international · Traveling · Oct 14, 2019

10 Best Budget Travel Destinations for First Time International Traveler

Guest post by Daniela McVicker

Are you determined to enrich your life by visiting new places? Are you doubtful that your budget will limit you? Well, if you know where to go, that won’t be an obstacle. However, as a first-time traveler, you’ll need the right information to guide you. That is why this list of budget-friendly travel destinations can be your new best friend.

With the right guidance, you’ll be able to see mesmerizing countries and cities without draining all your resources. Whether you prefer beautiful landscapes, exciting nightlife, or breathtaking architecture, this list has something for every international traveler.

1. St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada

Vibrant coastal town with multicolored buildings and a prominent church overlooking the water, with a red ship in the foreground.

This historic capital situated on a large Canadian island tends to be overlooked. Considering that it isn’t a mainstream travel destination you can find accommodation at a reasonable price.

You’ll have an opportunity to experience that relaxing island life. Enjoy the ocean view, get lost among colorful row houses, go hiking, or relax at local bars. Newfoundlanders are very welcoming, so you can easily make new friends.

First-time travelers can sometimes feel a dose of fear when visiting a foreign place so you’ll be happy to hear that Newfoundland has an extremely low crime rate. This is especially a big plus if you are traveling alone.

2. Yasawa Islands, Fiji

Tropical beach with clear water, white sand, and lush green palm trees against a hillside.

Have you always dreamed of visiting a white sand beach surrounded by palm trees? If your answer is yes, the Yasawa Islands can be a perfect choice. The best part is that you won’t have to take a bank loan to visit this place.

Fiji is a stopover on Fiji Airlines so you can easily find a cheap flight. Once this secret was revealed, many backpackers were drawn to this destination. That is how a community of cheap guesthouses has emerged.

Some of the exotic activities you can indulge in are visiting local villages, attending a kava ceremony, taking a plantation tour, or visiting Sawailau Caves.

3. Cambodia, Southeast Asia

Father and son on a bicycle in a vibrant rice field, with the child holding a large leaf and the mountains in the distance.

All of Southeast Asia is very attractive for travelers, but if you must pick one, it should be Cambodia. Besides being extremely affordable, it is exotic and beautiful.

Here you can meet some of the nicest people in the world and enjoy their rich history. The architecture of old temples and buildings will leave you breathless.

If you are a history lover, you mustn’t miss Angkor Wat. The massive temple ruins will make you feel like a real explorer.

4. Transylvania, Romania

Serene sunset over a calm lake, with soft reflections of the sun and clouds, framed by distant mountains.

It is sad that many people still have their doubts about this ex-Communist country. Romania is a truly beautiful place and Transylvania is one of its hidden gems.

Those who love spooky stories and mysterious places will especially love this city.

Bram Stoker’s vampire novel from 1897 was actually inspired by a real nobleman from Transylvania century called Vlad Dracula who lived there in the 15th century. You can actually visit his home, Bran Castle, which is now a museum.

5. Melbourne, Australia

Skyline of a modern city at dusk with tall skyscrapers under a dramatic, cloudy sky.

Even though Australia is known to be an expensive travel destination, if you know a few tricks, you will have a chance to get to know this incredible country. It would be best if you had the time to explore the whole country, but in case you need to limit your choice to one city, it should be Melbourne.

While most tourists primarily go to Sydney, Melbourne also has so much to offer.

You can save a lot of money and enjoy your time by taking advantage of public art galleries and municipal parks. There is an abundance of museums to choose from but you can also opt for free options such as the National Gallery of Victoria, the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, and the State Library.

6. Queenstown, New Zealand

Scenic view of a winding road overlooking a deep blue lake surrounded by mountains under a bright blue sky.

Among many places that have beautiful landscapes, New Zealand must be number one. It is no wonder that many people have this country on their bucket list.

Queenstown is located on the South Island and has a ton to offer. From the serene Queenstown Gardens to the amazing view at Bob’s Peak, you’ll be stunned by the nature that surrounds this city.

A great way to save some extra money is to stay in some of the towns nearby and travel to Queenstown. You will easily find affordable accommodation in Wanaka and Arrowtown.

7. Budapest, Hungary

Illuminated cityscape at night featuring a historic bridge over a river, surrounded by colorful light trails and manicured gardens.

This red-bricked city in Eastern Europe exudes with rich cultural heritage. It is home to many museums and universities.

Not only will you be able to try local cuisine which disappoints no one, but you’ll also be able to enjoy long walks along the river Danube. Along the way, you can admire many bridges that divide the city into two districts – hilly Buda and urban Pest.

Whether you visit the historical castle called Buda Castle, or you walk around the busy streets in Pest, you’ll make some great memories.

8. George Town, Penang, Malaysia

A vibrant street scene with historic buildings, shops, and trees under a bright blue sky.

If you are looking for a laid back destination that will completely differ from your everyday life, think about visiting George Town.

First, you’ll be astounded by their street art which surprises you at every corner. People will greet you with smiling faces and their relaxed attitude towards life is simply contagious.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site will win you over with a diverse population and amazing food.

9. St. Petersburg, Russia

A picturesque urban canal flanked by ornate, multi-story buildings, with small boats moored along the sides on a sunny day.

This must be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It stands out from other European cities both architecturally and historically.

Must-see places in St. Petersburg are Palace Square, State Hermitage, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, and the Bronze Horseman, a monument to Peter the Great. Besides their cultural heritage, this city offers a rich nightlife. You can’t visit Russia without trying their iconic drink – vodka.

Keep in mind that during the winter this city gets extremely cold. If you can’t stand the cold, it will be better to travel during the summer or spring.

10. Ardara, County Donegal, Ireland

A winding road through a lush green valley with rolling hills under a cloudy sky.

Still relatively untouched by tourists, Country Donegal is a storybook-like region. Its lovely city Ardara will definitely justify the Irish hospitality reputation.

Those who want to chill out in a small town with scenic surroundings will be amazed by this place.

It is also a perfect base point from which you can visit some great scenery –Glengesh Pass and the sea cliffs at Slieve League on the west and Glenveagh National Park on the east.

Some final thoughts

These ten destinations will help you to have an unforgettable international trip and stay within the budget.

Whether you choose to relax in Fiji or go all out in St. Petersburg, you will certainly not regret this experience of getting to know different cultures and enjoying some beautiful sights.

About the author: Daniela McVicker is a freelance writer, blogger, and editor at Top Writers Review. She graduated from Durham University and has an MA in psychological science. Her passion is traveling and finding ways to enrich students’ learning experience.