7 underrated travel spots that should be on your bucket list
1. Georgia
Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, Georgia
Georgia, located in the Caucasus, is a great choice for travelers looking for adventure, culture, and affordability. The country is very safe, with low crime rates, especially in popular spots like Tbilisi and Kazbegi. Georgia is also easy on the wallet—accommodation, local transport, and meals are all very affordable, making it perfect for backpackers and long-term visitors. Food is a highlight here, with dishes like khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), khinkali dumplings, and excellent local wines that are both filling and budget-friendly. If you love the outdoors, you can hike in the Caucasus Mountains, visit ancient monasteries, or take scenic drives through charming villages. With its mix of safety, low costs, rich culture, and outdoor activities, Georgia is a top destination for those looking to get off the beaten path.
2. Albania
Durrës, Albania
Albania sits on the Adriatic and Ionian coasts and is one of Europe’s hidden gems. It’s very safe for travelers, with welcoming locals and low crime. Albania is also very affordable, with cheap places to stay, low-cost street food, and budget-friendly public transport. The food combines Mediterranean and Balkan flavors, with fresh seafood, grilled meats, and traditional pastries that won’t break the bank. There’s plenty to do, from visiting the UNESCO towns of Berat and Gjirokastër to hiking in the Accursed Mountains or relaxing on quiet beaches along the Albanian Riviera. If you want history, nature, and culture without the crowds or high prices of Western Europe, Albania is a great pick.
3. Namibia
Oryxes in the red sand dunes of Namibia
Namibia is a stunning African destination that remains largely “slept on” by international travelers, yet it offers incredible experiences at a reasonable cost. The country is one of the safest in Africa, with low crime rates in tourist areas and well-maintained infrastructure, making it easy to explore independently. While not ultra-cheap, Namibia is budget-friendly compared to other safari destinations, especially if you self-drive and stay in lodges or campsites. The food scene is hearty and satisfying, with local specialties like game meat, biltong (dried cured meat), and fresh seafood along the coast. Activities abound in Namibia: visitors can marvel at the towering dunes of Sossusvlei, explore the wildlife-rich Etosha National Park, wander through the haunting Skeleton Coast, and enjoy cultural encounters with the Himba people. Adventure seekers can go sandboarding, hot air ballooning, or even track desert-adapted wildlife. With its combination of safety, affordability, dramatic landscapes, and outdoor activities, Namibia is a destination that offers a once-in-a-lifetime African experience without the crowds or extreme costs of more popular safari countries.
4. Bolivia
Bolivian women at the markeplace
Bolivia provides visitors with a distinctive South American experience that is rich in natural beauty and cultural diversity. While care is urged in remote locations, tourist destinations like La Paz, Sucre, and the Salar de Uyuni salt flats are typically safe. Bolivia offers some of the most affordable hotels, food, and transportation in all of South America. Salteñas (savory pastries), anticuchos (grilled meat skewers), and substantial soups are examples of regional cuisine. There are many of opportunities for adventure and discovery, such as going to the bizarre Salar de Uyuni, hiking in the Andes, finding Lake Titicaca, and taking in the lively local markets. Bolivia is a great option for daring tourists looking for unusual experiences because of its safety, affordability, breathtaking natural scenery, and vibrant culture.
5. Chile
Torres del Paine National Park, Última Esperanza Province, Chile
Chile is one of South America’s most diverse and exciting destinations, offering incredible natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a variety of activities—all at a surprisingly affordable cost for travelers willing to plan smartly. The country is generally safe, especially in major tourist areas like Santiago, Valparaíso, and the Lake District. Local infrastructure, public transport, and well-organized tour options make independent travel easier and more comfortable. Chile is surprisingly budget-friendly if you plan ahead: public buses and trains are inexpensive, hostels and guesthouses provide affordable lodging, and street food or local markets offer delicious meals at very low prices. For example, traditional dishes like empanadas, completos (Chilean hot dogs), cazuela (hearty stew), and seafood from coastal towns are filling and cheap.
6. Contoy Island, Mexico
Contoy Island, Mexico
Often disregarded in favor of neighboring Cancun and Isla Mujeres, Contoy Island is a hidden treasure off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. The island is extremely safe since visits are guided and visitor numbers are rigorously restricted, creating a regulated and safe atmosphere. Contoy Island is relatively reasonably priced when compared to private island experiences elsewhere, even if it involves scheduling a tour (which may be a little more expensive than standard day trips). The price includes eco-guided tours, lunches, and access to protected areas. Fresh local fish and tropical fruits are frequently served on these trips, offering guests a taste of real coastal Mexican dining. Contoy Island's activities are mostly focused on animals and the natural world. The island has more than 150 different bird species, including frigatebirds, and the nearby reefs provide great snorkeling. Contoy Island is the ideal location for tourists looking for a peaceful, nature-focused getaway in Mexico because of its safety, eco-tourism emphasis, affordable prices, and distinctive activities.
7. Cambodia
Buddhists roaming around the Angkor Wat temple
Offering a unique blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty at a relatively reasonable cost, Cambodia is an alluring holiday destination. In Cambodia, traveling on a tight budget is quite possible. The cost of lodging varies from mid-range hotels at $20–$40 a night to inexpensive hostels and guesthouses at $5–$15 per night. It is also feasible to travel for $25–$30 per day for backpackers or $40–$60 per day for mid-range visitors due to the affordability of sightseeing costs, such as Angkor Wat tickets and cultural attractions. Buddhist customs and Khmer ancestry are fundamental to Cambodian culture. The locals are renowned for being amiable and eager to share their traditions with visitors, fostering a friendly environment. Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm are just a few of the monuments that make Cambodia famous. In conclusion, tourists looking for a blend of culture, history, adventure, and affordability will find Cambodia to be a perfect destination.
