11 Places Where Your Dollar Goes Farther
The world’s economy has been struggling over the past year, and one consequence has been that many countries have seen their currencies fall versus the U.S. dollar — which means American travelers are getting a bigger bang for their buck. Here are some of our favorite destinations where your dollar is going further — and farther — than
The Seychelles (Seychellois rupee, 103 percent decline versus U.S. dollar): These 115 islands in the western Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar, are an eco-tourist’s paradise. Seabirds, giant tortoises and other wildlife are abundant, and the island nation’s coral reefs have earned world renown. More than five dozen beaches dot the principal island, Mahé, alone. Traffic on La Digue consists mainly of bicycles and oxcarts; go here for unhurried, traditional island life.
Iceland (Icelandic krona, 61 percent decline versus U.S. dollar): This Nordic nation had spectacular economic troubles last year, but this means Ohio-sized Iceland now is luring tourists with great deals. If you do nothing else here, make sure you take part in the national pastime of bathing in outdoor geothermal pools, popular even in snowstorms. In the summer, enjoy midnight golf at one of 50 courses. The Golden Circle region includes the beautiful Gullfoss waterfall as well as Thingvellir, the site where Iceland’s chieftains formed what’s referred to as the world’s first parliament in 930.
Ukraine (Ukrainian hryvnia, 60 percent decline versus U.S. dollar): East meets West in this former Soviet republic, which a millennium ago was the base of the largest and most powerful state in Europe. Kyiv, also known as Kiev, is home to stunning art and architecture, including gorgeous churches and other religious edifices. The Crimea is famous for health resorts, mineral waters and wines, while the Black Sea — featuring the French-flavored city of Odessa — is usually swimmable till October.
Zambia (Zambian kwacha, 53 percent decline versus U.S. dollar): Victoria Falls, flowing from the Zambezi River on the border with Zimbabwe, is said to be the largest waterfall in the world; certainly it’s one of the most breathtaking. In northern Zambia lies the southern reaches of Lake Tanganyika, the world’s longest freshwater lake, which was once thought to be the source of the Nile. Animal-viewing opportunities are abundant here, and dozens of safaris can introduce you to leopards, hippos, elephants, zebras and giraffes.
Russia (Russian ruble, 45 percent decline versus U.S. dollar): The world’s largest country by area has more to see than is possible on most trips, but many of the most interesting and historic attractions are concentrated in Moscow, the current capital, and St. Petersburg, the former one. While in Moscow, be sure to see Red Square, the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Bolshoi Theatre. In St. Petersburg, take in Peter the Great’s Peterhof palace, often called the “Russian Versailles,” and the incredible museums of the Hermitage.
Hungary (Hungarian forint, 41 percent decline versus U.S. dollar): At the heart of the land of the Magyars is Budapest, on the banks of the Danube. It was once the capital of the far-ranging Austro-Hungarian Empire, and still is widely considered one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Highlights include Buda Castle, the former seat of Hungarian kings; the neo-Gothic Parliament building; and Europe’s largest synagogue. Hungary has a 2,000-year-old spa tradition, peppered over the years by Roman and Turkish influences; the tradition remains strong today, with hundreds of mineral springs and public baths dotted across the country
Colombia (Colombian peso, 37 percent decline versus U.S. dollar): This South American country has had a reputation for violence, but these days the urban areas are prime tourist destinations. A must-see is the capital, Bogotá, whose highlights include the Plaza de Simón Bolívar, laid out by Spanish colonists, and the Zona Rosa, lined with trendy shops and delectable dining establishments. Also worth a visit is the lovely Caribbean city Cartagena; attractions include the home of Colombian author Gabriel García Márquez, whose book “Love in the Time of Cholera” takes place in an unnamed city much like this one.
Romania (Romanian lei, 35 percent decline versus U.S. dollar): You will scarcely find a country more filled with history, in the form of elegant fortresses, traditional villages and age-old churches. In Bucovina in northeast Romania, you’ll find “painted monasteries,” whose exterior walls are decorated with colorful 15th- and 16th-century frescoes. Castles from across the centuries dot the countryside, including Peles Castle, in southern Romania, and Bran Castle, popularly considered the home of Dracula. Elegant Bucharest is a sophisticated modern center with a thriving nightlife.
Chile (Chilean peso, 34 percent decline versus U.S. dollar): Occupying a long, narrow strip of land on the Pacific side of South America, Chile has one of the widest ranges of latitude and landscape of any nation in the world. The northern section consists primarily of the Atacama Desert, one of the world’s driest regions. Farther south is the capital, Santiago, and the Chilean wine country (Chile is the world’s fifth-largest wine exporter); the Lake District, home to emerald forests; and the backpacker’s paradise of Patagonia. Far to the west of mainland Chile lies Easter Island, the easternmost outpost of Polynesia.
Jamaica (Jamaican dollar, 32 percent decline versus U.S. dollar): This lush tropical island south of Cuba is the picture of laid-back Caribbean culture: steel drums, reggae music and white-sand beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Dine on island fare here: Jerk chicken, seafood chowder and roast pork loin are popular and tasty. Besides the capital, Kingston, some of Jamaica’s most exciting destinations are Montego Bay, Ochos Rios, Negril and the Blue Mountains.
Turkey (Turkish lira, 26 percent decline versus U.S. dollar): Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey is a crossroads of cultures: The nation has more Greek ruins than Greece, more Roman ruins than Italy, and a wealth of artistic and architectural treasures from the Christian and Islamic eras. There are also great natural wonders here too, notably the spectacular geological formations of the Cappadocia region: Its inhabitants once lived in caves, and visitors today can stay in cave hotels.
5. (tie) Auckland, New Zealand
