This planet is huge and there are many things to see. Have you ever wondered where you should pack your backpack? Where should you travel? What are the most popular destinations?
Here is my list of 7 popular countries to visit that will leave you with the “WOW” factor that we all love and seek.
India
India is overwhelming if you’re just starting to travel, but this is definitely a place to backpack. India is another world and you will feel like you are in another dimension. If you are one of those who prefer beach destinations, take a look at the Goa region. You can rent a small beach hut directly on the beach! This makes India a very popular country to visit.
What to see? The religious city of Varanasi, the hippie city of Pushkar, the mountainous city of Mcleod Ganj, the coastal region of Goa and of course Agra to see the famous Taj Mahal.
costs? India is one of the cheapest countries in the world. Hostel accommodation ranges from 300-1500 rupees, ie $4-$20 US in general. Most are around $7-10 a night.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a beach paradise, literally, and that is one of the main reasons why it is one of the most popular countries to visit. If you are the type of traveler who needs to kick back and relax… Sri Lanka is the place to go. You can also visit the spice gardens and I highly recommend taking a tour of the ancient city of Sigiriya.
What to see? The Spice Gardens, the ancient city of Sigiriya, relax in Arugam Bay, the pilgrimage site of Adam’s Peak and the colonial city of Galle.
costs? A little more expensive than India but not that much, this is a very cheap country.
thailand
Who has never heard of Thailand? This country is clearly one of the most popular countries to visit. Thailand is really a good place to start backpacking because it’s cheap, inexpensive and has a lot to see. Let’s mention the food…OMG the food is divine. Don’t forget to visit the many temples there, especially the Temple of Dawn; Wat Arun.
What to see? The big city of Bangkok, the Phi Phi islands (just like in the movie The Beach!), Wat Arun the temple of dawn, Phang Nga bay near Phuket, Khao Yai national park, the full moon party, the Songkran festival in the backpacker town of Chiang Mai and of course the amazing street food.
costs? Very inexpensive, you can easily keep costs below $30 US per day in Thailand.
Turkey
Turkey is truly an underrated country with amazing beauty. The people of Turkey play an important role in this, they are kind, generous and very curious about you. The food is excellent, the tourism is incredible and it is a backpacker’s paradise. Cappadocia reminds me of the city of the Flintstones and this part of the country alone made Turkey one of the most popular countries to visit.
What to see? The great city of Istanbul, the ruins of Ani, Cappadocia, the Valley of Butterflies beach and taste the regional food.
costs? Around $45 US per day, which is still a bargain when traveling on a budget!
Guatemala
Guatemala is one of the jewels of Central America. There is so much to do and see, and Guatemala is often overlooked due to its cousin Mexico. You can visit the ancient city of Tikal to witness the Mayan architecture or visit the fabulous Lake Atitlán and much more!
What to see? The ancient city of Tikal, the most beautiful lake in the world: Lake Atitlán, the volcanic beach of Monterrico, the city of Livingston and the Pacaya Volcano.
Cost? Costing as low as $25 US per day, Guatemala is a great place to backpack and certainly one of the reasons why it is one of the most popular countries to visit.
South Africa
South Africa is very big, as big as France and Spain combined. Subtropical climate in the north and arid desert in the center, South Africa is an incredibly diverse country. Visit the Kruger National Park to see animals such as lions, hyenas, rhinos, zebras and elephants or you can go whale watching!
What to see? Cape Town City, Kruger National Park, Drakensberg Dragon Mountain Hike, Wine Trails, Cape Point Photograph, Whale Watching
costs? A bit princely but worth it! Around $40-60 US per day
New Zealand
I kept this one last because it has a special place in my heart. Do you want diversity? You travel to New Zealand. How about skiing in the morning, kayaking in the afternoon, and relaxing on the beach while eating on the beach? That’s New Zealand.
What to see? Visit Auckland Zoo, bathe your feet in the mud pools and volcano geyser in Rotorua, hike Tongariro Crossing and see Mount Doom from Lord of the Rings, explore Waitomo Caves, Milford Sound, glaciers and much more.
costs? On a super tight budget prepare $40 US per day but with all the activities I’d say around $80 US per day.
That is all! My 7 popular countries to visit! You won’t have the place to yourself, but it’s worth it. I hope it has helped.
And you? What country would you visit? Is there a country you would like to visit and would like to do an article about it? Do you have any budget limitations?