Top places to travel in your 20’s

When we think about traveling in our 20’s we are usually thinking affordability. We are also thinking great parties and adventures. I have chosen these ones because in my 30’s I thought to myself “I wish I came here in my twenties”.

In our 20’s we are just finishing school, looking for direction. Most don’t have kids, so now is the time to take that adventure, but we need to do it on a budget. These are some places that are easy to get around. They are full of like minded tourists and are affordable.

Thailand

Thailand is great for any budgeter. You may have heard of the full moon party? Well I am going to tell you that the lantern festival in Chiang Mai was not only amazing but much safer. Yes the full moon parties are the ultimate party in Thailand but you will find those same crowds having the time of their lives here.

You can spend 1 week in Chiang Mai and another island hoping in the south for under 1000. Now that will include your stays, food, flights, tours and ferry fees. This is also for single rooms so if you want to spend even less you can bunk with others.

Things not to miss in Thailand are the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng Festival and a day with the elephants.

READ : My Thailand experience

South Africa

Oh South Africa. One of my favourite places to visit. This is a great country to explore everything from surfing in Jeffrey’s Bay, hiking in Storms River, shark diving in Cape Town and the ultimate safari adventure.

Getting to all these places is easy with Baz Bus. They also have hostels that you can stay at on their route. This is a great way to meet new people from around the world.

Food is cheap and amazing, don’t forget to try a Braai (bbq).

Portugal

Portugal from Lisbon to Lagos to Sintra has so much to offer.

Head to Lagos for some amazing beach hopping and scenic caves. You can stay here for around 20/night and getting around by bus is easy.

Lisbon, a beautiful city with a great bus line to get around. I would suggest staying near downtown.

Sintra is for those who love history and for those who love enchanted castles.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a great place for those who love everything nature. From the Caribbean town of Puerto Viejo to the volcanic town of La Fortuna to surfing at Jaco Beach.

Puerto Viejo is a great town on the Caribbean side with a great night life and daytime wildlife. Lush forest and stunning beaches.

La Fortuna with its stunning waterfalls, amazing coffee and great hiking trails up old lava fields.

Jaco is a great place to learn how to surf. Sandy bottom and great waves.

Cambodia

The moment you look up Cambodia you will see Angkor Wat and for good reason, it’s stunning. Cambodia is known for it’s beautiful backdrops and some dark history.

It is a travelers paradise and affordable. Since it is these you will find lots of people in the same boat, trying to do a lot on so little.

Nepal

Nepal is pure adventure. Not all of us are ready to hike Mt. Everest at this age but why not make your way to base cape. Still not an easy hike but what a journey it will be.

Take some time to visit Kathmandu. They have done so well to fix a lot of the historical places after the 2015 earthquake.

If you enjoy nature make your way to Chitwan National Park for some wildlife adventures.

Cuba

Havana Cuba is a great place to take a step back in time, literally. As you make your way down the streets you will feel like you are back in the 50’s.

If you come just once make it for the end of July for the Santiago De Cuba Festival. Parades, music and amazing food.

Europe Train

This may not be the most affordable thing but if you can you should make your way around Europe by train. You can get a Eurail pass that will get you to 33 other countries.

You could spend 2 weeks or 3 or even 4 and mark off multiple countries on a bucket list. Pack your backpack and set off to meet amazing people around the world.