International Workers’ Day Weekend is approaching, and with all the warm weather and holiday mood, why not take advantage of this and prepare your next vacation in a breathtaking destination without spending a fortune?
Hotel price comparison website Trivago.com has selected the world’s top low-tax destinations, inviting tourists to spend wisely on a well-deserved vacation.
1. Andorra
Image courtesy, Andorra Turisme, S.A.U.
One of the tiniest European countries, Andorra is settled in the Eastern Pyrenees, between France and Spain. Very popular with skiers, this hidden European gem has a lot to offer, from beautiful landscapes to fine dining, tax-free shopping, luxury accommodation, and a wealth of other affordable benefits.
Regarded as a Tax Heaven, Andorra provides all the advantages of a European country without being an official member of the European Union. In 2011, the Trivago Price Index reported an annual average hotel price of $82$.
2. Belize
Image via the Belize Tourism Board
Known as a Caribbean Tax Heaven, Belize offers visitors a dream location for the perfect vacation. From pristine beaches and amazing oceanic wonders, to abundant wildlife and remarkable Mayan ruins, the tropical destination situated in the Caribbean Sea, among other 450 islands and islets, is the only country in Central America where the official language is English. Home of the world’s second largest barrier reef – Belize Barrier Reef – and the site of the Great Blue Hole – a mysterious phenomenon which attracts constantly a huge number of scientists, divers and curious tourists every year – Belize, is the perfect tropical escape without the conventionally high costs.
3. New Hampshire, USA
Image courtesy, New Hampshire Division of Travel and Tourism Development, Dale W. Lary
New Hampshire’s natural beauty and historical heritage attract visitors every year, but few know that financial freedom is an important tourist draw. The scenic White Mountains, the Lake region, and the ocean beaches are among the top reasons why people visit the American state, but with the intention of attracting more non-resident shoppers and improving the local economy, New Hampshire ditched sales taxes.
4. Cyprus
Image courtesy, Cyprus Tourism Organization
Known as the birthplace of Aphrodite – the Greek goddess of love – the Mediterranean island of Cyprus is a bountiful source of culture and history. Its archaeological treasures, white and picturesque fishing villages, and breathtaking beaches make it one of the Mediterranean Sea’s most charming and notable islands.
Cyprus has only 15% VAT, an affordable destination with meagre taxes for non-residents.
5. Panama
Image courtesy, Visit Panama
Diversity and a wide array of things to do and see transform Panama into one of the most attractive destinations in the world. Known as the “Crossroads of the Americas”, the Republic of Panama is located in the southernmost part of Central America. It offers lovely beaches, rain forests, tropical weather, vibrant festivals, rich local cuisine, a fantastic bio-diversity, and modern capital with a wealth of entertainment opportunities for young and old.
The Panamanian “Balboa” is actually the U.S. dollar, but much stronger. That is why American tourists find Panama an attractive dreamland and a financial paradise.
6. Isle of Man
Image courtesy, Isle of Man Government
The Isle of Man is a beautiful island with spectacular natural landscapes, virgin beaches and a tranquil atmosphere. The island is ideally located between the coastlines of England, Scotland and Ireland of Wales, in the Irish Sea. Provides a varied mix of family-friendly activities, including fishing, rock climbing, hiking, biking and golfing; then some with more exotic appeal for adrenaline junkies, including swimming with sharks, diving the coasts or exploring the shipwrecks, the Isle of Man is still an excellent choice for travellers on a budget.
7. Nevada, USA
Image courtesy, Trivago.com
Nevada is a beautiful destination, home to the controversial Sin City, the famous Mojave Desert, the Red Rock Canyon, Lake Tahoe, Hoover Dam, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Both American and foreign tourists choose Nevada for its exciting attractions and low-priced accommodations.
The Trivago Hotel Price Index reported an average annual hotel price of $90$ for Nevada in 2011, which makes it an affordable destination for 2012 as well.
8. San Marino
Image courtesy, Visit San Marino
The beautiful Republic of San Marino is one of Europe’s smallest countries, after the Vatican and Monaco. Situated 657m above sea level, on the eastern side of the Apennine Mountains in the Italian Peninsula, San Marino provides many attractions such as beautiful backdrops, rich culture, gastronomy and shopping. Due to its budget surplus and the fame of being the state with the lowest unemployment rates in Europe, San Marino provides a fabulous shopping experience and a genuinely Italian environment without the high prices. The world-famous traveller Rick Steves said about San Marino: “As sales tax is about half that of surrounding Italy, shoppers have long come here for the savings”.
9. Hong Kong, China
Image courtesy, Trivago.com
With 0% VAT for tourists, no sales tax, no withholding tax, no tax on dividends and no capital gain tax, Hong Kong has developed into an international financial, trading and business centre. But it is also an attractive travel destination. The densely populated Chinese region is well-known for its astonishing skyline, the natural harbour and the nearby islands of Taipa and Coloane.
10. Luxembourg
Image courtesy, Visit Luxembourg
Luxembourg is a tiny country bordered by Belgium, France, and Germany and may be Europe’s most famous “tax-free” destination. With an incredible variety of first-class chocolate and wine, a considerable number of Michelin-starred restaurants, the healthiest population per capita, an enthralling mix of culture and natural beauty, and a 15% VAT, Luxembourg welcomes tourists from all over the world every year, surprising them with its authentic flair.
It is also a famous business hub for international entrepreneurs who come here to start businesses, especially in the financial sector.
