A trip abroad does not always require a big budget. Travelling to typical destinations like Italy, Switzerland, France or Australia is not just an expensive affair but is also so touristy and mainstream! So here are 8 countries which are currently not on top of the tourist radar and therefore, are quite affordable to visit. These places are not just unbelievably beautiful, replete with hidden gems but also make for great and cheap holiday destinations!
1. Bolivia
Bolivia is still largely undiscovered, featuring the Andes Mountain, the Amazon Basin rainforest and the Atacama Desert and is one of the cheapest countries in South America. Bolivia is home to the dreamy and incredible landscape of the salt lands of Salar de Uyuni, claimed to be the flattest place on earth. It even has one of the world’s most dangerous roads i.e. Yungas Road. If you are a fan of watching local festivals and events of a froing land, Bolivia is the destination for you! Almost every month, one can see processions with natives dressed in bright colours showcasing their time-honoured traditions and beliefs.
1 AED = 1.88 BsOne-way Ticket (Local Transport): 1.06 AEDMeal in an inexpensive restaurant: 13.28 AED
2. Georgia
Georgia is a European country that has successfully grabbed the attention of international travellers of late. The destination provides picturesque scenery, vibrant culture and rich tradition. Not many of you may know, but Georgia is believed to be the birthplace of wine. Sophisticated restaurants with live music are surprisingly low-priced. Couples looking forward to sharing romantic moments to together must step into them.
1 AED = 0.71 GEL One-way Ticket (Local Transport): 0.72 AEDMeal at an inexpensive restaurant: 21.71 AED
Royal Palace Sunset Silhouette - Cambodia
Cambodia, situated in the south-east Asia, is a treat to the eyes and pocket-friendly as well! Its diverse landscape spanning from low-lying plains to majestic mountains to gorgeous coastal areas amplify the interest of tourists. Watch the spectacular sun-rise at the Angkor Wat, world’s largest religious monument. If you are an ardent lover of history, spend some time in the colonial-era towns of Battambang and Kratie. They aptly exhibit the glorious history of Cambodia.
1 AED = 1098.54 KHROne-way Ticket (Local Transport): 7.35 AEDMeal in an inexpensive restaurant: 9.64 AED
Honduras is a gorgeous corner in Central America waiting to be discovered! You can participate in activities such as snorkelling, jungle horseback riding and mangrove cruise at surprisingly cheap rates since the tourist traffic to the country is quite low. Public transport in Honduras is cheap yet convenient. Don’t miss the Copan ruins – an ancient Maya civilization site, and the lovely islands Roatán and Utila renowned for their beaches, diving and coral reefs.
1 AED = 6.40 HNL One-way Ticket (Local Transport): 1.84 AEDMeal in an inexpensive restaurant: 19.97 AED
5. Nepal
This country in southern Asia is home to the legendary Himalayas and age-old culture. It has eight of the world’s highest mountains, including Mount Everest locally known as Sagarmatha. The best time to visit Nepal is from October to December (clear and cool weather) and from April to June (dry and warm weather). Check out Kathmandu, the capital and cultural centre of Nepal.
1 AED = 28.20 NPROne-way Ticket (Local Transport): 0.71 AEDMeal at an inexpensive restaurant: 7.09 AED
Tropical Beach, Saona Island, Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic is a lovely Caribbean nation with awe-inspiring mountain scenery, marvellous colonial architecture and pristine beaches. The Dominicans are absolute party animals and love to take part in their festivals with fully gaiety. Distinct carnival celebrations are conducted in every city of the country. The specialties of the Dominican Republic are rum, chocolate, coffee, cigars and larimar.
1 AED = 13.07 DOPOne-way Ticket (Local Transport): 1.91 AEDMeal in an inexpensive restaurant: 26.80 AED
7. Brunei
Brunei is a small country on the island of Borneo, surrounded by the South China Sea and Malaysia. Featuring nine mountain peaks and abundant forest reserves, it proves to be an adventure land for thrill seekers. With family or friends, watch a nail-biting baseball match held at the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium. The best time to visit Brunei is from October and February when the heat is comparatively milder than the rest of the year.
1 AED = 0.37 BND One-way Ticket (Local Transport): 2.70 AEDMeal in an inexpensive restaurant: 13.49 AED
8. Vanuatu
A South Pacific Ocean nation consisting of 80 islands, Vanuatu is a beauty to be discovered by countless tourists. It flaunts tranquil beaches, age-old culture and first-class diving opportunities. The northern part of Vanuatu faces hot and humid climate while the southern area experiences mild and dry climatic conditions. Malekula is the spot for divers, hearing stories about spirit caves and admiring the ritual kastom dances of the natives.
1 AED = 29.84 VUVOne-way Ticket (Local Transport): 5.17 AEDMeal in an inexpensive restaurant: 33.89 AED
(Please Note: The meal prices and one-way ticket prices mentioned above are rough estimates.)