International Destinations Where Luxury Hotels. Hotels.com recently released its 2025 Hotel Price Index, revealing an exciting trend for savvy travelers: you can save up to 27% on average by booking a five-star hotel internationally instead of splurging on one in the U.S. (That said, American travelers can still take some comfort hotel rates in the U.S. dropped by 2% from 2023 to 2024.)
There’s nothing quite like walking into a luxurious room crisp white sheets, impeccable service, and that subtle scent of polished wood and fresh flowers. It’s a feeling I absolutely love. But what I don’t love? Spending a fortune for one night.
Luckily, in the past few years, I’ve learned that luxury doesn’t always mean expensive. In fact, in some parts of the world, a five-star hotel will cost you less than a budget stay in London or New York! Here are 10 international destinations where luxury hotels are surprisingly affordable and why they deserve a spot on your travel list.
Affordable Luxury Hotel Destinations
| Destination | Average Price/Night (5-star) | Top Hotel Example | Why It’s Affordable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bali, Indonesia | $95 | The Udaya Resort & Spa | Low local costs and competition |
| Istanbul, Turkey | $110 | The Bank Hotel Istanbul | Currency exchange benefits |
| Jaipur, India | $80 | Samode Haveli | Affordable luxury and regal heritage |
| Budapest, Hungary | $115 | Aria Hotel Budapest | Cheaper European alternative |
| Siem Reap, Cambodia | $85 | Anantara Angkor Resort | Luxury at backpacker prices |
| Cairo, Egypt | $90 | Marriott Mena House | Currency advantage and growing tourism |
| Tbilisi, Georgia | $100 | Stamba Hotel | Less explored, boutique luxury |
| Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam | $95 | Hotel Des Arts Saigon | Modern luxury with Vietnamese charm |
| Colombo, Sri Lanka | $105 | Galle Face Hotel | Coastal elegance at great prices |
| La Paz, Bolivia | $80 | Atix Hotel | High altitude, low cost |
1. Bali, Indonesia – Paradise for Less
When I first visited Bali, I stayed in a villa with a private pool for less than $100 per night. I felt like royalty walking into flower-decorated rooms and being offered complimentary afternoon tea.
Why it’s cheap: Bali has a competitive hotel market, and the cost of living is low. The quality you get for the price is unmatched.
Tip: Ubud is perfect for a peaceful, spa-like getaway, while Seminyak offers beachfront luxury with vibrant nightlife.
2. Istanbul, Turkey – European Elegance Meets Asia
Istanbul’s history, architecture, and rooftop views over the Bosphorus make it unforgettable. I stayed in a former Ottoman bank turned into a 5-star hotel with high ceilings and marble bathrooms—for around $110.
Why it’s cheap: The Turkish Lira has seen major depreciation, making luxury very affordable for foreign travelers.
Tip: Look for hotels in Karaköy or Sultanahmet for stunning views and proximity to landmarks.
3. Jaipur, India – Live Like Royalty
In Jaipur, I checked into a former palace. Think grand courtyards, colorful frescoes, and traditional Indian hospitality. All under $80 a night!
Why it’s cheap: India offers incredible heritage hotels that cost far less than their Western counterparts.
Tip: Pick a heritage haveli (mansion) for an authentic, royal experience.
4. Budapest, Hungary – Budget-Friendly Glamour
Budapest surprised me. It felt like Paris but without the cost. I stayed in a music-themed boutique hotel with rooftop views and a spa.
Why it’s cheap: Hungary is not as expensive as Western Europe but offers similar luxury experiences.
Tip: Look for hotels on the Pest side—closer to nightlife and spa baths.
5. Siem Reap, Cambodia – Angkor and Affordability
After a day of temple-hopping at Angkor Wat, I returned to a peaceful 5-star hotel with colonial charm and a private tuk-tuk driver. For $85.
Why it’s cheap: Cambodia remains budget-friendly, and hotels offer high-end service to attract international tourists.
Tip: Many hotels include airport transfers and spa discounts—ask before booking.
6. Cairo, Egypt – Nile Views Without the Price
I’ll never forget sipping mint tea at sunset, overlooking the pyramids from a hotel terrace. And I paid just $90.
Why it’s cheap: The Egyptian Pound offers great value, and the country is rebuilding its tourist industry.
Tip: Book a hotel in Giza for pyramid views or Zamalek for a quieter, artsy experience.
7. Tbilisi, Georgia – Boutique Chic on a Budget
Georgia is one of the most underrated destinations. My hotel had Art Deco design, floor-to-ceiling windows, and gourmet breakfast—all for under $100.
Why it’s cheap: It’s still off the beaten path and very affordable for international travelers.
Tip: Try wine tasting in the hotel bar—Georgia is the birthplace of wine!
8. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – Modern and Magical
In Saigon, I stayed in a chic hotel filled with art, marble, and elegance. It cost less than $100 and included a rooftop pool!
Why it’s cheap: Vietnam’s booming tourism industry has led to new luxury hotels competing for attention.
Tip: Book early and look for hotels that include afternoon tea and free airport shuttles.
9. Colombo, Sri Lanka – Seaside Sophistication
Colombo gave me a blend of colonial charm and ocean breeze. I stayed in a beachfront property with a garden, pool, and massive breakfast buffet.
Why it’s cheap: Sri Lanka is recovering from past economic difficulties and offering amazing deals to attract visitors.
Tip: Pair your hotel stay with a trip to Galle or Ella for a fuller Sri Lankan experience.
10. La Paz, Bolivia – High-End at High Altitude
Not many people think of Bolivia for luxury, but I stayed in a designer hotel with mountain views, local art, and in-house fine dining.
Why it’s cheap: Bolivia remains one of South America’s most affordable countries, even for top-tier accommodations.
Tip: Be ready for high altitudes. Many hotels provide oxygen tanks!
Conclusion
Luxury travel doesn’t have to mean emptying your savings. In many parts of the world, $80 to $110 a night buys you comfort, elegance, and unforgettable experiences. I’ve personally stayed in most of these places and was blown away by the quality of service and design—sometimes even better than pricier hotels in the West.
So if you’re planning your next vacation, don’t just think about Paris or Dubai—think Tbilisi or Siem Reap. Your passport and your wallet will thank you.
FAQs
Q1: Are these luxury hotels safe and reliable for international tourists?
Yes. Most of the luxury hotels listed are internationally recognized, well-reviewed on platforms like TripAdvisor and Booking.com, and follow global hospitality standards. Many even offer airport transfers, concierge services, and English-speaking staff to assist foreign guests.
Q2: How can I find these affordable luxury hotel deals?
You can find these deals on hotel booking websites like Booking.com, Agoda, and Expedia. It’s best to book in advance, especially during off-season periods. Also, use filters for “5-star” or “luxury” and sort by price. Sign up for email alerts for deals or flash sales.
Q3: Do these hotels offer the same amenities as expensive Western luxury hotels?
Mostly, yes. These hotels often include spa services, rooftop pools, fine dining, private balconies, gyms, and airport transfers. Some also offer cultural experiences like cooking classes or local tours—all at a fraction of Western prices.
Q4: What is the best time to travel to these destinations for lower hotel rates?
The best time is usually the shoulder season (just before or after peak tourist season). For example:
- Bali: May–June or September
- Turkey and Hungary: April–May or September–October
- India and Cambodia: October–March (cooler months)
