Three inexpensive overseas options for the international traveler, 2023 edition

Traveling overseas is a daunting affair that can paralyze new travelers when they see expensive price tags. These three destinations allow you to travel without breaking the bank.

Colombia Experiences Tourism Boom in Cartagena
Colombia Experiences Tourism Boom in Cartagena | Jan Sochor/GettyImages

International travel is an idea that some individuals take for granted, while others may have no idea where to get started. It’s an experience that everyone should take in at least once in their lives, unfortunately, that isn’t the case today. The high price tag of international travel deters many, but what if there are locations that are more “price-friendly” than expected? Let’s look at three international destinations that will not hit you with sticker shock.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Vietnam is one of those international locations that offers something for nearly everyone. A major city like Hanoi works perfectly for those looking to experience as much of the culture as possible, including an expansive food scene and nightlife attractions. Not only do you have all those options in front of you, but Hanoi is close enough to excursions in nature that allow you to see another side of the country.

Flights to Vietnam can run anywhere from $600 to $900 dollars, with hotel accommodations hitting as high at $150. Those are the two highest expenses you can expect to see while in Vietnam, as food and expenses can run very cheap – with many being available for $10 or less. September to November is an excellent time to schedule your visit to catch the best weather in the area.

Cartagena, Colombia

Colombia is becoming a popular travel destination. The South American country continues to push back against negative stereotypes perpetrated in several aspects of media, to become a country that features destinations like Cartagena for the smart traveler.

Colombia has numerous historic and nature attractions to make sight-seeing and excursions a must. Everything from ancient buildings to trips to the Amazon awaits. Cartagena and Medellin boast bustling nightlife and restaurant establishments that also makes a Colombia a great location for those looking to get their parties down.

Vientiane, Laos

Heading to Southeast Asia to visit Vientiane, Laos is another trip where you can keep your travel expenses amazingly low, while experiencing a beautiful vacation. The flights can start anywhere at $600 and rise to $800. Room accommodations are one area where you’ll save the most money, as accommodations that would go for $100 to $150 a night in the United States could be $35 or less in Laos. Food and experiences are also amazingly cheap, with many as low as $8 or even less. With the right amount of pre-trip research, heading to Laos would be a good trip for anyone looking to go overseas while not breaking the bank.