10 $3,000 Couples Vacation Ideas for 2024
Recently someone shared my favorite online discussion forum, “We live in Florida and would like to take a five-to-seven-day trip, but since I don’t get to travel much, I’m having a hard time coming up with some interesting places to go on our $3,000 budget.”
Travelers Chimed In To Give Their Best Ideas for Trips
“I would love an out-of-country experience, but my budget may limit that. Still ok with somewhere in the U.S., but I would like it to be way different than Florida.” The internet responded to deliver this list of suggested destinations.
1. Portugal
“Paris might be out of reach, but Portugal, however, might be in your budget. Look at TAP Air Portugal airlines into Lisbon from Miami. You can find lower-priced hotels if you get out of Lisbon’s main tourist area. Also, ensure they are on a public transit line so you can get around cheaply,” someone suggested.
Portugal is a place where many expats are heading. What is the appeal of Portugal? You have California weather with budget-friendly prices. Accommodations are cheap, and wine and delicious food flow at great prices. The friendliness of the people, the weather, and fantastic food allow so many people to see this country and will enable them to travel more by saving.
Take a Look at Lisbon
Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, is a fascinating city with a mixture of modern and old and plenty of things to do – good and cheap food, good weather, several cultural and historical landmarks to visit, and fantastic beaches to relax in. So if you feel like everyone you know is traveling to Lisbon or Portugal, you’re not alone!
2. France
Paris ranked as one of the Safest Places to Visit in 2023.
Several people disagreed with the first person’s assessment of France. “I disagree. If you travel before the summer months, use public transportation, rent rooms instead of hotels, and among other cost-saving tips, you can go to France,” one argued.
You Can Make A Getaway to France Work
“Flights are 1500€ for both. You can rent a cheap place for 500-800€ a week depending on when and where you go. Food is expensive, but you can cook or eat baguettes daily—a rental car for a couple of days, maybe, and rental bikes. I also think it is doable,” another agreed.
“We loved the Bastille Day celebrations in Paris. They had a military parade, fireworks, and parties all over. Many people were just dancing in the streets,” said Karen Kelly, Founder of Seasonal Cravings. “Les Deux Magots is the most fun coffee shop, a perfect Parisian Cafe. I think we went every day!”
3. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico, a non-incorporated United States (US) territory, is perfect for Americans looking for a tropical escape without a passport. The delightful climate and stunning scenery make Puerto Rico a great candidate for weddings, honeymoons, and family trips.
“Puerto Rico,” another suggested. “Flights from Florida are cheap. It has an almost European feel in the capital, with a rainforest out east and many fantastic areas to explore.”
4. European Trip
“My wife and I spent $5000 total on two weeks in Europe without being frugal,” another shared. “We stayed in lovely Airbnb locations, did all the tourist stuff, ate a lot of food, etc. So with your budget, you could do a week there.”
“Spend time looking at the cost of everything and making a rough itinerary for a specific trip. What will one week in Paris, London, Madrid, and more look like on your budget? Don’t discount a trip like that yet!”
5. Take a Cruise
One user asked, “Have you considered a cruise? Lots of cruises out of Florida that will easily fit that price point and leave you some for excursions, which can be as active as you want them to be.”
“You can get a seven-day for like $1,800 (less if you go with an inside cabin). It allows you to go a few places and see which one you want to visit for longer later.”
You Might Be Surprised How Close a Cruise Ship Port Is To You
One of the benefits of going on a cruise from the United States is that you can potentially drive to the port or quickly fly there from within the country. Don’t forget to check if you need a passport if your cruise heads to other ports outside the USA.
There Are Dozens of Cruise Ports Across America
Some most popular ones that are all near major airports and highways are the cruise ports of:
- Seattle, Washington
- San Diego, California
- Los Angeles, California
- New York City and New Jersey
- Miami, Florida
- Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Galveston Texas
6. Mexico
“I would recommend Mexico! Your budget will go very far there. It also allows you to have a relaxing beach vacation or explore famous sites like Chichen Itza,’ one stated.
“I second Mexico,” another said. “Super cheap flights in and out of Cancun. Don’t rent a car there; get a local tour guide once you get there if you want to explore outside the well-beaten tourist traps. Airbnb is very cheap, especially if you are ok being off the beach.”
Take a Look at Merida
Or consider, the charming city of Merida is the cultured capital of Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula. It is characterized by its opulent, grand colonial mansions and ornate, colorful houses.
During the hennequin boom and the days of the haciendas, Merida was one of the richest cities in the world. Today, it makes an excellent base for a wider exploration of the Yucatan region. The city is a great choice if you want to escape the tourist crowds that flock to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the beach towns of Quintana Roo.
7. Costa Rica
One person shared, “My husband and I spent eight days in Costa Rica this past September for $2500, so you could make your budget work! We did La Fortuna, Monteverde, Paquera and Tango Mar.”
With international travel restrictions gone, travelers are increasingly booking international trips. A recent analysis of online searches shows that Costa Rica is the third most searched international destination by Americans.
What Travelers Loved About Costa Rica
“La Fortuna had a volcano, waterfalls, and hot springs. We did a coffee/chocolate night tour and saw many animals. Monteverde was chilly, a nice break from the heat and humidity, and had the rainforest.”
“We did zip lining and the hanging bridges at Selvetura and made a detour at Rio Celeste on our way from La Fortuna. Paquera isn’t very touristy. We only stopped there for the bioluminescent kayaking. And Tango Mar was a beach resort-beautiful and relaxing!”
8. Medellín
One user confessed, “I’d save Europe for a more extended trip. How about Medellín? There are plenty of cheap, short, non-stop flights from South Florida, which will be significantly different than Florida. I haven’t been, but it’s definitely on my list of places to visit.” Others agreed it’s a beautiful city in Columbia.
9. Spain
“Spain is also doable depending on how much you get your flight for and if you are willing to cook some of your own meals throughout the trip,” another suggested. Others agreed to dine out a few times but to cook the rest of the trip.
Travelers Love The Always Warm Costa Del Sol
If you’re looking for a reliably warm European destination, look no further than Costa Del Sol, Spain. In the province of Malaga, this region is home to 103 towns and villages and boasts more than 320 days of sun a year, one of the highest in Europe.
With a diverse range of cities, landscapes, food, traditions, in-land villages, and even mountains, there’s a wide range of things to do in Costa Del Sol Spain besides soaking up the sun on their 100 miles of beaches.
10. The Carolina States in The U.S.
A less popular suggestion was the Carolinas. How about South or North Carolina? They are close to Florida and have incredible scenery and mountains.”
Take a Look at Myrtle Beach
No wonder Myrtle Beach has long been a go-to destination for generations of Americans. More than half of the country can drive to its 60 miles of beaches and other world-renowned attractions.
Another one of those family vacation spots that is also a golfing mecca Myrtle Beach, has more than 90 golf courses and 50 mini-golf courses so that you can play a round no matter your age and skill level.
The Carolina Core
The Carolina Core region, consisting of Greensboro, Winston-Salem, & High Point, is at the center of 4 state highways. Explore each city’s distinct personalities and a long list of outdoor activities. Families can enjoy Wet-n-Wild Water Park, obstacle course & ziplining at Safari Nation, The North Carolina Zoo, All a Flutter Butterfly Farm, and Piedmont Environmental Center.
It’s not hard to see why it’s ranked one of the best places in the state for outdoor activities. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, and horseback riding options in the region’s expansive state parks, local public parks, and outdoor recreation facilities.
The Paradise-Perfect Boutique Barbados Resort I Should Keep To Myself
Listen to the ocean waves from your room, even from your bed, as you drift off to sleep. A chic, modern, impeccably clean hotel with the most beautiful courtyard filled with pools, waterfalls, tropical flowers, and trees. When you think of an island paradise picture, the place you’re dreaming of is real. It’s the Bougainvillea Barbados.
The Paradise-Perfect Boutique Barbados Resort I Should Keep To Myself
Think Luxe Sint Maarten Is Out of Reach? Here’s How This Caribbean Island Can Be Surprisingly Affordable
After years of closed international borders, travelers are itching to explore this big beautiful world of ours. But when an international vacation runs $6,000 for a family of four, you might say adios or au revoir to your getaway plans. But don’t give up hope just quite yet!
If you’ve only considered this destination expensive and out of reach, here’s what we discovered on our trip to the island.
Make Your Vacation Dreams a Reality: Uncover $5,000 In The Money You Already Have
There’s that family vacation we all are dreaming of. But how can you afford it with sky-high childcare payments, increasing gas prices, higher food costs, and a never-ending pile of rising bills? Well, what if I told you that with just three realistic changes to your everyday spending, that family vacation to a beach, or other destination, can be within reach?
The American family vacation for four costs $4,580 on average. While that four-figure number is large and feels out of reach, you can free up enough money- and more– with just three changes to your recurring expenses. Bringing mindful spending to just three areas in your life can bring a dream family vacation closer than you think!
Make Your Vacation Dreams a Reality: Uncover $5,000 In The Money You Already Have
19 of the Cheapest Places To Travel To Around The World
Finding affordable places to travel to may not be the easiest thing to do. Many places worldwide offer cheap and affordable to your wallet and travel budget, but not all are pleasurable to visit.
For the price that someone may pay for a fancy dinner in one of your favorite restaurants, you can pay that amount on a whole day’s worth of travel expenses in countries such as Vietnam, Mexico, The Philippines, Indonesia, and Portugal, and more. It can cost anywhere from $30-$ 50 a day per person.
19 of the Cheapest Places To Travel To Around The World
Here’s The Safest Places to Travel
International travel is booming. One-third of Americans said they are more interested in vacationing outside the U.S. But when news reports show U.S. State Department warnings about travel to certain countries, violence in some international destinations, or individual travel horror stories, it can put your dreams of exploring the world on the back burner.
Well, get your passport back out. Here are the safest countries and cities around the world for you to explore without worry.
Here’s The Safest Places to Travel
This article was produced by Planner at Heart.
