With vacation prices soaring across popular destinations such as Bali, Phuket and Singapore, travelers are looking for destinations that provide them a similar experience without blowing their bank account. Luckily, there are surprises in Southeast Asia that still can accommodate you, feed you and entertain you for relatively cheap money.
Whether it’s a quaint and traditional town or a stunning mountain getaway or an undiscovered island paradise, these places also offer up true local experiences at much less the tourist price. For those looking for their next travel experience trip, these five lesser known cities should make it into their travel bucket list.
Ipoh, Malaysia
Located in the state of Perak, Ipoh is sometimes overshadowed by Penang and Kuala Lumpur. This historic city though, has a great blend of colonial structure, bright street art and the very best of Malaysian cuisine.
A city with its Old Town populated with beautiful cafes, historic buildings and vibrant murals, which make a walking tour possible and enjoyable. People can also explore the Concubine Lane or enjoy a stroll through the impressive limestone temple caves, dotted throughout the area.
One of the greatest draws of Ipoh is the fact that its pricing is low. The well-known local cuisine, like the bean sprout chicken, the white coffee and the freshly made egg tarts are available for under $5 a meal.
Da Lat, Vietnam
Da Lat is a place where the weather is cooler for those seeking a change from Southeast Asia’s tropical beaches. The city sits at the center of the Central Highlands in Vietnam where the climate is mild all year round, flowers grow in gardens, and pine forests grow.
Its French influence which is felt throughout the city makes your living in the city a very special experience as compared to any other city of Vietnam. The most popular are the famous Crazy House, the Datanla Waterfall and the beautiful Truc Lam Monastery.
Money-saving tourists should not miss the advertisement of staying in mountain-oriented family accommodations, fresh produce from the local farmers market and cheap food stalls along the winding streets of the city.
Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang continues to be one of the quietest places in Southeast Asia! Located between the Mekong River and Nam Khan River, it is a UNESCO Outstanding Universal Value (AOUV) and is a blend of Lao traditional culture and elegant colonial architecture.
The pace of things is much slower here and makes it ideal for travellers who want to relax. Visitors may experience the traditional morning giving of alms, explore the local temples or watch the sunset from Mount Phousi.
The low pricing of local restaurants and affordable accommodation in Luang Prabang make it one of the most cost-effective cultural capitals in the area.
Lombok, Indonesia
Lombok is the island that’s just east of Bali; it offers the same experiences without the crowds and premium prices. Celebrate with breathtaking beaches, world-class spots for surfing and the magnificent volcanic landscapes.
One can enjoy the day trip in Kuta Lombok, the dive trip in Gili Islands nearby and the trekking trip in Mount Rinjani nearby. Both locals and visitors find the laid-back vibe of this island irresistible, particularly if you’re after a more serene escape into Indonesia.
Accommodation, food and transportation are also usually much cheaper than in Bali, making Lombok a great budget destination.
Ninh Binh, Vietnam
This is why among smart travelers, Ninh Binh has become a favorite place to discover stunning scenery without going to Ha Long Bay. Unforgettable scenery is created where rivers flatten out at the base of the rugged limestone cliffs and rice paddies at the base of rivers.
It is incredible to experience boat tours through Trang An and Tam Coc with a view of caves, valleys and ancient temples. Visitors can climb up to the Mua Cave viewpoint from which to enjoy a panoramic view.
The area is very budget-friendly and renting bicycles is also an excellent way to make it easy trekking through the countryside locally.
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Why Are These Cities Worth Considering?
The best part about these places is that they offer unique travel experiences at an affordable price. Locals, food, scenery and accommodation are off-peak, with visitors enjoying authentic culture, excellent food, beautiful scenery with significantly lower spending than might occur in some of the more popular locations.
Confronted with the growing issue of overtourism, these lesser-known cities are a refreshing alternative for those in search of value and authenticity.
FAQs
Which is the lowest priced of the following cities?
Generally speaking, the most cost-friendly applications are Luang Prabang and Da Lat. You can expect to add rooms, meals and transportation for pocket change these days.
Is Lombok really more affordable than Bali?
Yes. In Lombok, compared to Bali that you are familiar with, the cost for accommodation, food and transportation is usually cheaper, particularly in the tourist hotspot of Seminyak and the Canggu area of Lombok.
Where is the best place to be a nature lover?
Ninh Binh and Da Lat are great destinations for outdoor lovers. Both have incredible scenery, outdoor activities and view points.
