Stretch your dollar: 5 international destinations where US money goes further
Stretch your dollar: 5 international destinations where US money goes further
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Aribnb breaks down the hottest travel trends this spring break
Airbnb has revealed the most popular spring travel destinations and the reasoning behind the surge.
A strong dollar means American travelers can get more value for their money in certain countries.
The best time to book spring travel is between three months to three weeks before your departure date.
As the cost of travel goes up, one way to avoid breaking the bank is to go somewhere with a favorable conversion rate.
A higher exchange rate means your dollar has more purchasing power abroad, giving American travelers a better value on their international travel expenses. Seeing your dollar go further in another destination is always a nice perk, especially amid inflation, offering more wiggle room to spend on all the eating, drinking, activities and shopping you desire – without as much guilt.
This spring, compared to last, more Americans are seeking out international destinations where there's a higher exchange rate, according to Expedia Spring Travel Outlook. "The U.S. dollar is strong, so Americans are seizing the opportunity to maximize their travel budgets when exploring overseas getaways," said Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group brands public relations, to USA TODAY.
Is it too late for spring break travel? Here's how to score cheap flights and accommodations this spring
If you want to cross borders this spring, you'll need to act fast. The best deals are found between three months to three weeks before your departure date, with the lowest prices this year in late April to early May, according to the outlook.
Here are five international destinations where U.S. travelers can win with a higher exchange rate.
1. Japan
Japan is quickly emerging as one of the most popular spring break destinations this year, with searches for lodging in and flights to Osaka and Tokyo spiking by 50%, according to Expedia. Over the last few years, the yen has fallen substantially, offering a favorable exchange rate of about 148 yen to the dollar. This has made Japan more accessible to American travelers compared to previous years. Besides the stunning cherry blossom season, Japan blends modern conveniences with ancient history, from robots serving food to ancient tea gardens, so there's always something to do.
2. Mexico
The current exchange rate from the dollar to the Mexican peso is slightly above average, with about 20 pesos to the dollar, so it's a good time to book that warm-weather escape. While Cancun, Mexico City and San Jose del Cabo remain the most popular spring break destinations in Mexico, travelers looking to get off the beaten path can also check out smaller Mexican beach towns away from the crowds like Sayulita.
3. South Korea
The U.S. dollar to the Korean won exchange rate is slightly above average this spring at about 1,455 won to the dollar, prompting travelers to consider a visit to Seoul. Last December, the won fell to its weakest against the dollar for the first time in 15 years. This spring, Expedia has seen a 25% increase in lodging searches to the Korean capital, where travelers can indulge in cheap but delicious street food and explore grand palaces, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Changdeokgung.
4. Australia
At about $1.59 AUD to the U.S. dollar, the exchange rate for American travelers is strong in Australia, making it the perfect time to visit. When it's spring in the U.S., the Land Down Under is experiencing autumn – which is also shoulder season – so travelers can score with milder temperatures, cheaper prices and less crowds. While you could stay in popular areas like Sydney or Melbourne, other parts of Australia like Tasmania and the Gold Coast offer even more adventures with incredible nature and cuisine.
5. Spain
In 2022, the euro weakened against the dollar for the first time in two decades and the current exchange rate remains strong – with the dollar being about €0.92. U.S. travelers are taking advantage of the conversion by booking that Eurotrip, and the top international flight searches this spring are to Barcelona and Madrid, according to Expedia. In the spring, these two Spanish destinations offer temperate weather ideal for outdoor activities like biking, walking around historic sites like the Sagrada Familia and dining al fresco, of course.
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