United States of America, Ireland, Italy... all such exotic and out of reach destinations. Many often do not travel these places as they find the price tag too high. But what if we told you that these destinations can, in fact, be budget-friendly? Join us as we countdown Cosmos’ list of 10 Affordable Destinations to visit this year and why.
1. Ring of Kerry, Ireland
Source: Ring of Kerry, Ireland by Ian Schneider on Unsplash
A drive along the Ring of Kerry presents dramatic views of rugged islands, pristine beaches, stunning mountain passes and a royal goat. From rugged coastline to charming villages and bustling towns, it is no surprise that the Ring of Kerry is one of the most popular routes in Ireland. We find it’s best explored slow for you to truly savour the sights and venture off the beaten track.
2. Krakow, Poland
Source: Krakow by Nomadic Julien on Unsplash
Long revered by many as Poland’s most beautiful city, Krakow combines a rich cultural heritage, fascinating history and beautiful architecture. The city’s neighbourhoods merge trendy cafes and busy bars with centuries-old buildings without loosing its identity. In the Old Town, St. Mary’s Basilica’s musical ring echoes through the streets as it has done for seven centuries. There is so much to be discovered in Krakow, something best done in the company of a local guide.
3. Palermo, Italy
Source: Palermo by Cristina Gottardi on Unsplash
Churches, marketplaces and palazzos in mixes of Byzantine mosaics, Arabesque domes and frescoed cupolas – Palermo has been one of the most dynamic and colourful cities of the Mediterranean. This is attributed to it being the apex of civilisations for centuries, located at the edge of Europe and at the center of the ancient world. A day spent in this city is a journey through time for the curious traveller.
4. Plitvice National Park, Croatia
Source: Plitvice park by Shawn Appel on Unsplash
The Plitvice National Park is considered one of the most beautiful natural sights in Europe and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 to preserve that beauty. What truly sets it apart from other national parks is its unique system of 16 interlinked lakes and a huge forest complex around it that is home to a myriad of wildlife species. Visitors that have visited the park can attest to its mesmerising natural allure.
5. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Source: Dubvronik by Morgan on Unsplash
Much like Game of Thrones, the medieval walled city of Dubrovnik has had a painful history of war and restoration. But amidst its iconic structures, the city never fails to invoke a sense of wonder. With an endless shimmer of Adriatic, the city’s limestone walkways, baroque buildings and ancient wall cities that protect the capital are just begging to be explored and captured in memory.
6. Rome, Italy
Source: Rome by L A L A on Unsplash
According to Lonely Planet, the capital of Italy is a historical powerhouse. Indeed, with a spiced mix of stunning ruins, awe-inspiring art and colourful lifestyle on the street, Rome is without doubt one of the world’s most charismatic cities. And it can be argued that one of the best ways to experience it is through an included cooking masterclass where you can learn how to prepare an authentic scrumptious Italian meal.
7. Marrakesh, Morocco
Source: Marrakesh by Clément Bergey on Unsplash
Marrakesh marches to its own beat. The red city of Marrakesh remains a tapestry of ramparts, mosques, palaces, gardens, vibrant public squares, and souks (markets). Dive into a haggling war for that satisfactory purchase of housewares and handicrafts at the souks or marvel at the heaps of coloured spices that have been patted into perfectly shaped pyramids at apothecaries. Marrakesh is a city unlike any other with its twisty alleyways of medieval medina – a city within a city.
8. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Source: Joshua Tree National Park by Owen Rupp on Unsplash
Venture into the high desert of California to Joshua Tree National Park, a vast protected area in Southern California. Here two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado deserts come together with a vibrant variety of plants and animals. Dark night skies, a rich cultural history, and surreal geologic moulded by wind and torrent rain features add to the wonder of this vast wilderness in southern California.
9. Palm Springs, California
Source: Palm Springs by Cody Board on Unsplash
Journey to the desert oasis of Palm Springs, City of California. Located at the base of San Jacinto Mountains, this city is the ancestral home of the Cahuilla Indians. Its streets invite you to explore its boutique shops, art gallery and museums while strolling amidst palm trees under the warm sun. Enjoy the warm colours saturated by the calming desert light and discover a laidback destination unlike other American cities.
10. New York City, USA
Source: NYC by Andre Benz on Unsplash
The Big Apple needs no introduction. Broadway, the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Center, Chinatown, Wall Street – New York City is literally the epicentre of the arts, architectural metropolitan, shopping haven and dining galore. Each attraction visit will feel like an encounter with a celebrity. Fall in love with the art deco skyscrapers and get drawn in by its energy, creativity and diverse people that keeps pulling people back to it.
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You may still be thinking, how on earth are these places affordable. Well, they can be when you have the choice of selecting where you want to go and what you want to do according to your budget and interest. Cosmos puts your budget in your hands by giving you options for you to pick from and to customise your tour. Of course, Cosmos doesn’t skimp on the essentials for ease, comfort and discovery and includes accommodation and transportation. Cosmos offers escorted tours to these ten locations and more.
For more on Cosmos guided packages, click here.