The Broke Backpacker: 6 Cheap Trips You Have To Take
1. The Philippines
It is pretty easy to enjoy the Philippines on a budget. The flight is, as expected, pretty expensive, but once you land, it's smooth sailing since 100 Philippine pesos are the equivalent of 1.93 euros. Transportation is affordable and so are food costs- just opt for bottled water since the water from the tap might be unsafe.
What to do:
Although you should definitely check out the shopping malls in the country since they are known as some of the biggest in the world, I would recommend spending most of your time in nature. Buy yourself a bottle of 90 cent "rhum" and relax on a white sandy beach next to turquoise crystal-clear water. You also have the option of hiking on a nearby volcano which is bound to be absolutely amazing.
2. Thailand
Budget 15 euros a night for housing and 20 euros a day for food and drink, and you'll be set for Thailand. Brace yourself for a fantastic time (and some humidity).
What to do:
Take a 50 cent tuk tuk (auto rickshaw) ride to an ornate temple or take care of one the rescued elephants in Elephant Nature Park. You also HAVE to go to a full moon party! You'll be able to dance to a variety of music on a beautiful white sand beach with 10,000 of your closest friends. And when you run out of steam, enjoy watching fire-eaters, jugglers, and an impromptu fireworks display or two. Perfection.
3. Peru
Flights to Peru may be high, but that shouldn't discourage you from seeing it! Budget meals and accommodations are easy to find. This will leave you lots of money for a complete Machu Picchu tour. Consider staying in places like Hostal Inti Wasi. For around 35 euros a night, you will be super close to shops and places to get food. Or, for 9 euros share a clean hostel room with a stranger.
What to do:
Besides Machu Picchu (which you should 100% check out), you should consider seeing places like the Sacred Valley and Sacsayhuaman (pronounced Sexy Woman). There are a number of other attractions worth seeing there as well, so you might end up picking and choosing what you do. At night you'll be able to go to Temple Club for cheap drinks too.
4. China
You can absolutely travel China on a budget. Great Wall of China tickets might seem a bit steep, (The 1-Day Mutianyu Tour is the cheapest for around 80 euros. It is also the best-preserved section.) but the rest of the trip can be manageable. The Fly By Knight Beijing Courtyard Hostel in Beijing will offer free accommodation for writers who create content about their venue, and food will be much cheaper if you stick to Chinese cuisine instead of Western meals. You can also stay on budget by visiting during the colder months. As always, be wary of scammers.
What to do:
Obviously, China is a big country, so you'll have to do some research to tailor your trip to your preferences and budget. The Forbidden City is a must see for around 8 euros. You also might want to check out Jui Zhai Gou, a national park with tons of waterfalls, or Hua Shan, a sacred mountain. (One thing's for sure. You definitely won't be bored in China!)
5. Greece
Athens is known as one of the world’s great cities, and you'll be happy to know you can explore it on the cheap. Staying in a hostel may be the best option for people on a budget since they are around 10 to 30 euros a night. Local restaurants are less expensive than ones with English menus.
What to do:
Acropolis of Athens, home to the Parthenon, is a super popular option. Go on the first Sunday of the month from June until October for free admission. You can also experience a free tour from a local using the program This is My Athens, and you wont regret it. The city is exceptionally photogenic.
6. Morocco
Spend a little more on housing accommodations in Morocco since they are more basic than some international travellers may expect. Consider a 30 euro-a-night "riad," a traditional Moroccan house with an interior garden. Get some pastilla (a pigeon meat pie) at a mid-range priced restaurant in Fez for me!
What to do:
Morocco is home to a number of gorgeous ancient mosques that you just have to see. However, what should absolutely be on your list is bargaining at a market. Negotiating is a sport here, so never pay full price for anything- except a camel ride in the desert. Those can be pricey (60 euros for one day), but they are absolutely worth it.
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