From deserts to alpine meadows, backpacking adventurers have many options. The best places have a good internal travel network that is easy for travelers to make use of; plenty of accommodation available at low prices; and a low crime rate. Travelers should always check the political situation of a new country before traveling there to ensure that the country is safe for travelers.
Southeast Asia is generally a good choice for first time backpackers as buses and trains are readily available on a daily basis in most places. The cost of living is also cheap here which is a bonus for budget travel. The popular route through Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia offers many attractions for backpackers such as the beaches of Southern Thailand; the monks parading the streets at dawn in Laos; the majestic Halong Bay in Northern Vietnam; the temples of Angkor Wat; and the Killing Fields in Cambodia. Singapore and Malaysia are also recommended backpacker destinations in this region.
India and Nepal can be covered easily in one trip. India is one of the most challenging places to travel through and it is common for the western traveler to find himself having a bit of a culture shock at first. Despite this, India is an incredible place to experience for its many attractions such as the historical sites of Hampi, the beaches of Goa, the burning bodies in Varanasi, the metropolitan city of Mumbai, and the hiking trails of the Himalayas in Dharamsala. India is also one of the cheapest places for both internal travel and accommodation. Nepal has a reputation for being a breath of fresh mountain air after traveling in India. It is easier to travel through and is less chaotic in general. Nepal offers treks around the Himalayas including guided treks to Everest Basecamp and beyond.
Destinations such as Costa Rica in Central America are a good choice for first timers and young travelers. Costa Rica has an extremely low crime rate as well as regular cheap buses making internal travel easy. This destination has many picturesque white sandy beaches and La Fortuna is a good traveler town with a range of activities available such as rafting, and zip-lining. Accommodation in Central and South America is cheap and generally easy to find.
Europe offers backpackers a variety of different experiences and attractions. Some of the most highly recommended cities to visit in Europe include Barcelona, Amsterdam, Paris, Venice, London, Athens, Istanbul, Budapest, Prague and Copenhagen. It is easy to travel by train through Europe and backpackers can save money by buying an inclusive ticket in advance. Overall living costs are higher than some other popular travel destinations.
Australia and New Zealand are both popular traveler destinations. Here western travelers will find it easy to travel as the locals speak English, meaning that backpackers will be able to understand road signs and train timetables. Many travelers choose to come here for the mix of picturesque national parks, beaches, desert sunsets and metropolitan cities. The cost of living is more expensive than some other backpacker destinations but travelers can also choose to work in Australia and New Zealand provided they attain a work permit beforehand.
