Americans spend an average of $1,800 on international vacations. But some of the world's best destinations cost half that — if you know where to go.
Under $1,000 All-In (7 Days)
1. Dominican Republic — $600-900
- Flight from Miami/NYC: $150-250 roundtrip
- Accommodation: $20-40/night (guesthouse in Zona Colonial)
- Food: $15-20/day at local comedores
- Activities: $10-20/day
- Total: $650-850
2. Colombia (Medellín) — $700-950
- Flight from Miami: $200-300 roundtrip
- Accommodation: $25-45/night (Laureles apartment)
- Food: $12-18/day
- Activities: $10-15/day
- Total: $700-950
3. Mexico (Oaxaca) — $650-900
- Flight from Houston/LA: $200-300 roundtrip
- Accommodation: $25-40/night
- Food: $10-15/day (street food + markets)
- Activities: $10-15/day
- Total: $650-900
4. Guatemala — $600-850
- Flight from Houston: $200-350 roundtrip
- Accommodation: $15-30/night (Antigua, Lake Atitlán)
- Food: $10-15/day
- Activities: $5-10/day
- Total: $600-850
5. Argentina (Buenos Aires) — $750-1,000
- Flight from Miami: $350-500 roundtrip (longer but the exchange rate makes up for it)
- Accommodation: $15-30/night
- Food: $8-12/day (seriously)
- Activities: $5-10/day
- Total: $750-1,000
The Secret: Local Friends
In every destination on this list, a Local Friend saves you 20-40% by showing you where locals eat, shop, and play — not the tourist version. One day with a Local Friend in Medellín ($30) saves you $100+ in avoided tourist traps over the rest of your trip.
Browse Local Friends on Roavi. Travel internationally for less than a domestic trip.
This article was written with the help of AI and reviewed by the Roavi team.