Now is as good a time as any to start planning an epic trip for 2017. If a new year’s resolution includes saving money, don’t fret—there are a handful of countries that won’t put a crazy dent in any wallet, and still pack in all the adventure, relaxation, epic views, and tasty food that anyone with wanderlust could need.
Plus, here’s some extra good news: It is possible to travel to gorgeous place around the world for as little as $25 a day. Plus, with affordable flight options galore, there is no reason not to journey somewhere new. For a guide of countries that will be cheap to visit this coming year, and where to start exploring, we have you covered.
1. Vietnam
Vietnam, a Southeast Asian country nestled on the South China Sea, has it all for any traveler looking for diverse adventure while sticking to a shoestring budget. While still carrying its history from the American war 40 years ago, Vietnam is also rewriting a new reputation, filled with white-sanded beaches, glistening paddy fields, bustling cities, and revered pagodas. It’s will also be incredibly cheap to visit in 2017; the Phu An hotel is a crazy $14 a night in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, and only three miles from the airport. Make sure to spend time in Ho Chi Minh itself, a fantastic introduction to Vietnam with all the city sights, smells, food, and people watching one could need when exploring a new place.
2. Morocco
Morocco is an incredibly complex place, with influences from its French and Spanish colonial rule, to its deep-seeded Islamic culture. Sharing coasts with both The Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, and only an hour boat ride from Spain, there are many places to explore and reach within this North African country. For elevation junkies, head to the Rif and Atlas mountains. For a desert experience (that comes fully equipped with camels for tourists) head to the Sahara Desert. Check out the markets and mini palaces in cities like Fez and Marrakesh, too, before booking a room in the Riad Jomana—which is $19 a night, and only minutes from the Dar el Bacha Palace and Majorelle Garden.
3. Nicaragua
A great—and incredibly affordable—Central American destination is Nicaragua, which is among the least-traversed countries in the region. Still, its breathtaking landscapes of mountains, volcanoes, and rainforests make it a backpackers dream, and increasingly a number of yoga and surfing resorts and retreats are popping up on the coastline. Head to the city of Granada, which is bustling with colonial architecture set against Lake Nicaragua. Places to stay start at $15 a night. The Pacific coast offers rustic beach towns for the surfing crowds; head to Corn Islands for the white-sand beaches on the Caribbean Sea.
4. Nepal
Nepal has cultural depth, incredible sights, and an endless opportunity for good food and epic views. The Himalayas attract anyone from the hardcore mountain climber to simply a person who appreciates the stunning beauty of the towering mountains. (Nepal is home to eight of the 10 highest peaks in the world, including the incredible Mt. Everest.) There’s an array of treks for visitors of any fitness level. Or, stick closer to Kathmandu, and visit the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the holiest Tibetan Buddhist temples that is still standing despite the earthquakes that hit the country in April of 2015. Spend hours in the city’s tea houses, or try a yoga and meditation class. Plus, Nepal’s Dream Hotel and Apartment sounds like what it states: it’s $20 a night, close to the airport, and in the center of the colors and culture of Kathmandu.
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