When the exchange rate works in your favor, your travel budget can go a long way. If you’re planning a trip this year, consider these cheap countries to visit with a strong dollar.
From Asia to South America, these destinations offer exceptional value without sacrificing adventure, culture, or comfort.
Asia: Where Your Dollar Still Rules
Vietnam
Vietnam remains one of the best budget-friendly countries to visit, especially with the U.S. dollar performing well. A street-side bowl of pho costs less than $2, and luxury hotel stays in Hanoi or Hoi An often run under $60 per night.
You’ll also enjoy some of Southeast Asia’s best beaches and historic sites at unbeatable prices.
- $1 USD = ~25,000 VND
- 4-star hotel: $45–$70
- Local meal: $2–$4
For even more ideas, check out our curated list of serene Southeast Asian destinations, perfect for slow travel on a strong dollar.
Japan
Thanks to a weakened yen, Japan has become surprisingly affordable. Flights may still be pricey, but on-the-ground costs are more accessible than ever. Capsule hotels start at $25/night, and convenience store meals are both high-quality and cheap.
- $1 USD = ~155 JPY
- Hotel: $60–$100
- Public transit day pass: $5–$8
According to Business Insider, Japan is now one of the top destinations where you can “travel luxuriously for less” thanks to favorable exchange rates.
Philippines
With over 7,000 islands and some of the most postcard-perfect beaches in the world, the Philippines is one of the top cheap countries to visit with a strong dollar. From island hopping in Palawan to food tours in Manila, your money stretches far, especially outside peak seasons.
- $1 USD = ~57 PHP
- Beach resort: $40–$75
- Jeepney or ferry rides: less than $1
Read More: 2025 Travel Trends: Slow Travel, Solo Trips, and Eco-Friendly Escapes
Indonesia (Bali)
Bali is still a magnet for digital nomads and budget travelers alike. Despite its popularity, it remains a cost-effective travel abroad option. Private villas, $5 massages, and $3 nasi goreng meals make it easy to indulge without overspending.
- $1 USD = ~16,000 IDR
- Guesthouse or villa: $30–$70
- Scooter rental: $5/day
Latin America: Colorful Culture and Low Costs
Argentina
Argentina is a prime example of an affordable travel abroad option with high reward. Due to its dual exchange rates and economic inflation, foreign travelers get incredible value. Steak dinners in Buenos Aires cost $10, and boutique hotels start around $50/night.
- $1 USD = 900–1,000 ARS (via tourist exchange rate)
- Dinner with wine: $12
- Internal flights: $30–$70
Colombia
With its rising tourism infrastructure and favorable currency conversion, Colombia offers adventure and culture without the high costs. You’ll find beautiful beaches in Cartagena and vibrant urban life in Medellín for a fraction of European prices.
- $1 USD = ~4,000 COP
- Hotel: $40–$75
- Coffee: $1
Peru
Peru blends cultural richness with affordability, especially outside the tourist-heavy zones. While Machu Picchu still draws a crowd, cities like Arequipa and Cusco offer incredible value with charming colonial architecture, low-cost accommodations, and hearty local meals for just a few dollars.
- $1 USD = ~3.7 PEN
- 3-star hotel: $30–$60
- Set lunch menu (menu del día): $3–$5
Read More: Group Travel Without the Drama: Tips for Planning with Friends or Family
Europe: Value Hiding in Plain Sight
Hungary
While the euro dominates Western Europe, Eastern Europe remains a secret stash of affordable international destinations. Hungary, especially Budapest, offers Old World charm with modern comforts on a backpacker’s budget.
- $1 USD = ~360 HUF
- Hotel: $50–$90
- Thermal bath entry: $10
Turkey
Turkey continues to deliver luxury on a budget. Whether you’re sailing the turquoise coast or exploring Istanbul’s bazaars, the lira’s low exchange rate works in your favor.
- $1 USD = ~33 TRY
- Mid-range hotel: $35–$65
- Local meal: $3–$7
Travel Smart, Spend Less
In a world of rising costs, these cheap countries to visit with a strong dollar prove that value still exists if you know where to look. From Vietnam’s street food to Argentina’s five-star wine country, you can travel richly without a rich person’s budget.
Watch the exchange rates, plan around low seasons, and let your dollar (or euro, or pound) do the heavy lifting.
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