Posted on Friday, 24 May 2019

The backpacking landscape is ever-evolving, with hot new destinations appearing on the scene every year. Here we run through some of the most exciting backpacker hotspots for summer 2019, fusing fascinating history with great food and of course, low prices.

Naturally, some places always rank high on the backpacker hitlist, so you'll find some familiar names on this list too. And you don't have to be a low budget backpacker to enjoy these countries: add a little extra to your daily budget and you could be staying in comfortable hotels and guest houses, while dining at top end restaurants that don't break the bank.

Malta

From the Phoenicians to the Romans, from the Normans to the British, Malta has seen many rulers over the centuries, resulting in a landscape peppered in ancient ruins and beautiful churches. For backpackers, Malta allies such amazing historic sites with low-cost, high quality hostels, stunning Mediterranean vistas and delicious cuisine: fish pie, rabbit stew, beef olives and widow's soup - a hearty broth augmented with a slice of goat's cheese.

Georgia

If the Caucasus Mountains mark the eastern edge of Europe (and many say it does), then Georgia is technically part of Asia. However, cities like the sprawling capital Tbilisi feel much more European than Asian. Here you can enjoy urban and rural pursuits in equal measure: view stunning mountains by visiting Kazbegi, enjoy the cosmopolitan lifestyle of the capital and chill out by the Black Sea at Batumi. What's more, Georgia is about as cheap as many Southeast Asian destinations, with hostels costing just a few pounds a night and meals costing one or two pounds.

Turkey

If you're into your Instagram travel accounts, you'll doubtless have gawped at the incredible shots of hot air balloons above the alluring landscape of Turkey's Cappadocia region. It's just one of many Turkish delights - from stunning white sandy beaches lapped by azure blue seas, to ancient sites like the Greek city of Ephesus, to the architectural and cultural treats of Istanbul. For those on a budget, Turkey is also very cheap.

Jordan

The ancient city of Petra alone is worth the ticket price to Jordan, with its famous facade used in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. But this unique Middle Eastern country offers much more. The mystical Wadi Rum Desert is a must-see, and you should try a mud-bath in the vibrant capital, Amman. The only downside to Jordan is the cost - it's a bit pricier than other destinations on this list. However, for a short, history-rich jaunt, it promises some unforgettable memories.

Indonesia

Comprising thousands of (often stunning) islands, Indonesia presents an almost overwhelming range of landscapes and cultures to explore. From the rice terraces and yoga retreats of Bali, to the mighty volcanoes of Bandung, to the vast temple at Borobudur and the orangutans of Borneo - you'll need to pick your hitlist wisely if time is limited. In addition, the food is tasty, the locals welcoming and the prices very, very low.

The Philippines

Another tropical nation spread across thousands of islands, the Philippines is a beach-lover's paradise. But there's more than just beach lounging to be done: dive with whale sharks, zipline over El Nido and kayak leisurely across tranquil lagoons of aquamarine. For parties, Manila is a winner, but a trip to the Philippines is really about the great outdoors. It's also very affordable - although a tad pricier than some of its Southeast Asian counterparts.

Mexico

Many Mexico-bound visitors end up in vast resorts like Cancun, but this Central American nation offers so much more: think Mayan ruins, stunning un-peopled beaches and beautiful old colonial towns from the days of Spanish rule. Oh yes, and don't forget the fajitas and tacos, ideally washed down with a margarita and topped off with a tequila. In terms of prices, if you stick to street food and backpacker hostels, it's very affordable - although transport costs can add up. Certainly not as cheap as Southeast Asia, Mexcio is nevertheless much kinder on your pocket than Western Europe.

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