In part two, I am going to show you some incredible places to visit that you might not have thought you could go. But the great part about all of them? They’re incredible and affordable. Who doesn’t want to travel to Greece and not overpay for the experience? If our first list didn’t satisfy you quench for travel, maybe some of these options will?
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik has an old-world charm. The city streets are paved with limestone, which gives it a cool feeling in the hot heat of the summer. You may not be able to make Dubrovnik a lengthy trip, but be sure to make a stop there during an Adriatic Coast excursion. Dubrovnik has some incredibly well-preserved homes and monuments that are must see. You will also want to see the stunning medieval fortresses, Lovrijenac and Bokar, which tower over the city.
Uzbekistan
Who doesn’t want to travel through Central Asia? I mean, it’s the ultimate adventure. The infrastructure isn’t quite there yet, however, they are slowly modernizing. But the scenery and culture there make it a must travel to place. What’s interesting about Uzbekistan is the combination of Persian and Soviet influence in the food and culture. There are some incredibly preserved religious sites in Samarkand and Bukhara. Why not sleep in a yurt, under the stars? Uzbekistan is also incredibly affordable, but you will have to pay $160 for the visa fee. That said, most hotels are under $100, except for the brand new Hyatt Regency Tashkent. But it might be worth the splurge.
Karpathos, Greece
A lesser traveled to island, Karpathos has a lot of the same allure and chic as Santorini and Mykonos. But with the advantage of lower prices. Karpathos is the second largest of the Dodecanese Island chain, which includes better-known Rhodes. Karpathos dates back to the 5th century BC, offering history buffs a way to have two trips in one, combining sun and sand with a step back in time. Ancient ruins can still be seen at Aghia Anastasia, while the island’s history can be studied in more detail in the Archaeological Museum. Beyond lounging on white-sand beaches, active travelers can choose from a selection of sports: fishing, windsurfing, snorkeling, scuba diving and sailing.
Moab, Utah
Moab is a great place to travel to if you’re looking to explore the great outdoors. If this isn’t your thing, then Moab isn’t the place the go. There are two national parks in this town — Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park, along with state parks and lots of recreational land all over. You can camp for free in many different areas around town, or there are also hotels and Airbnbs. If you like to camp, then like I said, you can camp for free in a beautiful place with a mountain or canyon view. In Moab, there is an endless amount of activities. You can go rock climbing, rafting, kayaking, explore the national parks, skydive, off-road camp and so much more.
La Paz, Bolivia
La Paz is the perfect destination for those looking for some kind of adventure while having the comfort of being in a bustling city. La Paz is surrounded by the Bolivian Andes but is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. You should visit during the winter season – May through October, especially if you like to ski. If you’re looking for a real adventure day tours to ski on one of the highest ski slopes in the world go for less than $70, which includes transportation and food.
Trujillo, Peru
Peru’s northern beaches are an excellent option for budget travel, and Trujillo is no exception. The vibrant coastal city is awash with warm-colored colonial façades dating back to its status as a colonial powerhouse, and it offers excellent cultural and adventure activities, as well as upscale restaurants that are surprisingly affordable ($10-15). Accommodations are also very inexpensive; for example, the four-star Costal del Sol Wyndham can run as low as $65. Trujillo is home to the former capital of the Chimú people, the behemoth archaeological site of Chan Chan. Its Spanish-influenced architecture and bohemianism were an inspiration for the illustrious author Cesar Vallejo, and it continues to keep traditions alive by hosting prestigious events such as the month-long Marinera Dance Festival.
Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca is one of the most beautiful destinations to travel to in Mexico. With colorful markets, charming architecture, cobblestone streets, fun festivals and delicious food, this is a definite place to put on your travel list. Stroll through Oaxaca’s main square, the Zócalo, and relax at a café, people watch and be entertained by dancers and singers in the evenings. Just a few minutes walk from the square is the Mercado Benito Juárez, where you’ll find embroidered goods and straw baskets. Continue walking the pedestrian street called Calle Macedonio, where you’ll find art galleries, cafes, shops and boutique hotels.
Barichara, Columbia
If you’ve watched any of the recent seasons of Narcos, you probably don’t think that Columbia is a place that you should travel. But it isn’t what you think. Columbia is also not usually thought of as a value destination, but due to the strong U.S. dollar, it has become one of the most compelling destinations in the world for those willing to travel off the beaten track. Travelers in the know are loving Barichara, one of the most beautiful small colonial villages in the Andes. Stay at Casa Barichara for under $200 a night and dine at El Carambolo, a quaint B&B rich with personality and the perfect fit for those searching for authentic, Colombian hospitality. Though not a typical tourist destination, Barichara is perfect for adventure travelers who enjoy activities like paragliding. A trip to Barichara can be paired with the town of Salamina, where travelers will find quirky architecture and a renowned coffee production, and/or the vibrant town of Medellin, which boasts music, museums, nightlife and friendly people.
Hurghada, Egypt
When people think of beach getaways, they rarely consider Egypt. And I mean, why would they? You think of the pyramids, don’t you? Tourism in Egypt has been down, due to the unstable government, shaky economy and terrorism. But, in spite of this, you shouldn’t fear going to Egypt. During the low season (spring), you can catch flights from the U.S. to Egypt for around $400-$600 then get a flight to Hurghada for around $50 or so roundtrip, depending on the date. Hurghada has coral reefs and beautiful deserts. A desert tour can cost you about $30. What’s remarkable: The five-star luxury hotels are so cheap.