As dreamy as some destinations might be, they’re not worth travelling to if you’re going end your trip with an empty wallet.
In a cost of living crisis, some bucket-list destinations are just not an option—but that doesn’t mean you have to give up travel altogether. It might just be about swapping one destination for another, more affordable one.
And don’t make the mistake of believing a cheaper destination is a lesser one—often these destinations have less tourists and more authentic and unexpected experiences.
Below, we round up our favourite affordable alternatives to expensive destinations.
Swap Croatia For Albania
Fodor’s Travel have claimed that the country of Albania is more affordable than Croatia and less touristy than Greece.
Those that trade Croatia’s glittering Dalmatian coast for Albania’s quieter Riviera will not only be rewarded more affordable prices and less tourists but charming towns, idyllic beaches, and delicious food as well.
Swap The Maldives For Zanzibar
With its turquoise oceans, white sand and palm-lined beaches, Zanzibar offers a similar style of tropical holiday to bucket-list destinations like the Maldives and Bora Bora—but at a fraction of the cost.
According to research from DaddySkins, the average price of a hotel room in Zanzibar is around $146.10 per night, compared to $768 in Bora Bora and $524 in the Maldives.
Food and drinks are also significantly cheaper on the African archipelago, with the average cocktail price being just $5 in Zanzibar compared $20 in Bora Bora and $17.50 in the Maldives.
Swap Switzerland For Slovenia
Known for its dramatic alpine region, Slovenia’s picturesque landscape rivals countries like Switzerland and Austria—and so does its prices.
Unlike notoriously expensive Switzerland, you won’t pay more than a few euros for Slovenian wine or a cup of coffee in Slovenia.
Plus, Slovenia was also ranked one of the top countries in the world for single women.
Swap Hawaii For Puerto Rico
Hawaii is a bucket-list destination but its also an expensive one—in fact, its the most expensive state to live in the U.S.
Fortunately, there are plenty of other destinations that offer the same surfy energy without the big price tag, including the laid-back Puerto Rico.
This Caribbean island is made up of a dramatic landscape of mountains, rainforest and waterfalls, a well as world renown surf breaks that lead the island to be known as the ‘North Shore of the Caribbean.’
If surf’s what you’re after then head to the island’s surfing mecca in the towns of Rincon, Aguada, and Aguadilla.
Swap Berlin For Budapest
When it comes to European history, cool bars and a vibrant artistic culture, Budapest can compete with Berlin.
Hungary’s capital city doesn’t only boast some stunning art nouveau architecture and unique mineral bathhouses but a seriously affordable street food culture and cheap local beer.
You can book accommodation for these places on Booking.com, Agoda and Airbnb.
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