Places like São Paulo and Columbia, Tokyo and Geneva, and even Moscow and Singapore, are rated among the most expensive cities in the world, which causes many people look at their savings balance in despair while watching the ever-increasing airfare costs of their dream destinations.
However, you should not meekly accept that your ideal holiday will be forever out of reach – you just need to lower your expectations a little and compromise. Even though your ideal Caribbean holiday may be Bermuda, you’ll be just as happy on the sun-drenched beaches of Punta Cana. So without further ado, here are the top holiday destinations for the budget-minded traveller:
Asian Temples – Siem Reap, Cambodia
The city of Siem Reap will charm even the most miserly visitor for the variety of bargains to be had, including the numerous cost-effective ancient ruins and temples – and it’s far cheaper to visit the temples here than to travel and view the South American pyramid ruins. It is home to the famous complex of Angkor Wat, which has over the centuries been surrounded and enveloped by the jungle. The one-day ticket is quite well-priced, and the best time to go is at sunset when the ruins are bathed in a romantic orange glow. Ensure you try the local tuk-tuks at least once while here, otherwise rent a bicycle or walk.
African Safari– Kampala, Uganda
Recently voted by Lonely Planet as the top country to visit in 2012, this “Pearl of Africa” certainly provides a diverse variety of sights and attractions, and its vibrant capital Kampala is a fantastic introduction to it. Take a walk around the city and visit the Kasubi Tombs for a bit of culture, or enjoy the wide selection of shops and restaurants at Garden City. Those wanting to see hippos, zebras, crocodiles, and more should take a day trip out to Lake Mburo National Park, which takes around 3½ hours to reach from Kampala by car or bus, and is a cheaper alternative to the Kruger National Park in South Africa.
Caribbean Beach – Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Though it doesn’t have the active nightlife of Montego Bay, there are numerous resorts in Ocho Rios that are encircled by gorgeous turquoise ocean waters and offer all-inclusive packages. While here, stop off at Dolphin Cove which will require only a small entrance fee. Once inside, you can swim and feed a friendly local pod, learn about sharks, snorkel with stingrays, and kayak in a glass-bottomed boat. The Green Grotto Caves are a fun day trip, as is renting a bicycle and exploring the Blue Mountain coffee plantations and surrounding jungle.
European Architecture – Budapest, Hungary
Though you won’t find Budapest lauded like other European cities, such as Paris or London, there is a plethora of history and architecture to be viewed. The gorgeous spires and turrets of the churches, museums, and mosques on Castle Hill make for some lovely photographs – especially the Royal Palace and Matthias Church. Those looking to be pampered should head to the Széchenyi Spa on the Pest side of the river. This is one of the largest spas around, with medicinal baths and a heavenly hot spring that your travel-weary feet will thank you for soaking in.
South American Scenery: Montevideo, Uruguay
The city of Montevideo in Uruguay is an alternative to Sao Paulo or Rio de Janeiro. It is right on the water, so you can expect numerous water sports and long golden beach stretches. The food is relatively inexpensive and the thick, juicy Uruguay steaks are raved about by those who’ve tasted them, so don’t miss out on this tempting treat. One of the best shady areas to escape from the heat is within the Botanic Gardens of Parque Prado, which have a large, sweet-scented rose garden. You can also visit the bustling Biarritz market to pick up some souvenirs. The historic colonial houses found in Ciudad Vieja are well worth viewing, as is the art-deco street of 18 de Julio Avenue.
Author Bio: Roseanna McBain is a writer for TravelGround, a Kruger National Park accommodation and booking website. She has a love of history, cultures, myths, and a passion for exploration and adventure.
Images;
Angkor Wat with monks. By sam garza (Creative Commons)
An overview of Ocho Rios. By dbraaten (Flickr)
The Szechenyi Spa. By Lepeltier.ludovic (Creative Commons)
Plaza de la Constitucion in Cuidad Vieja. By Hoverfish (Creative Commons)
