@heroiisa: Disclaimer: These ratings are based on MY experiences as a budget traveler/backpacker and I still loved each country and think they are all worth visiting Part 2: 📍Malaysia: 9/10 + one of the most affordable countries in Southeast Asia + so much variety from big cities to islands and rainforests + relatively easy to travel around by bus - Not quite as backpacker-friendly as some other Southeast Asian countries in terms of hostels and the ease of booking travel - Bus travel was relatively easy but for some journeys you need to get tickets printed at the bus stations with long lines… go early! - Some of the bus journeys were rough and lots of people got sick 📍Portugal: 9/10 + one of the countries that offers the best value for money in Europe + amazing beaches + easy to get around + plenty of great hostels + easy to meet other backpackers + amazing shoulder season destination (good weather + lower prices!) - One of the more expensive “budget travel destinations” (but still amazing value!) - Prices get quite a lot higher in summer 📍Montenegro: 9/10 + the most underrated in Europe! + beautiful nature + many charming old towns + relatively easy to travel around by bus and since it’s a small country the rides aren’t too long + great shoulder season destination with decent prices and good weather - Accommodation, even hostels, get quite expensive in summer - Bus travel can get a bit messy in summer with crowded buses and delays 📍Bulgaria: 8.5/10 + easy and affordable to travel around by train + many interesting cities to visit + also has nice beach towns in addition to cities - Some trains were very old and dirty - While I met some very friendly people, many accommodation employees were also kind of rude - Some destinations don’t have many hostel options 📍Romania: 8/10 + great mix of beautiful nature and interesting cities + great destination if you like hiking in the mountains - A bit more expensive than its neighbouring countries - Some activities are a bit pricey (castles, going to the mountains, etc.) - Some destinations don’t have a great selection of hostels - Terrible traffic in Bucharest
