Jeju

Jeju is a breath of fresh air but can be tricky for tight budgets due to limited public transport reaching every hidden gem. However, for a backpacker willing to use the extensive bus network (though slow) and stay in guesthouses rather than hotels, it is a stunning escape. The vibe is adventurous and outdoorsy. You can find reasonably priced 'guesthouses' which act as communal social hubs, particularly around Jeju City and Seogwipo. Street food is relatively affordable in traditional markets like Dongmun, where you can grab grilled seafood and hallabong juice without breaking the bank. Free activities are the highlight here: hiking the Olle Trails or climbing Seongsan Ilchulbong at sunrise costs very little. A daily budget of $45 covers a bunk in a good guesthouse, three local market meals, and a day pass for the bus system. To save money, stick to the northern and southern city centers and avoid the high-end resorts in Jungmun.