This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Penn chapter.
Each year, we look forward to summer break. No more early morning classes, assignments due the Monday after Fling, or running into last night’s hookup on Locust Walk. And the best part of summer break? More time to travel. Traveling isn’t cheap, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t destinations around the world that offer plenty of bank account friendly ways to stay, play, and eat. Whether you’re looking for the perfect beach or a city full of culture, these cities and countries will deliver big on experiences, but cost little. They won’t stay cheap forever though, so start packing soon!
1. Philippines
If you are looking for bargains, love the outdoors, and are obsessed with food, then this is the country for you! The Philippines is affordable and filled with so much nature that it actually offers a lot for the money you spend. Definitely visit Manila, where you can find some of the cheapest shopping and upscale dining in the world.
2. South Africa
This country is filled with wildlife; go on a safari or even just hang out with the free-roaming penguins on Boulders Beach in Cape Town. If you’re more into beaches, get ready for some major sunbathing, watercolor sunsets, swimming, and surfing. And if learning about the country’s history is your thing, there’s the Nelson Mandela Museum and the Apartheid Museum.
3. Nicaragua
Every few years, a new Central American country gets crowned “the next Costa Rica,” meaning it’s relatively safe and bursting with natural beauty, but not yet expensive and overrun with tourists. Nicaragua is definitely working its way up that list: volcanoes, rainforests, rivers, and Caribbean beaches lure travelers looking for cheap, off-the-beaten-path adventures. Expect to be able to spend as little as $20 per day, or live the high life for not a whole lot more.
4. Warsaw, Poland
Visiting the capital of Poland is like taking the best European history lesson you’ve ever had. During the summer, everySaturday and Sunday, the Lazienki Park aka Royal Baths Park has free piano concerts; this tradition has lasted 50 years. The oldest and most historic part of the city, Old Town, was almost completely demolished during WWII, but today it is filled with cafes, galleries, and restaurants.
5. Riga, Latvia
This city is where theater thrives and Art Nouveau buildings are abundant, mainly concentrated in the city’s center. The capital is officially named the European Capital of Culture and its churches will show you why. Even if it’s not your thing, consider attending a ballet, choral performance, or even an opera. There are white quartz sand beaches too, since Riga is right on the coast of the Baltic Sea.
Images courtesy of: UnoEmilio.com; Abercrombie&Kent; MaderasFuturo; The Frydryk Chopin Institute; BTurn; Fashion Bloom.