5 Countries Where the U.S. Dollar Goes Further in 2015

Travel abroad is always an investment made in return for unforgettable experiences, and in some countries it is definitely much more of an investment than in others. Depending on how strong the American dollar is vis-à-vis another international currency, a country might be highly affordable or highly expensive to visit. When the U.S. dollar can “buy” more of a foreign currency, that’s good news for the holder of the U.S. dollar. Here is a quick look at some of the travel destinations for Americans that are more affordable now than ever before—because of better exchange rates on the side of the U.S. dollar.

Russia

According to a Fortune magazine article from January of this year, the collapse of the Russian ruble means that the U.S. dollar goes about 50 percent further than it did at this time a year ago. Russia’s economy, which had been enjoying strong profits from the oil industry, took a major hit when after the country’s invasion of Ukraine it faced a trade embargo imposed by Western countries.

Morocco

Fortune also reports that the U.S. dollar is stronger now against the Moroccan dirham than it was a year ago, with it going about 20 percent further than before. Travelers to Morocco can expect to pay less than 100 dollars per night at nice accommodations and just a few dollars for street-side food.

India

The Washington Post estimates that over the past decade, the U.S. dollar has gained 42 percent against the Indian rupee. One thing to keep in mind with travel to India, however, is that the cost for accommodations and transportation can still be pricey. But for those who have been considering making the investment on a trip to India, now might just be the time given the exchange rate.

Chile

Forbes reports that because of the strengthening of the U.S. dollar over the past year against the Chilean peso, the U.S. dollar goes 20 percent further than before. Travelers to Chile can expect to pay just a few dollars for a meal.

Brazil

Brazil is another country in South America that is currently seeing a weaker form of currency when compared with the U.S. dollar. The Brazilian real, according to CNN, has fallen 30 percent in value over the past year against the U.S. dollar. It seems that Brazil is also facing inflation following a the end of a long commodity boom.