Asia provides the perfect mix of countries that cater for travellers who are looking for an affordable holiday. From India to Vietnam, and Cambodia to Japan, take a look at these five destinations that won’t break the bank.
1. Agra, India
India is a whirlwind of colours, smells, and fast-paced streets – and Agra is no exception. Agra is filled with incredible things to do like the Taj Nature Walk, Agra Fort and a Yamuna River boat ride (for a unique vantage point of the Taj Mahal from the water), all at an affordable price point. Local meals are incredibly cheap, especially if you choose to eat vegetarian. Just because you’re skipping meat doesn’t mean you’re skipping out on flavour, so you can eat to your heart’s content and not break the bank.
2. Siem Reap, Cambodia
The beauty of Siem Reap is that it offers a broad spectrum of price points to suit all travellers. You can eat cheap or choose a more high-end restaurant. While tickets to the temples of Angkor are not the cheapest (USD$37 per person for one day and USD$62 per person for 2-3 days), it would be a crime not to not discover this mind-blowing UNESCO World Heritage Site while in Siem Reap! Even a tuktuk driver is worth the price (approximately USD$30 – $50) as their knowledge is second to none when planning the best route, plus providing bottled water to quench your thirst.
3. Osaka, Japan
Whilst Japan isn’t the cheapest Asian country to visit, it doesn’t mean you can’t have a budget-friendly holiday! Pick cities to visit like Osaka, about 25% cheaper (on average) than Tokyo and still one of Japan’s prized destinations. Depending on the time of year that you visit, you can find affordable accommodation options in neighbourhoods located a little distance from the city for a real local vibe. There are plenty of well-priced, or free, activities found in Osaka – from strolling through the Shinsekai area with its retro feel, the peaceful Nagai Botanical Gardens, and the fun Ikeda Cup Noodles Museum. You will also be able to eat a wide variety of delicious local food at cosy izakaya or noodle bars, street food stalls along Dotonbori, and the world-famous konbini (convenience) stores.
5. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Overall, Thailand is not as cheap as Cambodia, but it still won’t break the bank. Chiang Mai is one of the least expensive cities in Thailand and is filled with so much of the country’s important history. It was previously the centre of the Lanna Kingdom, so you’ll find a plethora of ancient ruins, Buddhist temples and landmarks dotted throughout. Chiang Mai is also less commercial and touristy than Bangkok, creating a pleasant experience for your stay. Don’t forget to check out its street food scene, as well! You’ll eat like a king where $10 can easily cover a snack, main, dessert and drink.
6. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City (and Vietnam as a whole) is renowned for being a budget-friendly destination. Much like Thailand, their street food is a bargain. For less than USD$1, you can try delicious specialties like bahn mi (a filled baguette), goi cuon (spring rolls), and chuoi nep nuong (grilled banana sticky rice). To get a feel for the city and its fascinating history, don’t miss the Saigon Central Post Office, Dong Khoi Street or the Ben Thanh Market – all of which are free – or the War Remnants Museum which has an entrance fee of under USD$2.
Not only does booking a Cosmos tour save you having to plan your trip, but it also provides endless options for affordable holidays. Take a look at our range of Cosmos tours through Asia that won’t break the bank.
