Best Places in Asia When you are on a Budget
Your guide to experiencing Asia on a budget. Find the top affordable countries, street food hotspots, and budget-friendly accommodations for an unforgettable trip.
ASIA
Traveling through Asia on a budget is about more than just saving money, it's about discovering incredible value in places rich with culture and history. Explore the vibrant streets of Hanoi, use Huay Xai as your serene launchpad into Laos, and discover the ancient beauty and affordable wines of Yerevan, Armenia. Get ready to be inspired by the diverse and accessible experiences waiting for you.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Vietnam in February offers dry and bright weather throughout most of the country, which makes a trip to Hanoi ideal. This city has strong French influences and is well known for its food scene. There are also plenty of nightlife options if you are looking for a place to party in the evenings.
February weather averages in the 60s and 70s, and there aren’t a whole lot of rainy days expected. On average, the month sees about three days of rain each year. February is still considered the low season as far as tourism goes.
Where to stay in Hanoi?
The Art – Graffiti House Old Quarter has air-conditioned rooms located just a few steps away from the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. You can expect free WiFi and private bathrooms starting at $27 per night.
5 things to do in Hanoi:
Hangzhou, China
A September visit to Hangzhou means there will be plenty of gorgeous weather to enjoy the Thousand Islets Lake Scenic Area. Late summer weather is likely to be very pleasant, as you are leaving behind the scorching days of July and August. You can spend your days swimming and canoeing and then save the sightseeing for the cooler evening hours. Lotuses may be in bloom this time of year!
Weather in September calls for shorts and t-shirts with days in the low 80s. You shouldn't encounter too many rainy days, but it never hurts to be prepared with cute rain gear just in case.
Where to stay in Hangzhou?
You will be enchanted with your accommodations if you book a room at the Blooming Lotus. The property is less than two miles from the Lingyin Temple, offers free WiFi, and has a restaurant on site. It also provides bicycles for guest use. Rates start at $45 per night.
5 things to do in Hangzhou:
Lake Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan doesn't always make people's bucket lists, but it certainly should! This area of the world has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, and Lake Issyk-Kul is the 2nd largest saltwater lake in the entire world. June is the start of the tourist season on the lake, but outside of tourist season, the weather doesn't always cooperate. So you will want to book earlier in the month rather than later to get the best deals.
The weather really starts heating up in June, which means you will be glad of your lake time. It isn’t uncommon for the daytime temps to be in the high-80s, but they can reach over 100º sometimes.
Where to stay in Lake Issyk-Kul?
Located in Cholpon-Ata, Inn Kochevnik is .02 miles from the lake. The property offers an airport shuttle and has a swimming pool and playground. Breakfast is offered daily, and there is a bar on site.
5 things to do in Lake Issyk-Kul:
Huay Xay, Laos
Right on the border of Thailand and nestled on the banks of the Mekong River, Huay Xay is a great budget travel destination for those who like things a bit slower-paced. Many people add Huay Xay to their travel itinerary for the sole purpose of taking the slow boat up the river and into Thailand. The cheapest time to visit Huay Xay is March, April, and May.
You can expect temperatures to hover around the 80º mark for these three months. The rainy season starts in April, so book earlier in March and April if you don’t like getting wet.
Where to stay in Huay Xay?
Find a family room with a private bathroom at Thaveesinh Hotel. Rates start at $20 per night, and all of the rooms are air-conditioned. The property also has free WiFi and is in a great location for experiencing the city.
5 things to do in Huay Xay:
Yerevan, Armenia
The cheapest time to visit Yerevan is late September, but you can make Armenia relatively affordable most of the year. (You can also make your trip extremely expensive depending on where you plan to stay, eat, and explore!) If you stick to more budget-friendly options, you can get a week in the city for under $1000 including accommodations.
Expect temperatures to be in the mid-80s most days in September. Evenings will likely be a little chillier, but rain is only expected one day out of the month!
Where to stay in Yerevan?
You can book a room right next to St. Nikolai Cathedral at the Shirak Hotel. Rates start at $80 per night, and breakfast is included. The property offers an airport shuttle, free WiFi, and has a bar on site. Family rooms are available as well.
5 things to do in Yerevan:
Which budget-friendly destination will you choose?
With so much of the world to see, it can be hard to narrow down your vacation plans. One thing I've done in the past is go to the Airbnb website, choose my vacation days, put in a max price, and click "anywhere." It's how I ended up visiting Chiang Mai, Thailand for a month in 2022! I found an adorable property for less than $300 for the entire stay. It is like letting fate choose your budget travel destination!