With a recession on the horizon, it may be time to finally make that big move out of the country. There are so many beautiful cities around the world that accept us for who we are, why not take advantage of the almighty dollar and get more than what we bargain for here in the United States. If you want a five- star lifestyle on a middle- class budget, here are five countries that give you the most bang for your buck.
1. Argentina
If you’re in search of traveling to a new Latin country, aside from the normal trips to Mexico and the Latin Caribbean, Argentina will surprise you. The city of Buenos Aires has a tremendous amount of food, nightlife, and culture and has been a destination for American expats for many years. This is especially due to the exchange rate, where the average cost of living per month for a single person wouldn’t be more than $700. A one- bedroom apartment in a great safe neighborhood is no more than $300 a month. A bottle of wine and fresh steaks from the meat market isn’t more than $3.
2. Belize
Belize is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Belize also has a very diverse untouched topography. From the jungles to the mountain tops, to Mayan Ruins and underground caves, as well as the beautiful secluded islands along its coast. With so much beauty this paradise has to offer it still has one of the lowest cost of living in the world. Depending on the city you choose to reside in, the rent varies between $200-$350 a month. A meal can cost you about $5.
3. Indonesia
According to numbeo.com the cost of living in Indonesia is 53.93% lower than in the United States and rent is almost 20% of what it is in America. For example if your 1 bedroom apartment is $1000, you’ll get the same space and be minutes from the beach for $200 living in Bali. With a huge number of expats and digital nomads from all over the world migrating to Indonesia, you’ll find a lot of the same experiences you’ll have in the states for less than you expected.
4. Vietnam
Another one of my favorite countries in Southeast Asia, Vietnam has an amazing city life as well as a beautiful beach culture. You can live in major cities such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City for a total of $500 a month if you’re into a more frugal lifestyle, but if you want all the bells and whistles and lap of luxury it would only cost between $1200 – $1500 a month for a high rise condo lifestyle with food and amenities.
5. Turkey
Last but not least, Turkey is a world traveler’s destination. With close proximity to Europe and Asia, it is the perfect hub for an expat with an appetite to experience different cultures. The monthly cost for an apartment in Turkey’s Istanbul is on average $450 a month for a single person. A family of four living in Turkey would spend about a total of $1500 a month on normal living expenses.
