In this expansive island we call home, we are blessed with many things. Cheap travel unfortunately, is not one of them. How many times have you said to yourself this winter “I want to go on an adventure!” And your wallet has responded “B**ch, where?”
The good news is, by using our discerning (read: fantastic) article on how to book the cheapest flights, as well as the information below, you can nab yourself a holiday that even your credit card will be happy with.
Here are five international travel destinations that are under priced and perhaps even undervalued.
Vietnam
Despite its rise in popularity in the last few years, Vietnam is still super cheap, as well as a beautiful country. It’s unspoiled and undeveloped, so perfect for those looking to explore an Asian country minus the high-rise hotels and animal cruelty. You can easily get by on about AUD$10 a day, including a guesthouse, local food, transport and a bit of drinking. In fact, a pint of Vietnam’s most popular brew, Bia Hoi, costs as little as one dollar.
India
Look, a spending spree in Mumbai’s designer shops, a stint at the Hilton and armoured car transport is going to put you back if that’s how you want to do India. However, if you’re okay even just doing first class train rides, boutique hotels and taxis, you’ll be hard pressed to spend a lot of money here and it’s possible to live like a Raj on 1,500 rupees a day, (about $30). In Delhi, you’ll find some of India’s best street food, but pick your stall wisely – make sure they look clean and if they’re busy it usually means the food is fresh, but it’s still a good idea to pack the buscopan just in case.
Bolivia
Bolivia is a relatively remote bolthole, being one of only two landlocked countries in South America (the other is Paraguay). You’ll find a cluster of museums and Bolivia perhaps boasts the best value food and drink in all of South America. For example, a bottle of Paceña beer generally costs less than $2 and a bowl of chairo (potato soup) about the same. Pack plenty of layers for when the sun goes down; although Bolivia generally endures hot and humid tropical summers, La Paz is surrounded by the Altiplano Mountains and so stays cool all year round – not mention the amazing Salt Flats. Just try not to get taken, unless you know Liam Neeson.
Greece
Okay, so this may be on the list because of their unfortunate economic circumstances, but you would be crazy not to take advantage of one of the most photographed countries in the world being on the budget list right now. Additionally, tourism is a major export for them, so its almost un-humanitarian not to help them out right now. Right? Right. While it’s still pretty pricey to stay on famous Greek islands like Santorini or Mykonos, pick a quieter Greek getaway like Paros or Skiathos and you can still while away the days in 28 degree heat, sipping ice-cold Mythos for about five to eight dollars a piece outside of the major clubs. If you’re all about pool parties, super-cheap drinks and shots that come with T-shirts, then Ios is the island for you. Just opt to stay in home-stay kind of accommodation. It’s not a hotel, and it’s not a hostel. Greece is littered with kind of like a bed and breakfast like situations that involve staying in a makeshift hotel wing of someone’s house – without having to book through Airbnb.
Ireland
Flight prices to Ireland have tumbled over the past few years, meaning you can get to this part of the other side of the world for less than you might think. Visit beautiful cities with amazing infrastructure and stay in hostels that could cost you as little as $10-15 a night. Alcohol won’t set you back to far, being able to grab a beer for usually around $5 wherever you go.
So there you have it. Just avoid organised tours and sneaky travel agents, and enjoy your winter travel expedition on a budget.