Every dollar counts when you travel, but it’s an extra bonus when the Australia dollar buys you more.
Here’s our guide to where to travel in 2023 to get a better bang for your buck.
Japan
Japan is becoming an increasingly popular destination for Australians from gap year students to ski enthusiasts, and the dollar is the strongest it’s been against the yen since 2018.
If you’ve always considered a Japanese holiday, now is the time because as well as the strong dollar, Japan is trying to kick-start its tourism industry as it was one of the last countries to open up after the pandemic so there are deals to be had.
Why visit: land of contrasts; urban sophistication to untouched forests and ancient history to cutting-edge technology, good beer, they like cherry blossoms.
New Zealand
The Australian dollar pretty much always tracks well in comparison to the New Zealand dollar, so a Kiwi holiday is possible all-year around.
NZ is also well set up for overseas tourists currency-wise. There are exchanges in almost every tourism hotspot and even relatively small out of the way towns.
Why visit: close to Australia, cultural affinity, great skiing, spectacular scenery, hobbits. Don’t mention cricket.
Turkiye
One of the best exchange rates for travel is in Turkiye, formerly known as Turkey. The country probably needs all the foreign currency it can get at the moment and while the government travel advice website Smartraveller recommends avoiding the provinces affected by the earthquakes, it doesn’t rule out travel to the country entirely.
Why visit: they need the money, food, a Turkish bath actually in Turkiye, Turkish coffee, did we mention the food?
Sweden
Another country where the Australian dollar is experiencing a record high. It’s not on everyone’s travel list but it should be.
Generally, you can rely on almost any European country to suck your wallet dry, so it’s a nice change to see one relatively affordable destination.
Why visit: go at the right time and you might see the northern lights, everyone is good looking, meatballs.
Norway
One of those traditionally expensive European countries has been Norway, but the Australian dollar recently hit a 10-year high against the krone. We’re not saying it’s cheap, we’re just saying it’s more affordable.
Norway is generally regarded as one of the most visually stunning places in the world, so if you want to tick it off your bucket list, now may be the time. Make sure you pack a good camera to post photos. The rage-inducing envy amongst your friends will be worth it.
Why visit: whales, northern lights, polar bears, winter sports all year round, fjords, so many fjords.
Sri Lanka
Probably only for the adventurous due to the ongoing political instability and resulting shortages and protests about the shortages.
However, if you do decide to travel, your dollar will go a very long way and the delicious food will probably make it worthwhile. Get used to spices.
Why visit: tea, thousands of miles of beaches, elephants, food, fishing on sticks.
South Korea
Another country where the Australian dollar is experiencing an unusual surge.
A bit off the beaten track for Australians who like to visit Asia, but return visits are often popular after the first enticing experience.
It’s very much like Japan in that it is a land of contrasts with ultra-modern cities and bucolic countryside, a highly urbanised society yet a deep regard for the past. However, it’s a parallel existence with a culture unique to Korea.
Why visit: food – you’d better like kimchi, festivals, quiet countryside, themed cafés – ever wanted to pet a meerkat? Ridiculous yet amazing skincare routines and Kpop.
Does the currency exchange rate play a part in where you choose to travel? Why not share your thoughts in the comments section below?
Also read: Will you need a permit to travel to the UK?
