By Emily King

For the traveler with shallow pockets and desperate for new adventures, Macedonia awaits with Balkan charm.

Tourism in the country has been slowly increasing the past few years, making 2012 an ideal time to visit--prices are still very inexpensive, and more accommodations are popping up to attract travelers. Food, transportation, hostels, and tourist spots remain cheap for the time being, and budget travelers can get by on about $50/day.

While nearby Croatia and Greece attract flocks of tourists to their coastlines, land-locked Macedonia is under the radar for most travelers. It is not included in major European organizations due to a disagreement with Greece--the government sees Macedonia’s name as a sly effort to eventually invade the northern region of Greece by the same title. Because of this, Macedonia had been kept quite isolated.

The country is home to many beautiful monasteries, and many accept overnight guests. For a small donation, travelers will be fed a simple dinner and given a bed. In the past, many vagabonders have had an easy time of hiking through the monasteries of Macedonia after taking the train up from Greece, but current strikes and demonstrations in Greece have caused authorities to suspend all international rail service between the countries until further notice.

Limited transportation aside, the Balkan nation has a wonderful mix of the surrounding countries. Turkish baths and bazaars make great stops for travelers, and the medieval monasteries are a no-brainer for inexpensive stays. The modern capital of Skopje gives great opportunity to meet others and experience Balkan night life with a less touristy vibe than some of the more popular countries surrounding.