Four Countries you need to go to as a broke college student

College is tough because you’ll likely never have the freedom or flexibility to travel like you have now, but you also can sometimes be pretty low on funds. Trust us, we’ve been there. The whole idea for Went There Loved That actually started when we planned a trip in college and had tons of friends ask how we pulled off international travel on a tight budget. The most important tip is to choose somewhere that isn’t crazy expensive. We’ve actually realized that the places we love most tend to be the most affordable spots anyways. To start you off, here are four countries to consider when planning a budget trip. 

fyi this photo was taken at our hotel in Bangkok, Thailand where we paid $50 a night

Thailand - the land of smiles and $2 delicious Pad Thai 

Thailand is a college student's dream. Besides its stunning beaches, delicious street food scene, and endless activities,  the cost of exploring and traveling in Thailand is relatively low, making it the perfect country to go to on a college budget. From the crazy streets of Bangkok to the gorgeous islands of Phuket and Koh Phi Phi, you’ll never run out of affordable accommodation, cheap eats, and fun things to do. 

Vietnam - A Cultural EXPERIENCE on a Budget

Stepping into Vietnam will truly transport you into a whole other amazing world full of incredible people, food, and experiences all for an insane price.The country is home to crazy natural landscapes, bustling cities, and a rich history and culture. There’s tons to do from exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi, cruising through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or ride a motorcycle down the world famous Ha Giang Loop. Most importantly, the food is not only incredibly affordable in Vietnam - but truly some of the best food you’ll ever try. 

Colombia  - A Colorful Treasure 

South America as a whole is gorgeous and affordable but Colombia really shines in this category for several reasons. Food, culture, people, drinks, beaches and dancing are just several areas that Colombia just does right. Whether you’re walking through the colorful streets of Cartagena or enjoying a craft cocktail on a rooftop in Bogota, you’ll get way more bang for your buck while living your best life. Getting around Colombia is easy and affordable, you can stay in a gorgeous airbnb/hostel/hotel for a great price, and the food and experiences are also not going to break the bank. 

Portugal - the European Experience on a Budget

Portugal is a goldmine for budget-conscious travelers - you get the whole European experience for a fraction of the price. Keep in mind that it’s naturally more expensive than South America or Asia, but still going to be one of the more affordable countries in Europe. Portugal offers stunning beaches, picturesque cities, and a rich history. You can explore Lisbon, the capital city, which is known for its charming neighborhoods, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife and then take a very affordable bus to Porto which offers stunning views of the Douro River and is famous for its port wine - all for a great price.