When it comes to saving money on travel, timing can be everything. While travelers often look for cheap flights, one aspect of the overall price of travel that is often overlooked is the value of the traveler’s currency in the countries they are visiting.
[Watch: How to ACTUALLY Pick a Travel Program]
In recent months, we have seen the value of the U.S. dollar strengthen against a number of foreign currencies (including the Euro), meaning you will get a lot more “bang for your buck” on accommodations, transportation and other in-destination costs (including food, tourist attractions and shopping) when traveling in a number of foreign countries worldwide. Check out our list of the countries to visit right now where your dollar will take you further. With the volatility of currencies, you shouldn’t hesitate on what could be a temporary advantage!
Europe
Current Exchange Rate: 1 Euro (€EUR) = 1.08 US Dollar ($USD) (3/27/2015)
If you’ve ever wanted to take a Eurotrip, now is the time to go! Currently, the Euro is worth $1.08, which is a $0.47 decrease from 2008 when the Euro was worth $1.55! According to CNN Money, you’ll get more for you money in cities such as Madrid or Paris now than you would have anytime in the past 12 years. If you are traveling to Europe, bear in mind that not all European countries use the Euro. For example, right now the Great Britain Pound (£GBP) is also very strong against the Euro, meaning that traveling to London still won’t be cheap for travelers who have an exchange rate against the dollar.
This current exchange rate is not going unnoticed by travelers. An influx of Americans are expected to visit Europe this summer. Total gross bookings are predicted to reach €268.4 billion by 2016 – a 6% jump from 2014. You’ll want to book your trip before prices rise with travelers’ increasing interest!
Australia
Current Exchange Rate: 1 Australian Dollar ($AUD) = 0.78 US Dollar ($USD) (3/27/2015)
Take a trip to the Land Down Unda!
You may never have thought you could afford a trip to the other side of the globe as a student, but when you take advantage of Virgin Australia student flight discounts to get you there for less and factor in that the Australian dollar is currently worth $0.78, a significant drop since 2008, you may be able to swing it!
Australia is renowned for some of the best snorkeling, scuba diving, and wildlife in the world, all even more affordable with the recent market changes.
Japan
Current Exchange Rate: 1 Japanese Yen (¥JPY) = 0.0084 US Dollar ($USD) (3/27/2015)
Japan has historically been known for being expensive to visit, but the rising value of the U.S. dollar makes traveling to this high-tech destination a great option for student travel. In 2008, the U.S. dollar barely bought 100 Japanese yen, but now commands approximately 120. With those extra savings, you can learn how to be a Samurai for the day, or impress your friends back home with some sushi-making skills!
Canada
Current Exchange Rate: 1 Canadian Dollar ($CAD) = 0.80 US Dollar ($USD) (3/27/2015)
Want to take a trip north of the border? The Canadian dollar is currently worth $0.80, meaning you’ll receive a 20% discount on everything from a flying over Niagara Falls to whale-watching in Vancouver. Canada is an incredibly diverse nation that attracts outdoor enthusiasts for some of the best skiing in North America and picturesque landscapes in any season.
The ease of airline travel to Canada is another perk of traveling to Canada. Passengers experience short flight times and proceed quickly through customs due to the pre-clearance border agreement between Canada and the U.S. Even if you only have a weekend, traveling to Canada is completely feasible.
Thailand
Current Exchange Rate: 1 Thai Baht (฿THB) = 0.031 US Dollar ($USD) (3/27/2015)
Asia has always been one of our favorite destinations for cheap travel where students can stretch their dollar the furthest. In particular, Thailand offers stunning beaches, native tribes, and floating markets where you can purchase cheap goods.
Food in Thailand is very inexpensive, each meal costing an average of 40 to 200 Baht ($1.23 to $6.14), depending where you go and what you want to eat. Visitors can rent a sun bed for the day for about 50 to 100 Baht ($1.54 to $3.07) or relax with a 1-hour Thai massage for about 200 to 400 Baht ($6.14 to $12.28).
Not only will your dollar have a lot of buying power in these destinations, but StudentUniverse can help get you there with cheap airline tickets for students!
See how much money you can save and start planning your trip today.
This fantastic travel article is provided by StudentUniverse – your student flight discount hub.
Look for the Perfect Program Abroad Now
Start Your Search