American tourists rank Vietnam among 6 luxury, low-cost travel countries

Lee Abbamonte, 45, a former Wall Street banker, has visited every country in the world. He chose Vietnam as one of the six destinations where tourists can spend little money but still get a luxurious experience.

According to Lee, Vietnam is one of the top destinations in Southeast Asia with "cheap food, great taste". In addition, tourists are also impressed with the wonders in Vietnam, typically Ha Long Bay - one of the most beautiful places in the world. American tourists spend about 190 USD to experience a night on a luxury cruise, with amenities such as swimming pool, hot tub, wine cellar.

In cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, Lee also found the cost of living to be low. When he visited the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, he spent only $1.50 on a ticket. This is one of Lee’s favorite museums outside the United States, which showcases artifacts from the Vietnam War.

In countries like Vietnam and Thailand, the male tourist said the cost of staying in a luxury hotel is around $100 per night and the street food is as good as in a high-end restaurant. The only downside Lee noticed was that traveling from the US to Southeast Asia can take anywhere from 15 hours to more than a day.

"Once you get there, it's like heaven," he commented.

Two other Southeast Asian countries that made Lee’s list of six budget, luxury destinations were Thailand and Cambodia. Compared to Thailand and Vietnam, he said Cambodia is cheaper and has fewer visitors. Most visitors come to Cambodia to visit Angkor Wat, which costs just $37 and is a worthwhile experience. Cambodia also has many beautiful beaches, such as Saracen Bay, and the country’s infrastructure is improving.

As for Thailand, Lee said the country has the best street food in the world, high quality but much cheaper than the equivalent meal in the US. Accommodation is cheap, Lee only paid $39 for a night in a 5-star hotel, overlooking the Chao Phraya River.

Phuket is also Lee's favorite city, spending about $100 per night at the 5-star Kata Rocks hotel - one of the most beautiful hotels the male tourist has ever stayed in. According toBusiness Insider, in July 2024, the price per night at this hotel increased to 490 USD, "not super cheap but certainly cheaper than villas in the Caribbean area".

Another Asian country Lee mentioned was Japan. Japan is not the first country that comes to mind when Lee talks about cheap travel, but the exchange rate is now “the best in history.” As of June 25, one US dollar can be exchanged for nearly 160 yen.

"Prices are so cheap compared to the US dollar right now, hotel prices in Tokyo are a third lower than usual," he said.

The final two countries on the list are Argentina and Ethiopia. While Argentina has great steaks and plenty of outdoor activities, Ethiopia offers Lee “world-class dining at affordable prices.”