Kach Medina
Top 10 International Destinations To Go For First Time Filipino Backpackers
This is based on our personal experience backpacking around the world on a basic budget of $25/day. I have based this list on the ease of obtaining a Visa, the availability of backpacker accommodation and transportation, the feasibility of living on a $25/day budget, uniqueness, and interesting features.
Temple of Literature
1. Hanoi, Vietnam
Food, Beer, Secret Night Life, Motorbikes – if this sounds like a fun cocktail to you, then Hanoi is the place to be! The chaotic daily life of this Asian city makes it one of the best backpacking destinations in the world. Hanoi is also an excellent base for exploring many amazing places in the north, including the incredible Ha Long Bay.
2. Koh Pha Ngan, Thailand
Known for the (in)famous Full Moon Party, Koh Pha Ngan is a backpacker’s party heaven. It’s the best place to experience your first crazy party on your travels. Since it’s pretty much every gap year backpacker’s favorite destination in Thailand, expect to find a lot of dorm beds, restaurants, and random outdoor activities around the island.
A little less known is that Koh Pha Ngan has another side – a spiritual community of full-time yogis, so if you want to explore yoga and spirituality, then this is the place to be.
3. Chiang Mai, Thailand
If you want to meet experienced long-term travelers, this is where you’ll find them! This is one of the most famous hubs for international freelancers and digital nomads. The strategic location for visa runs, affordable Thai food every day, incredible countryside all around, and the feeling of being surrounded by Nomads – Chiang Mai has it all. When you go, you might even change your plans and stay there long-term.
4. Luang Prabang, Laos
This lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage site is a peaceful retreat from some of the crazier destinations on the Banana Pancake route. It’s not too crowded, it’s friendly, and it’s surrounded by waterfalls, rivers, and stunning scenery. It also has one of the best night markets in Southeast Asia!
5. Sihanoukville, Cambodia
Alright, many backpackers who visit Cambodia head for Phnom Penh, then Siem Reap to see Angkor Wat. If you want a break from urban life, then head for the coast and the beachside town of Sihanoukville. It doesn’t have the best beaches in comparison with Thailand and the Philippines, but it’s a place that’s not too crowded, where you can chill out and even indulge in ‘Happy’ Pizza and cookies – if that’s what you’re into! From Sihanoukville, you can also take a short boat ride to one of Cambodia’s stunning and almost deserted islands, for a few days of sun, sand, and ultimate relaxation.
6. Yerevan, Armenia
Where on earth is this? Ha! This is located in Central Asia and was a part of the Former Soviet Union. If you want to experience a unique and enchanting European city without applying for a Schengen visa, then Armenia is for you! Armenia is relatively inexpensive, and you can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival.
From Armenia, you can also easily take a train to Georgia, another country that offers a 183-day visa! The scenery, the food, and the wine will make you want to live here forever, but of course, you won’t, as there are more awesome cities to visit nearby in this yet-to-be-famous country.
7. Manali, India
Most of the tourists in India just go to the Golden Triangle (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur), but if you’re interested in snowcapped mountains or even the chance to ski (yes, Ski on real snow!!) in Asia, then Manali is the best place to be. Overnight buses from New Delhi can bring you to this backpacker heaven in the Northwest of India.
If you have extra time, visit the Dalai Lama’s home in Dharamsala, then head to Rishikesh for yoga before returning to Delhi. I’m telling you, the Northwest and North East of India is the best place to be – the difference in the North East is that it is ideal for more experienced travelers.
8. Goa, India
If you’re traveling from the North and you still have a crazy amount of extra time, head down to Goa! Goa is a small state in India, but it’s divided into two regions: North Goa and South Goa. The South is the quiet part where you can find the best beaches in India – Agonda, Galgibaga, Patnem, and Palolem, while the North is the crazy party and hippie area! Goa is even listed as one of the best places to party in the world – if you go, you won’t need to ask why.
9. Cuzco, Peru
Well, who wouldn’t like to go to Machu Picchu? As a Filipino, I can even get a 183-day tourist visa on arrival in Peru! From Lima, Cuzco is another overnight bus journey. You might have a little trouble with the altitude at first, but it’s all worth it to visit Machu Picchu.
Traveling in Peru is pretty cheap (the only big expense is the flight from Asia), so you can easily flashpack with a $25/day budget! And if you’re already in Peru, you should definitely check out the Amazonas and Lake Titicaca.
10. La Paz, Bolivia
If you’re already in Peru, why not go straight to its neighboring country for a serious dose of culture and history? La Paz, Bolivia, is another overnight bus (17 hours) away from Cuzco, and you can easily cross the border by land – they will give you 30 30-day visa on arrival! La Paz is the highest Capital City in the world, but don’t worry, since coming from Cuzco, you’re already well-prepared for the altitude!
Also, it’s one of the few cities in South America where you can totally splurge, as it’s really cheap here (just like in India). If you still have enough time, head straight to the incredible Uyuni Salt Flats for a three-day four-wheel-drive adventure!
Goa Travel Tour Packages You Should Try
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Read:
- 6 Exciting Things To Do In Armenia
- Activity Ideas For People Visiting Goa
- Top 12 Countries for First-Time Backpackers
- Why Visit Goa in Summers?
