It doesn’t get much better than being able to travel without breaking the bank. Many people dream of venturing around the world, but not everyone has the money to make it happen.
One British traveler has become the master of finding affordable flights, lodging, and other accommodations when she travels, and she even shares her finds on TikTok. However, she also wants to warn people that not all locations are gems.
RELATED STORIES
There’s one popular island that she recommends skipping.
Rachel Smith is a “solo female traveler” on TikTok and Instagram
Rachel Smith is a self-identified “solo female traveler” who enjoys sharing the travel hacks that allow her to explore the world affordably. She shares what she eats, the best sights she sees, and much more on TikTok and Instagram.
She even shares the less glamorous aspects of traveling, like when she got food poisoning!
Rachel goes all over the world
From Thailand to Bali and so many other locations, Rachel is always on the move. She switches it from themed cruises to some of the most gorgeous cities we’ve ever seen. With over 21 countries already checked off for her, it seems like there’s no place that’s not on her list.
However, there’s one that she has concluded is not worth the hype.
She recommends skipping Santorini in Greece
“I recommend avoiding Santorini in Greece, as beautiful as it is,” she in a TikTok video, noting that it’s become “overcrowded and overpriced.”
She was especially frustrated over how tricky and expensive it was to get a taxi while staying there.
Santorini is a famous tourist spot
Known for its stunning volcanic beaches and lunar landscapes, as well as its rich Greek culture, Santorini is easily on the list for many travelers. However, as Rachel mentioned, it’s known to be on the more expensive side.
Also, according to CNN, the number of tourists has quickly increased, with “3.4 million visitors a year, far outnumbering Santorini’s 20,000 or so permanent residents.”
It’s often considered the “Instagram island” due to the drastic increase in visitors after it became so popular on social media.
Rachel said she would not go back
While she’s glad she had the opportunity to visit Santorini, Rachel says she doesn’t plan to return.
This just wasn’t a match for her affordable travel goals. However, she does have some recommendations for those looking for stunning views while also saving money.
She sees Southeast Asia as the best region to roam
When it comes to beauty and affordability, Rachel believes that Southeast Asia is the place to be. She’s found the most enjoyable and enriching adventures from Thailand to Indonesia and beyond.
“In countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos, you can find beautiful accommodation, delicious food, and even activities like hot air balloon rides or snorkeling trips for a fraction of the price you’d pay in Western countries,” she said.
She secured some impressive deals when traveling in Southeast Asia
In many of her videos, she shares some of the best deals she’s gotten when staying in Southeast Asian countries.
“In Vietnam, I got luxurious 12-hour sleeper buses for less than £5,” she said.
“They included charging stations, blankets, LED lights, and even a TV,” she added.
She even had some seriously inexpensive lodging
“When I was in Kuala Lumpur, I got myself a studio apartment with a rooftop pool that overlooked the city and was less than £12 per night,” Rachel said.
Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia. It is known for the Petronas Twin Towers, the Petaling Street flea market, and the Batu Caves, which are over 400 million years old.
Rachel is often able to stay in Southeast Asian countries for weeks
One of Rachel’s best experiences has been the ability to have longer vacations in Southeast Asian countries, which are more affordable and less crowded with tourists.
“I’ve been able to stay in places like Vietnam for weeks at a time because the cost of living is so low,” she said.
