Affordable Adventure

All countries are acceptable in terms of price, but the airplane ticket is quite expensive. Don’t forget!!!

An international adventure might be your heart’s desire – you might dream of more landscapes, more cultures, more cuisines than you’ve ever seen… But, the fact is, actually making it happen can feel unreachable from Earth. How can anyone ever scrape together enough to journey half a world, or even halfway to a world? Well, you might be pleasantly surprised to learn just how many countries around the globe offer experiences to get your travel senses tingling, without breaking the bank doing it. In this epic guide, we’ll break down 10 destinations that offer a winning combination of adventure, affordability and/or culture.

1. Thailand:

Nestled in the heart of south-east Asia, a country where anything even remotely related to tourism inevitably invokes the term ‘on a budget’, Thailand is a destination where, even on a meagre budget, one might still expect a fruitful holiday. In Bangkok, the capital, one could afford to live a full day on downtown streets full of restaurants and food stalls stoked with some of the world’s most appetising food, set against the backdrop of ancient Temples and palaces, all affording themselves to travellers on a meagre budget, dwelling at hostel rooms or guesthouses.

Discover Thailand, the ‘Land of Smiles’, is a top family holiday destination with famous beaches, a wonderful heritage culture and buzzing cities. From Bangkok and its own canals, temples and bustling spirit, to Chiang Mai, with its trekking, and from the islands of Phuket and Koh Samui to the jungles of Khao Sok National Park, the possibilities are endless. Beautiful temples such as Wat Arun and Wat Pho can be visited and then street food consumed in lively markets or in the night bazaars, while your trek of the jungle should be a top priority. The long tail boats, infectious smiles and magical Thai greeting, ‘Sawadee ka’, will make Thailand an indelible travel memory.

2. Vietnam:

It’s no surprise that those in search of travel on a budget turn to beautiful landscapes, a long and tumultuous history, delicious food, and ridiculously cheap travel (and stay!) prices: in Vietnam, all these things are in abundance. Spend a few days exploring the rapid pace of life in Hanoi, another few lazily sailing the numerous limestone karsts making up the majestic Halong Bay, and then perhaps delve into Vietnamese history with a couple of days in Hoi An. Most budget travellers won’t complain about the accommodations available in Vietnam, nor will they about the number of great street food cheap eats available across the country. On top of which, transportation takes one option out of the equation: the aforementioned afforability.

Steeped in history and blessed with breathtaking natural beauty, the traveller to Vietnam is treated to a tapestry of timeless tradition and colourful cities that showcases mesmerising natural wonders and picturesque landscapes. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the breath-taking waters of Ha Long Bay and the breathtaking rice terrace of Sapa, Vietnam is a feast for the soul. Sip on a café sua da in the atmospheric old quarter of the capital, cruise through the Mekong Delta, or relax on the sun-drenched beach of Da Nang and Nha Trang. With rich cultural landmarks, warmth hospitality, scintillating cuisine and infinite choices of experience, Vietnam entice the world to come and visit.

3. India:

Its strong culture, varied landscapes and fascinating history all offer an abundance of unique experiences at a reasonable price – however modest the traveller. It’s the promise of beautiful palaces in Rajasthan, or small working villages on Kerala’s tranquil backwaters, drawing thousands of budget travellers to India every year. Tourists can traipse into ancient temples; they can sample an array of tasty street foods; and experience festivals and customs – all while staying in cheap guesthouses and dorms.

India. Freedom Logo. India. Such a diversity of contrasts, this place: pure poetry of place. Intricate and complicated: she proffers myriad visions, sensations, and enchantments. You smell the country first on the plane. Rich curries, rowdy spices. The Himalayas looming breaking the insanity of the smoky, muggy air above plain old hot India in the south. You notice the attention-getting gestures; and the epic wink of the jet-black hawk-like eyes. You hear the high-pitched banter, and see that everything is orange and silver and decorated with dash and daring. You will see the surprising evidence of unmistakable and confident power here, and all the evidence of India’s timeless antiquity and intricate and overwhelming modernity. This is a land that fascinates, inspires, and humbles; a country of temples, tigers, elephants, and journeying saints; an ancient mother earth and the youngest modern nation in the world.

4. Indonesia:

It’s a place that has cosmopolitan cities, beautiful beaches, idyllic retreats, pristine national parks and dense rainforests, and an abundance of cultural attractions and activities, scattered over 18,000 volcanic islands. One of the great advantages for long-term travellers of visiting Indonesia is that one can stick to a tight budget and still do virtually anything, branching out to some of the most exotic destinations and exciting experiences the country has to offer. Jakarta, Bali, Sumatra: Indonesia’s many sites are far more affordable than places with similar features such as Cannes, the Maldives or Papua New Guinea. The lodging, street food and means of transport – minibuses, taxis, trains and ski lifts to the beaches – are extremely cheap.

Indonesia is sought after as a global travel destination, with over a 17,000 islands, it provides an archipelago of tropical diversity – rich in culture, people, nature and landscapes. Indonesia is home to some of the best beaches of the province of Bali all the way to the larger more western islands of Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi and Kalimantan. The country’s marine views to tropical rain forests to the iconic jungles inhabit delicate ecosystems, boasting some of the most diverse wildlife left on the planet, from the rare orangutan to the largest lizard, the Komodo dragon. The beauty experienced in Indonesia is second to none, with its diverse culture, ancient ruins and monument like Borobudur temples, built around 750 AD, and the Prambanan high temple grounds seen in photographs across the island. And who can forget the beautiful hand painted batik that is rightfully regarded as a UNESCO heritage tradition. Indonesia will stimulate all the senses, with its warm climate, amazing hospitality and the diversity in nature and culture that captivates the imagination.

5. Nepal:

One of the great budget adventure as well as backpacking destinations in the world is Nepal. Hike in the Himalaya in the Annapurna or Everest regions, visit ancient temples and monasteries, or step back in time to one of the great sherpa villages and absorb some of Nepal’s unique cultural heritage. Stay in budget accommodation, gobble up inexpensive but delicious Nepali cuisine and bask in the unique Nepali hospitality. Nepal is one of the inexpensive places in the world if you want to go adventuring or backpacking.

Nepal lies towards the centre of Himalayas and a landlocked country.The multi-horizon of Nepal,Jan 2017 Nepal is a country of jagged peaks, verdant valleys and deep-rooted cultures. It sits amid the lofty peaks of the Himalayas, home to the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest. Nepal has become a major destination for trekkers and adventurers alike. Head to Kathmandu, known as the medieval city of temples, where you will find bustling bazaars and every port of call mixed together in an incredible medley we call ‘Nepali culture’. You might also head to the world heritage site of Bhaktapur, whose architecture is completely well-preserved since the ancient times. Don’t forget to pray at the birthplace of lord Buddha, Lumbini, which is at southwest of Nepal. Enjoy the serene lakes and pristine views of mountains at Pokhara, once the capital of ancient kingdom. With the rhythm and flow of brilliant tourism spots, Nepal is truly a tale of worthy travel.

6. Cambodia:

Cambodia is a cultural treasure trove, closely associated with the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex but containing many other cultural attractions. Stroll the atmospheric Unesco World Heritage town of Angkor Wat by day, then exploit Cambodia’s typically budget-friendly prices on local beers and rip-off-proof hostels. Next, head to the French-infused colonial town of Siem Reap to watch the sunset over the lit-up glory of Angkor Wat while nibbling on Khmer snacks. Follow up with a visit to the Angkor Thom temples, possibly one of the world’s most culturally rewarding day excursions. Finally, treat yourself to a few sunny days on a tropical island in Sihanoukville – where you too can lounge on a topdeck of an old cargo ship – all on a budget.

Cambodia: where abundant ancient temples and warm, friendly locals set the scene against some of Asia’s most exciting and scenic landscapes. Visit the temples of Angkor Wat, the site of the largest religious building in the world, leftover from a civilisation at the height of its power, which is now sanctuary to numerous devout Buddhists. Admire the detailed carvings and the intricately shaped roof of Angkor Wat’s towers, high on their original portholes. Visit Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh, filled with French colonial-era architecture amidst traditional Khmer surroundings. Pay a visit to rural Cambodia, home to lush emerald rice paddies and small, sleepy villages where you can indulge in the simpler side of life that Anthony Bourdain enjoyed so much.

7. Philippines:

Want to experience the tropical beauty of beaches with brilliantly clear water and punchy waves, and a people who smile and are friendly, and not break the bank? The Philippines can appear exotic, but if you travel here you’ll soon discover how easy it is to relax, and explore with hidden beaches to explore and snorkel in, corals to dive with big and colourful fish, and rice terraces to trek in, broken only by the pocket-friendly sums you’re paying. Filipino food is enticing – adobo being the go-to dish, with its combination of tangy-salty pork cooked in soy sauce and vinegar; cheap transport will literally take you almost everywhere, with buses and jeepneys viewing road rules as a ‘fair breeze in the sail’, and you’ll find plenty of free things to keep you busy.

With 7,641 islands and gem-like beaches, the Philippines is home to some of the world’s most stunning natural attractions. Dive in the clear seas surrounding Palawan, a landscape of white sand and coral, or in Tubbataha Reef, a Unesco World Heritage Site with a uniquely diverse marine ecosystem. Trek through the green and luxurious rice terraces of Banaue or take in the ingenious ancient Filipino engineering. Explore the colonial heart of the Philippines’ capital Manila, a city of museums where Spanish-era architecture jostles with glistening skyscrapers. Immerse yourself in Filipino culture wherever you go, through colourful festivals, traditional dancing and some of the world’s most indulgent cuisine. It’s a Filipino welcome fit for exploration, with an adventure to suit every taste.

8. Peru:

Peru holds ancient cultures, places of jaw-dropping natural beauty, and iconic monuments, all of which are a huge draw to budget travellers. Wandering through the historic centre of Cusco, trekking to the eerie ruins of Machu Picchu, exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and many other experiences and sights await. Budget travellers seeking value for their money can find reasonably priced types of accommodation, plus delicious Peruvian food at less than $5 per meal and inexpensive public transportation options.

Welcome to Peru, the land of ancient civilisations and natural wonders. Vibrant and diverse, this South American nation with beautiful beaches and tropical forests also holds historic Inca cities like Machu Picchu high in the mountains, and indigenous communities living in the landscape that surrounded them for centuries. People come from across the world to see the breathtaking ancient ruins; explore traditional villages in the Sacred Valley; and to experience Lima’s captivating colonial architecture, and the small cities and historic towns that offer a living memory of this epic country’s rich and ancient civilisations. Sample Peru’s world-famous cuisine, such as ceviche, succulent grilled chicken (pollo a la brasa), pork roast (roast suckling pig), lomo saltado, causa and charquican (a mix of stewed meat, corns, peas and potatoes). The choices are endless when it comes to exploring this exuberant country – hike the famous Inca Trail and explore the mystical city of Machu Picchu high in the Andes; float and explore the Amazon River, or the Ucayali river; or cruise down the Madre de Dios river, admiring the myriad birds and creatures along the way. You might opt to visit Peru’s colonial area and bustling city of Cusco, viewed as the capital of colonial style during Spanish rule; or to explore the enchanting city of Arequipa in the south, with its mestizo monuments perched statuesque amid colonial churches, small plazas and sand-coloured houses.

9. Morocco:

From palace hotels to boutique bed-and-breakfasts, soul-stirring souks to ancient medinas, sweeping desert dunes and gorges to mountain treks, Morocco is a sensory feast of history, culture and exoticism. And the stereotypes are largely well-deserved: it’s also affordable. With prices at all parts of the spectrum, Morocco is a popular destination for budget travellers in search of francophone frenzy without European price tags, or anyone craving a dose of the exotic. From scorching Saharan sands to serene surf swells on the Atlantic; ancient castles to cosmopolitan coffee bars, and Berber drumming to bellydancing, Morocco can fulfil almost any fantasy. Students can find their way into museums and monuments for free, while five-startime living is easily within reach. From three-course Moroccan meals with tagines, salads and bread for under £5 to basic beds that cost less than half that, even backpackers on a strict budget can live in style, or live it up by forgoing ‘budget’.

Morocco bursts with colours, themes and treasures. Come experience its exotic, cultural and historical highlights. Where the senses come alive. Where enchanting backstreets to stalls and souks allow you to be seduced by a different narrative. From the warmth of the souks and shops of Marrakesh to the ancient medina of Fes, is the home of artisanal crafts in Morocco. Your senses will revel in delight and amazement as you haggle for a bargain. Morocco is a land of trade; offering tea from the Rif to the Sahara, and past the Straits of Gibraltar and into the desert, all while listening to stories of Tarifa in Andalucía. Where the palm trees intertwine with the magnificent forts plunging into the deep inlands of the ocean, as the coastal silver lining of Morocco shimmers beneath a canvas of clear blue skies. Limited only by your time, Morocco offers up a rich kaleidoscope of experiences. From Casablanca to the imperial cities of Marrakesh, Fez and Meknes, to the sand dunes, oasis and the magnificent Atlas mountains. Let discover the wonders of Morocco.

10. Bolivia:

In the centre of South America is Bolivia, an adventure and culture paradise that will provide you with astonishing landscapes, diverse societies, authentic experiences, and plenty of ‘WOW’ moments at budget prices. The otherworldly landscapes of Salar de Uyuni; trekking in the Andean highlands; the Indigenous cultures of La Paz – all at bargain prices as you have budget accommodation options, cheap food, means of transportation, etc.

Landlocked and dotted across the heart of South America, Bolivia is a neglected nugget, full of natural and cultural wonders, arresting landscapes and remnants dating back to Inca times. Visit the out-of-this-world landscapes of the Salar de Uyuni – the world’s largest salt flat, where the white merges with the white of the sky to from a monumental, flat horizon stretching towards the vanishing point – and travel deep into the Amazon rainforest, in an area where humidity clings to you and dense jungle bursts with wildlife and indigenous tribes keep to their traditions in the heat of the jungle. In Bolivia, you can experience the colonial trappings of Sucre and Potosí, two beautiful cities from a bygone era full of beautiful buildings and colonial residues. From the peaks of the Andes to the depths of the Amazon, Bolivia offers adventure tourism at its best.

 Taking the road less travelled doesn’t have to mean poor health or facing financial distress. The only thing cheap travellers like me cannot afford is the stress of bankruptcy when they go on a journey. So painful, isn’t it? Nevertheless, I’m pretty sure they will confirm that ‘You can discover the wonderful world without spending a fortune.’ And there are so many places where you can do it. Angkor Wat temples in Cambodia could be one of your destinations. Or the summit of Mount Everest in Nepal. Or maybe the pristine beaches in Bali are up your alley? Wherever it is, pack your bags and go, travel, travel and travel. Enjoy the journey. You will.

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