With the world slowly resuming normal operations, many people are considering where to go for their next holiday. If you’re looking to make the most of your travel budget, you may want to consider one of the cheapest places to travel in 2023.
From the stunning beaches of Thailand to the vibrant culture of Colombia, there are plenty of locations that present the perfect mix of affordability and adventure. While the destinations may be diverse, they all offer something unique and amazing that will leave you with unforgettable memories. So, let’s take a look at some of the cheapest destinations you can travel to in 2023.
Thailand
Thailand has become a hotspot for tourists again after the pandemic but you’ll be glad to know that popular locations will still be uncrowded. Visiting islands and beaches for leisure is typically more costly than travelling to mainland provinces, but it is possible to find great deals no matter what your budget is. You also can’t forget the amazing street food that you’ll be able to experience in their major cities
If you are seeking the most reasonable prices, you can find them in the northern part of Chiang Mai. It is a paradise for those who travel on a budget. Surrounded by rice paddies, Buddhist shrines, and hill tribes, you can find the most affordable accommodation that fits your average daily budget – ranging from a hostel dormitory bed (perfect for a backpacker) for £5 per night to a higher-end hotel featuring a pool for £30 per night.
Turkey
Currently, Turkey’s economy is in a precarious position yet is still one of the most lucrative prospects for travellers exchanging Pounds or Euros for the Turkish lira. Istanbul is an ideal place to begin an exploration of the country, but also a great spot for a city break due to its modern infrastructure and lower cost of living than most developed cities.
Situated between the Eastern and Western worlds, Turkey was the home of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires in the past and is now filled with Roman ruins, urban caverns, active bazaars, and a plethora of Mediterranean beaches.
Colombia
Colombia is a great place to visit in South America if you’re looking to travel on a budget, as it has a wide array of attractions to offer. It is home to both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts, the Amazon rainforest, and the beginning of the Andes mountain range. Plus, the urban centres of Medellín and Bogota are bustling and filled with life, and Colombian locals are known for their friendly and lively culture. Currently, against the pound or the Euro, it’s of great value. You can visit a local restaurant and purchase lunch (Starter, main, soft drink and dessert) for less than £2.
Albania
The coast of Albania is untouched, its capital city is unique, its Ottoman towns have been well-maintained, and its Alpine scenery is breathtaking. Exploring the intriguing past of this once-cut-off country, once referred to as the “North Korea of Europe” during the Cold War, is now possible as the nation is a developing democracy and travelling has become more convenient due to the improved infrastructure.
It is also one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe as you can find hostel dorms for around £8 or budget hotels for £20. You can easily book a cheap flight to this location with prices starting from £25 if you book in advance. You’ll enjoy Albanian cuisine, especially when lunch and dinner only cost anything from £1.50 to £3.
Mexico
Mexico, in Central America, is usually renowned for its sunny holiday destinations like Cancun, Cabo, and Tulum. Although the prices are reasonable in comparison to Miami or Hawaii, there are still more affordable destinations to visit in Mexico if you are looking for a truly inexpensive option.
If you are looking for a traditional, secure holiday destination, why not travel from Mexico City, through Oaxaca and take a trip to the Yucatan Peninsula? If you’re looking to save some money, go to Chiapas: it is packed with rainforests, waterfalls, and remarkable Mayan ruins and the travel expenses are some of the most economical in Mexico. You even have the option of visiting a historical place such as Chichen Itza which is an iconic archaeological site located in the eastern portion of Yucatán state in Mexico.
Argentina
Travellers from overseas who use currencies associated with the West will find Argentina to be particularly cost-effective. Its appeal lies in the fact that it provides a standard of living akin to that of Europe, yet its prices are far lower than anticipated. If you’re a tourist looking to get the most economical prices while in Argentina, it is recommended to pay the local currency (Argentinian pesos) that you would have exchanged at the “blue rate”. Alternatively, booking accommodations through international platforms will result in costlier prices.
The northern part of the country boasts the Andean and Quechua regions, in addition to the spectacular Iguazu waterfalls. There’s an abundance of culture to experience in cities like Cordoba and Buenos Aires. And no one should miss the Patagonia mountain region in the south, renowned for its snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and the opportunity to observe penguins and whales. It’s fair to say your itinerary would be full of things to do.
Cape Verde
This small group of islands located close to the African continent is not well-known, but it is a great place to go to during the winter season. Sal is reputed for its budget-friendly holiday packages, while Santo Antao is the place to be to experience the local culture and the stunning natural beauty of the environment. You can experience some of the most adventurous and memorable hikes and treks during your stay there, and the picturesque landscapes are simply breathtaking. When considering budget, safety, and infrastructure, Cape Verde presents an attractive option for travellers.
Vietnam
If you’re looking for a budget destination, Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Asia and is full of thrilling experiences. Beyond the usual itineraries, travellers ought to visit Ha Giang in the northern part of the country to experience its untouched beauty. Tam Coc offers stunning limestone landscapes and Phong Nha is a great destination for those looking to go on an exciting journey and explore caves.
You can save money by visiting a local restaurant or eating local delicious street food – you can get a meal for a few pounds. Hotel rooms in Vietnam are great value for money – for just £8, you can get a neat and cosy space to stay in. Backpackers and travellers on a tight budget will find Vietnam to be an ideal cheap destination.
Romania
Before visiting, many individuals hold erroneous beliefs about these nations situated in Eastern Europe. When they arrive, they realize that it is truly remarkable. The Transylvania region is a sight to behold with its charming medieval cities, age-old fortified churches, and impressive Carpathian Mountains. It is an ideal destination for a journey during spring or summer, but it is still captivating come wintertime with its low-priced ski resorts and castles blanketed in snow.
Travelling to Romania on a budget is no problem, with the average daily cost for a backpacker around £20 to £30. If you’re looking to treat yourself to a stay in a nice B&B, you can easily find one at a budget-friendly rate of £20 a night. Don’t overlook this hidden European gem when planning your trip.
Laos
Laos is often compared to Thailand without the influx of tourists. The nation is mostly unpopulated and mountainous, with 70% of the terrain being covered by forest. This makes it a great place for outdoor activities such as trekking, rock climbing, kayaking, zip-lining, and hot-air ballooning, all of which can be enjoyed at an affordable cost.
With improved local transportation networks, Laos has become more accessible recently while maintaining its quiet, rustic atmosphere. Therefore, this is the ideal moment to visit. If you are eager for a real experience and want to avoid the huge numbers of tourists, instead of going to Thailand’s beaches, travel to Laos.
Morocco
Morocco is situated very close to Europe and it is quite affordable to visit. The only challenge is avoiding the aggressive salespeople who are trying to make you buy expensive carpets and souvenirs! If you decide to take a guided tour, you should expect to pay a reasonable amount of money, however, if you opt to travel on your own, the costs are much lower.
If you are looking for an excellent place to stay that has a hint of opulence, you should think about residing in one of the renowned riads. These are standard hotels with internal gardens that provide a nice respite from the hustle and bustle of the urban streets.
