5 places where your dollars will go further right now
Editor's Note
The U.S. dollar has fallen 9% this year, and it's unfortunately leading to increased costs for deal-hunting Americans who are looking to travel internationally. Since President Donald Trump announced tariffs on imports from other countries, the dollar has lost value over the past few weeks against several major currencies, including the euro and British pound.
When the dollar is strong, your travel can help support local economies while keeping your bank account happy. You may not see big savings on flights (unless you nab a cheap flight deal or book with points and miles), but you will be able to stretch your dollar at the destination itself when it comes to accommodations, shopping excursions, dining and other activities.
A weaker dollar means your money will not go as far, and you may spend more for a vacation abroad. But it is good news for foreign tourists looking to visit the U.S., since their currency will go further.
You may want to skip a pricey trip to Europe this year due to the weaker dollar, and instead shift your travel to a more affordable destination — such as Japan, Canada or Brazil — to get more bang for your buck.
Japan
A favorable exchange rate for American travelers has helped drive a record number of tourists to Japan for the past couple of years. According to the Japanese National Tourism Organization, the country saw almost 3.5 million foreign tourists arriving in March alone — an increase of 13.5% compared to March 2024.
The value of the yen has been falling for years. A few years ago, it took closer to 100 yen to equal a dollar. The yen has strengthened some recently, with the current exchange rate of around 144 yen to $1, but it's still a good deal compared to several years ago.
Canada
A weaker dollar in our neighboring country is helping to keep shopping and travel within Canada more affordable for American travelers. It's a great situation for those who don't want to travel far away from home. The exchange rate was recently reported as 1.39 Canadian dollars to $1.
If you're looking for a way to save money on a trip to Canada, consider planning your trip well in advance with a travel advisor or tour company. If possible, make your purchase in Canadian dollars — it's a great way to lock in a lower price if you think exchange rates may rise in the months before your trip.
"There's a common misunderstanding that things cost more when you book with a travel advisor. They don't," Erika Richter, a spokesperson for the American Society of Travel Advisors, said. "The price of what you're buying is the same whether you book with them or not. You're just getting an enhanced level of experience, and you're getting someone who can help you make decisions that will help you stay within your budget."
Related: Booking low-cost flights to and around Canada with Aeroplan
Brazil
Brazil has long been heralded as an affordable destination for U.S. travelers. Brazil's real plummeted in late 2024, weakening more than 20% against the dollar. It's been rebounding recently, but with the Brazilian real currently valued at around 5.71 Brazilian reais to $1, bargains are still available. For context, the exchange rate was about 2.21 reais to $1 a decade ago.
The country is experiencing record tourism, with the tourism board reporting that 3.7 million international tourists visited from January to March this year — an increase of 47.8% compared to the same period last year. Brazil's government leaders expect Brazil to be the most visited destination in South America by 2027, attracting 8.1 million international tourists per year.
"We are overcoming challenges and positioning Brazil as an attractive tourist destination for a highly demanding global market," Celso Sabino, minister of tourism, said in a statement. "We will work tirelessly to reach the 2027 target, with millions of foreign tourists visiting our country, generating jobs and boosting the local economy."
Travelers from the U.S., Canada and Australia do have one new added cost to consider if heading to Brazil. As of April 10, they need a visa for entry into Brazil. You can apply online for an eVisa through the Brazilian government-authorized website. The cost is $80.90 per person, and the visa is valid for travel up to 90 days in one year.
Related: 15 places you need a visa or ETA to travel to with an American passport
Other destinations to watch
Colombia
Richter also suggested Colombia as an ideal destination for U.S. travelers who want to get the most value out of their dollar. The current exchange rate is 4,323 Colombian pesos to $1.
"Colombia is one of the destinations that we're seeing people really wanting to explore more," she said. "[It has] lots of rich cultural heritage, friendly locals, and the U.S. dollar goes really far there."
However, keep in mind that the U.S. Department of State currently recommends that travelers reconsider visiting certain areas of Colombia. Research what's on your itinerary thoroughly before you finalize your plans.
South Korea
South Korea is another destination where the currency has significantly weakened. The South Korean won has reached record lows against the dollar this year, with the exchange rate recently reported as 1,427 won against $1.
South Korean cities like Seoul and Busan offer many affordable and free activities. Visitors can tour historic and cultural venues like museums and temples, as well as natural attractions situated near the sea or in the mountains. The country also has an affordable public transit system that makes it easy and cheap to get around.
Airfare prices for domestic travel or to other nearby Asian countries can also be fairly affordable if traveling with budget airlines such as Air Busan and Jeju Air.
Ways to maximize a favorable exchange rate
No matter where your international travels take you, you can also stretch your dollar by keeping these three tips in mind:
- Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees. Card issuers can add up to 3% in fees to international credit card transactions. However, several cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees), the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card (see rates and fees), and The Platinum Card® from American Express (see rates and fees), offer no foreign transaction fees as a benefit, keeping more money in your pocket.
- Use a checking account with no foreign transaction fees when withdrawing cash from an ATM. While paying with a credit card is often preferred since you can earn travel rewards on your purchases, sometimes you will need cash abroad.
- Always pay in the local currency. Decline options for "dynamic currency conversion" when paying for your purchases with a credit card or withdrawing cash from an ATM. It may seem like the merchant is simplifying things by offering you the option to pay in dollars, but you'll typically receive a poor exchange rate for the convenience.
Bottom line
By watching markets and currency exchange rates, U.S. travelers can anticipate destinations that will emerge as the next great bargain despite a weakening dollar.
Related reading:
- Best cards with no foreign transaction fees
- These are the best times to buy an international flight
- Planning a trip abroad? Use your points and miles to book these popular international flights
- 8 things to expect when you travel internationally from the US
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