Mozambique
People all over the world have heard of the lovely tropical islands off the coast of Africa, particularly the isle of Mauritius. No one would deny that it is an amazing place but if you are traveling with a budget in mind then it may not be the best option.
Mauritius is not known to be cheap and that’s why I am so glad to have found Mozambique. Not an island per se, although it does have islands off its coast, Mozambique is your answer to a cheap tropical paradise.
A third world country yes, but Mozambique offers you sandy white beaches and a sparkling clear ocean at the price of a large grocery shopping day okay maybe a very large shopping day.
Tofu beach is one of the best beaches along the coast, and offers you cheap accommodation with the setting of island life. There is plenty to do, from diving with whale sharks to drinking cocktails and eating local cuisine (the prawns and fish are a must), whilst lying in the beautiful tropical sun.
This is affordable to most people, especially if you come from a first world country as the Mozambique currency is very affordable to travelers.
Thailand
Fancy a trip to Asia and also want to have a tropical experience, but at the same time don’t have the luxury of unlimited resources? Well look no further than Thailand.
This tropical paradise attracts tourists from every corner of the world because, apart from it being a spectacular setting, it is relatively cheap. It is also extremely popular with young people, as they will often spend months backpacking through the country.
If you find yourself here you will be sure to find many an American, Australian or South African just enjoying the tropical life. Visiting Kopanang is a must as is experiencing a party under the full moon or simply the beauty of the island in general – it will be sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Beautiful Phi Phi is also a must as it may just be one of the most beautiful places in the world and to top it off it’s really affordable.
South Africa
On the tip of Africa sits South Africa, the most advanced and 1st world of all African countries, this land is unique. It boasts both a European feel with the Western Cape at the centre of it, and a tropical climate near Durban.
More so, this is also Africa and you can experience it through the diverse culture or through the many Game Reserves around the country that allow you to see the Big Five in their natural habitat. The benefit is that relative to a lot of the world (such as the US, UK, Europe and Aus) the rand is weak and thus allows for a cheaper holiday.
Cape Town is an African tourist hub and, within it, it seems as though Africa and Europe combine, with white beaches, wine lands and a multitude of culture. With so much in one place you can feel as though you are in Europe one day and the African bush the next, and all this can all be done without mortgaging the house.
Ukraine
Introducing Eastern Europe, not the scary land of the Soviet past and certainly not the Eastern Europe of the movies. In Ukraine there are very good budget options for accommodation and travel within the country.
It’s not on the Euro yet, so travelers can benefit from this and take advantage of the European lifestyle for a fraction of the price. Go to the coast and see how beautiful the Black Sea actually is.
With all the tourist sites, from European palaces to old Soviet structures, this country has a multitude of things to do. Kiev is a beautiful city and gives you the experience of Europe yet allows you to travel home with money still in your pocket.
Argentina
To South America next and it’s to Soccer mad Argentina we’re going. The country’s currency, the peso, is not the strongest around and often leaves tourists baffled as to why they get so much for so little.
If you are into your sport than get yourself to one of the stadiums and maybe, if you are lucky, you will be able to see a Boca Juniors vs River Plate match up, one of the fiercest rivalries in the world.
If that’s not your vibe then Argentina is famous for its feasts of wine and steak and all for so cheap. Buenos Aires offers great food, lodgings and transport to make sure you get all the value for your money – and why not take a trip to see the rich geographic diversity?
Cale Pissarra the author of the “Cheap places to travel in the world” writes about a diversity of subjects whether it be about the best accommodation in Cape Town or finding Durban accommodation. He will be sure to be dreaming up his next travel adventure, and of course making sure all of you know the best options.