Under $100: Isla Holbox, Mexico

Considered one of the Yucatan Peninsula’s hidden gems, Isla Holbox is situated off the northern coast of the peninsula and (for the moment) is largely untouched. The island is so small and compact it would be difficult to spend $100 in one day unless you book a private whale shark tour. But if your main reason to visit the island is to relax, your pesos will go a long way.

The small central village on the island is teeny, but there’s enough supply for visitors staying for a few days. Near the main square sits a street food market serving tacos, empanadas and other snack-type foods for as little as 15 pesos (78 cents)!

Set aside some time to visit the Yum-Balam nature reserve, about a 40-minute walk from the town (or accessible via the island’s only transportation options: bicycle or golf cart). For no admission fee, explore the acres where more than 420 bird species live, as do crocodiles, jaguars, tapirs, monkeys and hawksbill turtles. If you wander along the beachside of the reserve, you may even spot a few wading flamingos.

Spend the afternoon lazing about on the beaches, some of which allow you to rent a sunbed and umbrella, but if you’re prepared with enough sunblock and a wide-brimmed hat, an empty spot in the sand will do.

When dinnertime hits, head back into town for a burger and fries at Oliver’s Steakhouse for less than $10, or grab some local grub at El Cocal de Holbox, where three tacos can cost anywhere from $3 to $5.50. If you’re with a group and feel like a splurge, head to Roots pizza for the famous lobster pizza for about $30.