Great countries to visit outside the United States and Europe
Ask any American or Canadian and there's a good chance that he or she will say that Europe is the best international destination. This is not quite surprising considering the grandeur of Europe, with its rich history, modern facilities, and great tourist accommodations.
However, travel to Europe has become quite expensive these days. Due to the rising costs of fuel, it is not surprising to learn that many airline companies have increased their airfare to top destinations in Europe such as Paris, Madrid, Rome, and London. Hotel rates in these European destinations are also not exactly cheap, making travel to Europe a costly one.
Most of those who go to Europe for vacation have had to plan and save for a significant amount of time before having their dreams realized. European travel is not exactly for an ordinary traveler, given the high costs involved in traveling to Europe.
For all its beauty and attractions, Europe is not the only place worth visiting. You would be surprised to find out that there are a lot of interesting places to visit that lie outside of Europe. While these places may not be blessed with the rich history and revered culture of Europe, these places however are still worth checking out.
One of those good destinations to visit is Argentina. What makes this country appealing is that it is similar to most countries in Europe, with its rich history, breath taking landscapes, historic architectural designs, great cosmopolitan lifestyle, among others. What's more, the US dollar has a high value in Argentina, which makes it an attractive and practical destination for most American travelers.
Another good destination for those who are on a budget and cannot afford the high costs of traveling to Europe is Costa Rica. Here, the beaches are simply beautiful, as well as the rivers and the rainforests. This is a popular destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the cosmopolitan and have a break in a more relaxed place. Costa Rica is a haven for those who appreciate the beauty of nature. This is also a top choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities like rafting, snorkeling, and kayaking. Costa Rica was once a well kept secret among many backpackers and biologists with its rich rainforests, although many tourists have flocked the country in recent years.
If you happen to insist going to Europe but do not have the money to do so, then try the Czech Republic. This is one of the few countries in Europe where travel can be cheap, especially since the dollar has a high value here. Americans will have a high purchasing power when then visit the Czech Republic. The capital, Prague, is dotted with centuries-old structures like castles. Prague also has a lot of spas since there are many natural springs in the area. Tourists can relax while enjoying a whole body massage that is incredibly priced for as low as $35, which is a great treat considering that spa treatment is quite pricey in other countries particularly in the United States.
If you want to explore the Far East, there are a number of excellent choices in Southeast Asia such as the Philippines which is known for having some of the best beaches in the world; Thailand for its diverse culture, and Cambodia for its great history.
Indeed, traveling can be cheap and enjoyable even if you skip Europe. Try to visit these places and see for yourself the many wonders that these countries have to offer.
