Vacationers can spend a night in Croatia for less than $100.
(ABCNEWS.com)
Summer is close and now is a great time to plan an affordable yet fabulous getaway. Nilou Motamed, Senior Editor at Travel + Leisure magazine came to "Good Morning American Weekend Edition," to dish on some of the most exotic international locations that will not cost you an arm or a leg.
1. Great Buddy Trip: Istria, Croatia
Rent a villa from Vintage Travel for as little as $595 per week (less than $100 a day). Use *vintagetravel.co.uk.
The Adriatic's largest peninsula is giving its more popular neighbor, Tuscany, a run for its money.
Rolling vineyards, mountain villages, Roman architecture, Italian-inspired cuisine.
"This is a great summer destination," said Motamed. "It's like the next Mediterranean. And it's so much more affordable than going to Italy or the south of France. And if you're into water, it's a great destination. Istria in particular is really beautiful. It has a flavor of Italy, and great food and atmosphere. You can get your own little villa with pool and everything for less than $100."
2. Great Country Escape: Galway, Ireland
On the west of Ireland, Galway has been gaining attention as a seaside retreat for Dubliners, as well as a gateway to Connemara.
Great mix of urban with easy access to the country (including the nearby Aran Islands).
An affordable option is the Radisson SAS (rooms from $180) *radissonhotelgalway.ie.
Eat at the Quay Street Restaurant & Bar, where the owner buys her seafood right off the boat.
"The beer is great, the oysters are great, and it's just stunningly beautiful," said Motamed. "It's a more traditional trip. You're going to have a very Irish experience. And the Radisson is very affordable."
3. Great Beach Vacation: Costa Rica
Stay at Sueno del Mar for $165 per night.
Try taking a canopy zip-line through the tropical forests and see a wide variety of animals in their natural environment.
Go mountain biking or white water rafting.
Lots of water sports.
Amazing sunsets from the beaches.
