Travel Wise: Getting the most out of the dollar

A trip to the United States has to be a top contender for Europeans this year. Having appreciated 12% versus the U.S. Dollar since July 2003 and nearly 50% since July 2001, even a slight decline in the value of the Euro would not dampen the appeal. The above holds true for budget conscious travelers and luxury seekers alike. Resorts and activities that once seemed out of reach are now a steal. Not to mention the shopping!
Travelers looking for something “off the beaten path” may want to consider Washington State rather than Washington D.C., Chicago rather than Boston, or Chaco Canyon rather than the Grand Canyon. Those in search of a unique adventure have the embarrassment of choice, rafting, animal pack trips and digging for fossils are but a few of the fun things to do.
Argentina and Brazil are great travel destinations for dollar holders disinclined to stay home. China may also be worth considering, before its' currency revalues significantly. For those resolute on traveling to Europe this year, Slovenia and Croatia are both reasonably priced destinations notwithstanding the appreciation of their currencies. Montenegro, an up and coming vacation destination, remains a bargain.
If you are unwilling to renounce that dream vacation in the tropics, several locations in the Indian Ocean, including Mauritius, Madagascar and Mozambique, are excellent land and sea destinations. And, if you are looking for a different ocean altogether, Mexico and Guatemala are great travel destinations and, whether you are an independent traveler or prefer a package tour, both offer value.

1 USD =	15/07/01	15/07/06	% Change	1 Euro =	15/07/01	15/07/06	% Change
USD/Euro	1.171	0.789	33%	Euro/USD	0.855	1.267	48%
USD/Brazil Real	2.578	2.283	11%	Euro/Brazil Real	2.203	2.893	31%
USD/Argentine Peso	0.999	3.088	209%	Euro/Argentine Peso	0.854	3.913	358%
USD/Mexican Peso	9.350	11.052	18%	Euro/Mexican Peso	7.991	14.003	75%
USD/Slovenia Tolar	256.560	189.372	26%	Euro/Slovenia Tolar	219.282	239.934	9%
USD/Croatian Kuna	8.394	5.732	32%	Euro/Croatian Kuna	7.174	7.262	1%
USD/Chinese Yuan	8.278	8.005	3%	Euro/Chinese Yuan	7.075	10.143	43%