5 Surprisingly Affordable Tropical Destinations

Traveling the world is the goal of many people. Visiting foreign countries, seeing landmarks, and sampling new cuisines can be an incredible experience. But the price can be prohibitive for many.

If you dreamed of traveling the world but have been delaying take the plunge, you might be afraid of the cost. Planning a vacation when you’re on a budget can be difficult. However, there are some beautiful, tropical destinations that are shockingly affordable.

Here are five locations where your money can go further.

1. San Juan, Puerto Rico

If you don’t mind staying within the United States, you can enjoy a lush, tropical vacation in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Because it’s not as far away, flights are much cheaper; you can fly from Orlando to San Juan for about $100. And hotel rooms cost as little as $74.

San Juan has white sand beaches, gorgeous water and incredible rainforests. You can also fit 15th-century forts and colorful buildings throughout the city. San Juan also offers incredible nightlife, with bustling casinos, nightclubs and sightseeing.

Best of all, you don’t have to worry about getting a passport.

2. Corfu, Greece

Greece went through a severe economic collapse, which caused the cost of hotel accommodations to plummet. In fact, you can get a room at a waterfront hotel for as little as $86 a night.

Corfu is known for its beautiful beaches, impressive landscapes and ancient fortresses. It has crystal clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling, fishing or skiing.

Beyond its gorgeous beaches and sea life, Corfu is also home to a picturesque town with historic buildings, restaurants and nightclubs. And while flying internationally can often cost thousands, you can fly to Corfu for about $700.

3. Cancun, Mexico

While Cancun has a wild reputation, it can be a beautiful and peaceful vacation destination if you visit outside of college breaks.

The average daily temperature is 80 degrees, which means you can enjoy the sun on the beach year round. The water can also be surprisingly warm, even in the winter, making it possible to enjoy swimming whenever you go.

Cancun has a wide range of hotels, from luxury suites to budget-friendly accommodations. If you want to keep your costs low, you can get a room for just $54.

4. Si Phan Don, Laos

Flying to Thailand can be expensive, but nearby Laos can be a much more budget-friendly option. The area has thousands of tiny islands with scenic landscapes and bright blue waters. There are also breathtaking waterfall trails you can hike through for photo opportunities.

The native cuisine is delicious and very cheap. Foodies can enjoy unique delicacies for just a few dollars a day. And hotels can cost as little as $15 a night, so you can live luxuriously while there.

Laos also boasts incredible architecture. English is also very common, so you don’t have to worry about a language barrier.

5. Eagle Beach, Aruba

Eagle Beach is the widest in Aruba and is renowned for its snow-white beaches and turquoise water. It’s the perfect location if you enjoy jet skiing, tubing or boating. In fact, Eagle Beach was voted the third best beach in the whole world.

From surfing lessons to sunbathing, Aruba offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and fun. If you love animals, you may also enjoy seeing the sea turtles and their nests throughout the year. Tourists from around the world gather together to watch the hatchlings make it to the water.

Depending on your budget, there’s plenty of options. There are affordable hotels starting at $70 a night. And flights are often under $200.

Finding the Best Deals

To get the most from your vacation, make sure you do your research ahead of time. Comparing airfare from several different airlines, by using a service like Kayak, can help you find the best deals.

When traveling internationally, you may want to hire a travel agent. They often know about specials, packages, and the most affordable times of the year to visit that you wouldn’t find out otherwise.

A credit card that offers travel rewards can also help you get more for your money. Using your credit card for routine purchases throughout the year can help you get airlines miles or cash back you can use for your trip.

While being on a budget might mean you need to be more creative, you can still travel the world and see beautiful tropical areas. By going on vacation during the off-season, or visiting lesser-known cities, you can save money while enjoying an amazing trip.