As the US dollar strengthens against other currencies, it is good news for Americans who want to travel overseas. A strong dollar means that goods and services become less expensive on their foreign travels, and they can get more value for their money. This is the time if you plan to take that Mediterranean cruise or travel in Asia in style.
We have collated a list of the 12 most affordable travel destinations. Pick one or more countries, book your tickets, and pack your bags.
India
India has always been an affordable travel destination, but now, with a dollar giving you more than 83 rupees, the country has become more affordable. Whether you stay in the luxurious resorts by Oberoi or at the majestic hotels by Taj Group, you have plenty of options throughout the length and breadth of this vast country. You can visit plenty of attractions and dine at the best restaurants whether you choose to enjoy the beautiful valleys and snowclad mountains of Kashmir, the royal palaces of Rajasthan, the natural lush green beauty of Kerela, or the cultural hotbeds of Delhi, Agra, or Rishikesh.
Vietnam
With the Vietnamese dong being the second-weakest currency in the world, with 1 dollar buying 23,485 dongs, we recommend a trip to Vietnam. Vietnam has beautiful landscapes, mouthwatering meal options, and friendly locals. Explore the romantic Hanoi or the pristine beaches of Ninh Van Bay and Phú Quốc island. Hoi An is for history buffs, and Ho Chi Minh City gives you a feel of the past as you wander past the city’s colonial-era landmarks. Vietnam is known for its café culture, street food stalls, and roadside bars.
Brazil
The cost of living in Brazil is, on average, half the cost of living in the USA. Not surprisingly, this makes Brazil an affordable travel destination from the US. Brazil also has a lot to offer its visitors. Tourists can visit the colossal statue of Christ, The Redeemer, perched on Mount Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro or walk down the posh neighborhoods and artistic Paulista Avenue of Sao Paulo. They can trek through the Amazon Rainforests or bar hop at Copacabana beach.
South Africa
With the South African rand’s value coming down to 18.75 against the dollar, it has put South Africa on the list of the most affordable travel destinations. Explore the majestic wildlife in Kruger National Park, visit Table Mountain, enjoy the vibrant culture of Cape Town, and hop on the party circuit of Johannesburg.
Romania
On average, a one-week trip to Romania for two people costs $1165. Romania offers decent accommodation, an inexpensive public transport system, and delicious food at affordable prices. Explore the mysterious forests of Transylvania, fortified churches, and castles, notably Bran Castle, which is associated with the legend of Count Dracula; Peles Castle, and The Black Church. Sip on Romanian wines, taste the local foods, take picturesque steam train rides, and admire the Romanian Sphinx and the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina.
Philippines
The Philippines is one of the most beautiful, affordable travel destinations in South East Asia. From white sand beaches to mesmerizing sunsets, camping out in the jungles, and exploring the limestone cave systems, the Philippines is an incredible place to travel, and all within the budget. One dollar gives almost 57 Philippine pesos; you can’t imagine what you can see, enjoy, and eat with that exchange rate. While Manila and Boracay can be expensive, places like Palawan, Sagada, and Siargao are economically more viable. You can book flights in advance for domestic travel or take ferries. Eating food at local establishments is very cheap in the Philippines; you can have lumpia, kikiam, and Halo Halo for less than a dollar.
Costa Rica
While Costa Rica is not dirt cheap, it is still affordable for Americans. A one-week trip to Costa Rica for two can set you back by $1677, which is inexpensive given that the country is a haven for adventure lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. From volcano trekking to Irazu or Arenal volcanoes to hiking in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, rafting in Naranje or Pacuare rivers, surfing, and snorkeling, Costa Rica provides adrenaline-packed activities for visitors on all budgets.
Madagascar
A one-week trip to Madagascar for two people costs $1186; consider this when pitting it against the more popular Maldives or Bora Bora. Madagascar, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean, offers breathtaking rainforests, wildlife safaris, the Avenue of the Baobabs, and more. You can find hotels to suit all budgets, food is cheap, and transportation is not very expensive either. The prices are comparable with those of Southeast Asian countries.
Egypt
The present exchange rate (1 US dollar = 47 EGP) with Egypt has made traveling to Egypt more affordable. Now, you can tour the Pyramids, cruise the Nile, and explore Cairo without spending a small fortune. The best part is that the food is incredibly cheap in Egypt as long as you eat at establishments serving local foods, and their proportions are usually significant. There are budget, mid-range, and 4- and 5-star hotels by Four Seasons, St. Regis, Marriott, and the Hilton.
Mongolia
If you are looking for a less explored, less crowded, but beautiful travel destination, Mongolia should be at the top of your list. The case is more robust as it is incredibly cheap (1 USD = 3450 MNT) to travel there. Mongolia has yet to become a trendy tourist destination, so the airfares are inexpensive. Mongolia offers accommodation, transportation, and food at very affordable rates; however, if you are looking for luxury accommodation or private tours, the budget will increase accordingly. You can explore the largely untamed Mongolian steppe, enjoy the extraordinary Mongol hospitality, dip into the art and history, watch the Mongol Derby, enjoy festivals like Naadam and Golden Eagle, and witness the Gobi Desert covered in snow.
Turkey
Turkey is phenomenal with its rich history, vibrant culture, breathtaking natural attractions, and mind-blowing food. However, a dollar giving almost 32 Turkish liras presents a stronger case for visiting this country. From $10-20 night hostels and mid-range hotel rooms for up to $100 to high-end hotels that cost upward of $200 per night, Turkey opens itself to people on all budgets. Enjoy the cultural and historical melting pot of Istanbul, hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia, thermal baths in Pamukkale, and the fabulous beaches of Antalya.
Portugal
Portugal is one of the cheapest amongst the Western European countries. It’s a family-friendly destination that lets tourists explore its charming vintage towns, sun-kissed beaches, and natural marvels. Accommodation and domestic travel are affordable if you opt for public transportation. Tavira, Lagos, and Porto are cheaper tourist destinations in Portugal.