21 Budget-Friendly Countries Where Luxury Experiences Don't Cost a Fortune
20. Laos: Serene Indochina & Mekong Charm

Experience the gentle pace and serene beauty of Laos, often at significantly lower prices than neighboring Thailand or Vietnam. Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage city, is filled with charming boutique hotels (many in former French colonial villas), exquisite temples where monks collect alms at dawn, and excellent cafes. Take a slow boat cruise along the Mekong River, explore waterfalls, and enjoy the fusion of Lao and French cuisine. Laos offers a tranquil, culturally rich, and elegant travel experience that feels luxurious yet remains exceptionally affordable.