Skip to main content

4 Destinations with Amazing Exchange Rates for Americans in 2018

Some parts of the world have long been too costly for mere mortal travelers. But, recent shake-ups in the global economy have opened up many previously inaccessible destinations. Here are four vacation-worthy countries with the best exchange rates for Americans traveling in 2018.

Japan

Tokyo, Japan. Max Schwartz/The Manual

There’s hardly a bad time to visit Japan, but the country (even outside of Tokyo) can be insanely expensive. So, when the exchange rate hits a near 10-year low in favor of the U.S. dollar, it’s probably time to start packing your bags. Want more of a reason to go in 2018? With the Olympics coming to the capital city in 2020, expect exchange rates to shift in favor of the Yen beginning next year.

Compare the Exchange Rate:

  • Five years ago: USD $1 to 93 Japanese Yen
  • Today: USD $1 to 110 Japanese Yen

Check Out:

You don’t need us to tell you Tokyo is an amazing city — one worthy of an entire two-week vacation. But, for serious contrast, don’t miss Kyoto, which is often considered the cultural hub of Japan. Its ancient shrines, bamboo gardens, and beautiful cherry blossom-lined streets are worth a visit in their own right.

Indonesia

Abiansemal Indonesia Bali swing
Abiansemal, Indonesia. Jared Rice

Southeast Asia — notably Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia — has long been a bargain paradise for American budget travelers. Indonesia, in particular, is now more affordable than ever. Hotels, food, tours, and travel within the country are all insanely cheap. Add to that an incredibly friendly people, some of the most beautiful temples in the world, and breathtaking tropical beaches. It’s not only an ideal spot to travel well without breaking the bank, but a destination worth moving to.

Compare the Exchange Rate:

  • Five years ago: USD $1 to 9,700 Indonesian Rupiahs
  • Today: USD $1 to 14,200 Indonesian Rupiahs

Check Out:

Bali is worth a visit, of course, but every other traveler to Indonesia knows that too. Head to Lombok for a more relaxed pace without the tourist congestion.

Colombia

Medellin Colombia skyline
Medellin, Colombia. Joel Duncan

Exchange rates often react to political instability or civil strife — neither are good reasons to want to go anywhere no matter how cheap it seems. However, Colombia is a rare exception. In recent years, the country has grown safer and more attractive to American travelers, all while getting cheaper to boot. It’s no wonder the country has appeared on many “must-visit in 2018” travel lists. What’s more,we’ve seen roundtrip flights from the U.S. for less than USD $400.

Compare the Exchange Rate:

  • Five years ago: USD $1 to 1,800 Colombian Pesos
  • Today: USD $1 to 2,950 Colombian Pesos

Check Out:

Medellin has long gotten a bad rap, thanks in large part to that whole Pablo Escobar thing. But, the city is safer now than ever. Plus, dozens of nearby authentic and charming villages like Minca are welcoming tourists for the first time in decades. Here, travelers can get a taste of real Colombia.

South Africa

cape town south africa coast
John O'Nolan

South Africa has long been a favorite among The Manual staff. Because the exchange rate between the South African Rand and the U.S. dollar is still unbelievable, we’re carrying it over from the 2017 list of destinations with amazing exchange rates for Americans. While many destinations promise “something for everyone,” South Africa is the rare breed that actually delivers. Roundtrip airfare from the U.S. can be pricey, although the government-owned South African Airways spends considerable effort to lure American travelers and great deals can be found. Plus, once in-country, travelers can enjoy an exchange rate that’s near the best in a decade.

Compare the Exchange Rate:

  • Five years ago: USD $1 to 9 South African Rand
  • Today: USD $1 to 14 South African Rand

Check out:

Cape Town is the obvious choice for good reason. Especially for medium-term travelers with two weeks or less, it’s easy to shark dive, tour wine country, experience a safari, and explore Africa’s most cosmopolitan city, all in just a few days.

Editors' Recommendations

Mike Richard
Mike Richard has traveled the world since 2008. He's kayaked in Antarctica, tracked endangered African wild dogs in South…
Study: First class flights may be less expensive than you think (especially if you fly this airline)
American Airlines is the most budget-friendly option for travelers seeking first class luxury
An American Airlines plane in flight in a cloudy sky

For many travelers, the allure of first-class air travel is undeniable. The extra legroom, gourmet meals, and personalized service create an experience that's a world apart from economy class. However, the cost of upgrading to first class can often be a deterrent. But what if we told you that there are budget-friendly options for first-class flights? A recent study by Upgraded Points sheds light on the best airlines to fly first class on a budget within the United States.
The study
Upgraded Points conducted an extensive study analyzing the price variations in first-class tickets across four major U.S. airlines and twelve of the busiest domestic flight routes. The study meticulously gathered ticket price data from Google Flights, focusing on the 12 busiest domestic flight routes within the U.S.

To ensure a comprehensive representation of pricing trends, both peak and non-peak departure dates were considered. The costs were then averaged to determine one-way ticket prices for both economy and first-class seating. It's important to note that the study excluded U.S. airlines that do not offer first-class or lacked sufficient data on the analyzed routes.
Delta Air Lines first class
Delta Air Lines emerged as the front-runner in the study, but with a caveat - it charges the highest premiums for first-class tickets. Passengers opting for first class can expect to pay $284.55 more for a one-way ticket compared to economy. Despite the premium, Delta Air Lines has recently upped its game by introducing new first-class seats with privacy partitions, adjustable neck cushions, and additional storage space, making it a competitive choice for those willing to splurge.
Alaska Airlines first class
Alaska Airlines stands out not only for its high first-class ticket price differences ($281.25) but also for its unique amenities. The airline goes above and beyond by serving food in its first-class cabins on flights as short as 550 miles. This catering to shorter flights sets Alaska Airlines apart from most other legacy carriers that typically reserve in-flight dining for journeys longer than 900 miles.
United Airlines first class
United First Class offers a more budget-friendly option for travelers looking to experience first-class comfort without breaking the bank. With a price difference of approximately $250.23 between economy and first class, United Airlines provides an enticing opportunity to enjoy an elevated flying experience.
American Airlines first class: The Most Affordable Deal
Among the airlines studied, American Airlines first class is the clear winner in terms of affordability for travel. Passengers can expect to pay just $235.85 more for a one-way first-class ticket compared to economy. This makes American Airlines an attractive choice for those seeking a premium experience without a hefty price tag.
Average Premium for first class
On average, passengers traveling within the U.S. can anticipate paying a premium of $262.97 per flight (one-way) or over $525 (round-trip) when choosing a first-class ticket. This figure underscores the appeal of budget-friendly options like those offered by American Airlines and United Airlines.
Conclusion
While the lap of luxury may come at a price, there are notable exceptions for travelers seeking first-class experiences on a budget within the United States. Delta Air Lines, despite its premium pricing, offers cutting-edge amenities, making it a top choice for those willing to splurge. Alaska Airlines' unique dining options and United Airlines' budget-friendly fares are also worth considering. However, the title of the most affordable deal goes to American Airlines, which provides a premium experience without a substantial price difference.

Read more
Brilliant travel hack could save you a ton when booking international flights
A few clicks could save you a ton on travel
Man waiting for flight at airport.

We all want to make everyone else jealous with our photos from our exotic overseas vacation. But when it comes down to actually booking the trip, we go into panic mode over the amount of money we're going to spend. From the flights to the hotel to local transportation to sightseeing tours, all we see are dollar signs flying away, and for some, that's enough to turn things into a staycation. Traveling internationally doesn't have to be so expensive, and this one hack could save you a ton of money on your flight (and possibly other areas of your vacation abroad). 

The travel tip is so simple
It's an easy two-part setup to get this money-saver for international flights

Read more
TSA PreCheck adds 4 airlines to program – and here they are
If you're traveling abroad, this is a big deal
TSA security line.

Everyone who has a flight to catch will agree on one thing — that going through airport security is the least fun part of flying. From having to strip down to walk through the scanner to trying to remember if you have any liquids or other items TSA is going to ask questions about, once you get in that line, the anxiety starts. That's why more passengers are hopping in the TSA PreCheck line, so they don't have to worry about any of that. To spice things up and speed up airport security wait times, the Transportation Security Administration just added four more airlines to their PreCheck program to make flying a heck of a lot easier for a lot more travelers.

What TSA PreCheck gets you
Why would you want to be a TSA PreCheck member when you travel? There are so many perks besides a shorter line, though that is the main draw. 
The reasons to be a member

Read more