The 21 Best Budget Travel Destinations For 2017

Posted on by Raina
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Photo by George Pak on Pexels.com

Travelling should not be financially damaging. If you have a tight budget but still want to explore the world, there are destinations you​ can look to for the best experience. Even if you have enough to spend, you could just be in need of making some savings while giving yourself or loved ones a good time. Here are the best destinations for budget traveling.

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

The nation of Kyrgyzstan is covered in mountains and forests and thus one of the best places to visit for the lover of the wild. You can celebrate the wild and the people with some of the cheapest experiences on the planet. A meal, for example, can go for as low as $2 yet very delicious and satisfying.

Seoul, South Korea

This Korean city is a great mix of local culture mixed with an international touch. You can enjoy various Korean dishes, the big and beautiful buildings, and everything you’ve always wanted in a modern city. The fact that it’s a city doesn’t, however, mean that it will cost you a fortune. It is a very affordable city.

Cape Point, South Africa

If you want to visit the southernmost tip of the Motherland, you should visit the Cape of Good Hope which is full of history and one of the few places you can find African penguins at the Boulder Beach and Cape Point National Park. The fees are also very enticing with a few hundred dollars taking you for days on end.

Palawan, The Philippines

Those with interests in some watery fun should look to Palawan for the best experience. You can go snorkeling, beach hopping, exploring the underground cave systems and diving all in one package in this area. The good news is that you won’t break the bank to take in all this fun. You also get to enjoy the local culture with your experiences.

Porto, Portugal

As the second largest city in Portugal, Porto has risen mostly due to a combination of tourist attractions and low prices. The region has affordable food, accommodations and low tourist fees.  It combines historic sites with churches, old buildings, fun sites and others for a wholesome experience for any visitor. Most of its sites date as far back as the year 300 BC for those who love good old history.

 Trencin, Slovakia

How about a small town you can visit for so little yet bask in so much glory? The town of Trencin is located just below a beautiful castle built in the medieval times. You cannot go wrong with the peace and level of tranquility you get once you arrive in this location.

Cairo, Egypt

The capital city of Egypt was once the center of civilization. It still retains most of its Glory to this day thanks to the many ancient pieces of art that dot the city. Although previously very costly, it has become cheaper all due to the political unrest that began with the infamous Arab Spring. Today, you can have great value for each dollar you spend in this country owing to favorable currency exchange rate.

Moab, Utah

While other areas boast of tourist attractions aided by man, the city of Moab in Utah boasts of the most natural geographic features you can find on the planet. You can easily access the three major parks (Arches, Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point) from this city using an RV or public transportation. Make sure you have all your RV supplies with you when heading out for the fun ever ends.

Brasov, Romania

In winter, the whole of Romania is a fiery tale of a kind. In Romania especially, you get to enjoy a lot of what winter in Europe is known for but at a fraction of the cost you get in other locations. In Brasov, you will never get enough of the fun in winter.

Copán, Honduras

Media reports point to Honduras being a dangerous place and thus not good for the media. The truth is far from that however. Yes, there are gangs in the major cities of the country but they never tamper with the tourists visiting it. There are guides that will ensure you stay safe and enjoy the natural beauty of the country as much as you wish.

Northern Vietnam

It is known the world over that Vietnam is a budget destination. What people miss out is the part about northern Vietnam where the country comes into contact with China. While shunned by many people, this region is the true representation of the Vietnamese culture as most indigenous people are found here. You also get rice terraces and towering mountains with beautiful rivers all on a budget.

Lisbon, Portugal

After landing in Portugal, make sure you visit the city of Lisbon before you do anything else. The city is filled with historic sites and buildings, great museums, lovely music, an awesome nightlife and eateries with the tastiest of dishes. Even better is the knowledge that you can stretch very little money over a long period of time.

Bucharest, Romania

The city of Bucharest is home to many interesting items on offer. You get to explore the various pieces of architecture from old to modern buildings, cemeteries, museums and much more. The nightlife is also one to talk about once you experience it first-hand. Everything you do here will not cost you as much as it would in other locations in Europe.

Crete, Greece

Being the largest Greek island comes with various advantages one of which is that many people will stream to the area searching for fun activities. And Crete doesn’t disappoint as it has fun activities for everyone be they on budget or willing to blow away some money. The food and lodging costs are very lowly priced but with great quality in them.

Burleigh Heads, Queensland, Australia

It’s never easy to recommend an Australian destination as a good choice for those who wish to travel the world on a budget. However, Burleigh Heads in Queensland offers​ the best experience for anyone in need of experiencing traditional Australia without incurring too much. Besides the many attractions, you can also enjoy the temperature that is great all year round.

Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago

The little Caribbean island has some of the best experiences for those bent on saving lots of money while having lots of fun. You will not be getting your very costly hotels and other items but are sure to enjoy the beaches, the treks, hikes and other fun activities. The Caribbean vibe is very strong here all for a little money from your pocket.

Luang Prabang, Laos

Chances are high that most readers have never heard of this beautiful location. And that is the very reason why you need to pay it a visit. It’s​ full of tranquility, beauty and tradition that you would feel close to nature like never before. It has beautiful natural forests and other features that will leave you wanting more but without the costly prices associated with such great experiences.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Anyone who has been to Bolivia never stops claiming of how much they were able to have great savings for very little. Bolivia is often underrated by destination reviews yet is has some of the most iconic​ sites on the planet. Even better is the fact that you will enjoy these sites for very little.

 Antigua, Guatemala

The home of the Mayan civilization can be explored for very little money. You can explore the wild countryside while spending nights in very comfortable locations spread across the nation and costing next to nothing. The Mayan civilization remains are there for all to bask in their glory and take pictures of. While here, you can enjoy the world’s largest Easter celebration, Semana Santa besides other lovely celebrations.

Hopkins, Belize

It may seem ironical that we have included Belize on the list of the world’s most cost effective tourist destinations when it is likely an expensive paradise. However, if you compare what Belize charges and what you get for your money with what European countries charge, you will gladly choose Belize. As stated here, it is little paradise that will give you memories like no other.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Not many people look at Georgia as a tourist destination of choice. That is because they have never visited the location and because they have visited the most advertised areas. If you go to Georgia and simply focus on the fun, you will come out with lots to talk about and your perception about this country will definitely change for the better. It is also very friendly to the pocket and you will realize once your holiday comes to an end.

Even if a name has been included on this list, you need to learn of ways of saving money even when you are in a cheap location. Many guides will also give you tips on how to save money on your trips and other locations of interest.

Meal replacements as a substitute for highly processed foods

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In previous times, mankind was very much limited to what could be cultivated in a good season or what could be reared before the cold season. All over the world, ancient civilizations had to play a very delicate dance with nature in order to have access to food. High-quality foods were usually limited to nobility and upper class/ very wealthy individuals.   It is then a bit ironic that with the ease of access to many types of food, nutrition is at an all-time low. The kicker here is that the speeding up of life due to economic development has caused the emergence of highly processed foods. While these foods are quite filling, many times they lack the basic macro and micronutrients needed to sustain a healthy lifestyle.

For the person on the go who may be lacking in finances, time, or is simply looking a solution that fits into a busy lifestyle, a hot or cold meal replacement is one idea.

Meal replacements are densely packed with many essential macro and micronutrients that a diet built around processed food is devoid of. They can even be DIY projects for your body where you design your own meals, and incorporate these quick soups or shakes into your diet for a healthier you.

How to Use Meal Substitute Shakes

In truth, a meal replacement shake isn’t adequate on its own. The easiest approach to enjoy a meal replacement shake is to combine it with nutritious snacks that will help you convert it into a complete meal. You’ll be providing your body with all of the nutrition it requires to keep you moving throughout the day.

According to Wendy Bazilian, DrPH, RDN, author of The SuperfoodsRx Diet, each meal should contain 325 to 400 calories, 15 to 25 grams of protein, 5 grams of fiber, and 10 to 13 grams of healthy unsaturated fat. Otherwise, you’ll most likely become hungry again very quickly.

Does the Car You Drive Impact Your Career?

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man in black jacket wiping the white car

Guest Post

According to multiple studies, the vehicle you drive can have a direct impact on your career, as it can have an effect on the way people in your workplace – and outside of it – perceive you. In fact, a car is much more than just a transportation tool. It says something about your lifestyle as well as your personality.

Does the car you drive impact your career?

For example, if you are driving an economic and a slightly old car, it says sends a certain message about your personality as well as financial situation; that you’re working hard and focusing on your career and not able or willing to spend money on luxuries, which will probably get noticed by your peers, boss or others in your work environment.

On the other hand, if you drive an expensive and luxurious car that most of your co-workers can only dream of having, people will begin to think that you might be over-paid, regardless of whether or not you are more successful than they are. Is this fair? No. But is it realistic? Definitely!

If you are a business owner and you drive a luxurious car, this might result in resentment and envy from your employees, even though you might think it’s a good idea to show off a luxurious car in front of potential investors and partners. In fact, driving a luxury car might influence investors’ decisions to collaborate with you. People like to feel a connection, even if it’s in terms of luxury. Even though this may sound a bit superficial to a lot of you, it is very important to make a good impression with potential investors. They might like to see your success, and a nice way to do that is by showing them your luxuries.

Finally, regardless of whether you like it or not, your car is a part of your life and it can have a sort of impact on your career. That being said, when buying a car, it is important for it to align with your world and role in the workplace. When people see the type of car that you drive, they can get a sort of insight into your personality traits and the kind of lifestyle you lead. Your car can say a lot about you, so next time you choose a car, think twice and make sure you are delivering the right message to the right people.

Travel Gifts for Kids and Families

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black woman giving gift to kid

Choosing gifts for a family of world travelers is easier than you think. They obviously don’t want to be weighed down with useless junk, so instead aim to make purchases that will help them as they travel near and far.

The best presents are often gifts of experiences. If you know some of the locations this family plans to visit, purchase tickets to a special event or attraction. You may even make the reservations for your favorite city tours in London. Gifting a family with memories that will last a lifetime is a wonderful way to spend your money.

Gifts for the Whole Family

Consider buying the family a terrific set of new luggage for their global adventures. The adults will surely appreciate the money you save them. For children and teenagers, you can also consider buying a fun book pack, messenger bag, or carry-on piece.

Gifts for Babies

When shopping for gifts for babies, try to find items that will make traveling with little ones as easier as possible. You can alleviate some parental worries by purchasing a travel stroller for the baby. A travel stroller collapses easily and takes up less space, but it is a must-have item when families are touring city attractions.

Another possibility is a portable crib – not a pack and play, but an actual travel crib. These are significantly smaller, but they still provide a safe sleeping option for babies while traveling and do not take up too much room.

Gifts for Kids

For traveling kids, you want to purchase gifts that will keep them entertained during long car and airplane rides. Kids love travel games of all types, as well as coloring items. Fill a bag with cards, miniature games, and coloring supplies, and you will have a gift that will entertain them and keep them busy.

Gifts for Teenagers

Let’s be honest – teenagers are going to spend a significant amount of their travel time on their mobile devices. So, it is a good idea to purchase gifts that work with their favorite gadgets. For example, get teens an impressive set of headphones.

If you still feel stuck, teens love to receive digital gifts because they allow them to download the gifts right to their mobile devices. Just make sure you buy digital gifts such as apps, music, and movies to play on your mobile devices.

Gifts for Adults

Adult travelers want gifts that are useful and meaningful. A unique passport cover is a great idea for those traveling abroad. Personalized items that make traveling easier are also excellent gifts. For instance, personalized luggage tags make it easier to find luggage at the airport.

For readers, an e-reader is a wonderful gift because it is easy to stock the library without taking up any luggage space. With an e-reader, they will always have access to their favorite books no matter where they go. While you are at it, go ahead and get them a subscription to a travel magazine or purchase some excellent travel books.

5 Ways Technology Will Change The World By 2025

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windmills on green hill under blue sky

At the moment, some of the things we thought would happen a hundred years into the future are already with us. For example, we thought robots will be taking over our jobs far into the future but they already are doing so. One way is through the use of big data robots to pick the right candidates (like Reflik does) for jobs rather than physical interviews. The five changes we expect by 2025 are:

The Sun Will Be the Main Source of Power

Going green means using sources of power that don’t deplete our beloved ozone layer. One source of green energy that has unlimited use and has the focus of every energy firm is the sun. Even before the year 2025, we will already have the sun being tapped to support our very livelihoods.

Everything will be online

Even your water heater! With tech firms such as Google and Apple bringing to live the Smart Home, we are sure that anything will be done from anywhere. Already, you can control your lights, your car, your fridge, your door locks and just about anything in your home half around the world away. As time goes by, it will be even easier and cheaper to carry out the same activities.

There Will be No More Hunger

While poverty will likely still show its ugly head here and there, every human being will likely have enough to eat and to keep themselves healthy. Research into food production has progressed so much that lots of cheap but healthy foods will be available. Also, putting roofs over the heads of most people will be easy with cheap but reliable building materials.

Most Notorious Diseases will Have Cures

At the moment, diseases such as HIV/AIDS, cancer and Type 1 diabetes have no cures of any type. As the times go by, more and more breakthroughs are being reported in these diseases. It is highly expected that their cures or at least better ways to manage such diseases would have been found by then.

Traveling will be purely electric

The age of the electric car is already here with us. With every vehicle manufacturer scrambling to churn out as many electric cars as possible, it is expected that by 2020 the electric car will be dominant over the combustion engine. Add five years to that and the machines running on electric engines will include planes and full manufacturing plants. It will be a harmonious future where we have these big fields black with solar panels, our very roofs made of solar panels. This power is then used to run everything from our cars, our planes to our cooling.

The future relies on technology that will even see us visit our closest solar system neighbors such as Mars. As (Elon) Musk often quips, we are destined to be an interplanetary species. Having solved our food and energy crises, nothing stands in the way of humanity as far as the future goes.