Top countries for adventurous expats

Vietnam

If you've recently moved to Asia, why not take a trip to Vietnam? Rich in culture and history, Vietnam also has an unparalleled biodiversity thanks to its geography and pleasant climate almost all year round. No wonder the country attracts so many travellers every year, not to mention digital nomads looking for a calm and relaxed atmosphere. When in Vietnam, do not limit yourself to Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, or Nha Trang which is a popular beach resort. Off the beaten path, My Son is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built during the Cham Dynasty. If you don't have claustrophobia, you should definitely visit Cu Chui tunnels, a historical site built during the war period. Stretching over some 1,500 km² in the Quang Ninh province, Ha Long Bay is another must see. Ha Long Bay is especially famous for its 1,600 islands and rocky islets, coves and caves, and its lush vegetation. Located in the South of Vietnam, the Tra Su Nature Reserve is an ecological haven with over a hundred species of seabirds and bat colonies in the middle of a thick jungle interspersed with waterways. Regarding your budget, count an average of $20 per person per night for accommodation, $9 for eating out, and $4 for a bus ticket. Also, with $1.35 you can purchase 14 beers.

Peru

World famous for its magnificent ruins, Peru is one of the best destinations for adventure travel. An ancient Inca city built in the 15th century, Machu Pichu needs no introduction. Symbolising the Peruvian history and culture, Machu Pichu is considered as one of the new wonders of the world. You should also visit the Sacred Valley, stretching along the Urubamba River, and Cuzco, an ancient Inca capital city perched at 3,400 meters above sea level. Have you ever heard about the Rainbow Mountain? Rising over 5,000 meters of altitude, Vinicunca is a mountain with seven colours owed to the accumulation of layers of sediment over the centuries. Also, do not miss the Nazca Lines. Extending over several kilometres, Nazca Lines are geoglyphs that are often drawn in the form of stylized animals or simple lines. However, flying over the site is not recommended for those who have vertigo. Needless to say that Peru is an affordable destination where a bus ticket costs less than a dollar. If you prefer to rent a motorbike, count around $12.50 a day. To make the most of your stay, remember to try anticuchos which are a marinated and grilled beef heart kebabs for $2.30 only.

India

The Taj Mahal, the Ganges, or the bustling cities of Mumbai and New Delhi are probably the first things that come to your mind when thinking about India. However, the country has an incredible historical and cultural heritage that will give you a different feel. Vanarasi, for example, is a Hindu spiritual place where thousands of pilgrims and visitors head to every year. In Hampi, you will get the chance to explore some 400 temples scattered across a lush tropical forest. While Tamil Nadu is famous for its religious heritage with beautifully coloured temples, Ellora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with amazing Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain caves carved into the cliff. Located in Maharashtra, Ajanta is a village with impressive Buddhist caves carved into hard basalt with breathtaking sculptures and paintings. Closer to the Himalayas, Darjeeling is the place to be for hikers thanks to its vast tea plantations. To get around in India, count an average of $2.30 per person per day. For eating out, count an average of $9.30 per person.

Cambodia

Cambodia is without any doubt one of the world's best destinations for adventure travel. Close to Siem Reap, Angkor Wat Temples are a must see. Keep in mind, however, that you're required to dress properly to visit this religious site. After that, you can head to the floating villages of Tonle Sap. Closer to the Thailand border, Prasat Preah Vihear is another symbol of Angkorian culture, perched on Dangkrek Mountains. If you're looking for heavenly beaches, you should head to Sihanoukville and neighbouring islands including Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem. For those looking for wilder adventures, Mondolkiri is a village whose inhabitants practice animism, but where you will also be able to contemplate impressive waterfalls in the heart of rich fauna and flora. One of Cambodia's most remote provinces, Ratanakiri is home to the Virachey National Park with elephants and gibbons. The reserve also includes a volcanic lake when you can swim, and a waterfall. Of course, the local cuisine is not to be missed during your stay in Cambodia. For $1.30 only, you can have traditionally seasoned, fried and crisp crickets. Also, if you're not likely to settle for noodles or rice porridge, you should try the fried tarantulas! To get around Cambodia, count an average of $0.77 for a bus ticket and $6 per day for a bike rental.

Morocco

Morocco is an attractive country not only for its Mediterranean climate, low cost of living, and cultural wealth, but also for its diverse landscapes. Aside from its historic cities and villages, and its souks, Morocco offers a wide range of activities for all tastes. Hikers will be delighted by the Atlas Mountains, located in the North of the country, its vast plateau, lush forest contrasting with arid valleys, and its snow-capped peaks. Close to Marrakesh, Ourika Valley is a place where you can contemplate wild nature inhabited by the Berber tribes. Near the Algerian border, Erg Chebbi has some of the region's highest dunes with some reaching 150 meters. Among the things to see in Morocco, you also have the Moroccan Grand Canyon nicknamed the Dades Gorges, which are about 300 meters deep, and the Drâa Valley with Berber villages surrounded by palm groves, historical forts, and waterfalls. For those who prefer to remain in the cities, getting around by bus will cost an average of $0.56 per person while bike rental costs around $21 per day. Don't forget to try the tasty dates soup for only $0.60.