Hi all, I am a 21y/o male student in the US (but originally from Mexico) wanting to travel alone internationally. I just finished my undergraduate college career and am enrolled in another school to continue my studies in the fall. My peers and family have been suggesting that I take advantage of this transition period between schools to travel and explore the world.
However, due to my indecision, I did not plan a trip in the earlier months as I was busy with my thesis/research work and am now looking to secure a last-minute deal to ANY location (primarily international; it can be adventurous, exotic, or simply touristy). I understand that my search is happening very late so prices have already risen considerably. I would really appreciate your discussion, suggestions, and recommendations for a budget-friendly travel from 4 to 14 days outside of the country. Here are my conditions.
- Dates: Anytime between August 1st and August 16th.
- Locations:
Western/Central Europe (but this seems rather unfeasible due to budgetary concerns, even airfare only is way too pricey!),
Eastern Europe (more budget-friendly -- friends highly recommend Greece, Turkey, and Czech),
Asia (all ok; have family in S Korea and a lot of international student friends in many countries),
Latin America (I am a native Spanish-speaker, and I have friends from different countries in South America, such as Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, and Brazil),
Pacific/Atlantic/Caribbean Islands (like Bahamas, Turks & Caicos, etc -- friends highly recommend these places but these seem highly wanted in July/August so prices have gone up a lot),
Oceania (Australia, New Zealand; I have friends from Melbourne, Canberra, and Sydney who can offer travel advice).
Budget: willing to ~$1,400 USD (but under $1,000 would be best)
Conditions: willing to travel alone, walk a lot, backpack, and comfortable with low-tier hostels/hotels. I am simply looking for a soul-searching and relaxing opportunity to travel while exploring and documenting the world in photographs and cultural exchange.
I am not expecting any sort of full-fledged plan by any of you, but suggestions of where to start and how to plan would be appreciated. Links to travel deals and Groupon-kind getaway deals (are they good?) in these dates are also welcome!