What are the least expensive tourist destinations in 2014? You don’t have to break the bank to have a nice getaway. Dutch researchers did a research study on the effects of vacations on happiness. They had very surprising results. The largest increase in happiness doesn’t come from the vacation itself. Actually, the planning and anticipation of a vacation make people the happiest for a duration of 8 weeks. After the vacation is over, their overall happiness levels drops to the baseline and the drop is pretty sharp. After the vacation is over, the people who went to the vacation weren’t happier than the people who haven’t been on a vacation.
There is another interesting finding. The researchers also measured the relationship between the length of the vacation and overall happiness. Contrary to common sense they didn’t find any positive relationship. So, it really doesn’t matter whether you had a 3-day vacation, or a 7 day vacation or a 28-day vacation. Since most of the happiness boost comes from planning and anticipating the vacation, it may make more sense to have 2-3 short vacations throughout the year instead of one long vacation. So, instead of spending a bundle on an expensive vacation you can try to find affordable tourist destinations so that you have enough money left for another vacation in a few months.
If you haven’t yet decided on the perfect getaway destination for fear of going too much over your budget, we are here to help. Following, we would like to present you with a list we have compiled of the top 6 least expensive tourist destinations in 2014. The following destinations all have great sceneries and attractions to offer tourists and the best thing is that they provide great value for your money. As you will see below, going away on holiday doesn’t have to break your budget, as there are plenty of nice and reasonably priced alternatives to choose from. Don’t forget to check out our lists of top travel destinations in south america, best places to visit in Mexico that are safe and beautiful, and cheapest countries to live in the World.
No. 6: Riga, Latvia
If you’re looking for the cultural experience of your lifetime you should definitely consider booking your holiday in Riga, Latvia. In 2014, this city has been dubbed as the European Capital of Culture and will offer plenty of celebrations and festivals to all of its visitors this year. Because is not exactly one of the most popular touristic destinations in the world, you can easily find affordable accommodation in the Latvian capital.
No. 5: Warsaw, Poland
Warsaw is not your typical European destination, but it is a beautiful and historically rich place, you’re bound to love. You’ll simply be enchanted by its historic buildings and huge gardens. Take a stroll to the city’s Old Town district and you will fall in love in an instant. And the best thing yet? Accommodation prices have gone down by 20% compared to 2013.
No. 4: Orlando, Florida
If you’re looking for a great holiday destination closer to home, Orlando, Florida might just be it, especially if you’re going away with your kids. Disneyland, SeaWorld, and Universal’s theme parks are just a few attractions Orlando can enchant you with. If you’re looking for a great place to stay, we recommend the Rosen Inn International, which offers free shuttle rides to all local theme parks and free meals for children under the age of 9.
No. 3: Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is a vibrant and picturesque city with a lot to offer from busy nightclubs to over-the-top shopping centers. And 2014 might just be the year to visit it, as accommodation rates are down by 8% compared to last year.
No. 2: Venice
2014 is the perfect time to be visiting Venice, as hotel rates have dropped 7% compared to last year. Apart from more affordable accommodation, Venice also has a lot to offer: 13th century architecture, modern museums, and breathtaking sceneries. While you’re there, don’t forget to pay a visit to Murano, the glass blowing factory.
No. 1: The Dominican Republic
If you’re looking for the perfect beach experience at an affordable price, the Dominican Republic should be amongst your top choices. While you might not all afford spending our summer holidays in Cabo, the Dominican Republic’s all inclusive resorts offer good value for money. For example, a five star resort in Punta Cana can cost an average of $200 per night for two persons. And that’s all-inclusive.