Foreign tourists on Nguyen Hue flower street in downtown Ho Chi Minh City during the Lunar New Year, February 2026. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran
Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City, Thailand’s Bangkok and Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur joined a list of world’s 10 cheapest cities for American tourists this year, according to a report by online travel service provider Expedia.
These most budget-friendly destinations offer hotel stays averaging under US$150 per night, making travel more accessible without sacrificing comfort, the report says.
Expedia said Ho Chi Minh City has long been a popular choice for travelers for its diverse street food, lively nightlife and relatively affordable costs.
Famous for its golden Buddhist temples, Bangkok is also known for its diverse tourist attractions and modern shopping malls.
A rich mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences adds to Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant food scene, with street foods like nasi lemak and char kway teow sitting alongside world-class dining options.
Earlier, the U.S travel magazine Conde Nast Traveler also described Vietnam as one of the destinations offering great value for money.
Top 10 most affordable international destinations for American tourists:
1. Salvador, Brazil
2. Guadalajara, Mexico
3. Bogotá, Colombia
4. Mérida, Mexico
5. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
6. São Paulo, Brazil
7. Bangkok, Thailand
8. Edmonton, Canada
9. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
10. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic