Water, islands in Halong Bay

The Dollar Will Take You Far While Visiting These Vacation Destinations

By Tess Kazenoff

VACATIONS

Argentina
Argentina’s inflation makes it affordable for U.S. travelers. Typical accommodations range from $8 to $50 a night, while a four-star hotel stay is less than $100 a night.
As for food, empanada shops or food-by-weight restaurants will only cost a few dollars per meal. Stick to mostly using cash to receive a discount in some establishments.
Brazil
The dollar goes far in Brazil, with one dollar equaling 5.47 reais, as of August 1, 2024. Meals are about $5 to $15, and public transportation is accessible and cheap.
Luxury hotels are affordable, as the four-star Windsor Tower Hotel in Rio de Janeiro has rooms for $79 per night. Most of the best experiences in Brazil are also free or low-cost.
Thailand
Thailand has much to offer budget-conscious travelers. Hostel dorm beds in Bangkok start at $6, and the three-star Priya Boutique House is about $125 a night.
Many activities are free or low-cost, like exploring markets and enjoying beaches. Also sample the delicious street food, as a full meal often sets you back just a dollar or two.
Mexico
There are affordable destinations all across Mexico, including laid back coastal paradises like Mazunte, cultural spots like Oaxaca, and urban epicenters like Mexico City.
Hostel beds are as low as $6, while luxury stays often run about $155 per night. Street food is plentiful in most areas, and you can easily spend less than $5 on a filling meal.
Peru
There are many affordable cities in Peru, from the coastal Lima to the colonial Arequipa. Budget travelers can spend just $36 a day for accommodation, activities, and food.
Filling meals are often available for around $3, and public transport is cheap. A four-star hotel in Lima starts at under $100 a night, while hostel dorm beds may cost just $8.