Despite what we may be told, you don’t have to give up your latte and smashed avocado to experience luxury travel. Here is a selection of destinations where you can experience the finer things in life and travel
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of experiences, from pristine beaches to their incredible cultural heritage, wildlife safaris, tea plantations and natural beauty at budget-friendly prices.
Accommodation
Sri Lanka boasts a variety of affordable, yet luxurious accommodation options. Boutique hotels and charming guesthouses offer high-end amenities at a fraction of the cost you’d find in other countries. Areas like Galle, Kandy, and Ella have beautiful lodgings that provide stunning views and authentic experiences with many run and staffed by knowledgeable locals. For just $200 per night, you can find yourself in the 5-star Radisson Blu Resort in a Deluxe room overlooking the ocean from a private balcony. How boujee is that!
Radisson Blu Resort Galle. Image: Booking.com
Cheap Eats
Sri Lanka is a paradise for food lovers on a budget. Street food is not only delicious but also incredibly cheap. Try local delicacies like kottu roti, hoppers, coconut sambal and fresh seafood. Dining at local eateries will give you a taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine without breaking the bank. When dining at high-end restaurants in cities such as Colombo, opt for their affordable specials.
Traditional Sri Lankan street food
Activities
Sri Lanka has an abundance of activities to partake in that are budget-friendly such as scenic train rides with breathtaking views such as the Kandy to Ella route. Wildlife enthusiasts can experience safaris in Sri Lankan national parks for a fraction of the price you’d expect to pay in Africa. In Yala and Udawalawe Parks, you can expect to see elephants, leopards, deer, jackals, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
Yala National Park
Lombok
Lombok is an idyllic destination that offers stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and cultural experiences, all at budget-friendly prices.
Accommodation
Lombok features a range of affordable yet luxurious accommodation options. Lombok features a range of affordable yet luxurious accommodation options. From beachside bungalows to boutique hotels, you can find high-end amenities without the increasing price tag that its beautiful neighbouring island has. Areas like Senggigi and Kuta offer beautiful lodgings with ocean views, making it easy to enjoy a luxury stay on a lax budget. Sekotong boasts huge ocean-view villas with a private infinity pool for as little as $270 including breakfast.
Holiday Resort Lombok. Image: Booking.com
Cheap Eats
Lombok is a haven for food lovers seeking delicious and affordable meals. Street food stalls and local warungs (small restaurants) serve up mouth-watering dishes like nasi goreng, sate ayam, and fresh seafood at incredibly low prices. Not to mention, fresh juices, cocktails and Indonesia’s ability to create Australia-grade coffee.
Activities
Lombok boasts a variety of budget-friendly activities. Explore the island’s pristine beaches, such as Tanjung Aan and Selong Belanak, perfect for lying on the beach, sunbathing and surfing. Trek to the top of Mount Rinjani for a challenging yet rewarding adventure with spectacular views. Additionally, visit traditional Sasak villages to experience the local culture and craftsmanship, all without breaking the bank. Personal drivers will take you wherever you need to go on the island, often for less than your latest internet bill.
Mount Rinjani. Image: Experience Travel Group
America
America offers a diverse range of travel experiences, from iconic bustling cities to scenic landscapes and incredible National Parks, many of which can be enjoyed without breaking the bank.
Accommodation
The USA provides various affordable accommodation options. Popular destinations such as the famous city of Las Vegas have luxury stays for surprisingly low prices during their off-peak seasons. San Diego, Orlando and New Mexico are other destinations where you can find extremely affordable accommodation without lacking stars. Being loyal to a particular brand or chain can also ensure you get the best rates available for your stays.
Hilton Garden Inn San Diego. Image: Hilton
Cheap Eats
The US has an array of food options, again, not breaking the bank. From street food to gourmet food trucks, through to their iconic American diners, there is something for every taste. Peggy Sue’s 50’s diner is just one of thousands of roadside diners with charm and character, that will also leave you with plenty of change left over after a delicious, comforting meal. Don’t forget to save some notes for a tip which is the expectation in America.
Activities
There are countless beautiful, budget-friendly activities in the United States. National Parks such as Yellowstone National Park and Yosemite
Yosemite
Cambodia
Cambodia is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and luxurious yet affordable accommodation options. This Southeast Asian gem offers visitors a unique blend of vibrant culture in the cities, stunning natural beauty in the villages as well as ancient wonders and fascinating history scattered across the country.
Accommodation
For those seeking luxury accommodation, Cambodia should be at the top of your travel list. For as little as $150 per night, you’ll encounter numerous 5-star resorts including the Sarai Resort which features expansive pools and generous-sized rooms with balconies to offer fresh air and breathtaking views.
Image: Sarai Resort
Cheap Eats
Cambodia’s second biggest city, Siem Reap is known for its vibrant night markets situated throughout the city where you can sample a variety of foods. The Angkor Night Markets boast some of the most delicious local delicacies, as well as unique shopping experiences and live music! There are also locally run food tours throughout Cambodia which include a tour guide and tuk tuk, taking you to sample restaurants, street foods and hidden gems you’d otherwise miss. Most of these tours are less than $60. Book here.
Activities
There are many attractions in Cambodia that are free or for a very low cost, making it easy to stretch your budget. Visit the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex near Siem Reap and the National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh. Relax on the stunning beaches of Koh Rong or snorkel with seahorses and colourful fish. Head east and visit some of the most beautiful waterfalls and learn about the Cambodian culture through the local hill tribes. Complete your trip by indulging in luxury spa experiences which in Cambodia you can find very well-priced.
National Museum of Cambodia. Image: Lonely Planet
Read more of our travel recommendations below.
