North America

Mexico

World-class food, colonial cities, and Caribbean and Pacific coastlines — Mexico delivers an enormous range of experiences for a fraction of US or European prices.

A palm-lined plaza in front of the white cathedral bell tower in Veracruz, Mexico

Mexico offers outsized value: colonial architecture, beaches on two coasts, and a street food scene that rivals anywhere in the world, all at prices well below its northern neighbor.

Why it’s cheap

Street tacos cost $0.50–1 each, local buses (colectivos) cost under $1, and comfortable guesthouses in inland cities run $15–25 a night.

Getting around

Long-distance buses (ADO and similar) are comfortable, reliable, and inexpensive, making overland travel between cities like Oaxaca, Mexico City, and San Cristóbal de las Casas easy without flying.

Where budget meets comfort

Mexico City and Oaxaca both offer beautifully restored guesthouses in historic buildings for well under $40 a night.