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Budget-Friendly Summer Escapes: It’s Not Too Late Too Book a Getaway
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We’re well into the sun-soaked, slow days of summer 2024. But, if you’ve been so caught up with the every day grind, like many of us, that your vacation plans slipped through the cracks, fear not. It’s not too late to book the fabulous summer getaway of your dreams, and trivago is here to inspire you without breaking the bank. So get ready, set, and pack those bags—adventure awaits, and it’s more accessible than ever!
Travel Matters
Our latest survey shows that travel significantly boosts well-being. In fact, 78% of US travelers say regular vacations improve their mental health, with 30% traveling specifically to enhance their mental wellness. With so many of us working hard at our jobs and home, taking the opportunity to unwind and seek adventure is more important than ever.
Major events driving demand this summer
Yes, it’s true travel is at historic highs this year, and prices are climbing. Major events like the Paris Olympics and Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour have drawn crowds to popular destinations and therefore driven up costs. With the Eiffel Tower 20% fee increase ahead of the Olympics and Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia now charging 25 euros, it’s easy to feel a bit cost-conscious when thinking about your next adventure.
But don’t let this deter you, there are still fantastic destinations waiting for you, this summer. To help fuel your travel dreams, we’ve gathered five of the season’s most budget-friendly yet captivating spots. Your perfect summer escape awaits – let’s dive in!
1. Manila, Philippines – save up to $80 per night
Long considered a stop-over destination on travelers’ route to other adventures, Manila is building its reputation as must-see bustling city and one of Southeast Asia’s hidden gems. So, if you’re looking to avoid the mainstream and dive into a melting pot of culture, impressive Spanish-colonial architecture and endless shopping opportunities, then Manila should be on your short list.
2. Cebu, Philippines – save up to $50 per night
Dive into Cebu’s vibrant mix of city charm and island bliss! Catch a wave at iconic surf spots or sunbathe on powdery white-sand beaches, only a stone’s throw from the city’s hustle and bustle. Cebu offers a great mix of big-city adventures and laidback nature escape.
3. Bogota, Columbia – save up to $65 per night
Bogotá, Colombia’s capital, has a vibrant culture that blends history and modernity. A city of contrasts, it offers rich experiences for curious travelers. Explore La Candelaria, the historic heart, with colorful colonial buildings and museums. Stroll through the bustling Plaza Bolívar and take in the delicious and diverse food scene on offer.
4. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – save up to $80 per night
Kuala Lumpur is known for its modern skyline dominated by the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. The city is also a great option for solo travelers due to its friendly citizens, safety and excellent public transport. What makes it unique is its blend of cultures—Malay, Chinese, and Indian—influencing everything from food to festivals. The city has many attractions -visit the historic Merdeka Square and explore the bustling markets in Chinatown. The Batu Caves, just outside the city, are a must-see with their impressive limestone formations and Hindu temples.
5. Bangkok, Thailand – save up to $80 per night
Our number five needs very little introduction. As one of the most visited cities in Thailand, Bangkok attracts millions of adventure-seeking travelers drawn to its popular foodie scene, trendy shopping districts and vibrant nightlife. Long considered a budget-friendly destination for backpacking adventures and as an affordable luxurious treat, you’re sure to make incredible memories in Bangkok.
Now that we have your attention, here are four additional tips to make your summer vacation more affordable and enjoyable regardless of the destination.
Here are four additional tips to help you stretch your coin this summer:
- Venture off the beaten path: If Europe is more up your alley, we challenge you to venture off the path. While many people flock to Paris, where they could pay approximately € 278 per night for a standard double hotel room *, and Rome (setting you back € 205 per night), why not consider equally beautiful, but more affordable destinations with fewer crowds. Cities such as Bologna (€ 106) or Lyon (€ 153) hold their own in terms of their rich histories, offering iconic sites, breathtaking landscapes and fun activities for curious travelers. A bonus is that both are usually reasonably warm in the late summer months.
- Compare, compare, compare: One of the best ways to find deals is to use comparison sites that aggregate prices from many different sites. Visit trivago.com to conveniently find great hotel deals this summer, saving you time and money.
- Expand your travel window: Planning a trip outside of the very busy summer period can go a long way in savings here and there. Prices tend to drop outside of busy peaks, so, if possible, book your trip at the end of the school holidays.
- Free Attractions: Look for free or low-cost attractions at your destination. Many cities offer free walking tours, parks, museums with free admission days, and local festivals. Doing a bit of research ahead of time can reveal a wealth of affordable activities.
Keep these practical tips in mind as you plan your next getaway, and enjoy a memorable summer adventure that’s as friendly to your wallet as it is enriching to your experiences. Don’t wait any longer, your next adventure is just a few clicks away!
Disclaimer: Our price savings are based on actual historical data. It considers impressed hotel items for destination searches on our local US platform (trivago.com) for a timeframe of 6 months (here: Apr-Sep 2023). It includes all hotel star categories and all types of rooms
*Methodology: This data was compiled from search queries made on trivago.com by users from the United States over a period of 90 days, concluding on July 1, for trips scheduled between June 1 and September 1, 2024.