15 Backpacker Destinations That Are Total Luxury
Going out as a backpacker doesn’t have to mean roughing it. Adventure to places where you can trade those hammock experiences for silk beds, and cheap eating for under-the-stars fine dining.
From exclusive islands to hidden mountain retreats, there’s a world of high end escapes for adventurous souls who crave a little luxury. These locations are a wild exploration with a touch of luxury that makes you feel like you’re splurging, but not giving up the thrill of discovery.
Santorini, Greece
Backpackers who like some splurge-worthy comforts will love Santorini’s iconic blue and white architecture — it’s more than Instagram worthy. Here, hostels aren’t your standard bunk bed affair. There are accommodations with infinity pools, chic rooftop lounges and breathtaking sunset views against the Aegean Sea. When you’re tired of exploring the picturesque towns you can always soak in the local volcanic hot springs or take a sunset sail around the island’s caldera.
Ubud, Bali
Ubud is known as the cultural heart of Bali and apart from its picturesque rice terraces, it’s a place blessed with luxury wellness experiences. Here backpackers can find budget friendly upscale guest houses offering yoga classes, organic meals and tranquil garden views. You also have affordable spa options like flower baths and massages. After temple hopping all day, you’ll be in the middle of serene landscapes and blissful relaxation without burning a hole in your wallet.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown is no exception to adventure with a bit of luxury. This town has a little bit of everything, whether you’re into skydiving, bungee jumping or wine tasting. Stunning lakeside hostels with a hint of opulence, cozy fireplaces and large communal kitchens that make you feel right at home are available for backpackers. If you’re in need of a day off take the TSS Earnslaw steam ship ride or visit the nearby hot pools looking out over the Remarkables mountain range.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Hoi An is a backpacker’s dream with affordable comforts and heritage rich streets. The town, where ancient temples and lantern lit alleys, plus the Thu Bon River all combine to make it look like a page torn from a storybook, has cheap accommodation. You’ll still find hostels with cool decor and rooftop pools. Here, street food is world famous and costs a little but goes a long way, so you can spend money on tailor made clothing from expert local artisans.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is a winner for travelers who want a bit of tradition and a bit of indulgence. The city is famous for its ancient temples and mountain scenery and offers luxury on a backpacker’s budget. Boutique hostels and budget hotels here are characterized with stunning pool and lounge areas where you can meet fellow travelers. Street food, craft markets, and day trips to elephant sanctuaries make up an experience that’s wallet friendly but full of unforgettable moments.
Cape Town, South Africa
Just like Fall Kills, Cape Town has mountains, beaches, and vineyards; all the while immersing you into a line of luxury. Modern hostels with rooftop bars and views over Table Mountain are within backpacker price range. Hiking Lion’s Head at sunrise or touring the Cape Winelands are experiences that seem extravagant, but without the cost. The food scene here is top notch and not to mention the prices are reasonable.
Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech presents itself as a stark combination of vibrant markets and palatial stays in exotic form with a spice of grandeur. Traditional riads are often home to many hostels, which have lush courtyards and colorful tiles, and rooftop terraces. In the souks you can haggle all day for treasures and then head into a local hammam for pampering. The Atlas Mountains are on the horizon here and the Sahara is just a short journey away as you enter another world in Marrakech.
The Algarve, Portugal
Sun-soaked beaches, dramatic cliffs and laid back charm are what make the Algarve famous. These hostels here are very affordable and many of them feel more like beach resorts with rooftop pools, sea views and surf schools. You can fill days with walking down hidden coves, tasting fresh seafood and marveling at the wow factor of the stunning Ponta da Piedade cliffs. It’s a piece of luxury on the Atlantic and you can sit back and enjoy the high life on a backpacker’s budget.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is the perfect place to experience the traditional aspects of Japan alongside some of Australia’s finest contemporary elegance. Some hostels have minimalist Japanese decor while others feature tatami rooms and Zen gardens and Japanese style gardens. Backpackers can stay there. The city’s serene temples, charming tea houses and beautiful cherry blossoms give the impression of a luxury destination without the sky high prices. Onsens (hot springs) around are a perfect, peaceful retreat when you’re ready to recharge.
Banff, Canada
Banff’s natural beauty and rugged charms are perfect reasons to make it a great backpacker destination, but you don’t have to rough it. In many hostels here, you’ll find cozy lodgings with wonderful mountain vistas, fireplaces and nice proximity to hot springs. Top activities include hiking, skiing and stargazing at Lake Louise and if you time it right you may even see the northern lights. Banff, for a town surrounded by some of the most striking landscapes in North America, has no shortage of creature comforts.
Ischia, Italy
Luxurious relaxation without the crowds of Capri, this lesser known Italian island is a great place to visit. Ischia is famous for its natural hot springs and thermal spas, and there are plenty of budget friendly, but indulgent accommodations. One of the many great public thermal baths (or ‘Termas‘) is the perfect place to unwind after a day spent at the beach or exploring Aragonese Castle. It’s the kind of place where you can live the Italian dolce vita on a backpacker’s budget.
Cusco, Peru
Cusco is a high-altitude city and the gateway to Machu Picchu. In Cusco, many hostels are housed in beautiful colonial buildings, featuring a charming courtyard. The Sacred Valley is the perfect base for exploring ancient Inca sites and you’ll find affordable tours, local markets, and cozy cafes to make it even more charming. It’s an excellent adventure and comfort blend in one of South America’s most famous locations.
Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage town, filled with tons of golden temples and a peaceful riverfront. Lush gardens and spacious rooms are what you get in hostels here. With a Mekong River excursion, visits to waterfalls, and monks at the almsgiving ceremony, there’s an extra cultural dimension to the experience. Luang Prabang is a true gem in Southeast Asia, its relaxing vibe and affordable luxuries make it real treat for adventure seekers!
Salento, Colombia
Salento is a vibrant village situated in Colombia’s coffee-growing region surrounded by lush mountains and windswept coffee plantations. Eco lodges can be found that have hammocks, gardens, and, of course, fresh coffee for backpackers. A must is trekking the famous Cocora Valley with its towering wax palms. Salento is a relaxing, luxurious escape at a budget-friendly price.
Tulum, Mexico
Tulum is a beachfront beauty that features a bit of bohemia and a dash of luxe. There are stylish hostels with thatched roofs and open air dining areas for budget travelers. Mixed with pristine beaches and cenotes (natural swimming holes), the Mayan ruins nearby make a backdrop that feels as though you’ve arrived in paradise. Head out of the city for a day to explore, and then come back for the town’s vibrant nightlife and delicious seafood at a more relaxed, backpacker friendly pace.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
