Traveling the world is an invaluable experience that can provide people with a wealth of knowledge and precious memories; however, as with many things, travel can be expensive. Fortunately, there are many budget travel destinations in Asia that you can explore without worrying about the stress it will put on your bank account.
Bangkok, Thailand
Airfare to Bangkok, Thailand, is surprisingly affordable. However, the low season in Thailand is between July and September, the rainiest time of the year. The writers at Lonely Planet explain that many island resorts and ferry routes close down during this time because of heavy rainfall.
Bangkok has much to see, with ample shopping, museums, and historical sites, making it an exciting destination. Tourist attractions include historical and religious sites, such as the many breathtaking temples in Bangkok, such as the Wat Arun Ratchawararam, also known as the Temple of Dawn. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the temple is a must-see, adorned with seashells, porcelain, and Benjarong dishes.
Ninh Binh, Vietnam
According to International Travelers, Ninh Binh, Vietnam, is a less crowded and more affordable alternative to Ha Long Bay. A two-and-a-half-hour train or bus ride from Hanoi, Ninh Binh offers breathtaking, lush scenery, biking trails, and temples. Some of the main attractions in Ninh Binh include the Mua Cave Climb, a 500-step journey up a mountain to some breathtaking panoramic views, and Bai Dinh Temple, the largest Buddhist temple complex in Vietnam.
Staying in Ninh Binh is not recommended, though; accommodations in the nearby villages of Tam Coc or Trang An are preferable. Ninh Binh and the nearby villages are bike-accessible; the best way to travel around Ninh Binh is by bike since the attractions are spread apart, and many roads are narrow and unpaved.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is the largest and most populous city in northern Thailand, featuring numerous food markets, beautiful landscapes, and temples. Tourists can go jungle trekking, ziplining, go on a river cruise, whitewater rafting, or even take cooking classes while visiting Chiang Mai. Taking advantage of the many street-food options in Chiang Mai is one of the many valuable budget travel tips in Asia.
The Highland People Discovery Museum offers a wealth of information on tribal life in Thailand. According to Nomadic Matt, it hosts a market where a different tribe sells handmade goods, Monday through Friday once a month.
Siquijor, Philippines
Siquijor in the Philippines is a small island famous for its beautiful landscape and mountain-dwelling healers, known as mangkukulam. With affordable beach resorts across the island, Siquijor is one of the many beautiful yet cheap travel destinations in Asia.
While visiting Siquijor, visitors can take part in diving, swimming through waterfalls and exploring caves and forests. Lonely Planet writes that snorkeling enthusiasts will have plenty to do in Siquijor, with prime snorkeling waters around the whole island. Top attractions on the island include Paliton Beach, a white-sand beach with crystal clear blue waters northeast of San Juan, the San Isidro Convent, and Cambugahay Falls.
Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Yogyakarta, Indonesia, is often thought of as the heart or soul of Java. Brimming with culture and art, Yogyakarta is rich in history and tradition. The walled city palace known as Kraton remains the city’s traditional hub, and a sultan still heads it. The urban center features modern amenities, and it is filled with stores and restaurants.
Visitors should make an effort to stop by the many museums, including the Sono-Budoyo Museum, which is full of Javanese art and cultural artifacts. Located near breathtaking Buddhist and Hindu temples, Yogyakarta is an essential stop on the list of budget travel destinations in Asia.