Thinking of taking off for a year? Here is a list of the best (and cheapest) places to spend a year discovering yourself.

1. Thailand

One Month’s Rent (1 bedroom): $300

Utilities: $70 Thailand is a country famous for its lush vegetation, busy cities, food, and the largest Buddha in the world. It has a variety of leisure activities, including kite flying, which used to be a competitive sport, in addition to being considered the golf capital of Asia.

2. Guatemala

One Month’s Rent (1 bedroom): $320

Utilities: $120 Guatemala is a country rich with cultural history. It is also the birthplace of chocolate and blue jeans. There are many Mayan ruins to visit, which won’t be difficult as a monthly bus pass costs around $20.



3. Malaysia

One Month’s Rent (1 bedroom): $223

Utilities: $50 Malaysia is a nature lover’s dream, home to many species of wildlife, such as the Malayan tiger, and the proboscis monkey. Malaysia is replete with 210 mammal species, over 620 species of birds, and 250 reptile species, and about two thirds of the country are covered in forest.



4. Panama

One Month’s Rent (1 bedroom): $450

Utilities: $75 Panamanian culture is a blend of European, African, and Indigenous cultures. The country boasts many regional festivals and activities. Panama also offers tax incentives to foreign retirees, and is fast becoming a retirement haven.



5. Nepal

One Month’s Rent (1 bedroom): $90

Utilities: $30 Nepal is situated in between China and India, and is home to one of the most famous mountain ranges in the world, the Himalayas. The crown jewel of the Himalayas, Mount Everest, is the highest point on Earth. Nepalese culture is rich in history and folklore. Some festivals and celebrations last several days.



6. Vietnam

One Month’s Rent (1 bedroom): $300

Utilities: $50 Vietnam is well known for its delicious cuisine. It addition to being delectable, it’s incredibly affordable. For $5 or less, you can buy yourself a great meal. Enjoy the lush vegetation over a bowl of Pho!



7. Nicaragua

One Month’s Rent (1 bedroom): $150

Utilities: $40 Because the prices are so low in Nicaragua, the cost of living is much more affordable. You can join a gym for $30, and buy a bus pass for less than $10. Nicaragua also has a strong European heritage, predominately Spanish and British, but the culture has also been largely influenced by Amerindian customs.

