5 Amazing Budget Destinations To Put On Your Bucketlist

2020 is looking to be a year of travel challenges. The responsible thing to do at this point is simple - stay where we all are and not to travel. At least for the moment, this is what we can do to help curb the spread of COVID-19 for the good of everyone’s safety and wellbeing. 

 

While travel is not something that is possible in the time being, it doesn’t mean you, darling wanderlusters should shelve all your daydreams. Here are five amazing budget destinations that you should have on your bucket list! (For when this blows over, of course)

 

1. Riga, Latvia

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Never heard of Latvia? Well, pay attention because this little known pearl of Europe hits the notes of authenticity and old-world charm perfectly. An average traveller spends about USD$57 a day in Riga, the capital of Latvia. Activities in Latvia are more often than not free or priced affordably. More than half of the country is untouched greenery. So, fit a nature trail hike in during your trip here and expect a fairytale castle, or two, to peek out from behind the tops of the trees. Okay, maybe that’s a little bit of an exaggeration, but it paints a prettier picture, right?

Recommended spots: Visit the Town Hall Square and check out Riga’s iconic Town Hall facade and the House of the Blackheads. Have your mind blown to know that all of these buildings are faithful reconstructions that are little more than twenty years old! Keep an eye out for a stone marker for the location of the first decorated Christmas tree in 1510. 

2. Vientiane, Laos

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Laos as a destination choice is incredibly laid back. Known as one of the last quiet havens in Southeast Asia, the capital city of Vientiane a burgeoning backpacker’s delight! There is planned development slated to boost their tourism industry and this place of solace will soon take its place as one of the region's must-visit destinations. Be sure to check out activities like massages and trekking that are available at a steal. It is more than possible to dine, travel, and stay for about USD$10 a day. With prices like these, your trip to Laos is just a click away!

 

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Recommended spots: The Patuxai Victory Monument is easily one of the most popular spots in Vientiane. Modelled after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, and accessible to the public, visit for citywide views of Vientiane from the top! 

3. Budapest, Hungary

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Known as one of Europe's more affordable capitals to visit, Budapest was once made up of two separate cities ‘Buda’ and ‘Pest’ on either side of the Danube River. Its spires and streets have captured the imaginations of travellers for generations! Because of this, artists and philosophers have created masterpieces that make Budapest a cultural must-see. Getting around the city is convenient and cheap by tram, and is also a fun way to see the cityscapes while giving your tired feet a rest. Catch sight of movie stars and keep an eye out for any film or television production that sets up shop here! 

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Recommended spots: You can’t visit Budapest without checking out the Parliament Building. It is a working governmental building. So, book your spot on a daily tour for an in-depth glimpse into the political and cultural history of Hungary. The Parliament Building is also amazing at night from the river! Get yourself on a river cruise and be there when the golden lights reflect off the dark surface of the Danube.

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Walk the Danube Promenade - a walkable stretch of street from Elizabeth Bridge to the Chain Bridge - for a great way to see famous sites in Budapest. Keep your eye out for Buda Castle and the Fisherman’s Bastion. If you see iron-cast shoes lined up on the side of the walkway, be respectful. This is the Shoes on the Danube Bank; a memorial by film director Can Togay and sculptor Gyula Pauer to honour the Hungarian Jews murdered by the fascist Arrow Cross militiamen in Budapest during World War II.

 

4. Bogota, Colombia

Colombia is better known for its less than stellar past - it nonetheless is emerging from the shadows of a tumultuous history of violence and corruption. Experience a vibrant culture of people and art while traipsing down one of the many colourful streets in Bogota. Have an educational trip and learn about Colombia's rainforests and megadiverse ecology. Rest assured that there is something for everyone here! Better yet, if you’re a coffee-lover, come here to get your caffeine fix from its source. Expect to spend up to USD$35 per day on your vacation here.

 Recommended spots: Make time to climb Monserrate for magnificent views of Bogota city. There is a church on the top of that hill, but climbing the Cerro Monserrate is the main attraction here. Of course, for the less athletically inclined of us all, there is a funicular that goes right to the top and then back down. Colombian superstition says that you should be careful who you do this climb with - couples who visit together, never stay together. 

5. Zanzibar, Tanzania

While it is not on the African mainland, Zanzibar is well worth the effort to visit it. Seated on an archipelago of 50 distinct islands, Zanzibarian culture is a unique mix of African and Indian. This is due to its geolocation on the world map and history with the spice trade of the 19th century. However, modern Zanzibar is synonymous with luscious white sandy beaches! Take advantage of their world-class snorkelling and diving opportunities available all year round. Visitors to Zanzibar have said that the food here is to die for - and we believe them! Best of all, choosing to backpack at this exotic locale is expected to set you back for only USD$25 a day! 

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Recommended spots: If you are up for it, take a walk around the rambling and labyrinthian streets of Stone Town, and look for the spectacular Zanzibarian doors. Historically, these carved doors used to denote the occupation or social status of the person who lived within the compound. These were the business cards of the time and many of them are still intact and in good shape. Just don’t get lost looking for them!

 

Well, there you have it! Did we miss out on an amazing and unexpected destination on a budget? It's a weird time for many people worldwide. Be careful, be safe and look out for one another. Take this time to get inspired. This, as the saying goes, too shall pass. Stay safe everyone! 

 

In light of the current circumstances, Mayflower Holidays recognise that our customers may have difficulty in reaching us through our customer support helpline. We strongly urge customers with non-immediate concerns to contact us via email at cs@mayflower-group.com or through our contact form if you have any concerns or issues. Meanwhile, we would like to remind everyone to stay safe during this period of restricted movement. See you again soon!