10 Affordable Travel Destinations

Affordable travel takes many shapes. Traveling abroad can be an enjoyable way to experience the food, culture, and ambiance of a new land. Many people dream of enjoying quaint shops in a foreign country or lounging on the beaches of a tropical island. Traveling abroad, though, can be prohibitively expensive for many people. Fortunately, there are locations around the world that are surprisingly affordable. If you have been bitten by the travel bug, check out these ten affordable international destinations:

1. Punta Cana

If you’re looking for a tropical oasis on the cheap, Punta Cana is an excellent choice. The open stretches of powdery sand are perfect for relaxing and letting the worries of everyday life drift away. If you visit during the early spring months, you’ll enjoy cool evenings and days filled with the sunshine without being sweltering. Of course, you might encounter a morning shower, but the rain disappears as quickly as it arrives.

Punta Cana might not be the right place for you if you’re looking for rowdy nightlife or a wealth of eco-tourism options. Instead, you’ll find a tranquil setting where you can amble through sleepy villages and enjoy the natural tropical scenery. This destination is perfect for a budget romantic getaway or enjoying family time. Horseback riding and scuba diving are among the most popular activities here.

United States currency is commonly accepted in Punta Cana. Thanks to an excellent exchange rate, though, your dollar will go far here. There are plenty of pricey, all-inclusive resorts; however, you’ll also find more modest accommodations for as little as $65 per night in the off-season.

2. Ecuador

The breathtaking views of the Andes and the lush landscapes of the Amazon jungle make Ecuador an ecotourist’s paradise. You could easily spend weeks exploring Parque Nacional Yasuni, a national park offering an incredible range of diverse fauna and wildlife. Throughout the park, which encompasses more than 9,600 square kilometers, you’ll find a wealth of lakes and rivers, swamplands, tropical forests, and marshes. Parque Nacional Yasuni is home to more than 500 bird species, as well as jaguars, pumas, and other native wildlife.

The villages offer a captivating glimpse into the lives of the locals. Spend a day wandering the narrow streets of Quito’s Old Town, where you can take in the restored colonial architecture and haggle with colorful street vendors.

Even in the main cities of Ecuador, you can live well without spending a fortune. It is reasonable to enjoy a full lunch in Quito for about $3. The bus system, which offers extensive service throughout Quito, costs just $0.50 per ride. Even accommodations are budget friendly as long as you stay away from the major resorts. You can rent a room in a guest house for as little as $10 per night. Modest hotel rooms start at about $30 per night throughout the year.

3. Peru

Many travelers visit Peru to see Machu Picchu; however, the country offers much more than this ancient Incan citadel. The urban landscapes of Lima are filled with festivals and bustling activity while just a short ride away are towering sand dunes, the lush canopies lining the Amazon River, and the cloud forests of Parque Nacional Manu. Whether you go for the festive revelry or the breathtaking landscapes, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Peru.

Organized tours can be pricey; however, there are plenty of opportunities for biking along jagged trails and gazing upon ancient villages without the high cost of a luxury excursion. Instead of joining an organized tour to see the famed floating islands of Lake Titicaca, for example, you can simply take a cheap ferry ride to see these totora reed islands on your own. When you must get out of the South American sun, pay a visit to Museo Larco, one of Lima’s most comprehensive museums of ceramic art.

Accommodations range from guest rooms and simple hotels to luxury resorts. If you don’t need pampering, you can find a comfortable room at a modest hostel for well under $100 per night. If you are willing to stay in a hostel, you can enjoy a good night’s sleep for under $20 per night. Dining is also quite affordable outside of the major tourist areas – you can enjoy the Amazonian chocolate, steaming stews, and ceviches of Peru for just a few dollars per meal. Ground transportation is relatively cheap, even if you are traveling long distances. Domestic airfare, though, can be costly.

4. Argentina

Like Peru, Argentina is a country with two distinctly different personalities. The cities of Buenos Aires, Bariloche and Cordoba each offer a blend of uniquely South American culture with modern conveniences and stunning early 20th-century architecture. The natural splendors of the countryside are as diverse as the personalities of Argentina’s cities – from the sprawling deserts to the mysterious rainforests; you’ll find plenty of scenery to explore.

If you’re spending time in San Telmo, you’ll want to head out on Sunday to experience the Fiera, an open-air market swimming with tourists and locals. You’ll certainly lose track of time as you browse antique crystal stalls, delight in the scent of freshly squeezed orange juice, and experience the music and festive flair of street performers.

You’ll find the best value for your money outside of Buenos Aires. A 4-star hotel in Cordoba will cost you just over $100 per night while more modest accommodations in Puerto Iguazu and Salta will cost about half that amount. Dining deals can also be found outside of the major cities – you can enjoy a traditional Argentine seafood dish or pick up delicacies from a street vendor for less than $10.

5. Croatia

Croatia might seem like a strange vacation spot to Americans, but it has remained on the “favorite destinations” for Europeans for years. The coastline, with its immaculate beaches and stunning views, is the star of this country. During the summer months, the beaches are lined with sun-worshipers soaking in the distinctly Mediterranean vibe.

Dubrovnik, with its glamorous nightlife and trendy vibe, is another major attraction for tourists. Watching the yachts dock or spotting celebrities while sipping a cocktail is an excellent way to experience the glitz of this city. For a tamer (and much less expensive) experience, though, head out of the city – you’ll find charming fishing villages, breathtaking coastal scenery, and quiet, family-friendly beaches. There are also plenty of wineries throughout inland Croatia that are well worth visiting.

Hotel rates are as varied as Croatia’s natural landscapes. In Dubrovnik and Hvar, you can expect premium prices for upscale hotels; however, there is also an abundance of rooms to be had for under $100 per night. If you’re truly on a budget, you can opt for a hostel for about $10 per night. Although celebrity chefs have infiltrated the culinary scenes of Croatia’s major cities, local cafes and restaurants offer exceptional food at reasonable prices. Keep in mind, though that a Croatian Phrasebook will be immeasurably helpful if you wander away from the main tourist spots.

6. Spain

When most people imagine of Spain, they picture the colorful flamenco dancers of Madrid and the festive plazas of Barcelona. While these locations offer a quintessential Spanish experience, they are but small parts of what makes up this diverse and storied country. Between overdeveloped coastal hotspots, you’ll find plenty of scenic Mediterranean coves to explore. The Sierra Nevada, with its towering presence over the sprawling plains of Andalusia, is a sight to behold. The varied Spanish terrain is also perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding expeditions.

Of course, the food of Spain lures countless visitors to this country. Tapas and Paellas are everywhere and are served by dusty cafes and award-winning restaurants alike. For excellent food on the cheap, skip the glitz of the celebrity-owned restaurants and head into Barcelona’s Old Town or one of the smaller cities dotting the country. You’ll not only enjoy inexpensive, memorable fare; you’ll have the opportunity to experience authentic Spanish life as you chat with the locals.

In less-traveled cities such as Cordoba and Segovia, it’s not uncommon to find 3-star hotel rooms for less than $60 per night. For a truly memorable experience, stay at a guesthouse and share stories with fellow travelers while taking advantage of rates as low as $15 per night. You won’t find roses on your bedside stand or chocolates on your pillow, but you will find personal experiences that will enhance your stay.

7. Jamaica

The powdery sands and gentle ocean waves of Negril’s beaches beckon travelers who want to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Caribbean without the high price tag of surrounding locations. Although you could easily spend your entire trip lounging on the beach, though, Jamaica has much more to offer. Step away from the overdeveloped resort areas and you’ll find tiny fishing villages well worth visiting, as well as wetlands where you can spot manatees and crocodiles. Diving is also a popular activity – the reefs of Ocho Rios provide some of the best underwater scenery you’ll find in the Caribbean.

Jamaica’s identity also differentiates the country from its island neighbors. Unlike many of the Caribbean islands, Jamaica has largely retained its African culture and influences. The African traditions are heavily reflected in the country’s distinct cuisine, which features seasonings and cooking techniques not found on other islands.

Modest air travel rates from the United States make this one of the more affordable Caribbean destinations for Americans. A stay at an all-inclusive resort will set you back about $300 per night; however, a room at a family-owned hotel will typically cost about $80 to $100. Many of the smaller hotels feature carefully manicured gardens where you can stroll for an afternoon and enjoy the relaxed pace of Caribbean life.

8. Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo offers a rich history that rivals that of many European cities. Founded in 1496 by Bartolome Colombus, the capital of the Dominican Republic is the oldest European city in the Americas. Most visitors know Santo Domingo best for the Zona Colonial, which borders the Caribbean Sea in the western part of the city. The churches and cathedrals, several of which date back to the city’s beginning, are excellent examples of colonial architecture. The sprawling hotels and casinos of El Malecon are worth seeing, if only in passing. If you’d rather enjoy an authentic international experience than seeing a McDonald’s, though, you’ll need to head outside of the tourist area.

At Parque Mirador Sur, you can enjoy families playing and sample a bit of the local culture. Bike rentals are available for wandering through the park and enjoying tropical breezes. For even more outdoor enjoyment, visit Jardin Botanico, a vast oasis that offers the opportunity to explore a rainforest and rejuvenate in a Japanese garden during the same visit. Of course, the sugary sand of Santo Domingo’s beaches is always nearby if you’d rather spend the day with a good book.

Santo Domingo’s dining options aren’t the cheapest you’ll find, but for about $15, you can enjoy a meal of fresh seafood, mashed plantains, and other Dominican specialties. Curiously, the locals are fond of Chinese cuisine and fried chicken – you can find both cheaply at one of the city’s “pica pollos.” In the business district and near the University, you’ll find comedores, which are cafeterias that offer full meals for about $8.

Moderate hotels in Santo Domingo typically range from $70 to $100 per night. If you’re planning to stay for a week or longer, an apartment rental will provide more space at a budget-friendly price.

9. Grenada

Grenada might not be the most popular Caribbean tourist destination, but if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway unspoiled by throngs of tourists, this tiny island might be the perfect spot for you. Many visitors are surprised by the sheer beauty of Grenada’s beaches and the amazing scuba diving opportunities just off the coast.

This largely undiscovered vacation spot doesn’t have the rowdy parties, large casinos, or celebrity-endorsed restaurants of other Caribbean tourist attractions. Instead, it offers friendly locals, picturesque villages, and a rainforest interior perfect for hiking.

Hotel choices aren’t as plentiful in Grenada as in other countries. There are a handful of all-inclusive resorts with prices that start at $200 per night and go on through the roof. A few moderately priced hotels in St. George’s offer rates of about $100 per night. Dining prices also vary considerably – places like Junction Bar and Grill offer entrees for about $7 while upscale venues offer steak, lobster, and other specialties for significantly more.

10. Belize

Can’t decide between a Caribbean getaway and a Central American jungle adventure? Belize offers the best of both. Belize is among the world’s most revered destinations for snorkeling and diving – the barrier reef is the second longest in the world and is home to more than 500 species of aquatic life. Kayaking, sunbathing and windsurfing invite visitors who prefer to remain above the water.

Inland, the ecosystem is no less impressive. In the forest parks and along the rivers, you can see a few of the 570 bird species that call Belize home. You might also spot toucans, crocodiles, spider monkeys, iguanas, and gibnuts. Belize is also dotted with ancient Mayan archeological sites, many of which you can explore up close.

Like most tourist destinations, Belize has its share of high-class restaurants and luxury resorts. Still, you won’t have any trouble finding a hotel room for less than $100 per night or a family-owned restaurant that won’t break your budget. Chicken, red beans, and rice are staples of the local cuisine and can be enjoyed inexpensively outside of the tourist areas of San Pedro. Keep in mind, though, that habaneros turn up in all kinds of dishes in Belize.

With the values available at these destinations, international travel doesn’t have to be out of reach. In some cases, you might even spend less than you would for a domestic vacation while still creating memories that a local destination can’t match.

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