7 Destinations Where Your Dollar Goes the Furthest for Travelers

If Dinogo's 2024 Travel Guide has inspired your upcoming adventure, here's some good news: The U.S. dollar is strong in many sought-after locations, meaning your money stretches further. For example, visiting the Colosseum in Rome or the Sydney Opera House costs less for Americans right now, thanks to the favorable exchange rates.

Although factors like seasonality and demand play a role in destination pricing (Paris will be pricier during the Olympics, while shoulder season offers some great bargains), a strong dollar means you get more value for your money. We consulted travel experts to pinpoint where you can make the most of your travel budget.

Peru

“Now is the perfect time to explore Peru,” says Melissa Da Silva, President of Trafalgar Tours North America. “Not only will travelers enjoy delicious meals for around $10, but the mild climate and breathtaking attractions make it a must-see destination. While Machu Picchu is a must-visit historical site, there's so much more to discover in Peru beyond these ancient Inca ruins. Plus, Intrepid Travel now offers new routes along the less-explored Inca Quarry Trail in the Sacred Valley.”

Michael Holtz, founder and CEO of SmartFlyer, agrees: “Countries like Argentina, Peru, and Colombia are celebrated for their diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and warm hospitality, all at a much more affordable price point, whether you're traveling or enjoying the local scene.”

Plan your stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Inkaterra offers 83 charming adobe casitas nestled across 12 acres of cloud forest by the Vilcanota River, home to 214 bird species and a stunning array of native orchids.

Thailand

“When the U.S. dollar is strong, it's a fantastic time to explore Europe,” says Ann Chamberlain, a travel expert for Frosch, a luxury travel agency under Chase’s business arm. However, she suggests travelers consider other destinations as well. “One of my top recommendations is Thailand, which remains very affordable, especially for luxury stays. Many five-star resorts are priced starting in the $200 range, so you can indulge without overspending. It’s also an excellent destination for gourmet food and offers some of the best beaches in the world. Visitors can relax in nature, without spending a fortune on expensive activities.” And for those following pop culture: The third season of HBO’s The White Lotus is currently filming in Thailand, making it a great time to visit before the luxury resorts get even more popular after the show airs next year.

Plan your stay: Cape Kudu Hotel, Koh Yao Noi

Part of the Small Luxury Hotels collection, the stylish Cape Kudu is nestled on Koh Yao, a tranquil island just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Phuket, offering a laid-back, authentic atmosphere.

Japan

If Japan has always been on your travel wishlist, now’s the ideal time to go: Thanks to the weak yen, your U.S. dollar stretches about 35 percent farther than it did back in 2019. Whether you want to dive into the bustling fish markets and eclectic bars of Tokyo, explore the serene temples of Kyoto, or trek through the awe-inspiring forests along the Kumano Kodo trail, there are plenty of great deals waiting for you.

Plan your visit: Hoshinoya Tokyo

Echoing the charm of traditional Japanese ryokans, Hoshinoya Tokyo is a tranquil 84-room retreat nestled in the bustling Otemachi financial district of Tokyo. Each floor is crafted to mimic a private ryokan experience, complete with a communal tea area offering Japanese teas and local snacks. Notably, Hoshinoya is the only hotel in Tokyo that boasts an onsen, naturally sourced from hot springs 5,000 feet below the property.

Mexico

Mexico is a dream destination for history buffs, art lovers, food enthusiasts, and beach seekers alike. Mexico City stands as a dynamic capital offering a diverse range of accommodations in neighborhoods like Reforma, Roma, and Condesa, each brimming with fantastic street food and gourmet dining options. Hannah Choat, PR specialist for Intrepid Travel North America, recommends exploring the Yucatán Peninsula for its pristine beaches and Mayan ruins, or joining a culinary tour in Oaxaca for a taste of the region's famous cuisine.

Plan your stay: Condesa DF, Mexico City

For a taste of Mexico City's trendy vibe, grab a drink on the hotel’s rooftop terrace, where you can mingle with the city's stylish crowd. Alternatively, retreat to one of the 40 sleek rooms housed in a 1928 French neoclassical mansion, set in the tree-lined streets of the Condesa neighborhood.

Discover more of our top hotel picks in Mexico City.

Vietnam

If you’re seeking an affordable travel destination, Choat suggests, “[Vietnam] is an excellent choice. Essential travel costs—like accommodations, food, and transportation—are incredibly budget-friendly, so you might find yourself spending much less than anticipated.”

Plan your getaway: Six Senses Ninh Van Bay

This idyllic resort features 62 private pool villas, nestled along the beaches and hillsides of Vietnam’s coastline, just across the bay from the city of Nha Trang.

Australia

According to Holtz, “For Americans with some extra time to travel, Australia offers a perfect escape where you can stretch your dollar further.” As of May 2024, US$1 will get you AUS$1.50, allowing U.S. travelers to enjoy more of Melbourne’s coffee scene or indulge in a beer while exploring Sydney’s top hotels, one of our featured destinations for Where to Go in 2024. (Just remember, an advance visa is required.)

Plan your visit: Capella Sydney

Opened in March 2023, this restored 1912 sandstone structure exudes timeless elegance and reflects the city's unique character.

Europe

Holtz explains, “The U.S. dollar is particularly strong right now, nearly on par with the euro.” He adds, “This favorable exchange rate, along with an influx of new hotels—especially in Italy and France—makes 2024 a perfect time to travel to Europe.” Holtz also highlights Portugal as a great choice, where visitors can enjoy the Mediterranean’s charm for longer stays at more affordable prices.

Steve Born, chief marketing officer for the Globus family of travel brands (Globus, Cosmos, and Avalon Waterways), sees significant potential in Europe. He highlights that the euro stretches further in Eastern and Southern Europe compared to the West. Born recommends visiting Croatia and Greece for more affordable dining and lodging. “Cities like Dubrovnik, perched on the Adriatic Sea, offer stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites, historic streets, and medieval attractions, all while Croatian hotels remain much more budget-friendly than those in Western Europe,” he shares.

Passalacqua, Lake Como, Italy

Historical figures like Napoleon Bonaparte, Winston Churchill, and composer Vincenzo Bellini once stayed at Lake Como’s neoclassical Villa Passalacqua long before it was transformed into a lavish 24-suite hotel. It is now a proud addition to Dinogo’s Best Hotels of 2023 list.

Pa.te.os, Alentejo, Portugal

Another gem on Dinogo’s Best Hotels of 2023 list, the minimalist Pa.te.os was designed by celebrated Lisbon architect Manuel Aires Mateus to immerse guests in the breathtaking landscape of Alentejo.

Le Grand Mazarin, Paris, France

For design enthusiasts with an eye for vibrant colors and elegant decor, Le Grand Mazarin in the trendy Le Marais district of Paris is the perfect place to stay. This stylish hotel offers an atmosphere brimming with artistic flair.

Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Excelsior, a historic hotel dating back to 1913, is a renowned landmark located just a five-minute walk from Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Its seafront rooms offer breathtaking views of the Adriatic.

This article was first published in 2022 and updated with new information on May 16, 2024.