18 amazing (and affordable) places to go in 2018
Travel the world without breaking the bank
Atlanta, Georgia
Not only does the have free admission everyday, but the city is also filled with historic attractions you can tour without paying a penny, like the .
Baja California, Mexico
Because it's just a short drive from the California border, you'll immediately save money by traveling here instead of to more southern Mexican destinations. Need a break from the sunbathing? Have a drink in northern Baja California at one of the region's — it's like going to Napa, if Napa was right next to sandy white beaches.
Berlin, Germany
If Berlin is on your travel list, save it for the wintertime. The holiday markets are beautiful and filled with delicious foods, Christmas trinkets, and unique presents for everyone on your list. It'll be chilly, but that will mean fewer tourists and cheaper airfare and hotel rates. from New York City can cost as low as $380 if you book in advance.
Bogotá, Colombia
Colombia's capital city is filled with rich history, great food and wine, and beautiful colonial architecture. It's also a steal: According to , hotel rates range from $75 to $108, so you won't spend too much on your sleeping arrangements. (If safety is a concern, that Bogotá is one of the safest urban settings in all of Latin America.)
Costa Rica
Winter is Costa Rica's dry season, and temperatures rarely dip below 70 degrees, which makes it the perfect time to explore the country's beautiful beaches (and to watch hatch!). Instead of staying at a resort or ecolodge, cut costs — and enjoy better views — by renting a or villa.
Dallas, Texas
If you're headed to Dallas, the sweet spot for scoring the best deal on airfare is about six weeks out, according to . That way you'll have more room in your budget to check out the views from or visit Fort Worth's famous .
Detroit, Michigan
Detroit is making a comeback. The cutting-edge QLine streetcar, which started running this spring, follows a 6.6 mile route throughout the city, which means you won't have to worry about spending all your money on a rental car (a Qline day pass only ). It's definitely the best way to see the at the city's brand new stadium.
Dublin, Ireland
The capital of Ireland was chosen as one of National Geographic's places to travel in 2018, thanks to its friendly locals and awesome selection of pubs. If you're looking for a night out on the town, just take a walk down to — you might even run into a leprechaun. Worried about overspending during a night out? Opt instead for a free tour of the 425-year-old or . (Pro tip: almost any place with "national" in front of the name is probably free!)
Laos
A trip to Laos won't disappoint your Insta followers, that's for sure. Laos is often overshadowed by its neighbors in Southeast Asia, but it's just as beautiful as Thailand or Vietnam and much less crowded with tourists. Plus, for just a few bucks a night you can stay in a or a that serves breakfast and dinner.
London, England
London may have a reputation of being expensive, but Brexit is on your side. The dollar-to-pound exchange rate is the best it's been in years, so the time to take advantage is now. If you're trying to save some money for souvenirs, book a top-rated in the heart of the city instead of a hotel.
Memphis, Tennessee
For music lovers, Memphis is a must. The city's Backstage Pass — which is only $84 — gives you access to the , the legendary , the , and . With the cash you save, you'll be able to sample all of the city's top-notch BBQ spots.
Montreal, Canada
Montreal — just a 90-minute flight from New York City — offers European vibes without the European price tags. The locals speak French and as you stroll through , you'll feel like you've been transported to the cobblestone streets of Paris. Looking to escape the cold? Check out , nearly 20 miles of of tunnels that connect transit hubs, hotels, restaurants, stores, and more.
Marrakech, Morocco
As long as you don't spend all your money on an overpriced rug, it's easy to stick to your budget at the in Marrakech. The food will not only be the cheapest thing about the trip — it'll probably be the highlight, too.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans' French Quarter is known for its epic night life. The streets are filled with live music and street vendors, and you'll get to stroll through some of the country's most beautiful historic buildings (to-go cup in hand, of course). To save some cash, avoid the city during Mardi Gras season, and swap a night out on the town for an evening filled with . Buy your tickets ahead of time to cut costs, too!
Prague, Czech Republic
Walking through Prague, you'll feel like you've stepped into a fairytale. It doesn't cost anything to stroll around the city admiring the breathtaking architecture — there's nothing like seeing the sun set over the — and there are lots of cheap, hearty eats (+ beer!) to enjoy once you've worked up an appetite.
Shanghai, China
The city of has a ton of museums and sites to see, and it is possible to enjoy the beautiful city on a budget. alleys are filled with delicious (and inexpensive) food stalls, and the — the best place to learn about the history of the bustling city — has free admission year-round.
Stockholm, Sweden
By booking in advance, roundtrip tickets to Stockholm from Boston or New York will run you a mere $300 on . If you want to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, try planning your trip from November to March. Avoid the ski resorts, though, because most of the tourists will gather on the slopes during winter. Venture into the city instead to sightsee — you won't want to miss .
Williamsburg, Virginia
Colonial Williamsburg is always fun for the whole family, but to make the most out of your trip, go during the fall. You'll save money on hotels, beat the lines, and see the leaves changing colors in a gorgeous part of Virginia. When you arrive, be sure to buy to cut costs on attractions and events.
Atlanta, Georgia
Not only does the have free admission everyday, but the city is also filled with historic attractions you can tour without paying a penny, like the .
Baja California, Mexico
Because it's just a short drive from the California border, you'll immediately save money by traveling here instead of to more southern Mexican destinations. Need a break from the sunbathing? Have a drink in northern Baja California at one of the region's — it's like going to Napa, if Napa was right next to sandy white beaches.
Berlin, Germany
If Berlin is on your travel list, save it for the wintertime. The holiday markets are beautiful and filled with delicious foods, Christmas trinkets, and unique presents for everyone on your list. It'll be chilly, but that will mean fewer tourists and cheaper airfare and hotel rates. from New York City can cost as low as $380 if you book in advance.
Bogotá, Colombia
Colombia's capital city is filled with rich history, great food and wine, and beautiful colonial architecture. It's also a steal: According to , hotel rates range from $75 to $108, so you won't spend too much on your sleeping arrangements. (If safety is a concern, that Bogotá is one of the safest urban settings in all of Latin America.)
Costa Rica
Winter is Costa Rica's dry season, and temperatures rarely dip below 70 degrees, which makes it the perfect time to explore the country's beautiful beaches (and to watch hatch!). Instead of staying at a resort or ecolodge, cut costs — and enjoy better views — by renting a or villa.
Dallas, Texas
If you're headed to Dallas, the sweet spot for scoring the best deal on airfare is about six weeks out, according to . That way you'll have more room in your budget to check out the views from or visit Fort Worth's famous .
Detroit, Michigan
Detroit is making a comeback. The cutting-edge QLine streetcar, which started running this spring, follows a 6.6 mile route throughout the city, which means you won't have to worry about spending all your money on a rental car (a Qline day pass only ). It's definitely the best way to see the at the city's brand new stadium.
Dublin, Ireland
The capital of Ireland was chosen as one of National Geographic's places to travel in 2018, thanks to its friendly locals and awesome selection of pubs. If you're looking for a night out on the town, just take a walk down to — you might even run into a leprechaun. Worried about overspending during a night out? Opt instead for a free tour of the 425-year-old or . (Pro tip: almost any place with "national" in front of the name is probably free!)
Laos
A trip to Laos won't disappoint your Insta followers, that's for sure. Laos is often overshadowed by its neighbors in Southeast Asia, but it's just as beautiful as Thailand or Vietnam and much less crowded with tourists. Plus, for just a few bucks a night you can stay in a or a that serves breakfast and dinner.
London, England
London may have a reputation of being expensive, but Brexit is on your side. The dollar-to-pound exchange rate is the best it's been in years, so the time to take advantage is now. If you're trying to save some money for souvenirs, book a top-rated in the heart of the city instead of a hotel.
Memphis, Tennessee
For music lovers, Memphis is a must. The city's Backstage Pass — which is only $84 — gives you access to the , the legendary , the , and . With the cash you save, you'll be able to sample all of the city's top-notch BBQ spots.
Montreal, Canada
Montreal — just a 90-minute flight from New York City — offers European vibes without the European price tags. The locals speak French and as you stroll through , you'll feel like you've been transported to the cobblestone streets of Paris. Looking to escape the cold? Check out , nearly 20 miles of of tunnels that connect transit hubs, hotels, restaurants, stores, and more.
Marrakech, Morocco
As long as you don't spend all your money on an overpriced rug, it's easy to stick to your budget at the in Marrakech. The food will not only be the cheapest thing about the trip — it'll probably be the highlight, too.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans' French Quarter is known for its epic night life. The streets are filled with live music and street vendors, and you'll get to stroll through some of the country's most beautiful historic buildings (to-go cup in hand, of course). To save some cash, avoid the city during Mardi Gras season, and swap a night out on the town for an evening filled with . Buy your tickets ahead of time to cut costs, too!
Prague, Czech Republic
Walking through Prague, you'll feel like you've stepped into a fairytale. It doesn't cost anything to stroll around the city admiring the breathtaking architecture — there's nothing like seeing the sun set over the — and there are lots of cheap, hearty eats (+ beer!) to enjoy once you've worked up an appetite.
Shanghai, China
The city of has a ton of museums and sites to see, and it is possible to enjoy the beautiful city on a budget. alleys are filled with delicious (and inexpensive) food stalls, and the — the best place to learn about the history of the bustling city — has free admission year-round.
Stockholm, Sweden
By booking in advance, roundtrip tickets to Stockholm from Boston or New York will run you a mere $300 on . If you want to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, try planning your trip from November to March. Avoid the ski resorts, though, because most of the tourists will gather on the slopes during winter. Venture into the city instead to sightsee — you won't want to miss .
Williamsburg, Virginia
Colonial Williamsburg is always fun for the whole family, but to make the most out of your trip, go during the fall. You'll save money on hotels, beat the lines, and see the leaves changing colors in a gorgeous part of Virginia. When you arrive, be sure to buy to cut costs on attractions and events.
Atlanta, Georgia
Not only does the have free admission everyday, but the city is also filled with historic attractions you can tour without paying a penny, like the .
Baja California, Mexico
Because it's just a short drive from the California border, you'll immediately save money by traveling here instead of to more southern Mexican destinations. Need a break from the sunbathing? Have a drink in northern Baja California at one of the region's — it's like going to Napa, if Napa was right next to sandy white beaches.
Berlin, Germany
If Berlin is on your travel list, save it for the wintertime. The holiday markets are beautiful and filled with delicious foods, Christmas trinkets, and unique presents for everyone on your list. It'll be chilly, but that will mean fewer tourists and cheaper airfare and hotel rates. from New York City can cost as low as $380 if you book in advance.
Bogotá, Colombia
Colombia's capital city is filled with rich history, great food and wine, and beautiful colonial architecture. It's also a steal: According to , hotel rates range from $75 to $108, so you won't spend too much on your sleeping arrangements. (If safety is a concern, that Bogotá is one of the safest urban settings in all of Latin America.)
Costa Rica
Winter is Costa Rica's dry season, and temperatures rarely dip below 70 degrees, which makes it the perfect time to explore the country's beautiful beaches (and to watch hatch!). Instead of staying at a resort or ecolodge, cut costs — and enjoy better views — by renting a or villa.
Dallas, Texas
If you're headed to Dallas, the sweet spot for scoring the best deal on airfare is about six weeks out, according to . That way you'll have more room in your budget to check out the views from or visit Fort Worth's famous .
Detroit, Michigan
Detroit is making a comeback. The cutting-edge QLine streetcar, which started running this spring, follows a 6.6 mile route throughout the city, which means you won't have to worry about spending all your money on a rental car (a Qline day pass only ). It's definitely the best way to see the at the city's brand new stadium.
Dublin, Ireland
The capital of Ireland was chosen as one of National Geographic's places to travel in 2018, thanks to its friendly locals and awesome selection of pubs. If you're looking for a night out on the town, just take a walk down to — you might even run into a leprechaun. Worried about overspending during a night out? Opt instead for a free tour of the 425-year-old or . (Pro tip: almost any place with "national" in front of the name is probably free!)
Laos
A trip to Laos won't disappoint your Insta followers, that's for sure. Laos is often overshadowed by its neighbors in Southeast Asia, but it's just as beautiful as Thailand or Vietnam and much less crowded with tourists. Plus, for just a few bucks a night you can stay in a or a that serves breakfast and dinner.
London, England
London may have a reputation of being expensive, but Brexit is on your side. The dollar-to-pound exchange rate is the best it's been in years, so the time to take advantage is now. If you're trying to save some money for souvenirs, book a top-rated in the heart of the city instead of a hotel.
Memphis, Tennessee
For music lovers, Memphis is a must. The city's Backstage Pass — which is only $84 — gives you access to the , the legendary , the , and . With the cash you save, you'll be able to sample all of the city's top-notch BBQ spots.
Montreal, Canada
Montreal — just a 90-minute flight from New York City — offers European vibes without the European price tags. The locals speak French and as you stroll through , you'll feel like you've been transported to the cobblestone streets of Paris. Looking to escape the cold? Check out , nearly 20 miles of of tunnels that connect transit hubs, hotels, restaurants, stores, and more.
Marrakech, Morocco
As long as you don't spend all your money on an overpriced rug, it's easy to stick to your budget at the in Marrakech. The food will not only be the cheapest thing about the trip — it'll probably be the highlight, too.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans' French Quarter is known for its epic night life. The streets are filled with live music and street vendors, and you'll get to stroll through some of the country's most beautiful historic buildings (to-go cup in hand, of course). To save some cash, avoid the city during Mardi Gras season, and swap a night out on the town for an evening filled with . Buy your tickets ahead of time to cut costs, too!
Prague, Czech Republic
Walking through Prague, you'll feel like you've stepped into a fairytale. It doesn't cost anything to stroll around the city admiring the breathtaking architecture — there's nothing like seeing the sun set over the — and there are lots of cheap, hearty eats (+ beer!) to enjoy once you've worked up an appetite.
Shanghai, China
The city of has a ton of museums and sites to see, and it is possible to enjoy the beautiful city on a budget. alleys are filled with delicious (and inexpensive) food stalls, and the — the best place to learn about the history of the bustling city — has free admission year-round.
Stockholm, Sweden
By booking in advance, roundtrip tickets to Stockholm from Boston or New York will run you a mere $300 on . If you want to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, try planning your trip from November to March. Avoid the ski resorts, though, because most of the tourists will gather on the slopes during winter. Venture into the city instead to sightsee — you won't want to miss .
Williamsburg, Virginia
Colonial Williamsburg is always fun for the whole family, but to make the most out of your trip, go during the fall. You'll save money on hotels, beat the lines, and see the leaves changing colors in a gorgeous part of Virginia. When you arrive, be sure to buy to cut costs on attractions and events.
Travel the world without breaking the bank
Travel the world without having to break the bank may seem too good to be true, but in 2018 these will be the places to travel; and won't bust your budget!