If you are looking for an affordable place to visit and a great place to live, there are several places around the world that meet those requirements. While many countries have a lost cost ratio, they may not be places that are safe and friendly. These five countries are affordable destinations with friendly people who are happy to live there. These five countries are great choices for the Sanetraveller who wants to be around people who live well and have money to spend.
Canada
Canada is regularly called the country with the best quality of life. The cities are clean, the citizens are healthy, and the job markets are stable. The Great White North has most everything, except year-round warmth. But, if you love seasons, hockey, and happiness, you cannot go wrong setting your sights on Canada.
Toronto and Montreal are world-class cities. Banff has mind-blowing skiing and mountain views. Vancouver is a city on the rise. Visiting Newfoundland and the islands on the east will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time to old-world fishing villages. There are several reasons to visit Canada and take in the expanse from the Labrador Sea to the Bay of Alaska.
Canada is also home to half of Niagara Falls, as the majestic attraction sits right on the country’s border with the United States. This waterfall is 167-feet high, and more than six million cubic feet of water go over the falls every minute, creating a spectacle that attracts visitors from all over the world. This area is also popular with tourists because of its activities, as it is home to casinos, amusement centers, restaurants, and parks. Many hotels in Niagara Falls, Canada have views of the water, as well, making them an excellent place to spend some time while visiting the country.
Belize
While Belize is far from the wealthiest country in the world, it is filled with some of the nicest people you will ever meet. Add to it the nearly perfect weather and affordable prices, you will quickly see why Belize is on this list. It’s a paradise, but it’s prices are bargain-basement cheap. There are two big cities, Belize City, on the Caribbean Sea, and Belmopan, the newly named capital. Between the two lies mountains, conservation areas, and several national parks. Anyone who loves spending time outdoors will love Belize, as preserving nature is a top priority to the government and the citizens.
Vietnam
Gone are the days of the Vietnam War. Now, the Asian country is home to vibrant, young, and tech-savvy people who appreciate the warm climate, unique geography, and affordable prices. Da Nang is a safe city with quality health care and an unbelievable cost-of-living ratio. You can live big while spending very little in Vietnam.
Austria
Austria regularly finishes in the top five when it comes to the quality of life. The country is in the middle of Europe, making it easy to visit the rest of the continent. While Austria does not have any ocean-front property to boast about, it does have mountain views that will take your breath away. It has a rich cultural tradition, and of course, there is always The Sound of Music.
Portugal
If you are looking for a warm, relaxed country, look no farther than Portugal. With the Atlantic Ocean on two sides, the country is home to beaches that blow the mind. If you want a big-city atmosphere, Lisbon has it. The country is affordable, which is making it a popular destination for travelers and ex-pats alike.
