By Dana Perkiss
Some people may feel intimidated to travel because they don’t want to break their budget, but there are actually tons of destinations where you can easily stretch a dollar.
The U.S. dollar (USD) has been gaining strength in comparison to other countries around the world, setting up travelers to secure more affordable vacation packages. To help you travel within your budget, check out these top destinations where the USD goes the furthest.
Spain
Whether you want to explore the vibrant streets of Madrid, check out the beautiful beaches in Barcelona, or immerse yourself in Andalusia’s wine country, you can do so at affordable rates in Spain.
Wine connoisseurs can indulge in their fair share of vino at about €5 per bottle, while a refueling cup of coffee is just about €1. Lunch or dinner can cost anywhere between €15 and €45, depending on how much you want to splurge on Spanish tapas.
Argentina
If you love soccer, tango, and friendly locals, then Argentina is the perfect place for you. This South American country is brimming with diverse landscapes and culture – from Buenos Aires, the capital city filled with things to do, to Patagonia, a vast region with stunning landscapes and natural wonders.
Since the Argentine Peso dropped in 2022, many travelers are loving Argentina as a budget-friendly destination. The country offers a favorable exchange rate for the USD, making it so your total daily expenses in Argentina would be kept low. A nice dinner might cost just $16 per person, while transportation like taxis is also fairly affordable.
United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland)
The USD has been slowly gaining strength over the last few years, currently equating to about 0.8 Pounds – meaning now is the best time to book a trip to the UK.
Whether you want to search for the Loch Ness Monster in Scotland, drive the famous scenic routes in Northern Ireland, immerse yourself in royal culture in England, or get lost in the stunning terrain and beaches of Wales, the UK is filled with incredible destinations perfect for any traveler.
South Africa
South Africa is a bucket list destination that’s more affordable than most people think, even though the experiences it provides are beyond value. From thrilling safaris and National Parks to beautiful beaches in Cape Town, South Africa is beyond worth it for all travelers.
18.7 South African rand equals 1 USD, meaning your money can go pretty far here. You can have a traditional South African meal for under $10 and wash it down with a delicious beer for about $2. The country is also well-known for its spectacular wineries, so you can indulge in your fair share of delicious wine for less than you’d pay in the U.S.
Colombia
Arguably one of the best countries to visit in South America, Colombia is an incredibly diverse country filled with incredible beaches, vast mountains, and exquisite cuisine. Perhaps best of all, it is highly affordable for U.S. travelers, being that 1 USD equates to about 3,770 Pesos.
Taxies could cost you under $5, with the same amount being used for a nice meal at a local restaurant. A beer at the bar can be found for as low as $1, while delicious street food like empanadas and arepas can also be found for under $1. Basically, you can enjoy quite luxurious amenities and meals in Colombia at very budget-friendly rates!
Hungary
Hungary is an incredibly unique country in Eastern Europe that doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves. Boasting a rich history, exquisite architecture, and famous spa towns, Hungary is an underrated country in Europe you must add to your bucket list.
Don’t let the opulent castles and vivid culture scare you – the daily costs in Hungary are easy to keep low! A filling breakfast could cost you just about $3, and a delicious dinner costing about $7. You can especially find affordable food in Budapest at the Downtown Market on Hold Street, as well as cheap drinks in the city’s ruin bars.
Peru
Home to Machu Picchu and the Amazon jungle, Peru is easily one of the most bucket-list destinations in the world. It’s also known for being budget-friendly and hosting tourists, with about 3.7 Peruvian soles equating to one USD.
This means that you can indulge in delicious Peruvian cuisine, like ceviche, for very affordable prices. You can have a whole dinner with an appetizer, main course, drink, and dessert for between $5-$10, or get a whole bottle of wine for just $1!
Egypt
Have you ever dreamed of taking a Nile River cruise or seeing the famous Pyramids of Giza in person? Well, this is your chance!
Now in 2024, one USD equates to about 47 Egyptian Pounds – meaning your Egyptian bucket list is more affordable than ever. Explore Egypt’s vibrant capital of Cairo, marvel at the Great Sphinx in Giza, and maybe even take a dip in the Red Sea at budget-friendly rates stronger than before!
Bonus: All of Europe
With the EUR and USD closer than ever, now is the absolute best time to travel to Europe. Travelers can enjoy lower rates in countries that utilize the Euro such as Italy, Greece, and Ireland.
So, what does this mean? Your dollar will go further in Europe than it has in over 20 years, and you’ll want to take advantage of the opportune exchange rates now while they're more favorable.
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