Golden Bridge in Danang - a major tourist destination in central Vietnam. (Photo: Sun World)
In an article titled The Most Affordable Countries to Visit in Southeast Asia, Time Out notes Southeast Asia has long been a hotspot for budget-conscious backpackers. With less than GBP40 a day, travellers can do far more than just scrape by, from enjoying hearty meals and staying in comfortable accommodation, to fully immersing themselves in local experiences.
Travel writer Lola Méndez, who has been spending five years exploring the region, highlights Vietnam as one of Southeast Asia’s cheapest and most rewarding destinations. She praises Vietnam for offering exceptional value across a range of experiences, from vibrant street food and affordable accommodations to breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
According to a survey by Omio, a travel booking platform, Vietnam has the cheapest beer in Asia, with a glass of local brew costing just GBP0.80. A filling street-side meal like phở (instant noodles) or bánh mì (sandwich) often costs less than USD1.
Comfortable dorms and guesthouses with excellent reviews (over 8.0 on Booking.com) can be found for around GBP2.30 per night.
Méndez shared experiences acquired by Carli Korik of Girls Who Travel who spent GBP6.30 daily on street food, GBP3 for a traditional water puppet show, and GBP23 for a train from Hanoi to Hue.
"In Vietnam, you can travel in near-luxury on a backpacker's budget. Dollar meals and free rich cultural experiences," noted Korik.
Public transport is another highlight, with many bus fares costing less than GBP0.40, and motorcycle taxis typically running less than GBP0.80. Numerous temples and museums have free entry, while attractions like the Marble Mountains in Danang charge a modest GBP1.20. A visit to Ba Na Hills, a famous tourist destination in central Vietnam, is considered more of a splurge at GBP1.20.
Time Out also spotlighted other affordable Southeast Asian countries, namely Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand. Meanwhile, Singapore and Timor-Leste are considered significantly more expensive in comparison.
