6 weeks backpacking

the long lad

I'm hoping to go backpacking for about 6 weeks, from the last week in July. I haven't a clue where to go, but i want to party, see a bit of the world, take in a bit of culture and not spend an absolute mint. i'd be hoping to do the whole lot for about 3.5-4k, including flights.

central america really appeals to me, but i've heard its a bit dangerous at the moment. SE asia appeals also, but 6 weeks may not be long enough? south america appeals to me also, but i know nothing about it. basically i haven't a clue.

i'm 22, almost finished college, starting work in late september. there'd be a few of us going. suggestions please.

PCPhoto

3-4K .... you could afford 6months travelling around europe.

2-3K could cover you for thailand ....5-6weeks would be enough to travel and see the country and maybe some of its neighbours....and you might have some money left over.

all I can say is.... ya lucky fecker ...no matter what you choose hopefully you'll have a laugh and plenty of good experiences.

the long lad

well 4k would be the absolute max and most of it will be a loan (hopefully). lucky to be going into a job and haven't needed a student loan, and its my last chance to do something like this for a long time i reckon.

southsiderosie

I think you would be OK on the southern end of Central America: Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama. I would not go to Guatemala, Honduras or El Salvador right now. Nicaragua is REALLY cheap, and you can live quite well on the Pacific coast (especially travelling in the group) for under $20/day. Costa Rica is more expensive, but it is the most beautiful of the three - both the mountains and the beaches are amazing. That said, I loved Panama the most out of the three - not as much as CR, but Panama City is amazing - like Miami, but 1/4 of the cost. Panama City is a cool way to end a CA trip, since it has the best nightlife in the region...and some of the best looking people I've ever seen, anywhere.

The one thing I would say is that the Caribbean coast in both Nicaragua and CR can be a little dicey (especially Nicaragua) because of the narcotrafficking. But the Pacific coast is beautiful and less rainy. And in Panama, the Darien Gap along the Colombian border is definitely a no-go zone. Other than that, as long as you are careful (no wandering around at 3am, etc), you should be OK.

darrenh

I'd say pick a spot in Central or South America. South America is amazing. Check my blog if you want. Something might interest you.
http://www.travelblog.org/Bloggers/Wanderly-Wagon/Trips/2613

My highlights would be

Perito Moreno Glacier - Argentina
Iguasu Falls - Brazil/Argentina
Salt Flats - Bolivia
Inca Trail - Peru

There are hundreds others but you only have 6 weeks. Its a huge continent. Everyone who has been to Columbia has said it's the best in South America and no longer dangerous. Unfortunately I haven't got to go there...... YET!

Enjoy whatever you decide on. I'm just back home and very depressed!