It’s a brand new year and the prime time to be thinking about where our itchy traveller’s feet can take us over the months ahead.
Getting away from your comfort zone can do wonders for that “stuck-in-a-rut” feeling, so get those travel plans ready.
We’ve lined up six of the best budget travel destinations for 2019 to add to your must-do list. From relaxing in Zanzibar, to a bucket-list favourite in India, to amazing cuisine in Malaysia, the world is yours for the taking this year.
Puebla, Mexico
A UNESCO heritage site, the city of Puebla, has a historical centre and a network of churches that will leave any history buff fascinated. It’s one of those quiet, underrated travel gems and the streets won’t be packed with tourists.
The accommodation is cheap. For example, a week’s stay for two adults at Hotel Sofia would cost around AUD$250, while a double room at Hotel Senorial for a week would work out to AUD$280.
Agra, India
Agra is situated in India’s northern Uttar Pradesh state and is home to the Taj Mahal. The mausoleum was built for the Mughal ruler Shah Jahan’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631.
While November is the ideal time to visit India – due to the sightseeing tours and festivals taking place – there’s no reason why you cannot book a holiday now.
Book into the Sai Palace for under AUD$100– for five nights stay! Hotel Bhoomi charges approximately AUD$230 for six nights stay, while backpackers save even more: only AUD$75 for six nights at Rhine Hostel; or AUD$63 at Hotel Safari.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
A popular travel destination. The streets of Buenos Aires are lined with cafes and parks to guarantee hours of peaceful exploration. Enjoy the local cuisine: steak, wine, empanadas and ice cream.
Buenos Aires has luxury accommodation if that’s what you’re after. However, travellers can consider a week’s budget accommodation at Merit San Telmo for under AUD$400. Alternatively, backpackers can look at splurging AUD$130 for a week’s stay at Adventure Hostel.
Zanzibar
A trip to the “Spice Island” certainly won’t be wasted. Just off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is any budget traveller’s dream. Enjoy the islands street food snacks for as little as AUD$3 and book into budget accommodation in Stone Town.
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And when we say budget destination, we mean less than AUD$200 for six nights’ stay at Malindi Guest House with breakfast included or AUD$250 at the Kilimanjaro Lodge on Nungwi Beach.
Transylvania, Romania
There is more to Transylvania that just talks of Dracula. Hike through limestone gorges, visit the magnificent castles and enjoy the cuisine. The Libearty Bear Sanctuary is also a must-see.
At AUD$460 for six nights, the 5-star Denisa Boutique Hotel is a steal. Check in advance because rooms here sell fast. If you’re looking for something cheaper still, check out the Pensiunea Piatra Mandrutului. It’s in high demand and will only cost about AUD$140 for a week’s stay.
Penang, Malaysia
Head to George Town in Penang and forget about your cares and stress for a while. George Town is any foodie’s paradise, from cosy restaurants to street food vendors. The Red Garden as a wide selection of food stands for any budget.
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The Sanguine Avenue Light Blue House is top-rated and won’t break the bank. Stay comfortably for six nights while only spending AUD$170 on accommodation. Alternatively, book into the Windy Sea View House for only AUD$340.
TOP IMAGE: Pixabay/igorovsyannykov
