for its cheap and tasty street food. Be sure to visit the ancient city of Ayutthaya, the stunning beaches of Koh Samui, and the bustling capital, Bangkok.
- Costa Rica: This Central American country is known for its stunning natural beauty and eco-tourism opportunities. From lush rainforests to beautiful beaches, Costa Rica has something for everyone. Accommodation ranges from basic hostels to luxury resorts, and the country is known for its affordable and delicious local cuisine. Be sure to visit the Arenal Volcano and the Monteverde Cloud Forest, both of which are popular with tourists.
- Colombia: This South American country is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and delicious food. Accommodation ranges from basic hostels to luxury resorts, and the country is home to a number of affordable and delicious local dishes, such as arepas (corn cakes) and bandeja paisa (a hearty platter of meat, beans, and rice). Be sure to visit the historic city of Cartagena and the stunning beaches of Santa Marta.
- Georgia: This small country in the Caucasus region of Eastern Europe is often overlooked by tourists, but it has a lot to offer. From the capital city of Tbilisi to the beautiful beaches of the Black Sea, Georgia has a rich culture and stunning natural beauty. Accommodation ranges from basic guesthouses to more luxurious hotels, and the country is known for its cheap and delicious local cuisine, including khinkali (meat dumplings) and khachapuri (cheese-filled bread).
No matter where you go, the key to budget travel is to be flexible and open to new experiences. By staying in guesthouses or hostels, eating local food, and using public transportation, you can stretch your budget further and have a more authentic travel experience.