I want a non-boring, unique vacation. where should I go?

Question

I'm thinking culturally interesting, active nightlife, adventure ready, preferably cheap...I'd be going in August, after working the rest of the summer.

Answer 1

The above suggestion is good, but if you're looking for another, you could try Egypt or Morocco.  Both can be done cheaply, other than the airfare to get there.

Egypt has tons of culture, as you probably know.  You can see the major sights, spend some time in the desert, and even go to the beach at Sharm el Sheikh.  During the night, you can do anything from clubs to hookah bars.  

Morocco has a bit of everything -- beaches, mountains, desert, etc.  You could easily spend weeks there.  And the weather is probably better there in August than Egypt, which will be blisteringly hot.

In either place, you can plan in advance or go as you will.

One more idea, but not as cheap -- I went to Jordan last year and it was incredible.  My favorite sight was Petra -- nothing compares to the Siq (canyon) that you walk through to a point where the Treasury building emerges.  And the mountain hikes to view the region are spectacular.  Jordan also has deserts (Wadi Rum), a beach town (Aqaba), access to the Dead Sea, and plentiful Roman ruins, particularly in the north.  We also stopped off at one of the crusader castles, where an old native guide led us around and told stories for a tip.  Amman is also bustling and the locals were friendly.

In the Americas -- you could try a tour around Central America -- Guatemala, Costa Rica, etc.  The price is right, and you can see rain forests, beaches, and mountains.  My friend did a motorcycle trip around Costa Rica and loved it.

Happy travels!

Answer 2

Having travelled many places, my recommendation would be Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia.  Prices are still rather low in all three countries and there are literally thousands of things to see and do.  My three week vacation included one week in each country with "do-not-miss" major stops in the old Laotian capitol city of Luang Brahbang, the old Vietnam chinese trading village of Hoi An, and the ancient temples surrounding the famous Angor Wat in Cambodia.

All arrangements for accommodations, guides and transportation should be made in advance.  Almost any tour operator should be able to help.  You can start with http://www.asia-discovery.com/, but check out others as well, to ensure you are getting the best deal.

Have fun!