Cheap but Fun! 3 Favorite Southeast Asian Cities for American Tourists, Indonesia Not Included?

If you're looking for a Budget-Friendly Getaway that's still exciting, this list could be an interesting reference. Unfortunately, Indonesia hasn't made it onto the radar.

Based on a survey by Expedia, there are 10 cities worldwide rated as the most affordable for tourists from the United States throughout 2025. From this list, three cities in Southeast Asia managed to capture attention.

These three are Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur. These cities offer an appealing combination of pocket-friendly prices and diverse Travel experiences.

On average, American tourists spend around USD 150 per night when visiting these cities. The strong dollar exchange rate is one key factor, but it's not the only one; the experiences offered are also a major Draw.

In Ho Chi Minh City, travelers can enjoy the legendary sensation of street food, from pho to banh mi, while experiencing the buzz of a city that's alive almost 24 hours. The city also has an active nightlife, perfect for those who like to explore after dark.

Meanwhile, Bangkok is known as the complete package. Everything is available, from magnificent temples and traditional markets to modern malls. Not to mention its iconic and wallet-friendly cuisine, making this city always on the wishlist of global travelers.

Kuala Lumpur offers something different, blending Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures within one city. Besides urban attractions like the Petronas Twin Towers, the city is also a foodie paradise with flavors suited to the international palate, including American tourists.

Besides the three ASEAN cities, here is the complete list of the 10 most affordable cities for US tourists according to Expedia:

1. Salvador, Brazil
2. Guadalajara, Mexico
3. Bogota, Colombia
4. Mérida, Mexico
5. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
6. Sao Paulo, Brazil
7. Bangkok, Thailand
8. Edmonton, Canada
9. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
10. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.