Top 10 Countries Where Your Dollar Still Goes Far in 2025

Mexico: Sun, Savings, and Surprises Await

There’s something undeniably charming about Mexico, especially when you realize how far your dollar stretches here in 2025. With the exchange rate hovering at around 18 pesos to 1 US dollar, everyday expenses feel much lighter on your wallet.

For example, savoring a full meal at a mid-range restaurant could set you back just $10, a fraction of what you’d pay in cities like Los Angeles or New York. Affordable accommodations are also easy to find, from colorful local guesthouses to beachside resorts.

The cost of transportation, such as city buses or even taxis, remains low, making it easy for travelers to hop from one adventure to the next without worry. Beyond the savings, Mexico offers vibrant cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara, world-famous beaches in Cancun and Tulum, and a culture bursting with life, music, and tradition.

This blend of affordability and excitement makes Mexico a top contender for travelers eager to get the most out of every dollar.

Colombia: Beauty on a Budget

Colombia has quickly become a haven for travelers seeking both adventure and value. In 2025, the exchange rate is an astonishing 4,000 Colombian pesos to the dollar, making it one of the most budget-friendly countries in South America.

A comfortable hotel room may cost only $30 a night, while a delicious local meal could be as cheap as $3 or $4. Public transportation is reliable and affordable, letting you traverse exciting cities like Bogotá, Medellín, or Cartagena without breaking the bank.

Colombia’s stunning natural beauty is everywhere, from the coffee-growing hills of the Zona Cafetera to the hidden beaches of Tayrona National Park. The country’s historical cities, vibrant street art, and energetic nightlife add even more appeal.

With so much to offer at such low prices, Colombia stands out as a must-visit for travelers hoping to stretch their budgets as far as they’ll go.

Vietnam: Street Food and Sights for Pennies

Vietnam’s reputation as a paradise for budget travelers is well-deserved and only gets stronger in 2025. With an exchange rate around 23,000 dong to the dollar, it’s astonishing how little you need to live well.

Street food like pho or banh mi can cost as little as $1, allowing you to eat like a king for the price of a coffee back home. Comfortable hotel rooms, often with balconies overlooking bustling streets, are readily available for around $20 a night.

Local transportation, such as trains and buses, is cheap and efficient, making it easy to explore the entire country from the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An to the dramatic limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay. Vietnam’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking scenery create unforgettable memories—all at a price that’s hard to believe.

Thailand: Exotic Luxury for Less

Thailand remains a dream destination for budget-conscious travelers, and in 2025, your dollar still works wonders here. The exchange rate of about 35 baht to 1 dollar means you can enjoy authentic Thai cuisine for $3 a meal, or relax in a cozy guesthouse for about $15 a night.

Many visitors are surprised by how affordable even luxury experiences can be, from beachfront bungalows to island-hopping adventures. The street markets are a riot of flavors, colors, and bargains, offering everything from handmade crafts to trendy clothing at prices that make shopping a thrill.

Thailand’s stunning beaches, ancient temples, and lively cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai ensure there’s always something new to experience. For travelers who crave both comfort and culture without the high price tag, Thailand delivers in every way.

Portugal: European Charm Without the Price Tag

Portugal is Europe’s rising star for travelers looking for big experiences on a modest budget. The current exchange rate hovers at 0.90 euros to the dollar, making Portugal far more affordable than many of its neighbors.

Outside of the bustling cities like Lisbon and Porto, the cost of living drops dramatically. A meal at a neighborhood eatery can cost around $15, and you’ll find charming guesthouses or Airbnbs in the countryside for similar prices.

Transportation by train or bus is both economical and efficient, letting you explore historic towns, dramatic coastlines, and rolling vineyards with ease. Portugal’s warm climate, friendly locals, and beautiful landscapes—from the cliffs of the Algarve to the fairy-tale palaces of Sintra—make it a standout destination where your dollar truly goes a long way.

Indonesia: Paradise That’s Easy on the Purse

Indonesia, and especially the island of Bali, has long been a favorite for travelers seeking beauty and value. In 2025, the exchange rate sits at about 15,000 rupiah to 1 dollar, so daily costs remain surprisingly low.

You can feast on delicious local meals for as little as $2 and find stunning villas with private pools for around $50 a night. Transportation options like scooters and ride-hailing apps are both accessible and cheap, allowing you to explore rice terraces, waterfalls, and beaches with ease.

Indonesia’s rich culture—reflected in its traditional dances, art, and temples—adds depth to the experience. Friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life help visitors feel instantly at home, making Indonesia an unbeatable value for travelers chasing both adventure and affordability.

India: Magic and Affordability Combined

India continues to astonish with how much it offers for so little. The exchange rate of approximately 75 rupees to 1 dollar ensures that travelers can enjoy everything from spicy street food to ornate palaces without overspending.

Street snacks like samosas or chai tea often cost less than a dollar, and budget accommodations are plentiful in every city. India’s public transportation network, including trains and buses, is not only cheap but also provides a window into the country's vibrant everyday life.

The diversity of experiences is staggering, whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Delhi, the sacred ghats of Varanasi, or the beaches of Goa. With its rich history, colorful festivals, and stunning landscapes, India remains one of the world’s best destinations for travelers who want their money to go further.

Bulgaria: Europe’s Hidden Bargain

Bulgaria offers a unique combination of affordability and culture that’s hard to find elsewhere in Europe. With an exchange rate of about 1.80 lev to the dollar, costs for food, lodging, and entertainment are refreshingly low.

A hearty meal at a local restaurant can cost around $10, while a night in a comfortable hotel is typically about $30. Bulgaria’s capital, Sofia, is full of lively cafes, art galleries, and historic sites, while the Black Sea coast boasts beautiful beaches without the crowds or prices of Western Europe.

The country’s natural beauty shines through in places like the Rila Mountains and the ancient town of Plovdiv. For travelers seeking European charm and history on a budget, Bulgaria is a pleasant surprise.

Greece: Ancient Wonders Without Breaking the Bank

Greece is famous for its history and islands, but many travelers are surprised to find it can be affordable, especially outside the peak tourist areas. With an exchange rate of about 0.95 euros to the dollar, your money still stretches in smaller towns and on less-visited islands.

A meal at a family-run taverna might cost around $15, and comfortable rooms can be found for $40 to $50 a night, especially in locations away from the crowds of Santorini or Mykonos. Public ferries and buses make it easy to travel between islands and around the mainland without spending much.

Greece’s rich heritage, stunning coastlines, and warm hospitality turn every dollar into memories that last a lifetime.

South Africa: Adventure and Affordability

South Africa offers an unbeatable mix of adventure and value in 2025, with the exchange rate sitting at about 15 rand to the dollar. For around $10, you can enjoy a delicious meal, while decent accommodations are available for about $30 a night.

The country’s national parks, such as Kruger, offer safari experiences at a fraction of the price of other African destinations, letting you witness the “Big Five” without emptying your wallet. Cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg blend modern energy with rich history, while the Garden Route dazzles with dramatic coastlines and charming towns.

South Africa’s diversity—of landscapes, cultures, and wildlife—means every traveler can find something to love, all while keeping spending in check.

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