10 International Destinations To Travel To When You Are On A Budget
The festive season is officially here, which means we have legit reasons to take a few days off from work. While most of my friends will use those days to prep for the upcoming festivals, I, on the other hand, will be off for a quick getaway, just to be away from the chaos that is signature to Indian festivals. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love dressing up and dancing till the music stops during these months, but at some point it gets a little too much. That’s when I want to pack my bags and catch the next flight overseas.
If that was only possible. Everything is so expensive that travel abroad is a luxury. Either I sell every item I own (believe me, I think of doing that sometimes) or become a full-time nomad in order to visit these places. But now there is another option! I dug around and found these amazing international destinations that won’t burn a hole in your pockets. You can spend a good 5-6 days at these locations in under Rs 50,000, no kidding! Travelling to certain places in our own country costs more than that.
The trick is to book a few months in advance and stay in hostels, which, by the way, have every comfort that a hotel has, sometimes even better. But the best part is that these trips can be even be made last minute. Your total budget will still be around half a lakh. So whip out your planners and scroll down the list to check out the 10 #HauteDestinations!
1. Sri Lanka
Our neighbouring country down south is one of the easiest destinations to travel to while on a budget. Sri Lanka is beautiful with its exotic tea estates and amazing beaches. The tea country has elephant orphanages where you can play and interact with these animals. Take a walk around the historic ruins of Sigiriya, if history is what gets your fancy. With striking similarities in our cultures, you will definitely feel at home here. The food is affordable and will probably cost you around Rs 1,000 a day.
Round trip flights: Rs 13,000
Recommended stay: Ocean View Cottage
2. Dubai
The perfect place for shopping, adventure, and luxury, Dubai never disappoints. Go dune bashing or zip lining in this gorgeous city along with filling your shopping bags to the brim at the various malls that are there. You can also go sky diving too, but a heads up — you will then surpass your budget. Dubai mall is a must-visit, though it is expensive. Burj Khalifa can be seen from most parts of the city but is the most beautiful at night, with the fountain show that is sure to leave you mesmerised. Hog on scrumptious local meals at the stalls without feeling a pinch.
Round trip flights: Rs 16,000
Recommended stay: Ibis Hotels Dubai
3. South Korea
If you are a nature lover, one place that you must visit, at least once in your lifetime, is South Korea. Plenty of trekking options and food trails will keep you busy in this beautiful country. UNESCO has a number of its heritage sites here, so you know that many of the almight’s beautiful creations are right here. Seoul, the capital, is a major attraction that has a lot going on, but my favourite place is the Gyeonghwa station. It has a carpet of pink flowers on the tracks that makes for a picturesque scene.
Round trip flights: Rs 26,000
Recommended stay: Chingu hostel
4. Singapore
There is a reason why Singapore is one of the most visited countries — you can holiday there for pretty cheap! Explore Sentosa or gape at the beauty of Marina Bay while you devour the country’s amazing street food. In fact, you can spend the entire day in any part of this city/country and you will not get bored, guaranteed. The lion state will make you fall in love with it and will make you want to visit it again and again. But wait — you can!
Round trip flights: Rs 26,000
Recommended stay: Fragrance Hotels
5. Malaysia
Experience the best of Asia amidst the magical aura of Malaysia. Feel on top of the world at the magnificent Petronas towers. It is a treat for all food lovers, as almost every street is full of yummy stalls that give you the best of the local delicacies at budget prices. Make sure you visit the serene city of Malacca while you are there — it’s like the Venice of Asia.
Round trip flights: Rs 15,000
Recommended stay: Dorsett
6. Maldives
The getaway that our favourite celebs are taking and is a hot honeymoon destination, Maldives is certainly on our travel bucket list. I always thought that planning a vacay to the Maldives would make me homeless, but it is actually quite reasonable! Sun bathe all day long on the pristine beaches or take scuba diving lessons — every minute in this paradise is worth it.
Round trip flights: Rs 17,000
Recommended stay: Gili Lankanfushi
7. Kenya
Home to numerous natural reserves, every animal lover should plan a trip to Kenya. Seriously! Everywhere you go, you will meet a host of friendly and some not-so-friendly animals, who will keep you entertained through your trip. There are many wildlife safaris you can opt for that will take you around these exotic reserves and show you the best of Kenya. A highly underrated place, Kenya will definitely surprise you. Oh, did I mention, there is a giraffe centre in Nairobi where these tall animals literally can become your bffs!
Round trip flights: Rs 28,000
Recommended stay: Pearl Palace
8. Egypt
Unravel the many mysteries of Egypt as you partake in cultural tours around the massive pyramids. Trust me, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the era of Cleopatra and Anthony. If you are not a desert person, you can go take a dip in the Red Sea. Clear waters and enchanting scenery, Egypt is one of the most magical places on Earth.
Round trip flights: Rs 29,500
Recommended stay: Orisis Hostel
9. Indonesia
Indonesia is a country rich in culture. Bali is the most popular island, one that just cannot give a miss! Watch sunsets among the volcanic mountains from one of the many beaches here. This country is for those looking to find themselves spiritually or even those ready for some fun and adventure. It is known as the ‘Emerald Of The Equator’ because of the gorgeous colour of the water here. *Dreams of a destination wedding*
Round trip flights: Rs 23,000
Recommended stay: Denspar
10. Jordan
Home to the Dead Sea, Jordan is the best place to go when you want to make the most out of your budget holiday. Camel rides and night camping in Wadi Rum are experiences you will never forget. The glorious ruins of Petra turn magical when the stars come out. Candles are lit all everywhere, transforming the aura into a peaceful, magical one .
Round trip flights: Rs 30,000
Recommended stay: Jordan Tower Hotel
