Asia is one of the most diverse and exciting regions on the planet, with a wealth of cultures and scenic destinations. And while it can be expensive to travel to Asia, there are many amazing countries that cost much less than Europe or North America. So if you’re looking for a budget-friendly trip that’ll leave you gasping for breath, read on for our top five picks!
1. Indonesia
The cost of living in Indonesia is lower than in most other Southeast Asian countries. This is why it is a great option for budget-minded travelers. In addition, the country has a wealth of natural attractions to explore, including stunning beaches and mountains. Here are some reasons you should visit Indonesia:
The cost of living in Jakarta, the country’s capital city, is one-third the cost of living in London! Additionally, transportation and food costs are lower. This makes traveling in Indonesia an affordable option.
Indonesia has a wealth of natural attractions to explore. These include stunning beaches and mountains. For example, Mount Bromo is one of the highest peaks in Java and is well known for its beautiful sunrise and sunset views. Additionally, there are many beautiful islands located off the coast of Java that make for great beach vacations.
Start by sailing the vibrant blue seas around Bali and Lombok. Stop to snorkel amidst colorful reefs, spotting tropical fish and sea turtles as you float above coral gardens. For diving enthusiasts, few places on Earth can compete with Indonesia’s spectacular underwater realms. Experienced divers flock to Komodo National Park to drift along current-carved walls patrolled by majestic manta rays and sharks. Less visited but equally stunning are the Gili Islands lying off Lombok’s northwest coast. Here, the famed gili trawangan dive sites can mesmerize you with hawksbill turtles, octopi squirreled away in crevices, and fluttering schools of fusiliers.
Moreover, Indonesia is home to many different cultures and religions, making it an interesting destination for cultural enthusiasts. For example, Bali is known as a destination for Hindu spiritual seekers and tourists from all over the world come to experience its vibrant culture and delicious food options. Meanwhile, Bandung is famous for its lively nightlife scene and significant Christian influence on Indonesian culture.
2. Thailand
Thailand is a popular destination for travelers looking for a relatively affordable vacation option. The cost of living in Bangkok is about one-seventh the cost of living in Los Angeles, making it an affordable option for those on a budget. Additionally, Thailand has a wealth of natural attractions to explore, including amazing beaches and scenic mountains.
Transportation and food costs are lower in Thailand than in many other Southeast Asian countries. This means you can save money by eating at local restaurants and avoiding expensive international travel costs.
Thailand is home to many different cultures and religions, making it an interesting destination for cultural enthusiasts. For example, Buddhist temples are ubiquitous throughout the country and Bali is known for its Hindu culture and stunning Hindu temples. Additionally, Bangkok is home to numerous shopping districts with a variety of different shops selling traditional Thai goods and souvenirs.
3. Malaysia
Malaysia is a country located on the southernmost tip of South East Asia and makes up one-fifth of the Malaysian Peninsula. With its lush rainforests, beaches, mountains, and rivers Malaysia has something for everyone.
The country’s capital city Kuala Lumpur is known for its contemporary architecture and nightlife. Malaysia is also well known for its food: dishes such as mee goreng (fried noodles in peanut sauce), laksa (a soup made with fish, chicken, or vegetables), and durian (a fruit so pungent it can be nauseating). If you’re looking to save money while traveling, Malaysia is a great place to visit.
4. Mongolia
Mongolia is a country located in Central Asia. It’s bordered by Russia to the north, China to the east and south, and Kazakhstan to the west. The capital city of Mongolia is Ulan Bator.
There are many reasons why you should visit Mongolia. First of all, it’s one of the cheapest countries in Asia to visit. The cost of living in Ulan Bator is only about US$1 per day. That makes it a great option for budget travelers who want to see some amazing scenery without spending a lot of money.
Second, Mongolian culture is fascinating, especially its traditional horse-riding culture. If you are interested in learning more about ancient cultures or just want to experience something unique while you’re traveling, Mongolia is definitely worth considering.
And last but not least, Mongolia has some really stunning natural attractions that you won’t be able to find anywhere else in Asia (or even worldwide). Some popular places to visit include the Gobi Desert and Lake Khovsgol, both of which are absolutely stunning!
5. Philippines
If you are looking for a budget-friendly way to explore Asia, the Philippines is a great place to start. Not only are prices low by Asian standards, but the country is also small and manageable, perfect for those with limited time. Plus, there are plenty of things to see and do in the Philippines that wouldn’t be possible in more populous countries like China or Japan. Other reasons you should visit the Philippines:
- Cheap Transportation: The cost of transportation in the Philippines is one of the cheapest in Asia, making it easy to get around town and explore different parts of the country. You can also use public transportation to get out into rural areas or travel to nearby islands.
- Affordable Accommodation: Accommodation costs in Manila, which is where most tourists stay are among the lowest in Asia, making it an affordable option even for budget travelers. As long as you don’t mind staying in a hostel or guesthouse, you can find affordable rooms and apartments all over the Philippines.
- Easy Access To Nature: The Philippines is home to some of Asia’s most stunning natural treasures, including Mount Mayon, Boracay Island, and the El Nido Resort area. Whether you want to trek through jungles or take a relaxing beach vacation, these destinations are easy to get to without spending a lot of money on transportation or accommodation.
Asia is a continent full of rich culture and history, and the 5 cheapest countries to visit in Asia are just the beginning. From ancient empires to modern-day technology hubs, there’s something for everyone to explore on a trip to Asia. So why wait? Book your tickets today!