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After working hard all year, you need a summer vacation — but your budget may restrict where you can go. The good news is there are hotspots around the globe where great accommodation, food, and entertainment are all available even when you’re on a tight budget. As long as you can afford the flight, you’ll be able to have a low-cost vacation.

1. Costa Rica

As well as being budget friendly, Costa Rica has a lot to offer in terms of adventure sports, including diving, hiking, ATVs, caving, and surfing. If you avoid the most touristic areas, you’ll be able to find accommodation and food for a low price.

2. Albania

If you have enough in your budget for a plane ticket to Europe, you may like to go to Albania. One of the most affordable countries in the continent, it has plenty to offer in terms of beaches, cuisine, and beautiful mountain villages.

3. Puerto Rico

Although it’s a U.S. territory, you won’t spend much in Puerto Rico if you stay in a hostel. Plus, you’ll meet plenty of other students, especially in the capital, San Juan, where there’s a big party scene. During the day, there are beaches, fortresses, and colonial neighbourhoods to visit.

4. Niagara Falls

If you can only afford to stay close to home, consider a vacation at Niagara Falls. As well as seeing the impressive waterfalls, you’ll be able to enjoy some active nightlife, especially on the Canadian side — meaning you won’t even need a passport for this vacation.

5. Ecuador

A top choice for South America is Ecuador because it’s safe for tourists as well as being affordable. You can relax on the beach, marvel at the biodiversity of the jungle, or even take a trip to the Galapagos islands — a must-see for biology majors. Plus, if you’ve been taking Spanish classes at college, visiting Ecuador will give you a chance to put your skills into practice.

6. Bolivia

Another option in South America to consider is Bolivia. Since prices for activities can vary, it’s worth putting effort into making a plan. That way, you’ll be able to travel around and visit highlights like Uyuni Salt Flat, the Valley of the Moon, and Laguna Colorada.

7. Florida

Although Florida is a favourite destination for spring break, the party continues throughout the summer. There are many beach destinations to consider in the state, but Panama Beach is a particularly popular choice for students on a budget.

8. New Orleans

It may be most famous for Mardi Gras, but New Orleans is a fun place to visit all year round. There’s live jazz all day and night, tasty food, and countless interesting shops, galleries, and historical sites to explore. If you book in advance, you may even be able to stay in a hostel in the French Quarter for a reasonable price.

It’s important to save money throughout the year to have enough for opportunities like vacations with friends. An easy way to save is to search for more affordable rooms for rent. Barrie students can find a new home at Arcadian Students. You’ll have your own bedroom with an en suite bathroom in a comfortable suite or townhouse with modern fixtures, including laundry facilities. Apply for a lease now before all the units are taken.