Journalism of Courage
According to a recent study by TripAdvisor, Indians are willing to spend more on travel in 2016. But nothing really beats bagging a good deal. In fact, some might say that a great deal might be as thrilling as the trip itself. So, in case you're looking at budget destinations for 2016, here are 10 places that the travel experts at Lonely Planet suggest. (Source: Thinkstock Images)
Estonia: The part of Europe that gives you bang for your buck, Estonia is a gloriously distinctive slice of Europe, where Eastern and Nordic influences mix together. (Source: Thinkstock Images)
Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, Vietnam: Vietnam has been a popular budget destination, but both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are said to be the most magical of price brackets for the budget traveller: $20 per day or less for food, lodging and sights, says LP. (Source: Thinkstock Images)
East Africa: Now, this is an entire region to explore. The outbreak of the Ebola virus in West Africa has deviated tourists towards the East. There are cracking deals for Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and the rest of the region that you can avail of. (Source: Thinkstock Images)
New Mexico: A beautiful, affordable, active, foodie corner of America’s southwest, New Mexico offers a great selection for a budget price. Given the richness of attractions all found within one state, New Mexico offers value from a time as well as monetary perspective, says LP. (Source: Thinkstock Images)
Bosnia and Herzegovina: There are still parts of Europe that can be wallet friendly and Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of those. Inexpensive accommodation, meals and intercity transport combined with historic cities (Sarajevo and Mostar) and affordable adrenaline pursuits (rafting on the Una River and skiing) are aplenty, says LP. (Source: Thinkstock Images)
Galicia, Spain: History, colour, flavours and all of these at a bargain price. Western Europe's budget destination for ages, Spain promises a whole host of tourism options for travellers in 2016. (Source: Thinkstock Images)
Québec City, Canada: Think Canada and I'm sure Indians can find at least five relatives (extended-further extended-and-an-extension-of-that kind of family) in some part of the country. But if you want to go on a road trip, then try Québec City. The French influences give you a feel of Europe, and Montmorency Forest and Jacques-Cartier National Park offer a wilder taste of the province. (Source: Thinkstock Images)
Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast: Love the water? Then head towards the Caribbean coast in Costa Rica. Take advantage of the fact that it hasn't yeat become a full-blown tourist destination, but with a fast pace of evolution, that's only a couple of years away. Sloth sanctuary, is what LP calls it. (Source: Thinkstock Images)
Timor-Leste: This little-known country — which also happens to be one of the newest countries formed — is rich in natural beauty that is sure to placate even the most seasoned traveller. Bargain beach shacks and welcoming homestays offer a great hideaway for those looking for a bit of tranquility in nature's lap for a bargain. (Source: Thinkstock Images)
Western Australia: Australia is No. 2 on Lonely Planet's top destinations for 2016, so it's not surprising that the countryside should make it to the budget list at least. Though the continent is not really budget, but Western Australia — with its dream-like landscapes and outback treats — are well worth it, making it No. 10 on the LP's list of Top 10 best-value destinations for 2016. (Source: Thinkstock Images)
