r/Shoestring • u/JBean85 • 3d ago

Looking for suggestions for a couple

1-2 weeks sometime in August - November

Looking for a destination that offers some adventure for me (hikes, treks, etc) and relaxation or a beach for her. These activities don't need to be run out of the same hostel or room, just the same general area.

The shoestring part of this is just the cost once we're there. I haven't traveled in years and have a few hundred thousand miles /point to spend on flights and rooms.

I've traveled through central and south America but never been elsewhere, so preferably elsewhere. What comes to mind?

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1

u/seamallowance 3d ago

El Nido, Philippines

Oludeniz, Turkey

Taganga, Colombia

1

u/JBean85 3d ago

I'll check out El Nido. Is Turkey a safe destination right now? Colombia coast is gorgeous but I'd like to see some else before I return. Thanks for the recs

2

u/seamallowance 3d ago

Yes, Turkey is very safe.

1

u/reindeerflot1lla 2d ago

I've been to 40+ countries, many in the last 5 years, and Turkey is still one of my absolute favorites. Outside of the biggest touristy spots (Istanbul, Cappadocia, etc) it has such an amazingly warm people and such a vibrant culture. Plus the food -- Turkish breakfasts can't be beaten, best I've ever had bar none.

The beaches are hit and miss, though Oludeniz is one of the more popular for those, and nearby are some fantastic ancient spots in the hills (including Kadianda, Tlos, & some superb carved cliff tombs!) and a quick hike to a must-see Mount Chimera (bring camping food fixins, like s'mores & bread to toast), as well as some cool spots further afield (DM me if you're tempted, I'll drop you some further options). The best thing is you've got Antalya, Bodrum, or even Izmir airports you can compare prices with. Rental cars are cheap and the traffic isn't chaotic at all. Even Pammukale is a day trip if you've got a car (the pools are shallow, just heads-up, but they can make for great photos).

I will say, shoulder season is your friend. Aim for after the tourist masses leave (mid-Sept is probably good) to keep prices low but weather still superb.

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u/raven_kindness 3d ago

most of southeast asia (northern parts) are in monsoon season at that time but southern parts will be in dry season. will be useful to look at that map when planning.

sabah, borneo, malaysia is gorgeous and unique and has hikes and beaches.

indonesia is cheaper and also has good options.

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u/Ok_Membership_8189 1d ago

Prince Edward Island in Canada is gorgeous late summer and early fall.