With the rise of remote work and travel becoming more accessible with ongoing development, it’s now seemingly easier than ever to cross international destinations off your bucket list. But while there are more flights and more places to stay, there is still the concern of funds to consider before booking a ticket. Even with limited disposable income, though, it’s possible to travel internationally to locations that have just as much, or more, to offer than an expensive luxury resort in a popular tourist hotspot.
We talked to Matt Kepnes, travel guru, author and guest on Kelley Blue Book’s recent “Life in Drive” travel podcast series, to find out the best places to visit while pinching pennies. While he highlighted that there are many to choose from nowadays, he said, “If I had to pick just one, I would say Thailand.”
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Kepnes, more well-known by his online alias Nomadic Matt, might be biased because he lived in the country, but his reasons for choosing it as #1 are factual. “It’s a super affordable destination, the people are super nice and friendly, the food is incredible and so is the scenery,” he says. While he didn’t mention specific cities or towns in the country, Bangkok, Koh Samui, Phuket and Chiang Mai are just a few popular tourist locations to check out, and lesser-known areas like Chiang Rai and Krabi will give you even more bang for your buck. From beaches and nightlife to elephant sanctuaries and temples, Thailand is “the total package,” according to the travel guru.
Nomadic Matt’s Advice Comes With Years of Travel Experience
Nomadic Matt has been traveling full-time for almost 10 years, after quitting his job in 2006 to embark on a worldwide travel journey, which he has made a career out of. He runs a popular travel blog that goes by the name of his online alias, and he has written three books; the New York Times best-seller How to Travel the World on $75 a Day,Ten Years a Nomad: A Traveler’s Journey Home and The Ultimate Guide to Points & Miles. He’s been to over 100 countries and slept in thousands of hostels, and his tips aim to help his reader realize their travel dreams, even when doing so on a budget.
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Things to Do in Thailand on Any Budget
Whether you’re in a city or a small beach town, Thailand offers affordable accommodations from hostels to rental homes. Food is cheap, and you can choose between street food, sit-down restaurants or buying groceries at local markets. Transportation is also very cheap, and there are many easy options to get from one city to another.
Visit the Capital City of Bangkok
As Thailand’s largest city, Bangkok is going to be convenient and most likely the cheapest place to fly into for many travelers. Even if you plan on commuting to other areas from the major city, it’s worth it to spend some time there. According to Nomadic Matt’s Thailand Travel Guide, Khao San Road, Thong Lor, the Grand Palace and Chatuchak Weekend Market are all worthwhile pitstops.
Chill Out in Chiang Mai
For jungle tours, elephant sanctuary visits and all-around chill vibes, head to Chiang Mai. This area is home to beautiful Buddhist temples and an amazing food and music scene.
Take in the Scenery and Look for Elephants
For the nature lovers, Khao Sok National Park, Khao Yai and Kui Buri National Park are just a few of the country’s offerings for beautiful scenery, hiking trails and wildlife sightings.
Celebrate Songkran, the Water Festival
If you align your visit to the month of April, be sure to visit Bangkok or Chiang Mai to celebrate Songkran, a giant water festival that takes place every year.
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