5 Top Bangkok Attractions to Add to Your Itinerary

BY  Sibashree Dec 24, 2024

If you are an explorer and budget is your only constraint, the cheapest places to travel in the world can be the best destinations for you. They await you with an immersive and fulfilling experience.  In addition, many of these places offer you the chance to enjoy pristine nature as camping or staying at quaint homestays are the best options there.  Here, we have created a Tour and Travel Guide with destinations that will help you cut down on the luxurious resort fees and airfares. However, spending less will in no way impact your travel experience.  In fact, today, most travelers look for a meaningful experience, and you gain the best when your pocket is not filled with dollars and you have to tread the extra mile.   Cheapest Places To Travel Around The World | Traveling On A Budget The cheap places to travel around the world will depend on the part of the world you are traveling from. Naturally, the currency and exchange rate will differ from one country to another. So, we have curated here the cheapest places to travel around the world from the USA. We have also shared the USD exchange rate for the currency of those locations. 1. Hungary 1 USD = 389.30 Hungarian Forint Hungary has Budapest, the capital city with history spilling its charm in every corner. Further, the architecture here will take you to a different era.  The most famous architecture in Budapest are: The Church of Our Lady of Buda Castle Rumbach Street Synagogue Hungarian State Opera, etc. Moreover, don’t miss a walk through Andrássy Avenue. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Budapest, Hungary.  2. Mexico 1 USD = 20.13 Mexican Peso Very few people know that Mexico has the most serene beach scene. To have a most fulfilling beach holiday in Mexico, you have to plan a trip to Holbox. Further, Holbox has a rich marine life. So, you will find here the most fascinating animals, like the manta rays, whale sharks, sea turtles, and eagle rays.  Apart from exploring the fascinating marine life in the country, you can also enjoy a food trip here. Don’t forget to try items like Chilaquiles, tacos al pastor, and enchiladas here.  3. South Korea 1 USD = 1,435.45 South Korean Won (SKW) The port city of  Mokpo is our Tour and Travel favorite if you are traveling to South Korea. Biggest travel platforms like the Conde Nest Traveler are also in all praises for this location. Located at the southern tip of the Peninsula, Mokpo offers the best dining experience in South Korea.  Some famous places for dining in South Korea are: Dokcheon Sikdang Address: 10-36, Honam-dong, Mokpo, Jeollanam-do, South Korea Contact Number: +82 61-242-6528 Mokpo Yeonhee Nepocha Address: Samhak-ro 92beon-gil Mokpo Port Pocha No. 9, Mokpo Contact Number: +82 10-5294-8285 However, if you want to explore the food scenario of South Korea at its best, you will have to visit Seoul. 4. Vietnam 1 USD = 25,405.02 Vietnamese Dong Vietnam has Hanoi, one of the cheapest places to travel around the world for a couple. However, you can also explore places like Phú Quốc island or the Ninh Van Bay if you want to have an offbeat experience here.  Furthermore, Vietnam is a popular place for culinary tourism. The fresh food items served here are flavor bombs, and you can get them at an unbelievably low price. Here, you can try slices of pork belly or bún chả. Other must-try dishes here are the crispy pancakes served with sweet and sour fish sauce. Moreover, if you want to grab some quick snacks, you must obviously try the cao lầu noodles.  5. South Africa 1 USD = 17.85 South African Rand South Africa is home to the Kruger National Park and Boulders Beach Penguin Colony. So, it is the place where you encounter the best of wildlife. Further, if you are especially eager to know about elephants, you can visit the Knysna National Park here. This is an interactive habitat for elephants and you can be up close and personal with them. Furthermore, you can visit the following places when you are in South Africa. Robben Island Museum Apartheid Museum Cape Point Nature Reserve Cape of Good Hope Lion’s Head Table Mountain Moreover, South Africa is home to many tribes, including Hadzabe, Himba, Pedi, etc. So, you can expect a vivid and meaningful cultural experience in the country.  6. Sri Lanka 1 USD = 289.65 Sri Lankan Rupee One of the cheapest places to travel around the world, Sri Lanka will give you the most eclectic experience. We already know about the golden beaches and endless (200 miles) hiking trails.  However, Sri Lanka is also a hub of cultural tourism with Buddhist monasteries and intangible heritage. Acknowledging the appeal and significance of the Sri Lankan heritage sites for the people of the world, UNESCO has marked 7 heritage sites in the country.  Those are: The old town of Galle and its fortifications The ancient city of Sigiriya The sacred city of Kandy The ancient city of Polonnaruwa The Golden Temple of Dambulla The sacred city of Anuradhapura The Sinharaja Forest Reserve With the presence of the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka is the country where you can see elephants, sloth bears, leopards, sambhurs, and many endemic species. You will also find many species of birds and reptiles here.  7. Costa Rica 1 USD = 503.16 Costa Rican Colón Costa Rica is synonymous with natural abundance. So, you don’t need to spend a fortune to explore the best of the country. There are tropical forests in the Alajuela Mountains, and these look dreamy with cloud overcasts. Further, these forests are the biggest biodiversity hubs. You can find here more than 1000 species of plants, including orchids, ferns, and bromeliads. Moreover, the verdant landscape here looks velvety with the drape of epiphytes and mosses.  So, once you are here, the feeling is transcendental. Moreover, if you are looking for outdoor pursuits, you can try surfing on the Peninsula Papagayo coasts.  8. Philippines 1 USD = 58.64 Philippine Peso Home to more than 7000 islands, the Phillippines has been a travel hotspot in the global landscape for a long time. However, as a developing economy, the Philippines is one of the cheapest places to travel around the world.  You can especially visit places like Siargao and Palawan when traveling on a shoestring. These places are also blessed with natural abundance.  Even if you are planning to book  Shangri-La Boracay or other luxury resorts, the expense will not be more than $350 per night.  Are you looking for more options regarding the cheapest places to travel around the world? You can plan a trip to countries like Malaysia, Egypt, North Macedonia and India.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit [Updated 2024] Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Sibashree Sep 20, 2025

Modern families seek more from ski holidays than just pistes, and they want entertainment for non-skiers, activities for young children, convenient downtime options, and excellent safety standards.  You’ll want to discover more than just the slopes, if you are planning on visiting Val Thoren’s for a ski holiday.  There are plenty of non-ski activities in Val Thorens for families to enjoy that make all the difference.  Val Thoren’s has improved its facilities in recent months to tailor towards families who need childcare services, indoor leisure centre facilities, and a diverse range of entertainment options. What Is Val Thorens? If you're new to the ski scene or haven't heard of Val Thorens before, let me give you a quick rundown. Val Thorens is renowned for being the highest ski resort in the Alps, and it's no surprise that it boasts an impressive snow record.  The village sits at an elevation of 2300 meters, and many of the main ski areas soar above 3000 meters, with plenty of north-facing slopes and a couple of small glaciers to boot. However, it's worth noting that the runs coming down from Méribel and those in the Orelle sector can face some challenges.  Since they face south or west, they can get a bit slushy later in the season. There are also many Non-ski activities in Val Thorens that you will enjoy.  That said, the resort does a great job of snow-making, so overall, Val Thorens remains one of the most reliable spots for snow in the Alps. What Are Some Non-Ski Activities In Val Thorens That You Must Check Out? These are some really popular non-ski activities you can enjoy when you visit Val Thorens:  1. Childcare, Nurseries & Snow Gardens Val Thoren’s offers great childcare from early infancy through school age. If you need a daycare for babies from three months old, the ESF daycare provides both full and half-day care options, including meals and multilingual staff that can guarantee safety and comfort.  There are also snow gardens that are catered for toddlers ages 18 months to three years that combine indoor play with an easy snow introduction.  Mini clubs accommodate children aged three to six, offering structured activities whilst parents enjoy the slopes.  For more personalised care, you can hire private nanny services like Little Peaks Childcare. These provide bespoke support with a flexible booking service for parents who wish to book with them on certain days.  For British families, there are English-speaking carers who can understand family preferences and requirements. 2. Indoor Amenities & Leisure Centres If you fancy visiting a leisure centre for the day and enjoying the indoor amenities that the resort has to offer, there is a main sports centre for that. It features heated swimming pools with fun water features and slides for families to enjoy.  It also has a separate children’s soft play area for the kids to enjoy and be entertained during the afternoon breaks.  For older children, there are trampolines and climbing walls to keep them entertained if they enjoy taking on a physical hobby.  Parents can enjoy the wellness facilities that the resort has to offer, such as a sauna and hammam, whilst the children are happily occupied with their activities nearby. When the weather deteriorates, the cinema screens English-language films and subtitled releases.  Bowling facilities and games rooms provide evening entertainment. You get most amenities within walking distance of accommodation, and operate extended hours during peak seasons. 3. Outdoor & Adventure Alternatives There are lots of thrilling non-skiing activities that Europe’s highest ski resort has to offer. Val Thoren’s maintains almost all its terrain above 2,000 metres, according to recent statistics. This provides the perfect snow conditions for alternative activities. There are plenty of activities that range from toboggan runs, night sledding, and husky sledding. Moreover, you will get snowshoeing expeditions that explore mountain landscapes, and zip-lining. 4. Family-Friendly Amenities Val Thorens is a fantastic destination for families, boasting the Famille Plus certification. This means you can expect a variety of family-friendly amenities and services throughout the resort.  You’ll find restaurants that offer kids' menus and highchairs, creating a welcoming atmosphere for families to enjoy meals together. For parents looking to relax, many of the major hotels feature wellness centers with spa treatments and serene areas to unwind.  While you take a moment for yourself, your kids can join in on organized activities designed just for them. If you need any practical items during your stay, worry not! There are plenty of medical services available on-site for those minor scrapes and sniffles. Additionally, you will also find shops that stock all the essentials, like baby supplies and children’s equipment. So you’ll never feel overwhelmed. Plus, the resort’s central booking service is a real lifesaver for busy families. It can help you easily: Arrange accommodations Plan activities So, this makes your vacation much more enjoyable and organized. With the range of facilities available that extend beyond skiing, you’re truly spoilt for choice at Val Thoren’s as it ensures that every family member has a memorable experience. Enjoy All The Non-ski activities in Val Thorens Today!  In today’s fast-paced world, modern families are looking for more than just traditional ski holidays.  They want experiences that cater to everyone's interests and needs. Skiing is fantastic. But it's equally important to find a destination that offers entertainment and activities for those who prefer not to hit the slopes. Additionally, it is also important to consider engaging options for young children.  Additionally, families appreciate convenient downtime options and a focus on safety to ensure a worry-free trip. Val Thorens stands out as a fantastic family-friendly destination. It offers a variety of non-ski activities that can make your holiday truly memorable.  In recent months, the resort has made significant improvements to its facilities, catering specifically to families.  Parents can take advantage of childcare services that allow them to enjoy a few hours on the slopes or relax, knowing their little ones are in good hands. The indoor leisure center is a gem! It features a range of activities that can keep both kids and adults entertained.  There's something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of age, such as: Swimming pools Play areas Family-friendly games In essence, Val Thorens has evolved into a destination that truly understands the needs of modern families. They ensure that both skiers and non-skiers have an unforgettable holiday experience amidst the stunning alpine backdrop.

BY  Sibashree Aug 27, 2025

Have you decided to relocate to Cyprus for career purposes? That would be a wise decision as this island nation follows one of the EU’s most simplified tax regimes for expats. Beyond the economic aspects, you also get to enjoy year-round sunshine and its rich cultural tapestry.  Yet, the core question that you must be clear about before living this coastal life is, at the end of the day, what your real take-home pay will be? Relocation can be costly since it involves several factors, one of which is your net income. This is why it is necessary to validate your take-home pay; rent, healthcare, school fees, and day-to-day expenses can quickly accumulate if your financial estimates are off. Fortunately, Cyprus mandates a transparent and predictable taxation system, which is rather easy to navigate with the help of a Cyprus salary calculator. This guide explains how Cyprus’s 2025 tax rules work, demonstrating salary breakdown interpretation and offering a step-by-step case study example for clarity.  Decoding the Cypriot Tax System: The Core Components As per the Cypriot tax system, your net salary isn’t just your gross salary after deducting “a flat tax.” Instead, it’s the final value of a progressive income tax system, and a few compulsory, specific deductions. When you understand all these core pillars, you can proceed toward accurate financial planning. The Progressive Income Tax Brackets (2025) For the 2025 tax year, typically running on a calendar-year basis, Cyprus applies a progressive structure: Annual income tax (€)Tax rate 0-19,5000%19,501-28,00020%28,001-36,30025%36,301-60,00030%Over 60,00035% Optimizing Around the €19,500 Tax-free Threshold A unique feature of Cyprus’s progressive income tax system is the €19,500 tax-free threshold. This threshold is indeed advantageous for those moderate and higher earners, protecting a significant portion of their income from taxation by lowering their effective tax rate.  That is why it is often suggested to optimize financial planning, such as contributing to approved pensions, life insurance, or charitable donations (within the 1/5 cap), to further reduce taxable income. Structuring income and deductions strategically around this threshold is one of the simplest ways to optimize your relocation budget. Social Insurance Contributions (Sic) Everyone, including you and your employer, is liable to contribute towards the national Social Insurance Fund, which supports pensions, sickness benefits, and unemployment protection.  However, the limit of contribution varies by party: Employee contribution: 8.8% of gross salary Employer contribution: 8.8% of gross salary Annual cap: €66,612 (as per 2025 figure) Now, this annual cap highlights that even if your yearly income crosses €66,612, you aren't liable to pay Social Insurance on the portion above that limit. For high earners, this annual cap significantly lowers the effective contribution rate. The General Healthcare System (Ghs / Gesy) The healthcare sector in Cyprus is funded by the General Healthcare System (GHS), the amount of which is contributed by everyone living and working in the country through the comprehensive GeSY healthcare system. They provide all-inclusive medical coverage to residents, including GP visits, specialists, and hospital services. Employee contribution: 2.65% of gross salary Employer contribution: 2.90% Cap: €180,000 annual earnings Unlike Social Insurance, the GHS cap is high, where most employees have to pay the full 2.65% on their entire income. Employer vs. Employee Contributions If you are an employee negotiating your salary, be clear about your gross salary (the basis for your tax obligations and deductions) and the cost to the company (gross salary plus employer-side contributions). For employees, the compulsory deductions include: 8.8% Social Insurance (capped) 2.65% GHS Income tax per progressive brackets For employers, the mandatory obligations are higher and include: 8.8% Social Insurance 2.90% GHS 2.0% Social Cohesion Fund (no cap) 1.2% Redundancy Fund 0.5% Human Resource Development Fund Up to 8.0% Central Holiday Fund (unless exempt) Now, assuming that you are an employee structuring your budget, prioritize employee deductions. However, do not ignore the employer’s additional costs; understanding them would be beneficial during salary package negotiations, provided that benefits are negotiable. Case Study Example: Net Pay on a €50,000 Gross Salary This hypothetical example of €50,000 annual gross salary would help understand what the final take-home pay looks like in 2025 for an employee with no special expat exemptions or extra allowances. Step 1: Calculate Deductions Social Insurance: 8.8% of €50,000 = €4,400 GHS: 2.65% of €50,000 = €1,325 Step 2: Apply Progressive Income Tax €0-€19,500 @ 0% = €0 €19,501-€28,000 (€8,500 @ 20%) = €1,700 €28,001-€36,300 (€8,300 @ 25%) = €2,075 €36,301-€50,000 (€13,700 @ 30%) = €4,110 Total income tax = €7,885 Step 3: Net Pay €50,000 − €4,400 − €1,325 − €7,885 = €36,390 per year≈ €3,033 per month (assuming 12 equal payments). However, if your employer pays a 13th salary, a common practice in Cyprus companies, your monthly net pay will be even lower but spread across 13 payments. For that, you can use a Cyprus salary calculator to model these variations instantly. How Employer Costs Compare Using the same case study example of €50,000 gross salary, here’s what the employer’s total annual outlay would look like: Social Insurance: €4,400 GHS: €1,450 Social Cohesion Fund: €1,000 Redundancy Fund: €600 HR Development Fund: €250 Holiday Fund (if not exempt): €4,000 Total Cost: With holiday fund exemption → €57,700 Without exemption → €61,700 This difference is the reason to negotiate your salary package as much as possible. Moreover, some employers even offset holiday fund obligations by allowing extra paid leave instead. Final Words Relocating to an entirely new place with a new environment and legal systems is an adventure. But by taking control of your financial details upfront, and using the progressive tax brackets, understanding obligated deductions, and leveraging a precise Cyprus salary calculator, you can overturn uncertainty into confidence.