There is something uniquely rewarding about enjoying a stunning vacation, finding the cheapest flights and spending far less on your trip than the other holidaymakers you encounter. The hard work put in planning and executing your budget holiday not only repays you financially, but there is a real sense of satisfaction in having found a way to experience something affordable, without spending vast sums of money in the process.
Cheap holidays are a great way to see both the places near you and the wider world at large. With that in mind, here are five outstandingly cheap ways to spend your vacation, and save what is in your wallet.
1. The cheap beach holiday: Bulgaria
If a British holidaymaker thinks about a cheap beach holiday then the likes of Spain and Greece will immediately spring to mind. While holidays in these countries are certainly good value, the strength of the Euro against the Pound at the moment means that these destinations are not as cheap for the British visitor as they once were.
For an outstanding beach holiday, at rock bottom prices, then Bulgaria is a country to consider. Bulgaria is relatively new to tourism and boasts some of the cheapest prices in Europe, mainly thanks to the fact that the cost of living is relatively low. The country is quickly growing in popularity as a destination for many who find the combination of outstanding beaches, great nightlife and fantastic value hard to resist.
2. The inexpensive voyage of self-discovery: The USA
There are few better ways to discover yourself than by packing your kit into a backpack and heading out across the wide expanses of the United States of America. This voyage of self-discovery, popularised by the Beat writers of the 40s (and immortalised in books and film ever since), is the best way to experience the true USA, away from the sanitised resorts and tourist traps.
To begin your journey buy a cheap flight to the east coast and book yourself into one of the many inexpensive hostels in either Boston or New York. Taking public transport can save money, though car hire in the US can be cost effective provided you check local laws regarding pick up and drop off points and travelling interstate. Pack your worldly belongings into a backpack and head across this vast, beautiful country; discovering more about it, and yourself along the way.
3. The value family friendly holiday: France
France has never been a better holiday destination for a cheap family holiday. Improved transport links (via Eurostar, the ferries and not to mention cheap budget flights to many airports across France) mean that our nearest neighbour is now cheaper and easier to get to than ever before.
Ignore the temptation to visit some of the expensive resorts on the French Riviera and instead explore the lesser known places. The Atlantic Coast, around the Bay of Biscay, offers great value for money and outstanding weather, not to mention the perfect setting for a family vacation; there is plenty here to occupy both adults and children. Further costs can be saved by opting to camp in a tent, rather than stay in a rented cottage or hotel, and there are many campsites set amid the glorious countryside.
4. The adventurous holiday for less: Wales
Who says you have to go far to experience a holiday with adventurous spirit? We often overlook the abundance of opportunities at home in the UK; and Wales is a classic example. With outstanding areas of natural beauty, a rugged coastline, lofty mountaintops and towns and villages nestling against this outstanding backdrop, there is so much to do here that is both affordable and adventurous.
Whether it is a spot of coasteering, climbing mountains, hiking, rambling, white water rafting or abseiling, Wales has plenty to offer even the most demanding of adventurers, and with some of the cheapest rates available in the UK for travel and accommodation it will not stretch the budget.
5. Further afield on a budget: Thailand
Thailand used to be the best-kept secret in the holiday industry; now mass tourism means the area is not only popular, but cheaper and easier to get to than ever before. If you opt to travel away from tourist hotspots such as Bangkok and Phuket, you’ll discover a place where the way of life is simple, beautiful, and extraordinarily cheap. Thailand is a destination that not only nourishes your soul, but will also not prove a drain on finances.
In all cases cheap holidays beat expensive ones because they reward those who are prepared to put in a little extra effort when planning a holiday.
Editor’s Note: This is a guest post.
Photo Credits: Wat Arun by Frameless World
Excellent choices — I loved Bulgaria, which was super-cheap and offered everything from beaches to nightlife to historical sites. It looks like I also need to consider Wales at some point…
Interesting perspective! The Bay of Biscayne is one of my favorites areas in France. I have heard great things about Bulgaria and Wales has been on my list for awhile.