5 budget foreign trips that offer fun with value for money
Travel, for many of us, has always been about the discovery of people, places, food and, often, of ourselves. However, over the past few years, how we travel and what we look for in a holiday has evolved. Indian travellers today aren't looking just for famous landmarks or
luxury hotels
, but for places that offer value, authenticity, and memorable experiences that don't come with an excessive price tag.
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More travellers are now taking shorter, more frequent holidays, often with families or friends. Budgets haven't necessarily increased, but expectations have. People want more from their holidays—more depth, more variety, more flexibility—and they're making smarter choices to get it. Whether it's the timing of travel, favourable exchange rates, or picking lesser known, but equally rewarding locations, today's traveller is weighing experience against cost. Frankly, that's a good thing. It means the quality of holidays isn't being defined by how expensive it is, but by how meaningful and well-planned it is.
Here are some destinations—some familiar, some emerging—that are striking this balance beautifully. They offer culture, beauty, adventure and comfort, without demanding a luxury budget.
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Vietnam
Capital:
Hanoi
Best time to visit:
Mar-Apr;Sep-Oct
1 Vietnamese dong
= Rs.0.0032
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Authenticity at a good price
Vietnam
has a quiet, unpolished beauty that's hard to find. From the misty mountains of Sa Pa to the lantern-lit lanes of Hoi An, there's a warmth and authenticity to the country that stays with you. What's also striking is how affordable the experience is. A bowl of pho in a local eatery costs less than Rs.200, and yet it's possibly one of the best meals you'll have. Boutique hotels, some housed in French colonial buildings, offer charm and comfort without the hefty price tag. Cruises in Ha Long Bay, island escapes in Phú Quoc, and hiking in lesser known reserves like Pu Luong feel as special as similar experiences in more expensive destinations, but without the same financial stretch.
Thailand
Capital:
Bangkok
Best time to visit:
Nov-Feb
1 Thai baht
= Rs.2.53
Tried favourite
Thailand
has long been the go-to destination for Indian travellers, and it's not hard to see why. It's easy to get to, the visa process is straightforward, and it has something for every traveller.
What makes the country interesting is the variety it still offers beyond the usual hotspots. Places like Chiang Mai, Pai, or the islands of Koh Yao Noi and Koh Lanta bring a slower, more refined pace. Here, you'll find boutique resorts, wellness retreats, and spa experiences that feel indulgent, but don't come with a luxury bill. It's also a great place to try new experiences, whether it's learning Muay Thai or taking a longtail boat to explore hidden coves.
Malaysia
Capital:
Kuala Lumpur
Best time to visit:
Mar-May; Oct-Nov
1 Malaysian ringgit
= Rs.19.52
Hidden luxuries beyond KL
Malaysia
blends comfort and character in a way few destinations do. While Kuala Lumpur is a natural entry point, the real value lies in cities like Penang and Langkawi. Boutique heritage stays in George Town and beachfront resorts in Langkawi offer privacy and charm at rates far lower than similar properties elsewhere in Asia.
What makes it especially appealing now is accessibility. Direct flights from Indian metros and visa-free entry (till end of 2026) make it easy to plan spontaneous or off-season travel. There's also depth to explore: Taman Negara, one of the oldest rainforests in the world, offers treks and canopy walks that rival eco-tourism hotspots in South America. Pangkor Island is a quieter beach alternative, and Kuala Selangor invites visitors to discover mangrove forests, fireflies and riverside villages.
UAE (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)
Capital:
Abu Dhabi
Best time to visit:
Nov-Mar
1 UAE dirham
= Rs.23.04
Masterful glamour
The UAE knows how to do luxury, but also knows how to make it scalable. Short flying time, frequent flight deals, and summer offers like 'Kids Go Free' make it a practical option for families.
Dubai's best moments are often free: fountain show at Burj Khalifa, a stroll through Al Fahidi Historic District, or watching the sunset from Kite Beach. Public transport is clean and efficient, reducing intra-city costs. Abu Dhabi offers cultural credibility with the Louvre and experiences like team-Lab Phenomena in the Saadiyat Cultural District. Travelling in shoulder seasons means better hotel rates and fewer crowds.
Türkiye
Capital:
Ankara
Best time to visit:
Apr-May; Sep-Nov
1 Turkish lira
= Rs.2.20
East meets West
Türkiye continues to strike a balance between culture and affordability. With the lira trading favourably, it's a great time to explore everything from Istanbul's layered history to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia. Travellers can indulge in hammam rituals, riverside cafés, and artisan shopping, all without stretching their budgets. Beyond the classics, cities like Amasya and Pinara, and destinations like Butterfly Valley, offer quieter routes through Türkiye's diverse terrain. Domestic flights and buses are affordable, enabling multi-city exploration for what a single-city stay might cost elsewhere in Europe.
The author is Managing Director & CEO, SOTC Travel
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