So you’ve finally decided to take the leap into long-term travel. Now, it’s time to settle on a destination. Whether you are looking for a country with year-round warm weather or a city offering adventure at every turn, finding the right location for you is essential for a memorable trip. With so many countries to choose from, it’s crucial to narrow down your priorities. Not to worry, here are the best places for long-term tourism that offer plenty of options for any type of beginner traveler.
Ready for takeoff? Prepare your home for a long-term vacation
Before you jet set on the trip of a lifetime, make sure you’ve adequately prepared your home. Whether you decide to leave for one month or an entire year, start by telling neighbors you will be traveling and ask them to keep an eye on your property. Make sure to guard your home by installing a high-grade security system. Try to make your home appear as lived-in as possible by setting timers on external and internal lights. You should also protect against package theft by investing in a virtual address from iPostal1. With a virtual address, all your mail is sent to secure drop boxes so you can return home to untouched packages. Additionally, with the ability to pre-screen mail and discard accordingly, you can stay up-to-date on your mail from thousands of miles away.
Once you’ve checked off your pre-boarding checklist, it’s time to pop your hometown bubble and travel to the long-term tourist-friendly destinations below.
# The Canary Islands
Boasting hundreds of beautiful beaches that are welcoming all year long, as well as a diverse natural landscape and charming small towns, the Canary Islands make for a fantastic refuge. You can start your adventure in Tenerife, the largest of the seven islands and continue with island-hopping all the way to Fuerteventura and Lanzarote. You can take a month or so in each of the islands and enjoy their uniqueness at a slow pace.
# Netherlands
For those in search of a European vacation, look no further than the Netherlands. Although the county is relatively small, its cities are packed with various adventures. Travel between charming countrysides and bustling cities all in one day. The Netherlands is also brimming with world-renowned museums and historic charm. Popular towns worth visiting include Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Haarlem, and Amstelveen.
# Panama
Linking South America with Central America, Panama is rich with culture and adventure. Extended stays in Panama are generally inexpensive, considering the low cost of living. The money you save on rent can be used to explore luxurious beaches, lush rain forests, and culinary wonders. Choose from a variety of gorgeous locations like Bocas del Toro, Volcan, and Panama City.
# Hungary
Nestled in Central Europe, Hungary makes a perfect home base for European exploration. With proximity to several countries, you can easily hop on a train to Romania or Austria for a spontaneous weekend trip. Hungary is also one of the cheapest countries in Europe to live in and offers temperate weather year-round. Visit the country’s capital, Budapest, or embark on an outdoor adventure at Lake Balaton.
# Dubai
Dubai is brimming with futuristic architecture and out-of-this-world attractions, making it a dream destination for urban travelers. It also offers a variety of high-income careers, so you can make money while you travel. Additionally, the location of Dubai puts it a plane ride away from stunning Middle Eastern countries.
# Bali, Indonesia
Also called The Island of the Gods, Bali is quickly becoming a hot spot for long-term tourists. Filled with beautiful beaches, vast jungles, and friendly locals, Bali is ideal for those craving a tropical adventure. Travelers also benefit from inexpensive yet delicious food and equally affordable rent. Bali also offers free Wi-Fi at most restaurants and various co-working spaces to meet other vacationers for those looking to work remotely.
Final thoughts
For long-term trips, location is everything. Whether you opt for a tropical adventure or a European village, finding the right destination for you ensures a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
