Solo budget travel in Aug - where should I go??

You'll get more for your dollar in some Asian countries vs. Europe. If you are set on Europe, you might do better in some Eastern European countries to stretch your money further.

As for weather affecting your trip, yes, much of Europe can be hot/humid in August. If you prefer cooler climates, maybe Ireland, Northern Ireland, Sweden, Norway, U.K. (though some of these countries aren't cheap for travel currently).

In terms of meeting all 4 of your criteria, I would actually recommend New Zealand for a 3 week trip. You can take any of the hop-on/hop-off bus circuits around both the North & South Islands, the U.S. Dollar is still doing slightly better there, safe for solo female, loads of budget options for lodging & food. Weather (especially in South Island) can be cool to cold that time of year (seasons reversed). Outback, Queensland and New South Wales in Australia would also be good options-winter, but milder weather than NZ. Much longer distances to cover, though.

Cat, here's something from left field... try Lima, Peru! The season is winter, the cost is cheap!, and even airfare isn't going to break the bank.

However, if you're saying Europe or Asia... I would say stick to Europe instead of Asia. Maybe because I am Asian, but I feel more safe in Europe.

Cost, though, will be expensive in Europe. If you find an apartment, that will save you some money because you can cook or bring home food, saving you money there.

Isn't Paris cheaper in August since all the Parisians are away?

I think you need to factor in your own interests( which none of us know) . Hiking, shopping, eating, art, ruins, beaches, etc etc.
I also do not advocate jumping around too much when you have only 3 weeks.
I like Paris in August( ok , I like it all the time)
I am not into Asia, but that is just my personal tastes and many people love it!
One thing for Europe is if you want to do two or three countries the distances are close enough, the trains good enough, that it would be fairly easy.

Thanks to everyone for their replies. As far as my interests, I'm interesting in some scenery/relaxation, but mostly eating and cultural sights -- "soaking in" different aspects of the country's culture. A mix of fast pace and relaxation. While I enjoy outdoors and exercise, I'm not really looking for a hiking or camping trip.

From what I've heard, Peru may not be the safest place for a single female who only speaks a few words of spanish. What was your experience like?

Cat,, you need to go on some other websites to fairly research this trip. This board is primarily filled with Europeon travelers, although some have been to Asia, Africa and South America, you need to find a board with a broader range of travelers if you are truly interested in trying something other then Europe( although my opinion is Europe would be easiest and safest for a solo female) .

Try Lonely Planet, and tripadvisor.com forums.

Best of luck, isn't it nice you have so many choices.

Hi there, check out www.timeforone.com. Everything is vetted for solo travel, and there are some nice European and Asian ideas.

Best of luck

Wendy

Hello Cat. Most of the people who replied to many questions at this "Travelers' Helpline" do not like to reply to the question "where should I go". But I can help you begin the process of elimination. You said "Taking into consideration 1) Cost (rooms, food, transportation). That means you do not want to go to Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark. Or the cities Rome, Venice, Vienna, Amsterdam, Dublin. And you do not want to go to a place that has very hot weather in August. So that eliminates Italy and Greece and most of Spain. The places in Italy that can have a pleasant environment in August : the northern Lakes, and the Dolomites, and the Cinque Terre : are extremely crowded with people in August.
So, of the places in Europe that I did not eliminate, which of those places did you go to before ? And, did you decide to not go to those places again ? You said you want budget travel. Flying to Europe in August is very expensive. Is August the only month when you can go ?