Whoever said you need a fortune for a tropical holiday was lying! 36% of the earth’s landmass is comprised of tropical regions, meaning there are various alluring places to visit, and recognising where and when to go can result in significant savings. We’ve done the hard work for you and collated a list of five of the best tropical places to visit you can enjoy without breaking the bank.
Barbados
Barbados is one of the Caribbean’s most versatile and affordable getaway spots and one of the nicest tropical vacation destinations in general. Its lush landscapes, diverse coastlines and vibrant, warm culture make it an all-time Caribbean favourite.
The west and south coast are flooded with sandy beaches, and the Atlantic-facing east coast with rugged limestone cliffs. The island is 21 miles long and 14 miles wide, so it pays to venture inland and discover the beauty Barbados has to offer. Warm weather is pretty much guaranteed, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30℃ all year round.
The island has a good selection of budget-friendly hotels and villas. All of its beaches are public, and Reggae bands play free gigs all over the island. From catamaran trips along the coast to snorkelling through coral with marine life, Barbados has all the right ingredients for a dream tropical holiday.
WHAT TO DO
Of course, the first thing on the to-do list is to laze on the beaches. Most tourists stay on Barbados’ western and southern coasts, where the picturesque Caribbean beaches of dreams reside. The South exhibits a lively spirit, with family-friendly stays and various bars and restaurants. The west coast is ruled by luxury; it’s the place to be if you want to get seriously pampered.
Surfing in Freights Bay is one to check off your bucket list here. It attracts surfers from all over the world and is an experience like no other. The Atlantic East coat is a beautiful place to visit in general, offering a different perspective on Barbados with its rugged rock formations and pure nature. Although you can take a cool dip in the shallow, natural inshore pools, it’s important to avoid swimming in the open sea.
The island’s bustling little capital Bridgetown offers a fantastic lineup of attractions. Explore historic sites and landmarks, try rum at the Mount Gay Visitor Centre, shop at local boutiques, and enjoy the nightlife. Carlisle Bay and Pebbles Beach are beautiful and popular beaches in the area.
A major highlight of a holiday in Barbados is experiencing the Bajan culture first-hand. You must try the famous Oistin’s Friday Night Fish Fry, serving fresh fish straight off the boat accompanied by entertainment on their stage. There are also plenty of markets to get cheap fresh produce all around Barbados, from roadside stalls and rum shops. Try cutters – these are filled salt-bread sandwiches.
WHEN TO GO
December through April is considered the high season when tourism peaks. Prices for flights and accommodation will be higher during this time, but you’ll have pleasant weather for the beach activities.
May to November are the shoulder season months. Hurricanes are most common from August to October, but the chances of one directly hitting Barbados are slim. Rain usually comes in short yet powerful bursts, but the sun is still present, so you can still get the warm holiday you came for.
The cheapest time to travel to Barbados is either May or December. You’ll just miss the peak tourism rush and therefore get lucky with the best deals for your stay.
Language: English
Currency: Bajan Dollar
Vietnam
Vietnam has the best of both worlds, with breathtaking tropical landscapes and stunning cities. It’s huge, measuring 1025 miles from North to South, so the question for most people isn’t whether or not to go to Vietnam but where to go. Vietnam can be split into North, Central, and South zones, with plenty of beautiful options to choose from in each of them.
The weather differs in each area of Vietnam. The country’s southern region is firmly set in the humid tropics, but as you venture north, the climate becomes cooler and can even get cold during winter.
The cost of living in Vietnam is relatively low, and street food is both delicious and budget-friendly. Consider bus and rail transport to move from place to place. This can help your wallet, particularly if you opt for overnight transportation to save on a night at a hotel. You’ll want to stop in plenty of places as you travel between the central areas; some train routes are renowned for looking like something out of a photograph. But if your time is restricted, focus your itinerary on a small area and get the most out of that.
WHAT TO DO
Ha Long Bay is known as one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam. It’s renowned for its emerald waters and multitude of soaring limestone islands topped with rainforests. Popular activities include hiking, rock climbing, scuba diving, kayaking and boat tours. Bai Tu Long Bay is a few miles away and is just as pretty with fewer crowds.
The coastal resort town of Nha Trang is well-known for its beaches, diving locations, and offshore islands. A promenade, hotels, and seafood eateries line the length of its major beach, which is long and curved and runs along Tran Phu Street. This place is known as the seafood capital of Vietnam.
Phu Quoc Island is a tropical vacation dream located off the southwest coast of Vietnam. It’s home to Vietnam’s only open zoo, a safari, and an 18-hole golf course. Taking a trip above the island with cable cars will leave anyone breathless. Check out the early-morning Duong Dong Market for an authentic experience of local life.
Food is virtually a religion in Vietnam, but dinner is extra special when everyone enjoys several dishes together. Opt for an assortment of dishes for the table rather than just one main course to yourself to benefit from sampling a wide range of tastes and textures. Street food is readily available everywhere when you need a bite between mealtimes.
WHEN TO GO
Vietnam’s climate varies geographically, so the best time to go will depend on where you stay. The North’s dry season spans from October to April. February to August will be nice and dry for places in Central Vietnam. And November to April is dry for the South.
It’s worth noting that typhoons are a possibility across the central coast. The rain also varies geographically but generally runs from May to October; this is, therefore, the cheapest time to go to Vietnam. It doesn’t rain all day, every day during the rainy season. Check the weather in the areas you plan to visit ahead of time and pack accordingly.
Language: Vietnamese
Currency: Vietnamese Dong
The Philippines
With 7641 islands, the Philippines is a slice of heaven and ideal for a tropical escape. It boasts an abundance of picturesque locations, offering excellent value for money. The country is flooded with lagoons, gigantic waterfalls, caves, outstanding snorkelling at coral reefs and WWII wrecks, swimming with whale sharks, and some of the cheapest scuba diving in the world.
The Philippines is blessed with good weather all year round, with lows of mid 20℃ reaching 34℃ in most places.
You’ll want to give this place the time it deserves and consider island-hopping to discover each place’s unique charm and attractions. Accommodation and local food can be affordable, especially if you venture off the beaten path. Staying in a bahay kubo (thatched bamboo shack), homestay, hostel, or budget hotel are all cost-efficient options.
WHAT TO DO
The islands of Palawan are one of the best places to explore and are consistently ranked as one of the best islands in the world. Take a guided boat tour, or hire a private one to float through the dreamy scenery. A true outdoor lovers’ playground.
The Mayon Volcano in the province of Albay is an active volcano that is famous all over the world. It’s 20,000 years old and very sacred to Philippine mythology. The Philippines is renowned for having many active volcanoes; some islands, like Camiguin, have more volcanoes than towns! Head to Pallet House just off Bicol’s Rizal Street for a nice cup of coffee.
Bohol & Panglao Island is home to the famous Chocolate Hills that were formed from dead coral millions of years ago, an excellent opportunity for hiking and photography. It’s worth heading to the stunning Hinagdanan Cave, which gets lit by sunlight, creating a beautiful natural wonder that everyone deserves to witness. You can then hire a boat to take you to Balicasag to see the wild turtles and fantastic coral.
Take the chance to indulge in fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and mouthwatering street food found in vibrant markets all over the country. The pure waters of the Philippines result in a natural bounty of prawns, crabs and other crustaceans and fish. Keep an eye out for danggit lamayo – dried rabbitfish marinated in vinegar, crushed garlic and peppercorn.
WHEN TO GO
November to April is the dry season in the Philippines, with good weather, sunshine, and lower chances of rain. Naturally, this is the peak time for tourism, so things will be more expensive than if you plan a trip during the wet season.
May to October has higher rainfall and humidity levels, with peak typhoon season from July to September. You can bag a bargain on resorts outside the peak season from March to May, though some activities close during the June to October wet season.
Language: Filipino, English
Currency: Philippine Peso
Honduras
Honduras is an excellent choice for tropical places to travel to for a taste of the Caribbean without breaking the bank. Often overlooked, Honduras has beautiful beaches that span its coastline of 500 miles, from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean. With mighty rivers, opulent mountains, and Mayan ruins, this place has it all.
The weather in Honduras is stunning, super warm, with highs that reach 35℃. It can get pretty cold in winter; some places dip to 17℃.
The country offers a range of affordable places to stay and activities. You can enjoy beachfront accommodations, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, fresh seafood, and all-around good vibes at a fraction of the price compared to other places in the Caribbean.
WHAT TO DO
Honduras is home to the stunning Bay Islands; Roatán, Utila, and Guanaja. They’re known for their water activities, such as scuba diving and snorkelling. The largest and most developed of the Bay Islands is Roatán. It has a rich marine habitat, a range of accommodations, restaurants, and nightlife options, particularly in the West Bay areas. Utila is more laid-back and a haven for backpackers and budget travellers. It has affordable diving courses and a charming main town with colourful buildings, bars, and restaurants. Guanaja is the least developed of the three; it’s quieter and more secluded – great for travellers looking for a more off-the-beaten-path solution. Guanaja is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including rainforests and waterfalls. Fun fact: Honduras is one of the best places in Central America to see starfish.
Visiting a rainforest is a must in a country like this. Bird nerds flock to Honduras’ Pico Bonito National Park to hike through the rainforest and spot wild toucans, hummingbirds and parrots. Honduras has over 760 species of North and South American birds, and the national park is the perfect place to witness the magic.
The food in Honduras is excellent, with a blend of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. Explore local markets, like the Mercado Guamilito in San Pedro Sula, to eat like a local and get affordable meals. They also have fabulous handicrafts and souvenirs.
WHEN TO GO
The coastal areas in Honduras tend to have a more consistent tropical climate, while inland areas may experience more variations in temperature. The general rule of thumb is that the dry season runs from November to April and the wet season from May to October. Highs can reach 35℃, and lows can be 18℃. You know the drill by now – travel during off-peak times to secure the best deals.
Language: Spanish
Currency: Honduran Lempira
Mexico
Mexico doesn’t have to be expensive; the Riviera Maya offers an array of tropical places you can enjoy at more affordable prices. The Caribbean Sea is beautiful, and you can enjoy swimming with whale sharks, fishing trips, beach parties, and wellness treats.
Depending on where you are, temperatures can reach a whopping 40℃, and lows can be 10℃ in winter.
It is absolutely possible to have an enjoyable and memorable experience without spending a fortune. Many tourist attractions, including beaches, marketplaces, and historical monuments, have little to no entry fees.
WHAT TO DO
Skip Cancun and visit Tulum instead. Its popularity has increased in recent years, and it’s no shock why. You can discover the Mayan ruins, relax on the gorgeous beach, and explore the jungle, all within proximity. Save money by staying in budget accommodations and eating at local eateries in the town centre rather than the main tourist area. Renting a bike and cycling to the beach or through the area is fun and a beautiful simple pleasure recommended to all visitors.
Although Playa del Carmen is a part of the famous Riviera Maya, it continues to offer affordable options if you stay a little further from the beach and the major tourist areas. Try horseback riding on the beach, exploring cenotes, visiting the Frida Kahlo museum, and partying in the vibrant nightlife scene.
Isla Mujeres is a favourite amongst backpackers due to the cheap hostels and enchanting beaches. It’s a small island, only a 30-minute ferry from Cancun, and it can cost you as little as £13 to get there. It has a much more relaxed atmosphere compared to Cancun, perfect for those wanting to indulge in a bit of hedonism.
Make sure to eat local specialities to enjoy the culture and save a few bucks on dining out. Try tlayudas – corn tortillas filled with black beans, pork fat and cheese, and of course, don’t miss fresh seafood tacos that can be found everywhere.
WHEN TO GO
Spring and Autumn are usually the cheapest times to go to Mexico because you’ll miss the peak of the tourist season. Mexico is big, so the weather can be diverse, but generally speaking, the dry season runs from November to April and the wet season from May to October. Be aware that certain locations may be prone to strong winds during hurricane season.
Language: Spanish
Currency: Mexican Peso
