See the World for Less: The Most Beautiful Budget-Friendly Places in 2025 (Part 1)
Traveling the world doesn't have to drain your bank account. To help fulfil your dream of seeing the world irrespective of depth of your pocket, Thrifty Wanderer has compiled a list of incredible destinations you can visit on a budget in 2025. This is the first of a three-part series. They would help you see why the fantastic destinations explored are a vacation gold mine for your budget-conscious travel this new year.
5/8/20245 min read
Budget travel tips
Da Lat, Vietnam
Da Lat, in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, is a unique mountain retreat. The city is surrounded by pine forests, cascading waterfalls, and rolling hills.
In Da Lat, vacation accommodation can be both affordable and luxurious. Many high-quality hotels and short-term rentals here can be booked for as little as $30 per night.
Nature lovers will find Da Lat is gorgeous. The Valley of Love has walking trails with colorful flower gardens for a romantic experience or a casual stroll. Langbiang Mountain on the other hand provides hiking opportunities with breathtaking panoramic views. You can explore these through guided tours organised by reputable tour companies like Viator.
Local markets are abuzz with energy, offering fresh produce and traditional Vietnamese street food at incredibly low prices. A full meal can cost as little as $1, allowing you to sample delicious local cuisine without financial strain. The famous Da Lat night market provides an immersive cultural experience where you can enjoy local delicacies and handcrafted souvenirs.
There are also many things to in Da Lat and at affordable prices. Bicycle tours cost around $15, while motorcycle tour exploring waterfalls and coffee plantations start at approximately $40. The Datanla Waterfall offers hiking, roller coaster rides, and stunning natural scenery, with entry fees under $2.
Booking Recommendations:
Accommodation: Booking.com
Tours and Activities: Viator.com
Lang Biang Mountains in Da Lat, Vietnam
Koh Rong, Cambodia
Imagine pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and an unspoiled tropical paradise not yet been overrun by mass tourism. Koh Rong, an island off Cambodia's southern coast, offers exactly this – and at prices that will barely scratch the wallet.
Accommodation options range from basic beach bungalows starting at $10-$20 per night to more comfortable resorts starting at about $40. The Coconut Beach Bungalows provide stunning beachfront locations at the price of a cup of coffee. As an example, you can stay in this fantastic room with sea views from only $5 per night.
The island's primary attraction is its untouched natural beauty. Koh Rong has miles of pristine beaches, the Long Beach being one of the longest with a seven-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand virtually untouched by development. There are many snorkeling and diving opportunities allowing you to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine ecosystems.
At night, Koh Rong coastline lights up with miles of glowing bioluminescent plankton. Evening boat tours that showcase this natural phenomenon cost around $15-$20, providing an unforgettable experience.
Follow hiking trails through lush jungle in the island's interior for potential wildlife encounters. These self-guided treks are completely free. Finally, the hikes are an opportunity to meet friendly locals for an authentic cultural experience.
Booking Recommendations:
Accommodation: Agoda Koh Rong Accommodations
Tour and Activities: GetYourGuide
Pristine white sand beaches, Koh Rong Cambodia.
Flores, Guatemala
Flores in Guatemala can offer visitors a blend of historical colonial architecture and breathtaking natural landscapes. This small island town, connected by a causeway to the mainland, is a gateway to some of the most remarkable natural and archaeological landmarks of Guatemala.
As remarkable as Flores is, vacation accommodation is affordable. There are many charming and cost-effective hotels, guesthouses and private flats to choose from. These line the cobblestone streets through the main center of the town and their prices starting from $20 - $30 for private flats and guesthouses and from about $40 for hotels. Hostels provide the most affordable accommodation option with dorms available from $12.
The primary draw of Flores is its proximity to Tikal National Park which is one of the most impressive Mayan archaeological sites in the world. Guided tours start at around $25 and includes transportation, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable guide. You'll walk among massive pyramids, spot exotic wildlife like howler monkeys and toucans, and explore one of the most significant archaeological sites in Central America.
Water activities on Lake Petén Itzá provide another affordable adventure. Rent a Kayak and explore the lake's crystal-clear waters and surrounding landscapes. Sunset boat tours offer breathtaking views of the town and surrounding forests. Prices for these tours typically ranging from $10-$20. Local restaurants around the island serve authentic Guatemalan cuisine at incredibly low prices, with full meals costing between $3-$7.
If you are a nature lover, the surrounding ecological reserves are a must. The Biotopo Cerro Cahui, a protected area just a short distance from Flores, offers hiking trails through diverse ecosystems. The reservation has rich biodiversity and is home to numerous bird species, including rare tropical birds Entry fees are minimal, around $5.
Booking Recommendations:
Accommodation: Agoda.com; Hostelworld.com
Tour And Activities: GetYourGuide
A pyramid structure in Tikal National Park, Flores Guatemala
Chiang Rai, Thailand
Experience a blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and budget-friendly experiences in Chiang Rai. Often overshadowed by its more famous cousin Chiang Mai, this northern Thai city provides an authentic and affordable travel experience making it both an exotic and accessible destination.
Your money stretches incredibly far in Chiang Rai. Boutique guesthouses and comfortable hotels offer rooms from $20 per night, with some budget options dipping as low as $12.
The region's natural beauty is nothing short of spectacular. The Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, offers breathtaking landscapes that you can explore. Guided one-day tour of the Golden Triangle start at $55. These tours often include visits to the magnificent white temples and the hill tribe villages, allowing you to experience the rich cultural diversity of the region. The infamous Opium Museum provides fascinating historical insights, with entry fees under $5.
Chiang Rai's most famous attractions are its unique temples. The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is a modern architectural marvel that looks like it's been crafted from pure white lace. Entry is incredibly affordable at less than $2, offering you hours of exploration and photography opportunities. The equally stunning Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) provides another visual feast, with entry fees similarly minimal.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the surrounding national parks. Doi Luang National Park offers hiking trails through misty mountains and dense forests, with entry fees around $4 for adults and less for children. Beyond this, there are multiple opportunities for trekking experiences that include visits to villages surrounding the city and exploration of surrounding nature.
The local markets and street food scene in Chiang Rai is lively. A full, delicious meal can cost between $2-$5, allowing you to sample authentic Northern Thai cuisine with barely a dent in the wallet. The Night Bazaar offers an immersive experience where you can enjoy local delicacies, shop for handicrafts, and enjoy live performances.
Booking Recommendations:
Accommodation: Agoda Chiang Rai; Booking.com
Tour and Activities: GetYourGuide; Viator.com
The Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai, Thailand







