Diary of a Happy Goth

Being a student from a working class background and loving a well-deserved holiday don’t always align. I’m way too high-maintenance for a hostel and unwilling to cut back on my pre-flight tipple at the airport pub. I am, however, no stranger to getting the 50% volume Smirnoff from duty free and using that for predrinks in my accommodation when I’m at my destination. 

I consider myself pretty good at planning the perfect budget trip within Europe, and I’m fine with staying there for now. I have no savings, so clearly a 3-month Asian backpacking experience or a week in New York is not happening. But if you’re in a similar position to me, and feeling like going abroad is completely unrealistic, take a look at my realistic student travel destinations and see if I can change your mind.

Benidorm, Spain

I’m obsessed with this place – I don’t care if it’s known as Blackpool with the sun and chav central. I’ve got a 4-night all inclusive booked in April for £388, which is an insane price for an all inclusive. If you’re wanting a beach and party holiday, getting a cheap all inclusive is definitely the way forward. 

That way, you won’t need a lot of spending money, and you can avoid any pre-holiday money anxieties because food and drink are covered. Benidorm itself is a bargain destination, in fact, you could go on a free night out if you wanted to – most bars hand out free shots.

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

For my next city break, I’m thinking of Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina, because I’d rather save on flights and accommodation to prioritise exploring underrated cultures. The food looks amazing and the history is rich, so it firmly has its place on my budget bucket list. 

I’ve found some great, affordable excursions including hikes that cross into Montenegro and trips to Mostar. All this in a two and a half hour flight from my local airport!

Magaluf, Spain

This one is a party-girl dream of mine. My older sister used to go on girls’ holidays to Magaluf in the 2010s and the pictures make me jealous! It’s a hotspot for boat parties and beach clubs, but its natural beauty is also unmatched. 

I went to Mallorca last year and it was one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been, but we stayed on the opposite side of the island, which juxtaposed the crazy party vibe of Magaluf. This time, I’ve got my dancing shoes on!

Bucharest, Romania

Vibrant and busy on a budget, Bucharest is high on my city break bucket list. I was enticed by the viral spa initially where I was seeing TikTok after TikTok proving it’s cheaper to fly to Romania and attend Therme Bucuresti than go to a UK spa. 

I’m also excited by the food, history and nightlife, but the promise of a bargain massage and botanical garden spa really seals the deal.

Kavos, Corfu, Greece

I’ve been to Greece before, but I went to the island of Kefalonia which had perfectly secluded, relaxing vibes. I’m craving party Greece this time around, and Kavos seems like it would match my energy perfectly. Described by EasyJet as “you’ll probably hear it before you see it,” the lively nightlife would definitely work for me. 

I have seen travel content creators saying that you can find secluded relaxation in Kavos though, like at nearby historical sites and beaches. Having the option to pick between vibrant nightlife and chill tranquility is the recipe for my dream holiday.

Kraków, Poland

My final budget city break destination is Kraków because I’m particularly interested in the medieval Old Town and historical sites. I’ve heard good things about the food and nightlife, especially the affordability. 

I’ve found some great excursions and experiences on Tripadvisor, and by saving on a budget flight and bargain accommodation, I’d be willing to spend more on a quality historical tour.