The interesting thing about affordability, is that I've found that really seeing a place is much cheaper than following the tourist trail. 4-star hotels and res

The interesting thing about affordability, is that I've found that really seeing a place is much cheaper than following the tourist trail. 4-star hotels and restaurants look pretty much the same the world over, while a $5 meal or $20 room is distinctly local. I don't mean going overboard and "slumming" it, just look for nice places that lack international crowds and international branding. It takes a little more research, probably a guide, but it's a lot more interesting.