Affordable Places To Go On Vacation
By Ultra Team
Originally published July 23, 2024 | Last updated July 23, 2024
As exciting as going on a vacation can be, deciding where to go, and spend your hard-earned dollars, can be challenging. Fortunately for those in the US, there are tons of beautiful and lively places to vacation in our neighboring countries Mexico and Canada. Here are some of the best places to go on vacation that won’t break your bank.
Places to Vacation in Mexico
¡Viva la México! Every year, millions of tourists flock to Mexico for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, renowned cuisine and vibrant festivals. Visitors are drawn to its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and Spanish colonial architecture. The country’s warm climate, affordability, and plethora of adventure activities make it an attractive destination for a variety of visitors, whether you’re a traveler passing through or on a visit to your home country. If you’re like the millions of people who want to go to Mexico for fun in the sun without breaking the bank, then keep reading.
Here are the best places to visit in Mexico:
Cancún and Riviera Maya
Two of the most popular places in Mexico are the Riviera Maya and Cancún.
There are a few reasons why Cancún is one of the top vacation places in Mexico. Travelers frequently flock to Cancun’s hotel area, just 15 miles away from the Cancún International Airport, to enjoy the luxurious resorts, thriving nightlife, and beautiful turquoise waters of the Caribbean. There are also a variety of adventure excursions available in this popular tourist destination. The majority of Cancún’s residents live in the downtown area where few tourists venture, so if living like a local is important to you on a vacation, the Riviera Maya may be a better choice for you.
Just south of Cancún and the Yucatán Peninsula lies the Riviera Maya where several charming small towns make up the region such as Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Puerto Morelos, and Puerto Aventuras. Due to its smaller size, travelers can enjoy staying in a variety of hotels from big resorts to boutique hotels and vacation rentals in the Riviera Maya for a more laid back vibe.
Whether you visit Cancún or the Riviera Maya, both destinations offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Both are in proximity to the rich cultural heritage of the Yucatán Peninsula, including the Mayan ruins in Tulum and Chichén Itzá, providing a unique historical dimension.
Puerto Vallarta and Oaxaca
Puerto Vallarta offers stunning Pacific coast beaches, a picturesque historic town center, and a lively arts scene, alongside opportunities for water sports and whale watching. Puerto Vallarta has long been a popular beach destination for tourists with its active nightlife, family-friendly accommodations and variety of seaside activities available.
Oaxaca, known for its colonial architecture and rich indigenous heritage, offers a feast for the senses with its renowned cuisine, colorful markets, and numerous festivals, including the famous Day of the Dead celebrations. If culture and arts including museums, historical sights, and scenic old towns are what you’re searching for, Oaxaca might be where to go in Mexico.
Mexico City
The capital is a vibrant metropolis that combines rich history and modern attractions. Highlights include the historic center (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the ancient ruins of Teotihuacán, the art-filled neighborhoods of Coyoacán and San Ángel, and the world-renowned National Museum of Anthropology.
Traveling to Mexico? Ultra has you covered.
Traveling to Mexico on a budget is entirely possible, especially with the availability of numerous all-inclusive hotels. These hotels often provide great value as they include not only your accommodation but also meals, drinks, and sometimes even transportation and activities. This bundled approach can significantly reduce overall travel expenses, making a trip to Mexico both enjoyable and affordable.
Moreover, keeping in touch with your travel companions in Mexico is easy with Ultra Mobile. Starting with our 3GB plans and higher, you can enjoy Unlimited Talk and Text in Mexico while you’re on vacation. Plus when you get back home, you can easily keep in touch with the friends you made in Mexico with Unlimited Talk and Text to Mexico (and over 90 other destinations for future travels).
And if you need roaming data to find out how to get to Chichén-Itzá or a cenote, you can always purchase a Go Roam Mexico Data Pass for just $5 and get an additional 5GB of high-speed data to use in Mexico for up to 30 days.
If you’re craving a cooler climate and something different, you may want to explore our northerly neighbor to see some of the best places to go in Canada.
Places to Vacation in Canada
Whether you were raised in Canada or are a traveler visiting for the first time, Canada has something for every traveler. From its majestic Rocky Mountains and pristine national parks like Banff and Jasper to vibrant cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, it’s not hard to see why millions of people flock to the Great White North each year.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching, and explore rich cultural pockets throughout the northernmost part of the continent.
Here are some of the top places to go in Canada:
Canadian Rockies
If you’re a fan of exploring the great outdoors, a visit to Banff or Jasper National Parks are two of the best Canada travel spots. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like Lake Louise and the Columbia Ice-field, enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and canoeing, and experience the serene beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Both parks also feature charming towns with excellent dining and accommodation options, making them perfect for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax in a stunning natural setting.
Québec City
If you enjoy French colonial architecture and old world European charm without the European price tab, Quebec City is among the best places to go in Canada. History buffs and architectural admirers alike will love its historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can wander the cobblestone streets, visit landmarks like Château Frontenac and Montmorency Falls, and experience the city’s rich French-Canadian culture.
Vancouver Island
Known for its picturesque coastal setting and vibrant urban culture, Vancouver offers a mix of natural beauty and city amenities including stunning lakes, landmark First Nations totems, and Edwardian era architecture.
Traveling to Canada? Ultra has you covered.
Exploring the Canadian Rockies, Quebec City, and Vancouver Island on a budget is achievable with some smart planning. Choose budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or Airbnb, and use public transportation or rent bikes to get around. Many top attractions, such as hiking trails in the Rockies, historic streets in Quebec City, and natural wonders on Vancouver Island, are free or low-cost. Enjoying local markets and street food provides delicious and affordable dining options. By prioritizing experiences and making thoughtful choices, you can enjoy these iconic Canadian destinations without breaking the bank.
Now that you know some of the best places in Canada to travel, all you need to know is how to stay connected while on your travels. You’ll definitely need service to find the nearest poutine shop near you. Fortunately, on Ultra Mobile 3GB plans and above, you can get unlimited talk and text while in Canada for free. So staying in touch with your travel buddies is easy and affordable. And when you get back to the states, keeping in touch with your new local friends and travel guides is even easier with unlimited talk and text to over 90 destinations (including Canada and beyond).
Stay connected in Mexico and Canada with Ultra Mobile
There’s a big world to explore out there, and Ultra Mobile makes it easy to stay connected with all those you care about in it. With our variety of plan features and plan options, we’ve got something for everyone, whether you’re exploring the globe or connecting from home.