Spring in our Steps Spring in our Steps | Page 7

Though it is often overlooked because of its proximity to Hanoi China, Northern Vietnam offers some of the most sensational scenery and culture in all of Asia. It features rice terraces, towering mountains, twisting roads, and many ethnic minorities. For budget travellers, accommodation can be easily found for ten Canadian dollars to fifteen dollars a night. Dorms are even cheaper at five dollars a night. Food expenses run at just fifty cents to two dollars per dish and travelling between towns will cost you about the same amount. To cut down on your expenditure even more, rent a motorbike for your stay and travel from place to place for virtually free.

4 Bishkek, Krygzystan

If you wish to impress your friends and family with your cultural appreciation, Bishkek, located in Central Asia, is the place to go. This capital city features remnants of the Silk Road, like the Burana Tower, and grand mountains that cover ninety-three percent of the region. Furthermore, its rich culture and history dates back thousands of years. Private accommodation and good meals start at fifteen Canadian dollars a night and two dollars a meal. Alternatively, pay a little more to enjoy the full experience of a traditional yurt stay, including two meals, at twenty dollars per person.

5 Northern Vietnam