4 Summer Vacation Destinations That Make You Feel Richer Than Middle Class
If you're already directing your feet to the sunny side of the street in hopes of finding some warmer weather, then planning a summer vacation now might be the final anecdote to chase away the seasonal blues. But are there still affordable options that aren’t just a stay-cation where you turn off your work phone?
Budgeting for a trip right now may seem irresponsible if you are still working on building your savings, but remember, your mental health should be factored into your bottom line. If you consider yourself middle class, there are some places where luxury is more affordable and your dollar really shines, even when converted.
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Here are four summer spots that make the middle class feel rich, so you should consider booking for your next trip.
Madrid, Spain
Estimated cost of a one-week trip for two people: $2,651
Summering in Madrid seems like kind of an amazing way to drink in some Spanish culture without breaking the bank. You may think this trip would be too expensive, but you may want to think again.
"In Madrid, the exchange rate stretches your dollar, allowing you to indulge in higher-end hotels, gourmet dining and experiences you might typically skip," explained Michelle Steinhardt, founder of The Trav Nav, an award-winning luxury travel blog for active travelers.
Rajasthan, India
Estimated cost of a one-week trip for two people: $3,859
Pricing all in, meaning you factor in flights, hotels, meals and excursions can obviously vary widely. However, India has some affordable gems and a two-week stay at a traditionally styled villa in the "Land of Kings" could cost you less than $500 for two people, according to Sunil Gupta, co-founder and senior travel consultant at Luxury India Tours.
"Rajasthani food is a delight for anyone who loves to eat, and there's something for every wallet size, so expect to pay as little as 100 to 200 [rupees] per meal (about $2) for some Dal Baati Churma, Kachori and Mirchi Vada," Gupta said. He added that travelers can also indulge in fine dining at heritage hotels or fancy restaurants for 2,000 to 5,000 rupees per meal ($20 to $50 in U.S. dollars).
Nosara, Costa Rica
Estimated cost of a one-week trip for two people: $2,120
Nosara offers a wealth of luxurious experiences that remain affordable compared with other tropical destinations during the summer months, according to Steinhardt. By many accounts, staying in Nosara is surprisingly affordable with the average daily cost coming in around $151 per person.
"While brief afternoon storms can occasionally pass through, they typically roll in later in the day, leaving you with plenty of sunshine to enjoy an adventure like surfing, exploring the rain forest via ATV or horseback riding on the beach," Steinhardt said.
Bangkok, Thailand
Estimated cost of a one-week trip for two people: $1,460
There are always ways to spend more money on a trip, but budget travelers can get around this paradise for about $30 a day. Ironically, booking here during the summer months is not necessarily considered peak travel time, thanks to occasional rain, so many hotels or places to stay also offer reduced luxury hotel rates and fewer tourists.
"Bangkok is an ideal destination during the summer when you can indulge in luxurious experiences at affordable prices. You can indulge in fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, relax at a spa or find wholesale pricing in the jewelry district," Steinhardt said.
J. Arky contributed to the reporting for this article.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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