When your significant other approaches you about the possibility of having a couple’s getaway in some exotic location, the first thing that pops in your mind might not exactly be fun in the sun. It might be your bank account. And let’s be honest: these days, a lot of people are looking for an edge when it comes to their finances. But being frugal doesn’t mean you have to cut fun out of your life.
Remember how in school they used to tell you that knowledge is power? Well, it really is. And the knowledge you’re after right now can potentially change your romantic getaway from a worrisome expense to a worthwhile experience with zero buyer’s remorse. So let’s take away at three of the less-expensive destinations couples can explore these days and see if any of them look like a place you and your significant other can both enjoy. Here they are, in no particular order:
1. Mexico. No, we’re not talking about the deep, hidden treasures of Mexico that you need a degree in World Travel just to be aware of – we’re talking about tourist Mexico. Coastal Mexico. The places people go for all-inclusive honeymoons and, of course, romantic getaways. You’d be amazed at what a package deal at some of these four-star hotels can run you, and you end up saving on the whole trip – from airfare to food. And clip a few days off of it and make it a three-or-four-day getaway and you’ll be amazed at how much further you can stretch those dollars. Sure, Mexico isn’t entirely original, but you’re not looking for original: you’re looking for cheap.
2. San Diego. Of course, if you feel like staying stateside while still working on your Vitamin D, a quick jaunt over to the west coast can be a great romantic getaway, complete with less expensive beach house rentals than you’ll find the way of Malibu. The world-famous San Diego Zoo is a great way to spend your free time while absorbing the sun, while hitting the beaches can be just as fun if both of you are beach bums.
You’ll also be able to avoid the hassles of international travel and avoid carrying passports and hopefully save on the extra expenses that can come when you take your vacations overseas.
3. Phuket, Thailand. If border-hugging locales like Mexico and San Diego don’t exactly tickle your “exotic-bone,” then this location certainly will: Phuket, Thailand has all of the cheap amenities you’ve come to expect to be recommended by an article like this (food and hospitality? Cheap!). But there’s more to Thailand than meets the eye: it’s a very beautiful location full of plenty of water, plenty of beaches, and enough culture shock for any American that you’ll feel it was impossible for you to get farther away on a cheap romantic getaway. And there’s nothing like taking on an exotic adventure with the one you love – it makes for great bonding and the low costs keep the stress levels to a minimum.
– By Staff