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Recession Proof Travel

If the recession is affecting your quality of life and preventing you from enjoying and experiencing the best that life has to offer, then vacation is exactly what the Travelistas prescribe for you.

Over the past few years, most international travel for Americans has been extraordinarily expensive based on what we’ve become accustomed to.  With our new president and his finance team working aggressively to correct our economy, the U.S. market and dollar is actually being viewed as safer than other markets.  This nuance of the financial crisis translates for us world travelers as an opportunity, as many amazing destinations have now become very affordable for Americans.

According to Time magazine, the five best places to travel during this recession are Iceland, Canada, Great Britain, South Korea, and Australia due to the fact that these places are an incredible discount at the moment. While these places are indeed a great value, the Travelistas highly recommend the following destinations during these economic times –for not only value, but great culture, adventure and fun!

1. South Africa – Enjoy the fine dining and incredible culture and history in Cape Town, drive to Franschoek and discover what makes South African wine so amazing, and book a safari in Kruger National Park.  Currently one U.S. dollar is worth 10 South African Rand, up from 7.7 a year ago.

2. Brazil – Travel to Rio de Janeiro and Salvador de Bahia for amazing culture, beach, food, and the fun, friendly people.  One U.S. dollar is worth 2.3 Reais, up from 1.7 one year ago.

3. Turkey – Travel to Istanbul, delight in Turkish cuisine and the colorful bazaar, and head to Cappadocia to experience the miraculous natural wonder that has fascinate and intrigued people for centuries.  Currently one U.S. dollar is worth 1.7 Turkish Lira, up from 1.2 one year ago.

4. Argentina – Dine, shop, and enjoy the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires for a little slice of Europe in South America.  Currently one U.S. dollar is worth 3.5 Argentine pesos, up slightly from one year ago.

5. Australia –Experience the cosmopolitan, vibrant and multicultural city of Sydney, head up north to the great barrier reef and meet and discover the aborigines of Australia.  Currently one U.S. dollar is worth 1.6 Australian dollars, up from 1.1 a year ago.

When planning your vacation, recession-proof it by keeping these tips in mind:

1. Look for flight and hotel deals.  The travel industry is being hit hard and many companies are offering deals you can’t refuse! – Also, don’t be afraid to negotiate, you never know what they’ll say.  Start with Kayak.com.  This online flight consolidator will tell you where you can find the cheapest flights to just about any major destination.

2. Stay with friends and family living in other cities and countries

3. If you’re staying for more than 5 days in one place, consider renting an apt or a house to save on accommodations. While you’re in the house, have fun cooking a night or two.

4. Use your airline miles to take you places – if you’re not registered to receive miles shame on you.  Make travel work for you!

5. Most of all, do the research.  You’ll save money in the long run, which will allow you to enjoy your recession-free vacation!

As you decide where to travel, there are ways that can help you save money and plan an amazing vacation.  Keep in mind that many hotels and airlines are offering major deals to encourage people to travel which we should all be taking advantage of.  Happy Travels!

-The Travelistas

*Time Magazine, 5 Best Place to Travel in a Recession, November 4, 2008, Author, Bryan Walsh.