One of the most daunting parts of international travel is having to pay thousands of dollars on plane tickets alone – just imagine the types of hotels you’d book and experiences you’d enjoy if you brought that cost down to a couple of hundred dollars.

Think that’s impossible? Think again.

Not only is Latin America filled with budget-friendly treasures that’ll make all of your summer holiday dreams come true, but you can get to most of them for well under $200, especially if you time your trip right.

At least that’s what the latest data from Skyscanner’s pricing tool says, so if you’re pining for that ultimate beachy retreat this summer but don’t want to blow most of your travel budget on plane tickets alone, this list will provide some much-needed inspo.

Dominican Republic

Palm tree on a beach in the Dominican Republic

By now, you probably all know that the Dominican Republic has had a whirlwind of a year – between breaking all-time tourism records and being named the most popular Caribbean destination, it’s safe to say that the country is drawing in tourists like never before, and once you see the plane ticket prices, you’ll see just why.

There’s no denying that the postcard-looking coastline is the Dominican Republic’s biggest selling point, but when you compare how popular it’s become compared to other gorgeous tropical paradises, it’s clear just how much the reasonable prices have also affected its popularity.

Round-trip tickets this summer will start at just $179 and highly-reviewed 3-star hotels charge less than $30 a night – talk about an excellent-value destination!

Costa Rica

Playa Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

As stunning as it is, the Dominican Republic has some stiff competition in the region.

Case in point, Costa Rica.

Not only was the country just named one of the best beach destinations in the world, but it’s also part of the top 3 safest countries in all of Central America.

Combine that with the fact that round-trip tickets this summer start at just $155, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate beachy retreat!

Guatemala

San Pedro la Laguna, Sololá Guatemala

This year, you’ll get to see some of the world’s most jaw-dropping views, including Lake Atitlán, Antigua, and the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal for a little over $150, so, budget-conscious travelers, it’s time to pack your bags.

And don’t worry, not only is Guatemala shockingly cheap, but it’s also a perfectly safe place for everyone traveling alone, so don’t let urban myths and biases keep you from planning the getaway of a lifetime.

For more tips on how to stay safe in the country and have a great time, you can head over here.

Nicaragua

Aerial view of Nicaraguan coast, Nicaragua, Central America

If you’re really trying to tighten the purse strings this summer, even by Central American standards, Nicaragua is your best bet.

It has everything you could want, from gorgeous beaches and volcanic landscapes to friendly visa policies and plenty of direct flights from the U.S. (which, by the way, are starting at just $144 these upcoming months), and everything’s so reasonably priced it’ll catch you a little bit off guard.

3-start hotels that charge somewhere in the $20-$30-a-night range are a dime a dozen, while attractions are either cheap or entirely free.

In fact, even more time-demanding activities like hiking up the Cerro Negro Volcano cost roughly $20, and that includes guiding and equipment.

Honduras

Aerial view of Roatan, Honduras, Central America

Last but certainly not least, we have Honduras, one of Central America’s most underrated destinations and, at the risk of sounding biased, a personal favorite.

Not only are flights to and from the country priced at less than $170 this summer, but you’ll also get to stay in $25 hotel rooms, eat mind-blowing meals for $7, and make your way through some of the region’s most incredible sights for well under $100 (that’s assuming you’ll choose a guided tour, individual sightseeing excursions cost even less).

In the Bay Islands, particularly in Utila, you’ll get to work on your underwater sports skills – this is one of the cheapest places in the world to get a scuba diving certification, with courses starting at around $300, so get that diving gear ready!

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