Spring break came about faster than explected, and for those without solid plans, here are four budget-friendly destinations to consider, including prices and suggested activities.
Tirana, Albania:
Albania, situated on the Adriatic sea across from Italy, maintains a lively coffee-culture with warmer weather than Prague. Flights to Tirana start at 843 CZK one way on Wizz Air.
Notable sites include Skanderbeg Square, located in the heart of the city, the Grand Park, and the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car. Tirana is expected to reach 20°C during spring break, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
“I’ve been to Albania twice and am going back in August,” said AAU Humanities student, Anya Martin. “It’s so cheap, the food is great, and the views are beautiful.”
Martin recommends renting bikes to explore Albania for budget-friendly travel while simultaneously taking in the capital city’s scenic beauty.
Marrakech, Morocco:
For those looking to venture outside of Europe, Marrakech is a perfect destination.
During Ramadan, be aware that restaurant and activity hours may vary. Be sure to check ahead.
Flights from Prague to Marrakech during spring break range from 1650-2300 CZK one way. While the price is the highest on the list, accommodation, food, and transportation are affordable in country.
“The arabic flatbread was less than 30 CZK, I probably had thirty in one sitting,” said Annabelle Barsumian, an AAU Business student.
Wandering through the Medina, Marrakech’s main market, or souks offers a completely different culture than Prague. Enjoy authentic meals such as tagine and couscous, or sip mint tea.
Eating in public outside of the Ramadan fast should be avoided to show respect. However, Barsumian said that some restaurant staff allowed them to dine, even though they weren’t allowed to break the fast.
Sofia, Bulgaria:
Flights to Sofia from Prague can be on the more expensive side at around 6,000 CZK. Alternatively, traveling via bus to Vienna for around 500 CZK and then flying to Bulgaria proves to be a more affordable option, with one-way travel totaling around 1,500 CZK.
Bulgaria’s capital, Sofia, blends Roman history, architecture, affordable food, with natural beauty including ancient Roman ruins to the National Museum of History.
AAU Business student, Tsvetomir Metodiev, is a Bulgaria resident and recommends visitors to seek the restaurant at the peak of Vitosha Mountain and explore the nature in Stone River, Loven Park, Borisova Garden, and Boyana Waterfall.
Following a day spent in nature reserves and scenic landscapes, students have the opportunity to let loose in the city’s lively and affordable nightlife.
Budapest, Hungary:
Budapest is a student’s dream destination, with affordable drinks, food, accommodation, and stunning sites.
The city is home to one of the Central European University’s campuses, which is ranked as one of the most affordable universities in Europe and is a close rival to AAU.
Buses from Prague to Budapest cost around 399 CZK via RegioJet, with round trips totaling less than 750 CZK depending on travel dates.
GoodMo Budapest Smart Rooms is an accommodation option often utilized by students which offers twin rooms with a shared garden, terrace, lounge, and bar for 668-890 CZK per night.
Alternatively, a&o Budapest City Hostel offers shared rooms for 378 CZK, with free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a guest kitchen.
Nature activities in the parks are free, or with a small entry fee, and day passes to the city’s spas, like Gellert Spa, costs less than 850 CZK.According to the Budapest Travel Guide, it’s possible to visit Budapest for just 750 CZK a day.
