How To Travel The World And Make Money

How To Travel The World And Make Money

These days it might seem like everyone wants to travel the world. But unless you are independently wealthy, who has vacation time to spend months backpacking Central America or motorcycling across Laos?

Enter: long term travel paired with paid (and sometimes volunteer) gigs. Because not everyone with wanderlust has trust fund. Or is an influencer.

Working while traveling is a great way to backpack around the world. Photo credit: Getty.

The idea is simple. Save up enough money to travel long term and then stretch your dollars (and your time off) with jobs as you go.

For this list, I avoided jobs that typically fall under digital nomadism, like financial trading or marketing. Although the ability to work remotely has revolutionized expat life and lead to concepts like crypto nomadism, those kinds of jobs require a different skillset. Being a digital nomad is largely determined by your occupation and if it is possible to work remotely. Instead, I wanted to focus on jobs that anyone could do while traveling or living abroad.

I’ve broken up potential opportunities into two categories: volunteer work where you receive room + board in exchange for labor, and actual jobs that pay you money while you’re traveling long term. This post will focus on work opportunities in exchange for money, while the next will highlight volunteer positions in exchange for room and board.

Making money while traveling the world

Unless you become an influencer or plan on writing a killer blog, not many people are able to travel full time and make good money. You can make decent money along the way to fund additional adventures or spend more time abroad, but you likely won’t be pulling six figures.

But that’s ok. Because sometimes life is about the experience and not the paycheck. And if you’re able to serve beers in Australia for six months to fund a Bali surf trip, it won’t matter that you didn’t pull $120,000 last year.

Teaching English abroad

For native speakers with a bachelor degree, teaching English is one of the easiest ways to work abroad. It offers you the ability to spend a significant amount of time in a country, while (sometimes) making good money.

After teaching English abroad in Martinique, Francesca Murray wrote the first-ever English guide to... [+] the island.

Francesca Murray.

Francesca Murray, the multimedia journalist behind One Girl One World, moved to Martinique to teach English when she was 27. The gig was meant to be year-long adventure to build content for her blog, but soon snowballed into much more. She is now known as the American expert on the island, and even published the world’s first English language guide to Martinique. She says that .”

The type of work and requirements varies widely between countries and schools. Nearly every reputable job will require a Teaching English as a Foreign Language or TEFL certification course.

Outside of the TEFL certification, requirements vary widely between countries and schools.

For example, Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia or the United Arab Emirates usually require prior teaching experience, while Asian countries like South Korea, Japan and China, mostly do not.

Salaries vary widely depending on what region you’re interested in and your individual background. ESL teachers in Oman report taking home around an extraordinariy $40,000 a year, as income isn’t taxed and housing is provided. Others places like South Korea or Japan offer a low cost of living and high salaries, so English teachers there have been able to save thousands a year. On the opposite end of the spectrum, teachers in European countries like Czech Republic, Italy or Spain report salaries that cover expenses, but not much else.

Use websites like Dave’s ESL Cafe, Transition’s Abroad, Serious Teachers or Tefl.net to find a job teaching English abroad. More resources include teacher Nicole Brewer’s book on the subject and Nomadic Matt’s list of best places to teach English overseas. Experts also recommend looking on Facebook for ESL teacher groups in your intended country.

If the idea of trolling message boards or finding individual schools to apply to is exhausting, consider using a recruiter. They will match your requirements (salary, location, benefits) with appropriate schools. Usually, schools pay the recruiters’ fee so it isn’t an additional cost.

Although in general people have good experiences with these kinds of programs, there are some bad actors. Check with current teachers and read school reviews online before committing to anything. Read the fine print in a contract, as any vagueness will usually be interpreted in the school’s best interest. You’re likely less aware of local work culture, so it’s important to ask questions before you arrive.

Former teachers also caution against any school that asks for money before you arrive. This is a job and you should not have to pay for that opportunity. Other red flags include programs that require you to work on a tourist visa, and don’t offer benefits like a flight home, a housing allowance or medical benefits.

Working Holiday visa

If you want to spend significant time working abroad, but aren’t interested in teaching English, a working holiday visa program is a great option.

Working holiday visas “are the easiest way to experience a new culture,” said Tommy Walker, the British travel blogger behind The Wandering Walker. During his twenties, he lived in New Zealand, Australia and Hong Kong thanks working holiday visa programs. “You get to earn money, travel to a new place and save for a new adventure.”

Depending on your nationality, and age, the program allows you to live in a foreign country, and work a nonprofessional job like bartending for a set amount of time, usually between six to 24 months. An added benefit is that (usually) you can stay in one country much longer than if you entered with a normal tourist visa.

Participating countries view the program as a way to encourage longer term tourism while promoting cultural awareness. If you are unsure of your intended career path, or just want a break from the typical grind, a working holiday visa is a great way to move abroad and make money. Applicants usually must be between 18 to 30 years old, although each country has its own guidelines.

Logistics of the program varies widely depending on your own nationality, as well as the country you wish to travel to, so do your homework beforehand. Unfortunately, since the United States does not offer a working holiday visa program of its own, many countries do not offer Americans this visa. For now, Americans are limited to Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore and South Korea.

Hustle

Finding odd jobs in a foreign country is much more intrepid than a working holiday visa or becoming an ESL teacher. And while the path isn’t as clear – there’s no book on how to convince a hostel owner that they really need your artistic expertise – it can be very rewarding.

Long term backpackers turned liveaboard luxury yachters Kach and Jonathan Howe spent years exploring Central America and Asia. Although the Filipina and British couple now are in a different life stage – the one where you live on a luxury yacht – there was a time where they hustled for their adventures, picking up odd gigs as they traveled across continents.

Blogging about their adventures on Mr & Mrs Howe, the pair boasts a gamut of jobs from their backpacking days, from teaching English to waiting tables to managing social media for hostels. After years of slow travel, their biggest piece of advice is that you should

Teaching yoga in South America funded Kach and Jonathan Howe's long term travel.

Kach and Jonathan Howe.

“Working, volunteering, or joining a workaway program… is a great way to get deeper into a place,” says Kach Howe, 30. By engaging with the local economy, Howe says that she and her hubbie ended up staying longer in places than expected, meeting new people and “finding out about things that we might otherwise have breezed through having only seen a handful of highlights from the guidebook!”

While traveling around South America in 2014, they relied on yoga and massage to fund their journey, as teaching English was not very lucrative. Sticking to bigger cities where they could more easily break into a market, the pair made their way around the continent, relying on their Tantra Yoga and Ayurveda massage certifications to help bring in business.

This is the first post in a series on how to travel the world while making money or volunteering. The second post is here: How To Find Volunteer Gigs To Fund Long Term Travel

02

The 30 Cheapest Places To Travel In 2017

Time to start packing your bags: 2017 is shaping up to be a banner year for budget travel. The dollar is enjoying historic highs — meaning your money goes much further in many destinations around the globe — and according to an American Express Global Business Travel report, airfares are expected to fall in 2017.

Bali — one of the most affordable destinations for 2017. (Photo courtesy of Nastasia Yakoub/Dame... [+] Traveler)

So where should you go on your next trip? Read on to get their favorite picks for the most affordable destinations to visit in 2017.

Looking to take a cheap vacation in 2019? You can get the latest list of the cheapest places to travel this summer here. For 2017's picks of the best budget vacation spots, keep reading.

READ MORE: "Cheapest Summer Travel: 23 Best Places To Go Now"

The Mazatlan coast. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Where: Mazatlan, Mexico

Chosen By: Holly Johnson, founder of Club Thrifty, a website with tips on travel savings whose motto is “Stop spending. Start living”

Why: The current exchange rate ($1 = 20.69 Mexican pesos) makes Mexico one of the most affordable destinations. For the frugal traveler who wants to enjoy more culture than they might in the Riviera Maya, my top pick is Mazatlan. As the shrimp capital of Mexico and a foodie paradise, Mazatlan is teeming with awesome eateries and fresh, interesting dishes. Hotels (including all-inclusive properties) are extremely inexpensive and authentic since most aren't part of the huge chains. El Cid Marina has awesome pools that are perfect for families, great food and huge rooms. (Rates are as low as $100 for a family of four.) You can also enjoy superb dining at a top-notch restaurant like Casa 46 for less than half what you'd pay in the United States. Side note: Sinaloa (the state where Mazatlan resides) grows the bulk of produce in Mexico, so Mazatlan produce is unbelievably cheap as a result. You see this reflected in top restaurants all the way down to street markets.

READ MORE: "Quit Your Job And Live In The Caribbean: 5 Cheapest Dream Islands"

On safari in South Africa. (Photo courtesy of Oh The People You Meet)

Where: South Africa

Chosen By: Michaela Guzy, founder of Oh The People You Meet, a global collaborative of contributors who create content for travelers, foodies and philanthropists seeking authentic local connections.

Why: In South Africa, the exchange rate is in our favor, but so is the fact that it's a developed tourist destination with a solid infrastructure. In spending a month in Cape Town earlier this year and relying on Uber to get me to and from meetings, activities and lunches, I averaged under $20 in transportation per day — a major win. Hotels are cheaper, too: Take a standard room at Taj Hotels & Resorts in New York, and you are out about $786 a night, whereas in Cape Town, a room at a similar luxury property costs $266. Remember, South Africa is in the Southern Hemisphere, so seasons are the opposite: Consider going in low season (our summer) when hotels and safari lodges are even less expensive. Airbnb and private villa rentals are also reliable and cheap options in the major cities. Travelers should also consider booking domestic airfare in advance for the greatest cost savings, since flights on South African Airways can sell out quickly. The best value of all is the wine: Travelers can order a glass of one of the best locally produced varietals for less than the cost of a can of soda. For more information on travel in South Africa, watch "Michaela's Map: First Timers' Guide to Southern Africa."

Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon in San Juan, Puerto Rico. (Photo courtesy of Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon/Jet Set... [+] Sarah)

Where: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Chosen By: Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon, founder of Jet Set Sarah, where travel and shopping meet

Why: The best way to get a deal in the Caribbean is to travel during the low season (end of April through mid-December) to destinations that have direct and frequent fights from your gateway; plenty of hotel inventory; and economies that aren't euro-based. Puerto Rico fits the bill, and I'm a big fan of San Juan, which I think is seriously underrated as an easy and affordable getaway, especially for visitors from the East Coast of the U.S. Old San Juan oozes charm, and if you stay within the old city's two-square-mile radius you won't need a car rental to access great restaurants, sightseeing and shopping. U.S. citizens can save themselves the cost of a passport since it's not required to visit, and since the U.S. dollar is the legal tender, there's no money lost on currency exchange. Hotel Casa Blanca and Villa Herencia are two of my favorite high-style/low-cost boutique hotels.

A Santiago cityscape viewed from the Santa Lucia Hill. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Where: Chile

Chosen By: Annie Fitzsimmons, digital editor at Virtuoso and editor-at-large at National Geographic

Why: Europe is on everyone's list of value-added trips this year and for good reason — the exchange rate is more favorable for American travelers than it has been in years. But the destinations I most dream about and long to return to are in South America, a destination that has long given travelers great value for money. In Chile, I love Santiago for its vibrant food and wine scene — think tucked-away wine bars, delicious tapas and hip hotels in a beautifully chaotic city. For a lesser-known and truly special corner of the world, I love the small lakeside town of Puerto Varas. It is part of the lakes district in Chile and the northern start of Patagonia. It is easy (and cheap!) to rent a car and explore this area. There is a surprising German heritage, so you'll see signs for "kuchen" (cake). With Puerto Varas as a hub, you can explore great places within a two-hour drive from the city: going to the top of a volcano, exploring waterfalls, finding the best cakes and food. This area sees very few American visitors and everything is CHEAP. It's one of those places I almost want to keep to myself, but it's so special that I can't.

A waterfront taverna in Crete. (Photo courtesy of Meagen Collins/Food Fun Travel)

Where: Crete

Chosen By: Meagen Collins, co-founder of Food Fun Travel, traveling the world in search of the ultimate foodie vacation experiences and discovering food worth traveling for in 85+ countries and counting

Why: With the U.S. dollar strong against the euro right now and the economic crisis in Greece keeping prices lower than other parts of Europe, it’s the perfect time to visit the beautiful island of Crete. Crete is a foodie dream come true. A place where farm-to-table isn’t a new fad, it’s a way of life. The people here often live to be well over 100 years old so they must be doing something right! With truly stunning natural beauty (like Balos beach) and locals that welcome tourists with open arms, you are bound to have the trip of a lifetime and save a few dollars at the same time. For more, see Fun Food Travel's "Crete Food."

The affordable Riad Yasmine in Marrakech. (Photo courtesy of @misjetsetter/Instagram)

Where: Morocco

Chosen By: Lucie Josma, @missjetsetter, a full-time photographer, content creator and social media manager specializing in travel and tourism.

Why: For many, Morocco is the ultimate dream trip, and yet cost tends to keep most from visiting. But what you might not know is that it's one of the most affordable African countries, particularly when comparing flight costs. Reaching Marrakech from cities such as Lisbon, Madrid and Paris may only set you back $40 to $100 roundtrip with many budget airlines. And this past Black Friday, flights from New York were a mere $400 roundtrip. Food is by far my main reason for visiting as often as I do, and typical meals can range from $2.50 to $15 for two, which includes appetizers, entree and unlimited mint tea. For vegetarians and vegans, the country is especially great, as veggies are cheaper than meat and fresh fruit smoothies are barely $1. Souvenir shopping can get a bit intense when you realize leather goods such as wallets, handbags and weekenders run from $5 to $60. (A shopaholics dream!) When it comes to accommodations there's something to fit everyone's budget, my favorite being Riad Yasmine (only $80-$160 per night). For those looking for Moroccan luxury while still on a budget, my go-to is Riad Kheirredine, which will have you living like a queen without breaking the bank and even provides a cell phone during your stay to ensure guest safety.

Seaside in Belize. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Where: Belize

Chosen By: Shereen Rayle, founder of ShereenTravelsCheap.com, which shows you how to go farther and do more for less without sacrificing comfort or fun

Why: Modern conveniences and history collide in Belize. It's a perfect place to take a budget romantic vacation. Many of the four-star hotels offer extras, like bicycle rentals, included in their low rates, as well as Belize's excellent local wines. Some affordable resorts to check out are George Hardie's Las Vegas Hotel in Corozal (Northern Belize) and the oceanside Royal Caribbean Resort in San Pedro along Ambergris Caye. Both can be booked for under $100 per night. Meals are also crazy cheap, but delicious. Two can eat at an upscale restaurant for less than $30, and much less at an everyday venue.

Boats sit in the harbor in Halong Bay, Vietnam. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Where: Vietnam

Chosen By: Marybeth Bond, National Geographic writer, author, adventurer and founder of The Gutsy Traveler

Why: Affordable upscale accommodations, cheap and remarkably healthy food and beautiful sights make Vietnam a standout among budget-friendly South Asian destinations. Eat your way through historic Hanoi, kayak in the emerald waters of Halong Bay or relax in ancient Hoi An and the nearby beaches. There are clean, safe accommodations to fit everyone's wallet. In Hanoi, my favorite is the Tirant Hotel, near the old town, where you can bag a room for less than $70 a night. Don't miss the Hanoi street food tour: For just $20 per person, a guide will lead you on foot or by scooter through backstreets, markets and footpaths. You will eat like the locals and learn the names and ingredients in the dishes so you can order them again. And be sure to take the time to sip a bowl of steaming "pho" noodle soup in restaurants, push carts and food stalls, where a street meal and a beer can cost the same as a caramel macchiato at Starbucks.

Costa Rica landscape. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Where: Costa Rica

Chosen By: Stephanie Parker, founder of Big World Small Pockets, created to showcase the highs and lows of happy, healthy budget travel. Its motto: Spend Less, Travel More!

Why: Costa Rica is the one of the most biodiverse places on the planet and to be able to see this on a shoestring is an incredible opportunity. There's a ton of national parks to explore, for instance, that only cost a few dollars to enter. Once there, you can then enjoy free self-guided walks that won't cost you a cent, but will deliver some great encounters with amazing wildlife like tapirs, monkeys, sloths and macaws. Manuel Antonio and Corcovado National Parks are two of the best. Public transport is also super cheap in Costa Rica, with buses generally less than $10, even for an eight-hour ride. This makes traveling between destinations in this compact country very affordable and means you can see a lot in a short amount of time. In addition, budget accommodation in Costa Rica — even at some of the best surf beaches — can be as little as $6 per person. And a "plato tipico" (local dish) can be enjoyed anywhere for as little as $2-3.

Cliffside in Lagos, Portugal. (Photo courtesy of Jackie Nourse/TheBudgetMindedTraveler.com)

Where: Portugal

Chosen By: Jackie Nourse, founder of TheBudgetMindedTraveler.com, which inspires and equips Americans to get into the world of travel in a realistic, affordable, and most of all rewarding way

Why: Portugal is a pocket of affordable travel in contrast to the rest of Western Europe, especially if you get off the highways and take the back roads (where you can also avoid tolls). A bottle of delicious port and a plate of the day with a glass of wine can be found for around €5 each. Nowhere else in the world can its "California Highway 1 meets Tuscany" landscapes be enjoyed on such a budget, especially now that the dollar is strong against the euro.

The landscape of Ecuador. (Photo courtesy of Nora Dunn/The Professional Hobo)

Where: Ecuador

Chosen By: Nora Dunn, The Professional Hobo, a woman who sold everything she owned (including a busy financial planning practice) in 2006 to embrace her dreams of full-time travel

Why: Although Ecuador is not quite as inexpensive as Peru to the south, it’s an easy and affordable destination to travel to, especially if you stay a bit off the beaten path. It’s a short cheap flight from Florida with budget airlines like jetBlue and TAME, and accommodation is pretty cheap. Shop at your local market and you can get a week’s worth of groceries for $10. And Ecuador has lots of variety; from surf beach towns like Montanita, to the volcanic Banos with famed hot springs at the gateway to the Amazon basin, to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cuenca in the high Andes, there’s a lot to see. The bus systems are good and domestic flights cheap and plentiful. Find a free accommodation option like house-sitting or volunteering, and your trip can be even cheaper.

A street corner in Barcelona. (Photo courtesy of Nastasia Yakoub/Dame Traveler)

Where: Barcelona

Chosen By: Nastasia Yakoub, founder of Dame Traveler, sharing her passion for travel with a sizable community of female travelers

Why: Barcelona is ranked right up there with cities like Paris and London as one of the most popular European cities, but it is by far the most affordable. This is thanks to low-cost tapas restaurants, endless free attractions and affordable things to do. Have a meal of tapas and wine at El Xampanyet for around €10-15. Soak up the rays on the beach at Barceloneta. Get lost in the La Boqueria Market. And take the tram up to Tibidabo (only €5) for sweeping panoramic views of the city; it's also where you can experience a vintage amusement park and a gorgeous cathedral.

Lake Atitlán in Guatemala. (Photo courtesy of Shannon O'Donnell/ALittleAdrift.com)

Where: Guatemala

Chosen By: Shannon O'Donnell, National Geographic Traveler of the Year and founder of ALittleAdrift.com

Why: Often bypassed in favor of nearby Costa Rica, Guatemala is unique unto itself in Central America. And because it's a bit more "off the path" in the region, it's also easy on the budget and a nice place to splurge. The villas and hotels rimming Lake Atitlán have all the beauty you could want for a small fraction of the price you'd pay in Europe or elsewhere. From the lake, you can then delve into the country's unique culture by visiting the indigenous markets and villages in the Guatemalan highlands. Lush Atitlan is a gorgeous, affordable place to stay in San Marcos La Laguna, the prettiest and most culturally interesting of Lake Atitlan's villages.

A secluded beach in Bonaire. (Photo courtesy of Melinda Crow/FirstRead.Me)

Where: Bonaire & Curaçao

Chosen By: Melinda Crow, founder of FirstRead.Me, whose motto is "Go more. Experience more. Enjoy it More."

Why: In the deep Southern Caribbean, Bonaire and Curaçao are always out there on the edge of everyone's Caribbean consciousness. Both are known for scuba diving, but also for other water sports, hiking and amazing secluded beaches. Vacation villas that let you live like a local are plentiful and affordable on both islands, but chain hotels like the Renaissance Curaçao Resort & Casino are an option on Curaçao (great if you're using points). Bonaire gets its very first chain hotel at the end of 2016 when a Marriott Courtyard opens.

The sun sets over Las Vegas. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Where: Las Vegas

Chosen By: Shereen Rayle, ShereenTravelsCheap.com

Why: If you can avoid the slots, there are lots of free things to do in Vegas: The Flamingo's flamingo habitat, the fountains and conservatory at the Bellagio and the outdoor movies at the Container Park are just a few. You can also find many places for cheap eats if you are willing to get off The Strip to do so. Check out the nearby Crown and Anchor, which serves up delicious British favorites, and Ninja Teriyaki Sushi 2 Go for fresh-made amazing sushi rolls in a no-frills setting.

Oh The People You Meet founder Michaela Guzy at Angkor in Siem Reap. (Photo courtesy of Oh The... [+] People You Meet)

Where: Cambodia

Chosen By: Michaela Guzy, Oh The People You Meet

Why: Sadly, the average income in Cambodia is about $950 per year. What does this mean for international travelers? Your international airfare might be expensive, but once you are in Cambodia, you can live well. Tuks tuks (a combo bike/taxi) and food cost just pennies. Even international hotel chains and luxury river boats down the Mekong are more affordable than other Asian destinations. Before visiting, I suggest doing your homework to support luxury companies like the Shinta Mani Resort, whose foundation plays a large role in its community, building water wells, schools and farms and providing the best healthcare in the country to its employees. Culturally conscious companies like Aqua Expeditions sustainably introduce their guests to the communities along the Mekong River, including the floating markets and the farmers in the rice fields; the company can even arrange a conversation with a local Buddhist monk to discuss the significance of his journey from childhood to monkhood. For advice on how to travel sustainably through the culturally rich Kingdom of Cambodia, see "Michaela's Map: How to Be a Responsible Traveler in Cambodia."

Waterfront in Bali. (Photo courtesy of Nastasia Yakoub/Dame Traveler)

Where: Bali

Chosen By: Nastasia Yakoub, Dame Traveler

Why: If you're looking into an exotic long-haul trip, Bali offers a ton of high quality experiences for a great value. You can easily stay in a private villa overlooking stunning rice paddies with a private pool for around $50 per night. (Airbnb is a great way to go.) However, if you want to splurge a bit but not go overboard, a stay at a high-end luxury resort will still cost you less than a stay at a luxury resort, for example, in Maui. Not to mention, spa and transportation costs are quite low relative to other exotic locales, as well as the amazing and healthy food options that end up being a fraction of the cost elsewhere in the world.

The Parthenon in Athens, Greece. (Photo courtesy of Holly Johnson/Club Thrifty)

Where: Greece

Chosen By: Holly Johnson, Club Thrifty

Why: The weakened euro has made any trip to Europe more affordable, but this is especially true in Greece. The struggling economy craves tourist dollars and makes it known with affordable pricing on everything from hotels to food. In Athens, you can book a three- or four-star hotel for well under $100, like 360 Degrees, a nice and modern hotel with a huge breakfast buffet included and an awesome location directly on Monastiraki Square. Throughout the countryside, prices may be even better. Best of all, you can sit down to an amazing Greek meal with drinks (Mythos or Ouzo?), appetizers (Saganaki, anyone?) and entrees of your choosing for less than half what you'd pay in the States. Heck, you can pick up Souvlaki or a gyro for $1-$2. Souvenirs are insanely cheap, too.

Waterfront in Saranda, Albania. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Where: Albania

Chosen By: Stephanie Parker, Big World Small Pockets

Why: This forgotten corner of Europe is a wonderfully off-the-beaten-track budget destination in an otherwise very touristy and expensive continent. With fantastic beaches along its coastline, including the fishing port of Saranda, Albania gives visitors the chance to enjoy the Mediterranean waters for a fraction of the usual price. Accommodation starts from as little as $5 per person and fishing trips or boat rides to the nearby islands are similarly well priced. There's also some fascinating historical sites across Albania that are either free to enter or cost only $2-$5. From the moutainous medieval town of Gjirokastër to the Roman ruins at Butrint, this is a diverse and very different side of Europe, which is definitely worth visiting before the crowds do.

Edward James Surrealistic Garden in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. (Photo courtesy of Jackie... [+] Nourse/TheBudgetMindedTraveler.com)

Where: San Luis Potosí, México

Chosen By: Jackie Nourse, TheBudgetMindedTraveler.com

Picture a perfect class III white water rafting experience through a limestone canyon of turquoise waters, a visit to a living garden of eden, complete with art sculptures, hidden pools, butterflies and waterfalls, a hike to the largest known cave shaft in the world, which you can rappel into, and a series of waterfalls for cliff jumping. Top this all off with a plate of homemade tacos and a local beer for $2, and you've got yourself a piece of adventure paradise on a budget. Still very much under the radar to anyone outside of Mexico, San Luis Potosí could be compared to Costa Rica in terms of adventure and Cambodia in terms of affordability. Since Election Day, the dollar has been especially strong in Mexico, offering an even better excuse to travel south of the border.

Street scene in Quebec City, Canada. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Where: Quebec City, Canada

Chosen By: Marybeth Bond, The Gutsy Traveler

Why: Take advantage of the weak Canadian dollar and travel north for a 25% discount on prices. Enjoy a slice of Old Europe without the jet lag or the cost of a transatlantic flight. Indulge in some of the best French food outside France — steak-frites, oysters and pastries at a bargain price. Stroll and shop in the narrow cobblestone streets of the picturesque Old Town and enjoy night parades and ice canoe races during the colorful Winter Festival in January and February.

The Women's bridge in the Puerto Madero district of Buenos Aires. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Where: Buenos Aires

Chosen By: Annie Fitzsimmons

Why: One of the world's most intoxicating cities, Buenos Aires has only grown in popularity, but it's still relatively cheap compared to European and Asian capital cities. There are many green parks, French-inspired architecture, late-night dancing, custom leather shops and fantastic food. Taxis are relatively cheap (around $5-8 a ride), but you should also walk for miles in all of the distinct neighborhoods, like Palermo (try Salon Canning, a super casual milonga, or dance hall, after midnight). Must-try cheap eat in Buenos Aires: anything dulce de leche. It is everywhere — inside crepes, drizzled over grilled bananas and in gelato. Tip: Bring a ton of American cash and you'll get better deals in many places. For example, I bought my custom leather jacket at a shop called Uru Recoleta (close to the famous Recoleta Cemetery) and was able to buy it for much less than using my credit card because I brought American dollars. On Sundays, the place to be is the San Telmo market for browsing leather, antiques, watches, jewelry and more.

Wahoo Bay in Haiti. (Photo courtesy of @misjetsetter/Instagram)

Where: Haiti

Chosen By: Lucie Josma, @missjetsetter

Why: While Haiti still remains under the radar as a travel destination, many people have been flocking to the vibrant country, and I can see why: The island provides all the stunning Caribbean characteristics without the high costs. Outside of holiday seasons and the later part of the summer, flights from New York range from $300 to $500, and even cheaper when flying from cities in Florida. The real gem is how cheap the hotels are, with many starting at $50 to $150 per night including airport transfers. Even the newest Marriott Port-au-Prince will only set you back $130 to under $200 a night for larger rooms. One of my favorites is Wahoo Bay Beach, which has epic mountain and ocean views from its stunning pool and rooms. You can take small boat tours around the area for a couple of dollars per person. Lobster, conch and crab can be caught right from the water and prepared for you without costing more than $10.

Descanso Beach Club on Santa Catalina Island. (Photo courtesy of Santa Catalina Island Company)

Where: Santa Catalina Island

Chosen By: Melinda Crow, FirstRead.Me

Why: Santa Catalina Island is one of my new favorite places. It is way more than a weekend SoCal jaunt. Hotels are quaint and average under the $200 per night mark. The Avalon Hotel is a charming choice. It’s right in the center of town, making it an easy walk to almost any activity. There is plenty to do, like kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, ziplining, hiking or just beach sitting. The Catalina Island Museum is a must-visit stop to get the full story of the island's fascinating history, including its Hollywood connection. Food and shopping choices are extensive. And you don’t need a rental car. Getting to the island is easy: Catalina Express Ferry whisks you to there from three different ports, Long Beach, Dana Point and San Pedro. I prefer Long Beach because flights there are often lower priced than neighboring LAX.

Indonesian temples. (Photo courtesy of Meagen Collins/Food Fun Travel)

Where: Indonesia

Chosen By: Meagen Collins, Food Fun Travel

Why: With 17,000 islands, you are bound to find the ideal paradise to suit your travel style and budget in Indonesia. There are stunning untouched beaches that offer world-class snorkelling and scuba diving in Raja Ampat, fascinating Unesco World Heritage Sites dating back to the 9th century in Yogyakarta and — everywhere you turn — the friendliest locals. In Raja Ampat, we found a homestay that included breakfast, lunch and dinner — plus it was right on the beach for around $29 USD per person per night. For more, see Food Fun Travel's "Bali Food Guide."

Wine country, Bulgaria. (Photo courtesy of Jackie Nourse/TheBudgetMindedTraveler.com)

Where: Bulgaria

Chosen By: Jackie Nourse, TheBudgetMindedTraveler.com

Why: The entire Balkans region is an excellent option for budget travel, and if you haven't been before, I recommend starting with Bulgaria. From wine country to snowy peaks to the Black Sea coast, it's an adventure playground that every budget can afford. In Bulgaria's wine country you can get a full winery tour with multiple tastings plus bread and cheese for about $5 (check out Villa Melnik winery), take a hike through Bulgaria's famous sandstone pyramids and then sleep in a beautiful authentic style hotel like Zlaten Rozhen with breakfast included for about $30.

Overlooking Cusco in Peru. (Photo courtesy of @misjetsetter/Instagram)

Where: Cusco, Peru

Chosen By: Lucie Josma, @missjetsetter

Why: Most people who pass through Cusco are en route to the very popular Machu Picchu, but you should make sure to spend a few days, maybe even a few weeks in this colorful city. Not only is the city absolutely stunning and oozing with culture, most accommodations range from $20 to $100 a night. Peruvian textiles are extremely affordable and the vibrant colors are stunning. Eating out in Cusco can be extremely cheap, if you know where to eat. Restaurants are quite affordable compared to most American and European restaurants, but street food here is the real winner. I'm personally addicted to ceviche and can't find it cheaper than $15 for a small portion in the states, but in Cusco's San Pedro Market you can find ceviche plus Peruvian fried rice for only $3. On my last trip, I had steak and ceviche nearly every day and never spent more than $15 for two including a drink and soup.

A regal setting in Georgia. (Photo courtesy of Meagen Collins/Fun Food Travel)

Where: Georgia

Chosen By: Meagen Collins, Food Fun Travel; and Shannon O'Donnell, ALittleAdrift.com

Why: Meagen Collins: This ancient European country is starting to grab the attention of travelers from all over the world. Georgia has so much to offer — beautiful scenery, unique culture and tradition everywhere you look, and the food will leave you drooling for more. Add to that the fact this country lays claim to being the birthplace of wine (winemaking here goes back 8,000 years) and you have the ultimate new travel destination. In Georgia, you can get a full meal plus copious amounts of wine for two people in a higher end restaurant, with live entertainment and still spend less than $30 — total. But get there fast: Word is getting around about this little gem and it won’t be tourist-free for long.

Shannon O'Donnell: This country flies under the radar for many tourists but has a favorable exchange rate, making it surprisingly budget friendly. The country a has gorgeously rich cultural heritage and is perhaps best known for its culture hospitality. That said, the food, wine, dance, and mountainscapes will wow you, too. Within days of arriving in Tbilisi, Georgia topped the list of places in the world where I felt most welcomed.

A pretty beach in Mozambique. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Where: Mozambique

Chosen By: Stephanie Parker, Big World Small Pockets

Why: This country is one of Africa's best budget travel destinations, with some extremely affordable accommodation situated along white sand beaches and next to an azure ocean. (Check out Villa Sands or Terraço das Quitandas.) There's great scuba diving, too, and you can easily feel like a millionaire here for nothing! For more ideas, see Big World Small Pocket's "17 Incredible Budget Travel Destinations Still On My List (That Should Be On Yours Too!)."

The skyline of Dallas. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Where: Dallas, Texas

Chosen By: Melinda Crow, FirstRead.Me

Why: Dallas is often overlooked, but packed with fun, food and great places to stay at prices far below the national average. (The city was voted the most affordable destination in the U.S. last year by Priceline and continues to remain a great value.) Downtown buzzes with excitement and culture, and the nearby Design District is exploding with eclectic shopping for home décor. The high-rise Omni Dallas has rooms with stunning floor-to-ceiling views of the city starting at just under $200, putting you in the center of the action. With a rental car, you can fully explore everything the city has to offer. Look at fringe cities like Grapevine and Plano for the charm of small towns of yesteryear with main street shops and eateries. The Gaylord Texan Hotel in Grapevine is convenient to DFW airport and offers full-out luxury at rates around the $200 mark.

READ MORE:

• "This 21-Year-Old Woman Claims She's The Youngest Person To Travel To Every Country"

• "Cheapest Summer Travel: 23 Best Places To Go Now"

• "Quit Your Job And Live In The Caribbean: 5 Cheapest Dream Islands"

• "35 Countries Where Americans Are Most Likely To Get Kidnapped"

03

The 15 Longest Flights in the World

If you’re looking to maximize your time in the sky, you might consider taking the current longest flight in the world — just board a Singapore Airlines plane in New York City and disembark in Singapore 9,537 miles (and nearly 19 hours) later.

While that flight holds the current record, it isn’t the longest flight ever flown — the longest nonstop commercial flight ever operated happened back in March 2020. Air Tahiti Nui flew nonstop from Papeete, Tahiti to Paris, traveling 9,765 miles, bypassing its usual stopover in Los Angeles due to pandemic-related travel restrictions in place at the time. That record, however, will be surpassed by Qantas in 2025, when the airline launches its 10,573-mile flights between Sydney and London and its 9,950-mile flights between Sydney and New York.

Here is the current list of the top 15 longest flights in the world that are in operation. They are ordered according to distance, since this metric remains constant, as opposed to flight timing, which can vary according to season, weather, and airport conditions at different times of the year.

Of the below flights, the shortest estimated flight time clocks in at a whopping 14 hours and 30 minutes, so you’ll need to come prepared for the long haul. Wear a comfortable airplane outfit, grab your best travel pillow, and queue up your favorite TV shows and movies — you’ve got time to kill. And if there was ever a time to upgrade to first class, this is it.

Related: 33 Tips for Making a Long-haul Flight More Comfortable

1. New York City (JFK) – Singapore (SIN)

Airline: Singapore Airlines

Distance: 9,537 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 18 hours, 50 minutes

2. Singapore (SIN) – Newark (EWR)

Airline: Singapore Airlines

Distance: 9,523 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 18 hours, 45 minutes

3. Perth (PER) – London (LHR)

Airline: Qantas

Distance: 9,010 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours, 15 minutes

4. Melbourne (MEL) – Dallas (DFW)

Airline: Qantas

Distance: 8,992 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours, 35 minutes

5. Auckland (AKL) – New York (JFK)

Airline: Air New Zealand and Qantas

Distance: 8,828 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours, 35 minutes

6. Dubai (DXB) - Auckland (AKL)

Airline: Emirates

Distance: 8,824 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours, 10 minutes

7. Singapore (SIN) - Los Angeles (LAX)

Airline: Singapore Airlines

Distance: 8,770 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours, 50 minutes

8. Bangalore (BLR) - San Francisco (SFO)

Airline: Air India

Distance: 8,701 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours, 40 minutes

9. Houston (IAH) - Sydney (SYD)

Airline: United Airlines

Distance: 8,596 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours, 35 minutes

10. Sydney (SYD) - Dallas (DFW)

Airline: Qantas

Distance: 8,576 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 15 hours, 20 minutes

11. Manila (MNL) - San Francisco (SFO)

Airline: Philippine Airlines

Distance: 8,520 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours

12. Singapore (SIN) - San Francisco (SFO)

Airline: Singapore Airlines and United Airlines

Distance: 8,446 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 14 hours, 30 minutes

13. Atlanta (ATL) - Johannesburg (JNB)

Airline: Delta

Distance: 8,439 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 15 hours, 20 minutes

14. Mumbai (BOM) - San Francisco (SFO)

Airline: Air India

Distance: 8,406 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 16 hours

15. Dubai (DXB) - Los Angeles (LAX)

Airline: Emirates

Distance: 8,339 miles

Estimated Flight Time: 16 hours, 20 minutes