Summary
- Budget-friendly US destinations remain popular, but trending international destinations on social media spark wanderlust for many travelers.
- There are many cheaper alternatives to popular vacation destinations that are trending on social media, like Puerto Rico and Lombok, which offer similar experiences to the Dominican Republic and Bali, respectively, at a fraction of the cost.
- Consider exploring Guatemala or Budapest as affordable vacation alternatives to crowded and expensive Mexican or European destinations.
As the warmth of summer approaches, the anticipation of exploring both near and far destinations is palpable. Passports are dusted off, ready to be stamped with new memories. While some travelers typically look forward to a classic vacation, others see that traditional bucket-list vacations are becoming less of a focus for various reasons, especially when it comes to factors like crowds and costs; some previously popular travel trends are becoming less so as jet-setters begin to treat traveling as an opportunity for fresh adventures and a chance to explore cheaper alternatives to popular vacation destinations.
Popular budget-friendly destinations in the US continue to be a hit, but the buzz of trending international destinations on social media sparks wanderlust in many more. According to a survey by Pew Research Center in June, 71% of US adults have experienced the joy of international travel at least once in their lives. However, travel habits and frequency vary greatly across different demographics, with those in higher income brackets more likely to have visited multiple countries.
Bearing this in mind, we’ve curated trending destinations from social media along with affordable alternatives to visit instead, the latter of which may make international travel much more possible for those on a tighter budget.
The estimated flight costs for this list focused on New York City and Miami as the primary cities of departure. While flights from the US to many of the cheaper alternative destinations do cost a bit more, general costs, such as food, activities, transport, and accommodation, are generally lower than in their popular counterparts. For each destination’s starting accommodation prices, hotels with a user review score of 8 and above were selected from travel aggregator websites.
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8 Dominican Republic
Public destination marketing helped attract over 10 million travelers
The Dominican Republic has been blowing up on social media lately, with influencers showcasing luxurious adults-only all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic, pristine beaches, and vibrant nightlife. It’s no wonder this Caribbean island paradise is trending – the pictures are postcard-perfect!
However, although the Dominican Republic is considered the cheapest place in the Caribbean, it can be quite expensive during peak tourist season for visitors on a budget, especially if you factor in all-inclusive resort stays, flights, and excursions.
Cheaper Alternative: Puerto Rico
If the Dominican Republic’s price tag gives you pause, but you still crave stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious food, then look no further than Puerto Rico. While all-inclusive resorts exist in Puerto Rico’s capital, San Juan, it also boasts a wider variety of hotels and vacation rentals, allowing you to find options that suit your budget.
The cuisine from local vendors is a fraction of the price of resort meals, and you can explore historic San Juan, hike through El Yunque National Forest, or relax on world-class beaches – all without spending a dime!
7 Mykonos
Peak season accommodation reaches upwards of $1,000 USD per night
One of Greece’s most beautiful islands to visit in the summer is Mykonos, which you’ve probably seen in a gazillion Instagram pictures.
Mykonos is famous for its distinct architecture and lively social atmosphere, as well as its pricey nature. The luxury resorts, high-end restaurants, and exclusive beach clubs all come at a hefty price, though, especially during the summer season, which is peak tourism time.
Cheaper Alternative: Naxos
Naxos offers a more authentic and more affordable Greek experience with beautiful beaches, charming villages, and delicious local cuisine. While it’s not known as a party island, there is adequate nightlife in some areas.
Naxos boasts several traditional villages, unlike Mykonos. When it comes to traditional Greek food, Naxos wins hands down, while Mykonos is known for its gourmet restaurants at a higher price point.
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6 Bali
Bali has become very popular, leading to crowded tourist spots and increased development
Bali’s allure is undeniable, it is a bucket list destination, one particularly good for the digital nomad community.
However, the reality of heavy tourism manifests in traffic congestion, littered beaches, and long waits at popular Instagram spots due to the island’s overwhelming popularity, attracting a third of Indonesia’s tourism.
Cheaper Alternative: Lombok
Bali’s neighbor, Lombok, offers a more laid-back and authentic Indonesian experience with beautiful beaches, stunning volcanic landscapes, and a slower pace of life. It offers the same Bali experience at a fraction of the price.
Enjoying less rainfall than Bali during the wet season, Lombok boasts some of Indonesia’s finest southern beaches, ideal for surfing enthusiasts.
Beginning exploration from Kuta, Lombok’s most-visited town, allows for easy access to a myriad of experiences, including chasing waterfalls in the north, trekking the majestic Rinjani volcano, and discovering the unique atmospheres of the Gilis – three enchanting islands located off the coast.
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5 Mexico
Some say this tested and trusted destination has many resorts that feel crowded and impersonal
The Mexican Caribbean is adored by tourists worldwide, but its appeal to American travelers, who have been drawn to this paradise for decades, is unparalleled.
Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum all set tourism records in 2023. However, these areas are often overrun with tourists, leading to inflated prices and a somewhat homogenized experience.
Cheaper Alternative: Guatemala
Venture south to Guatemala and discover a country brimming with cultural richness and natural wonders. Explore the majestic and historically important Mayan ruins of Tikal, reminiscent of Chichen Itza’s grandeur in Mexico, hike through the volcanic landscapes of Atitlán volcano, similar to Mexico’s Popocatépetl, or relax on the shores of pristine Lake Atitlán, offering the same serenity as Tulum’s beaches but with a touch of indigenous charm.
Whether spending 10 days in Guatemala or a longer weeks-long getaway, this country offers a more immersive and authentic experience at a fraction of the cost.
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4 Paris
Paris delivers on hype but it is expensive and overcrowded
Daydreaming about enjoying pastries in an authentic French café? Millions of people do—that is why Paris is such a popular destination.
Paris and the Île-de-France region welcome 21.6 million tourists each year. In 2022, 12% of these travelers were from the US. The United Kingdom, Spain, and Italy were also among the top inbound tourism markets for Paris and Île-de-France.
Cheaper Alternative: Montreal
While Paris holds a special place in many hearts, Old Montreal offers an equally enchanting experience, if not better. Located in Canada, Montreal exudes traditional European charm with its cobblestone streets and rich French history.
Moreover, Montreal is much more budget-friendly than Paris, with no expensive flights required and favorable exchange rates for US travelers. This means you can enjoy a fantastic vacation in Canada without breaking the bank, while still indulging in unforgettable experiences.
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3 Vienna
Stunning architecture with a renowned classical music scene, though it can feel a bit formal and regimented
Vienna is a sophisticated, cultural metropolis that appeals especially to people who love art. One more reason why so many people come here is its sheer beauty. The nightlife, museums, and shopping are all adored by visitors. The city, which is well-known for its coffee culture, is fantastic for a vacation, whether you’re going alone, with children, or as a couple.
However, as beautiful and activity-rich as it is, Vienna is very popular, recording 17,261,000 overnight stays in 2023. Plus, it can be quite pricey, particularly in the peak tourist season in the summer.
Cheaper Alternative: Budapest
Budapest provides all of this and more for a significantly lower price. What’s more, Budapest is not just less expensive, but significantly cheaper compared to other European destinations.
Discover places like Castle Hill, which is the location of the 13th-century Royal Palace, a free tour destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a Danube cruise starting at €10 or indulge in a thermal spa treatment—both cost almost the same.
2 London
An iconic cultural hub and financial center that is notoriously expensive
If you’re attracted to London’s blend of modernity and history but deterred by the high prices, you’re not alone. London is brimming with world-famous landmarks, popular tourist attractions, and architectural and historical treasures. There are 66 Michelin-starred restaurants in London, along with vibrant nightlife in entire neighborhoods.
While it’s feasible to budget for a vacation in London, the costs of bars, theaters, and clubs often mirror its status as the most expensive city in the United Kingdom to live in. Moreover, there are plenty of tourist traps in London to skip in favor of alternative attractions that are less crowded and cheaper.
Cheaper Alternative: Edinburgh
Although the capital of Scotland is the most costly city in the country, compared to London, your money will still go a lot further. Edinburgh has top-notch historical sites and museums that visitors shouldn’t miss. The National Museum of Scotland, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and Edinburgh Castle are some of the most well-known landmarks.
Edinburgh features cabaret theaters, comedy clubs, folk bars, classical concerts, live music venues, and underground dance clubs, in addition to dive bars with inexpensive beer. There are just four Michelin-starred restaurants there, yet there is food for every taste and budget.
Edinburgh is great for Harry Potter fans as the city is filled with a treasure trove of sites reminiscent of the books and films, including Victoria Street, which is one of the many real-life places that look like a Harry Potter set in Scotland.
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1 Dubrovnik
Made internationally famous by HBO’s Game of Thrones but crowds can be overwhelming
Dubrovnik swiftly emerged as one of Europe’s top tourist destinations with tons of Instagram-worthy spots, but with popularity came crowds and soaring prices. This stunning city seamlessly blends UNESCO-listed heritage, lush landscapes, captivating coastal villages, rich history, and a touch of pop culture from Game of Thrones.
Perhaps the most notable feature of this historic place is the medieval city walls of Dubrovnik, which was featured in HBO’s Game of Thrones TV series. Despite its allure, Dubrovnik now grapples with overcrowding and steep costs.
Cheaper Alternative: Novigrad
Instead of heading south into Croatia, consider venturing north to Novigrad, a charming coastal town located in Istria. Unlike bustling Dubrovnik and Split (another one of the popular seaside towns in Croatia), Novigrad offers tranquility and affordability.
Accommodation options range from budget-friendly to luxury, without breaking the bank. Sunbeds with straw umbrellas dot the shores, and water sports kiosks offer a plethora of activities to enjoy.
