Five of the World's Most Affordable - and Enjoyable - Travel Destinations

Going to an international destination doesn't have to be expensive. In fact, many cities and countries are less expensive than you might think. Here are five possibilities that might open your eyes to new destinations in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

Would you believe that one of the least expensive cities in Europe is also one of the most historic? Berlin is packed full of history and is a fraction of the cost of most other western European cities to visit. Hostels and clean, inexpensive hotels abound. Eating out is relatively inexpensive , and the subway and suburban train system are far more affordable than other larger cities in Germany. A good number of historic sites are free to visit too: the Brandenburg Gate is, of course, part of a plaza that is always open to the public, Alexanderplatz boasts the magnificent Fernsehturm (TV tower), visitors can take photos in front of Checkpoint Charlie, the Reichstag (capitol building) has a free rotunda with amazing views, and the East Side Gallery is always free and open to the public. Add in a healthy dose of festivals that take place in the larger plazas with cheap food and entertainment, and you've got a city with lots of fun, culture and history that is affordable.

You might expect the only city in the world that sits on two continents to be unaffordable, but it's actually quite reasonably priced. Istanbul is famous for a unique culture that is part Middle Eastern and part European, making this city one of the most interesting on Earth. Hotels that are in the historic part of the city are reasonably priced; for about $150/night, you can stay just steps away from the Hagia Sophia and the famous Blue Mosque. As an added bonus, the exchange rate between the US Dollar and Turkish Lira is favorable, meaning that shopping is as affordable as it is fun. Be sure to visit the Spice - or Egyptian - Bazaar for the best deals on everything from jewelry to copper tea kettles, and everything in between.

One of the world's oldest cities is surprisingly inexpensive. With one US Dollar being worth between 5 and 6 Egyptian Pounds, Cairo is overwhelmingly affordable. Hotels in the heart of the city, right along the striking Nile, are reasonably priced and include such internationally renowned brands as the Hilton, the Intercontinental, as well as a brand new Ritz-Carlton. For a more local feel, the adventurous should try one of the smaller locally-owned hotels. Because US currency travels far in Egypt, tours are relatively inexpensive, as are meals. A huge spread on the roof-top deck of a hotel, complete with several drinks, several main courses as well as an after-meal hookah smoke can cost as little as $3 at a local hotel or restaurant. Visit the rest of Egypt for striking views of pyramids (Luxor) to the ocean (Alexandria).

Romania is one of the few countries in Europe that is still converting to being a member in the EU. As such, this eastern European country offers a wealth of unique experiences that are still very affordable. Spend some time in the capital city, Bucharest, for an experience unlike any other. Most monasteries and castles can be found in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, with one of Romania's most unique treasures, Bran "Dracula's" Castle, being surprisingly accessible via a train ride from Bucharest to Brasov and a bus ride to Bran (open only roughly March until October 30th). Look for local specialties and restaurants to be the least expensive; stay away from touristy attractions to avoid over-paying for "local flair". Try the national dish, polenta, for a budget-friendly entree. Smaller towns have a plethora of bed and breakfast types of places; stay at one to meet some locals and obtain some great tips.

Chengdu, China isn't as famous as Shanghai or Beijing but boasts an equally interesting group of activities, including the world-famous Panda Breeding Center. Located on the western side of the country, Chengdu is in the Sichuan Province, which will please the palates of spicy food lovers. Strikingly affordable, Chengdu offers a little something for everyone including the nature enthusiast, who will no doubt enjoy the Shuzen Valley, full of hiking and biking trails and is typically lush. While hugging a Panda will cost around $100, the photo that comes home with you will make it worth every cent.

Visit Berlin: http://www.visitberlin.de/index.en.php
Istanbul City Guide: http://english.istanbul.com/
Cairo Guide: http://www.cairotourist.com/
Bucharest Travel Information: http://www.romaniatourism.com/bucharest.html
Chengdu Panda Base: http://www.panda.org.cn/english/index.htm
Currency Converter: http://www.xe.com/ucc/