Like almost everything else, the cost of travel continues to rise. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still find great travel options at an affordable price. There are many hidden hot spots around the world that you can check out if you are looking for an amazing experience.
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GOBankingRates spoke to two travel agents, Mercedes Zack of ASAP Tickets (part of the Trevolution Group) and Charles Neville of JayWay Travel to find out which hidden hotspots offer a good time at a great price. Here’s what they said.
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Sumba, Indonesia
“Bali has been among the most popular holiday destinations for years; However, because it is not as peaceful and unspoilt as it used to be, many travelers are now looking for new, undiscovered and less crowded tropical destinations,” said Zak.
One such place is Sumba.
“Known for its spectacular coastline, exotic beaches, breathtaking natural scenery, unique traditions and rich history, Sumba is another spectacular island in Indonesia that has recently begun to attract tourists looking for an exotic getaway. Sumba is south of Bali and is twice the size of Bali,” Zach said.
According to Zack, the west side of the island is one area where experienced travelers often go.
“Most travelers choose to explore the beautiful Lake Weekuri, the beautiful coastline and the abundance of traditional villages,” she said. “Sumba is an emerging destination that I see trending in 2024 among those travelers who want to experience an extraordinary desert adventure while surrounded by breathtaking views, all modern conveniences and both fun and relaxing experiences for less .”
You can find accommodation in Sumba anywhere from around $16 to $200 per night. Daily food costs are around $16 a day or less, while entertainment will run you around $10 a day, according to Budget Your Trip. Excluding airfare, which varies greatly depending on where you start, you can experience the area on a budget.
See: 8 tips for flying business class for the price of economy
Cartagena, Colombia
According to Neville, Cartagena is another hidden hotspot where you can have a great adventure without breaking the bank.
Located on the Caribbean coast, this historic walled city provides convenient access to white sand beaches, coral reefs, the Rosario Islands, mud volcanoes and more. It also has a lot to offer when it comes to history and culture.
When it comes to accommodation, you can keep costs low or you can spend a little if your budget allows. One such option is the Coralina Island House, located in the Rosario Islands right off the coast.
“This secluded retreat offers pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation,” Neville said. “Accommodation options range from cozy beach villas to luxury villas, with prices starting at $300-$500 per person for three nights, including meals and transfers from Cartagena.”
Destin, Florida
You don’t have to go abroad to have a good time. If you’re starting out in the US and want to keep costs even lower, you might want to add Destin, Florida to your list of travel destinations.
“If you want to enjoy next-level travel in the country, one such city in the US that can easily compare to Malibu or Miami, while being much cheaper, is Destin in Northwest Florida, in the Panhandle region. It is known for its Emerald Coast beaches, many golf courses, the Destin Harbor Boardwalk and year-round good weather,” Zach said.
“Many say Destin exudes a Caribbean vibe without having to catch a flight to one of the exotic islands outside the U.S. Plus, there are many exclusive beach rentals to choose from for as little as $100 a night,” she added. “This city offers everything from golf, rock climbing and ziplining to snorkeling and dolphin tours to world-class festivals, fireworks and other unique experiences that don’t have to cost a fortune.”
Porto, Portugal
If Europe is more your mood, consider Porto, a historic city with a vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. It’s getting more popular, but there’s still a lot to explore that other travelers haven’t yet. It is also affordable.
“Walk along narrow cobbled streets, admire stunning views of the Douro River and indulge in wine tastings at local cellars,” Neville said. “Accommodation options in Porto include boutique hotels, guesthouses and hostels, with overnight stays starting at €50-€100 per person during the summer months.”
Bona Aqua, Tennessee
Another option for those who would prefer a US destination is Bon Aqua, Tennessee. Neville specifically suggested the Piney River Resort for those seeking a more relaxed getaway.
“This hidden gem offers rustic cabins, caravan sites and tent camping options, providing a perfect getaway for nature lovers,” he said. “Guests can enjoy fishing, kayaking, hiking and stargazing under the clear night sky.”
Expect to spend about $30 a night at the campgrounds or about $100 a night to rent cabins.
Muscat, Oman
“Another emerging holiday destination for those looking for unique adventures is Oman – the perfect place to experience ancient Arabia, which offers beautiful beaches, vibrant culture and diverse landscapes,” said Zak. “Located at the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman’s natural wonders include dramatic mountains, long golden coastlines lined with palm trees and groves of citrus trees.”
Oman also offers year-round sunshine, a mix of luxury and affordable accommodation and restaurants stretching along the Gulf coast. Hotels in the area start at around $25 per night and go up from there. Eating out is a little higher at around $80 per person each day, although you can always find ways to cut costs once you’re there.
Apart from the accessibility, there is also a lot to do.
“Some of the most famous tourist attractions include the waterfront Al Alam Palace, the Old City of Muscat and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, but there is more to experience when in Oman, from dolphin watching, snorkelling and camel riding to something as extraordinary as hiking the highest peak in the Middle East, enjoying dinner on the stargazing platform, or exploring the wonders of the galaxy with night sky tours with a telescope above the canyon,” Zach said.
“It’s one of the few countries still relatively untouched by mass tourism, and prices there are around $250 a day, making it a spectacular, yet still affordable, off-the-radar travel destination,” she added.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I’m a travel agent: Here are 6 hidden hotspots that offer a good time at a great price
