Chiang Rai is a captivating travel destination renowned for its rich cultural heritage, where ancient temples and traditions coexist with modern attractions. Nestled in the lush mountains of northern Thailand, it offers a serene escape into nature while providing ample opportunities for exploration, from trekking through pristine jungles to indulging in the vibrant street food scene.

Accommodation: Average $10 to $30 per night in hostels or affordable hotels

Where to stay: Fun-D Hostel Chiang Rai, Chayadol Resort, and Nak Nakara Hotel

Food: Delicious meals for $1 to $7 each

Where to eat: Give Green Farm House Organic Restaurant, Barrab Restaurant, Full Moon Wellness Cafe, and Crêpe Corner Chiangrai

Activities: Explore stunning temples, such as the Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) or the Wat Rong Seur Ten (Blue temple). Check out the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar for local shopping and food. If you’re a nature enthusiast visit the Doi Mae Salong mountains or the Khun Korn Waterfall.

Flights: The most expensive part of your trip will be the flight, so the longer you stay in Southeast Asia, the better. Fly into a major airport like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, or Singapore first and then work your way to other destinations by public transportation

Public Transportation: Convenient bus connections from Chiang Mai and Chiang Khong to get to Chiang Rai

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is a dynamic travel destination that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. With its iconic skyline featuring the towering Petronas Twin Towers, a diverse culinary scene, and a wealth of cultural experiences, Kuala Lumpur offers travelers a captivating journey through the heart of Southeast Asia’s diversity and innovation.

Accommodation: $8 to $20 per night for hostels or budget hotels.

Where to stay: Hilton Garden Inn Kuala Lumpur Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman South, Komune Living, and Days Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Fraser Business Park KL

Food: Enjoy tasty dishes for $1 to $15 per meal

Where to eat: Sala Bar, Tg’s Nasi Kandar, Nam Heong Vintage, Pavilion Elite, and Cafe: in House

Activities: Visit free attractions like Batu Caves or KLCC Park. Check out the Petronas Twin Towers, Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, and Jalan Alor for the best local street food

Flights: Again, the most expensive part of your trip will be the flight so stay in Southeast Asia as long as you can! We recommend flying into a big airport like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, or Singapore and then working your way to other destinations by public transportation

Public transportation: You can get to Kuala Lumpur by bus or train from other cities in Malaysia and neighboring countries

Vlore, Albania, is a hidden gem along the Adriatic coastline, offering budget-conscious travelers a stunning beach destination without the crowds of more popular European spots. With its affordable accommodation options, pristine beaches, and the opportunity to explore historic sites and nearby coastal towns, Vlore provides a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural discovery.

Accommodation: $15 to $30 per night for hostels, apartments, or guesthouses

Where to stay: Family Suite Residence, Hotel Aglon, and Hotel Ble Ble Vlore

Food: Enjoy meals for $3 to $12

Where to eat: Taverna “ Te Saçi”, Pizzeria Trattoria Jonçe, Da Michele Ristorante, and Te Fabio

Activities: Explore beautiful free beaches such as Mirror (Pasqyra) Beach, Jale Beach, Dhermi Beach, or Gjipe Beach.  Other popular sites worth visiting is The Blue eye, Ali Pasha Castle, and Kaninë Castle

Flights: If you are flying directly to Albania, you can fly into Tirana and then take a bus to Vlore. We recommend checking out Wizz Air, they usually have the cheapest flights into Tirana from many European cities

Public transportation: You can get to Vlore by bus from many other popular Albanian cities such as Tirana or Sarande

Tallinn, Estonia, is a captivating travel destination celebrated for its beautifully preserved medieval old town, where cobblestone streets and historic architecture transport visitors back in time. This enchanting city combines rich history with a vibrant contemporary culture, making it an ideal place to explore both the past and present of the Baltic region.

Accommodation: $20 to $30 per night for hostels or affordable guesthouses.

Where to stay: Imaginary Hostel, Draper Startup House Tallinn, Dreamstay Avangard, Oru Hub Hotel Tallinn, and Meriton Old Town Garden Hotel

Food: Satisfy your taste buds for $2 to $16 per meal

Where to eat: III Draakon, Toro Winebar, Gelato Ladies, and Samsa Family Bakers

Activities: Discover free attractions such as Tallinn Old Town, Toompea Hill, Aleksander Nevski Katedraali, and Kadriorg Park

Flights: We recommend flying directly into Tallinn with a budget airline like Ryanair, or you can fly into Helsinki, Riga, Vilnius or Kaunas and take a bus or ferry to Tallinn from there

Public transportation: You can get to Tallinn by bus, train, or ferry from other popular destinations cities in Estonia, by bus from Latvia or Lithuania and by ferry from Helsinki or Stockholm.

Riga, Latvia, is a charming travel destination known for its captivating blend of history, art nouveau architecture, and a lively cultural scene. With its stunning Old Town, vibrant markets, and a welcoming atmosphere, Riga offers travelers a chance to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the Baltic region while enjoying modern comforts and experiences.

Accommodation: $11 to $26 per night in hostels or budget guesthouses, with lower prices for shared rooms.

Where to stay: Blue Bird Hostel in Riga Old Town, Central Hostel, Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel

Food: Enjoy a variety of options for $3 to $16 per meal.

Where to eat: LIDO Vermanitis, LIDO Gertrude, LIDO Dzirnavas, and Crumble Cake

Activities: Explore a range of free activities such as as a visit to Old City Riga, House Of The Black Heads, Central Market,  Nativity of Christ Cathedral, and Bastejkalna Park

Flights: Budget airlines like Ryanair offer direct flights to Riga from many European cities, or you can fly to Tallinn, Vilnius, or Kaunas and take a bus to Riga.

Public Transportation: Access Riga by bus or train from other popular Latvian destinations and by bus from Estonia or Lithuania.