Hey there, fellow travelers! Anderson here, your economical explorer, ready to dive into another adventure. You know I’ve always believed that traveling doesn’t have to break the bank. After all, the world is too beautiful and life is too short to not see it because of budget constraints. Today, we’re going to explore the top 10 cheapest countries to visit in 2023. So, let’s saddle up and get ready to uncover these affordable destinations that will give you the most bang for your buck.
The Allure of Exploring on a Budget
Budget travel has a unique charm to it. It allows us to explore places, like national parks, lush forests, and other cheap places we might never have considered otherwise. Plus, it lets us immerse ourselves in the local culture more deeply. Remember when I was in Poland? I stayed in a quaint, family-run B&B, costing me just about $30 per night, and dined at local haunts where a hearty meal cost me less than $5. Not only did I save a ton in the capital city, but I also got to experience a side of Poland that’s typically hidden from the usual tourist gaze.
Picking Your Pocket-Friendly Destination
Choosing the cheapest country to visit requires some thought. You need to consider factors like living costs, accommodation prices, attractions, exchange rates, and cuisine. But fear not, I’ve done the heavy lifting for you. Here’s my handpicked list of the top 10 cheap countries to visit this 2023, just for you.
Guatemala: The Land of Eternal Spring
Estimated cost: $30-50 per day
Guatemala, known for its rich Mayan history, volcanoes, and vibrant markets, is a paradise for budget travelers in Central and South America. A stay in a mid-range budget but charming boutique hotel, such as the Casa Encantada in Antigua, can cost you as little as $60 per night. Traditional Guatemalan meals in local comedor are usually under $5. Don’t miss visiting the Tikal National Park and the Chichicastenango Market for a unique local experience.
Romania: Eastern Europe’s Hidden Gem
Estimated cost: $40-60 per day
Next up on our list is Romania, an affordable European country that offers rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Boutique accommodations like Rembrandt Hotel in Bucharest will set you back about $70 per night. A meal at a local cărciumă will cost you around $10. Be sure to check out the Peles Castle and explore the Transfagarasan Highway for an unforgettable road trip in such a vast country.
Bolivia: South America’s Best Kept Secret
Estimated cost: $30-50 per day
Bolivia, a South American gem, offers visitors an array of surreal landscapes from the stark white Uyuni Salt Flats to the lush Amazon Rainforest. For a comfortable stay, consider Hotel Rosario in La Paz, where hotel rooms can cost around $45 per night. A hearty meal in a local comedores can be as little as $3. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, visit the Uyuni Salt Flats and Lake Titicaca and explore their natural beauty for just a few dollars.
North Macedonia: An Affordable Balkan Wonderland
Estimated cost: $35-55 per day
North Macedonia, with its beautiful landscapes and captivating history, is a very cheap country to visit for those looking for an economical vacation spot in Europe. You can stay at a boutique hotel like Hotel Super 8 in Skopje for around $50 per night. The local kafana serve delicious meals for less than $10. Don’t miss exploring the Lake Ohrid and the Stone Bridge for their unique charm.
Honduras: The Affordable Heart of Central America
Estimated cost: $35-50 per day
Honduras is such an underrated country. It’s one of the few incredible countries that offers a rich blend of culture, nature, and history. Consider staying at Hotel Plaza San Martin in Tegucigalpa, with rates starting at $40 per night. Local food at a comedores rarely exceeds $5 per meal. The Copan Ruins and Roatan Island are must-visits in this beautiful country.
Albania: Europe’s Underrated Coastal Paradise
Estimated cost: $40-60 per day
Albania, a treasure trove of Ottoman architecture and pristine beaches, is one of the top budget travel destinations for 2023. A comfortable stay at a boutique hotel like Hotel Boutique Villa Fernando in Tirana will cost you around $50 per night. Dining at local restaurants or local taverns, known as lokals, is a gastronomic delight for any budget traveler that won’t cost more than $10 per meal. The Riviera Coast and Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are must-see places in this affordable country.
Paraguay: South America’s Offbeat Charm
Estimated cost: $30-50 per day
Paraguay, often overlooked, is one of the cheapest places in South America with unique music, craft, and gastronomy. For accommodation, consider staying at Hotel Westfalenhaus in Asunción, with budget-friendly rooms costing about $45 per night. A meal at a local comedor costs around $5. Make sure to visit the Jesuit Missions and the Itaipu Dam, one of the largest operating hydroelectric facilities in terms of annual energy generation.
Serbia: The Balkan Beauty on a Budget
Estimated cost: $35-55 per day
Serbia, with its vibrant major cities, charming villages, and warm hospitality, is one of the cheapest European countries to visit. In this amazing country, you can stay at a stylish boutique hotel like Zepter Hotel in Belgrade for around $60 per night. Traditional Serbian meals at local kafanas are usually under $10. The Belgrade Fortress and the Drvengrad are tourist attractions that are not to be missed.
Mexico: The Budget Traveler’s Dream
Estimated cost: $40-60 per day
Mexico, a country full of rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food, offers a fantastic value-for-money experience for those hunting for the cheapest destinations on a shoestring budget. Consider staying at Hotel Catedral in Mexico City, with rooms starting at around $50 per night. A scrumptious meal at a local fonda can cost as little as $6. Don’t miss the Teotihuacan Pyramids and the beautiful beaches of Tulum if you’re up for cheap travel destinations.
Latvia: Baltic Beauty on a Shoestring
Estimated cost: $40-60 per day
Last but not least, Latvia is one of the cheapest vacation spots in Eastern Europe with its fascinating history and stunning natural attractions. Boutique hotels like Neiburgs Hotel in Riga offer rooms for about $70 per night. A meal at a local tavern in this cheap destination won’t exceed $10. Be sure to visit the Gauja National Park and the Riga Old Town for an unforgettable experience.
Your Go-To Resources for Affordable Travel
To make your travel planning smoother, here are a few resources that I swear by:
- Skyscanner: For finding the cheapest flights.
- Booking.com: For affordable accommodation options and budget hotels in cheaper countries.
- Rome2rio: To figure out the cheapest and quickest routes from point A to point B.
- XE Currency: For current exchange rates.
- EatWith: For tourist restaurants with awesome dining experiences with local hosts.
The Budget Explorer’s Guide: Travel Hacks for Smart Savings
Hello again, fellow travelers! Anderson here. We’ve already dived into the top 10 extremely cheap countries to visit in 2023. But knowing where to go is just part of the equation. How to travel cheaply is an art in itself. So, let’s delve into some practical, money-saving travel tips that have helped me during my adventures.
Timing is Everything: Off-peak and Shoulder Seasons
One of the best ways to save money while traveling is by choosing the right time to visit. Peak seasons often come with inflated prices for flights, accommodation, and even attractions in most counrties. I’ve found that traveling in the off-peak or shoulder seasons can help you save a significant amount.
I recall visiting Romania, a favourite country for nature lovers looking for amazing sights, in late spring a few years back. It was just before the summer rush and the weather was fantastic. Plus, I saved nearly 30% on my overall travel expenses compared to peak summer prices!
Eating Like a Local: Save Money and Savor Authenticity
Food can be a significant part of your backpacker’s budget. But who says you need to dine at fancy restaurants to experience local cuisine? Street food stalls, local markets, and mom-and-pop eateries often serve the most authentic and affordable local dishes. You can even get a really good experience dining at a local restaurant or just eating delicious street food. In Mexico, I had some of the best tacos at a local taqueria for less than $2!
Master the Art of Haggling
In most countries, haggling is more than just a way to save money – it’s a part of the culture. Markets in Guatemala and Albania, for instance, expect most travelers to bargain. It can be a fun experience, and you can walk away with some great deals. Just remember, always haggle with respect and a smile.
Budget Accommodation: Comfort without the Cost
The next topic I want to touch on is accommodation. Finding affordable places to stay that are also comfortable and conveniently located in cheap places can be a challenge. But in the past few years, I’ve discovered a few tricks of the trade.
Consider staying in small, family-owned boutique hotels. They’re often more affordable than larger chain hotels and offer a personal touch that can make your stay more enjoyable. I had an unforgettable experience at a boutique hotel in North Macedonia, where the owner gave me invaluable local insights that no travel guide could match.
For traveling, don’t get intimidated by the idea of riding long-distance buses. Whether you’re in Central Asia, Western Europe or in a coastal city, you can’t go wrong by traveling like locals.
Utilizing Reward Points and Travel Credit Cards
This one’s a game-changer, folks. Many credit cards offer reward points that can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and more. By strategically using a travel rewards credit card for your everyday purchases, you can accumulate points to offset your travel expenses. One of my flights to Honduras was entirely paid for with reward points!
Stay Connected on the Cheap
Staying connected while traveling abroad doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Local SIM cards can be an affordable way to use your phone abroad without racking up hefty roaming charges. I’ve saved hundreds of dollars by picking up a local SIM card upon arrival in countries like Serbia and Bolivia.
Frequently Asked Questions about Budget Travel
Hello, it’s Anderson again! Over the years, I’ve been asked numerous questions about traveling on a budget. Here, I’ll tackle some of the most common ones. Hopefully, these answers will help you plan your affordable adventures better!
Q: How can I find cheap flights?
A: I swear by comparison websites like Skyscanner and Momondo when looking for a cheap country to visit. They scour the internet to find you the best deals for budget travellers. Also, consider booking your flights well in advance and being flexible with your travel dates. Trust me, it can save you a bundle!
Q: Can I get by speaking only English in these countries?
A: In most of the places I’ve mentioned, you’ll find people who speak English, especially in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic phrases in the local language can enrich your travel experience. Plus, locals always appreciate the effort! You can learn even when eating street food or enjoying free walking tours with them.
Q: What’s the best way to carry money while traveling abroad?
A: I recommend a combination of a travel-friendly credit card for most purchases and a small amount of local currency for places that don’t accept cards. Also, consider getting a money belt to keep your cash and cards safe while on the go.
Q: Can I still have unique experiences while traveling on a budget?
A: Absolutely! Budget travel isn’t about missing out on experiences; it’s about making smart choices that will meet your backpacker budget. You can enjoy visiting Southeast Asia, Western Europe or other countries without burning holes in your wallet Often, the most memorable moments of travel come from off-the-beaten-path adventures, interacting with locals, and soaking in the local culture—all of which don’t need to be expensive. You can even find the free activities they offer to be quite enjoyable.
And there you have it, my fellow budget travellers! I hope this guide helps you navigate the exciting world of budget travel in 2023. Remember to sign up for the Classy On a Coin newsletter for more insider tips and recommendations on the most affordable destinations.
Happy Travels!
– Anderson
