A seasoned flight attendant has leveraged her unique global access to curate a list of the top budget-friendly destinations that should be on every traveller's radar for 2026. Sharing her expertise on social media, she aims to prove that incredible travel experiences don't have to come with a staggering price tag.
From the Balkans to the Atlantic: A Cabin Crew's Picks
The recommendations come from Liz, known online as lizzyfromtheblock99. Through her career in aviation, she has visited countless locations and has now pinpointed five standout spots offering exceptional value and unforgettable experiences for the year ahead.
In a TikTok video that captured the attention of travel enthusiasts, she framed her advice with the relatable declaration: "Budget-friendly places you should visit in 2026 from a broke flight attendant." Her list spans continents, offering something for history buffs, nature lovers, and beach seekers alike.
Bosnia and Herzegovina's Natural and Historic Splendour
First on her list is the often-overlooked gem of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Balkan Peninsula. Liz champions this destination for its rich tapestry of historic towns, pristine rivers, serene lakes, and the dramatic Dinaric Alps. Key attractions she highlights include the stunning Kravica Waterfall, the iconic Old Bridge Mostar, the captivating Blagaj Tekija, and the pilgrimage site of Apparition Hill.
South Africa, the Azores, and Beyond
Her second recommendation, South Africa, holds a special place in her heart. She urges travellers to explore its breathtaking landscapes and world-renowned safari parks for an authentic and awe-inspiring adventure.
For a unique island escape, Liz insists a trip to the Azores, Portugal's autonomous archipelago, is essential. She praises the islands for their spectacular vistas, famously adorned with vibrant azure hydrangeas. Must-visit spots there include the historic Gorreana Tea Factory, the beautiful Cascata da Ribeira dos Caldeirões waterfalls, and the Jardim Botânico António Borges. She also suggests using the trip as a base to explore Portugal's mainland cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra.
For those dreaming of a coastal retreat, she proposes the French Riviera as an excellent choice for combining relaxation with stunning scenery.
Finally, she points adventurous travellers towards Honduras in Central America. This destination offers the extraordinary combination of exploring tropical rainforests bordering Guatemala and the ancient Mayan ceremonial site of Copán, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Travellers React to the 2026 Hotlist
The recommendations sparked enthusiastic conversation among fellow travel fans. One commenter enthusiastically agreed, writing, "Azores is my favourite place in the entire world," while another simply stated, "Azores is such a special place!"
Others expressed aspirational goals, with one user noting, "I'd love to visit all these countries but that's so many languages to learn," and another sharing, "South Africa would be a dream. But it's so expensive to get flights out of AZ [Arizona]." Providing a dose of inspiration, a final user revealed, "I'm going to Honduras in the Spring. I can't wait to see it with my own eyes."
Liz's insights demonstrate that with careful planning and insider knowledge, a memorable and affordable global adventure in 2026 is well within reach. Her list serves as a perfect starting point for holiday planning, offering diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences that promise to enrich without impoverishing.
