Planning a trip with friends? 10 interesting places to visit

Have you been planning a trip with your friends for a long time? But every well-crafted plan seems to fall apart as you can’t decide where to go, causing the plan to fail.

While international travel with friends isn’t always about the destination, the location you choose can have a big impact on the experiences and memories you have with your friends.

So here are some tips for making your trip with friends not only memorable, but also within your budget.

Indonesia

Picture yourself lounging on a tranquil beach, soaking up vibrant traditions and indulging in delicious local cuisine. The Indonesian island of Bali combines relaxation and exploration, making it ideal for traveling with friends. From April to October, it is the dry season, and Bali is in the dry season.

Attend a traditional Balinese dance performance, visit a local market, or even take a cooking class with friends. Be sure to visit the iconic Tanah Lot Temple for a view of the Tegallalang rice terraces. There are plenty of cozy guesthouses in Bali that make it easy to stay affordable, while affordable street food and renting a motorbike to get around are also affordable activities you can partake in.

Best time to visit: April to October (dry season)

Vietnam

Vietnam is captivating with its fascinating history, stunning landscapes and bustling cities, so it might be one of the best options for you to travel with friends. The best time to visit is from November to April, which is the dry season. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing Tet (Lunar New Year) celebrations, learn the art of Vietnamese cooking, and witness Hoi An’s mesmerizing Lantern Festival.

Travel through the Cu Chi Tunnels, cruise the mystical Halong Bay, and explore the charming ancient town of Hoi An on your trip with friends. Travel with your friends on a sleeper bus to see the best of Vietnam, experience street food, keep your trip affordable, and practice the art of haggling at local markets.

Best time to visit: November to April (dry season)

Portugal

If you’re planning a trip with friends without much information, set your sights on Portugal, a land where history meets stunning coastline. The best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is at its best.

Don’t break the bank by attending the enchanting Lisbon Music Festival in June, where you can enjoy soulful fado music and explore lively local markets. Alternatively, stroll through Lisbon’s historic Alfama district, visit Porto’s famous wine cellars, and relax on the Algarve’s sunny beaches. Choose affordable guesthouses, sample local wines and soak up the charms of this European gem.

Best time to visit: May to September

nicaragua

Nicaragua’s colonial architecture and natural wonders appeal to budget-conscious adventurers. So if you and your friends are adventurous, this is the perfect destination to plan a trip with friends. The dry season from November to April is the best time to explore.

Nicaragua is full of energy, so join your friends at the vibrant La Purísima festival in December. Then witness the colorful Holy Week celebrations and experience the heart of Nicaraguan culture. Stroll through the charming streets of Granada, discover the scenic wonders of Ometepe Island, and hit the surf at South San Juan’s surf paradise. All of these will enhance a trip with friends.

Keep costs down by choosing budget accommodation, sampling local comedy restaurants and exploring the country on affordable public buses.

Best time to visit: November to April (dry season)

Thailand

Another great option for traveling with friends is Thailand. The beauty of Thailand lies in its diverse attractions, from bustling cities to tranquil islands. Visit between November and February when the climate is cool and dry.

If you want to enjoy the festival and local culture, join your friends for the lively Songkran (Thai New Year) celebration. If not, you can marvel at the temple complex during Loy Krathong and attend Koh Phangan’s vibrant full moon party. Delve into the splendor of Bangkok’s Grand Palace, admire the stunning beauty of Chiang Mai’s temples, and revel in the charm of Phi Phi Island.

Tour this fascinating country with friends and stay within the budget by taking advantage of local transport, sampling exquisite street food, doing in-depth market research, and the art of haggling.

Best time to visit: November to February (cool and dry season)

Mexico

Mexico’s rich culture and history attract frugal wanderers. The dry season from December to April is perfect for exploring. So, if you want to enjoy the local Mexican culture, plan your trip with friends this season.

You and your friends can indulge in the enchanting Dia de los Muertos (Dia de los Muertos) celebrations, or enjoy the fun of a Mexican festival. If not, you can explore the iconic Chichen Itza, travel through the historic center of Mexico City, and enjoy the tropical charm of Tulum’s beaches. If you choose to travel on a budget, bus travel, sampling the flavors of local Mexican eateries and finding comfort in affordable hotels should be on your plans.

Best time to visit: December to April (dry season)

Greece

What could be better than exploring Greece? Where ancient history meets stunning coastline? To that end, plan your trip with friends between May and September for the best weather.

Enjoy the lively Oi Day celebrations or experience the magic of Greek Easter with a stroll through the lively local market. Plus, you can even stroll through Athens’ historic Acropolis, delve into the mysteries of Delphi, and relax on Crete’s picturesque beaches. Enjoy affordable travel by hopping on local ferries, dining in local taverns, and exploring beyond the popular tourist spots.

best time to visit: May to September

Colombia

Colombia is back as a popular destination for affordable adrenaline-packed experiences, and it’s a great option for traveling with friends. The best times to explore are the dry seasons, December to March and July to August.

Embrace the heart of Colombian tradition with your friends at the lively Barranquilla Carnival or the glamorous Medellin Flower Festival. Explore the stunning Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, explore the charming streets of the walled city of Cartagena, and take a scenic hike through the Cocora Valley. Travel smart and on a budget by taking local buses, sampling affordable local restaurants, and finding affordable hotels.

best time to visit: December to March, July and August (dry season)

Cambodia

Cambodia’s charm lies in its ancient temples and authentic cultural experiences. Plan your trip with friends from November to March or anytime during the dry season. Explore the stunning temples of Angkor Wat, explore the opulence and elegance of the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, and discover the colonial treasures of Battambang.

Or explore the adventurous side, take part in the enchanting Songkran Festival, witness a traditional Cambodian dance performance, and gain insight into the heart of Cambodian life. Keep costs within your budget by renting bicycles to explore temples, explore local market delicacies, and opt for affordable guesthouses.

Best time to visit: November to March (dry season)

Hungary

Hungary’s charming capital, Budapest, attracts budget-conscious travelers with its rich history and lively atmosphere. Plan a trip with friends between May and September to enjoy the great weather.

If you can’t miss the Budapest Wine Festival or the Budapest International Documentary Festival, discovering local treasures at the markets can be an equally enriching experience. Stroll through the iconic Buda Castle, relax at the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, and embrace the vibrant culture of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter. Optimize your budget by using efficient public transport, don’t miss the local étkezde (restaurants), and take free walking tours to discover the city’s hidden gems.

Best time to visit: May to September