Recession Means Travel Bargains

Poor economic times are good for someone. That someone is you, the consumer. For the past few years, travel to Europe, Canada, Australia, or South America has been a luxury. The weakness of the dollar has made these destinations available only to those on expense accounts. The tide is turning, as the dollar strengthens against many foreign currencies, specifically the Canadian dollar, the Euro, the Icelandic krona, and the Argentinian peso.

Most people don't think of Iceland when they think of a vacation destination. But think again. Since the collapse of the banking system there, travel to Iceland has become a bargain, with costs down as much as 40%. What is there to do? Well, there are picturesque fishing villages, glaciers, geysers, and the modern city Reykjavik. The food is good, and everything is very cheap.
Canada, too, has become a bargain. The U.S. dollar is 25% stronger than it was last year. Just a few hours plane ride lands you in Vancouver, from which you can visit Victoria, Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, and Calgary. Or take a train ride from Vancouver to Calgary. It is magnificent. Eastern Canada will give you more of a European feel. If you're yearning for French food and the sound of a foreign language, try Montreal and/or Quebec.

Argentina offers everything from cosmopolitan Buenos Aires (often called the Paris of South America) to Iguazzu Falls, and everything in between. The food, accomodations, and sites are all spectacular, and the peso has fallen about 25% against our dollar, which makes it a very affordable destination.

The Euro has also fallen, and this makes many cities in Europe more affordable. France in particular is about 25% cheaper this year than last. That certainly gets my attention. However, wait until after Labor Day, as the summer crowds will spoil your vacation.

So check some of these places out. You will be pleasantly surprised how far your dollar will go. If you have mileage (and can actually use it), that's even better. You may be able to experience an exotic destination for far less than you ever thought.