Realistic cost comparison: Sayulita Mexico vs Rio de Janeiro vs Bahia (Aug-Sep 2025)

Sayulita, Mexico offers a vibrant beach town experience with affordable lodging options ranging from boutique hotels to hostels, local eateries serving fresh seafood and traditional Mexican cuisine, and activities like surfing, yoga, and exploring nearby natural reserves. Rio de Janeiro provides a bustling urban environment with a mix of luxury and budget accommodations, diverse dining options from street food to fine dining, and iconic activities such as visiting Christ the Redeemer, Copacabana beach, and samba nightlife. Bahia, Brazil, is known for its rich Afro-Brazilian culture, colonial architecture, and lively music scene, with accommodations varying from charming guesthouses to upscale resorts, local Bahian cuisine, and activities including historic tours, beach visits, and cultural festivals.