Traveling abroad can be an expensive proposition. But with international travel rates up and economic factors favoring American travelers, many global destinations are more affordable than domestic travel for U.S.
jet-setters—especially now. Four years after international travel ground to a halt during the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 285 million tourists in the first quarter of 2024 traveled internationally, 97% of 2019 levels, according to the United Nations. That metric results from a strong dollar, lower costs of living in some countries, depreciation of some currencies, and the long-awaited return of travel rates to pre-pandemic levels.
Stacker created an index for bargain hunters looking to travel abroad this fall. Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip or a favorite destination for globetrotters with permanent wanderlust, this fall is prime time to travel. And while summer is high-season for tourists, taking a vacation in the off-season has its perks: Kids are back in school, the weather in many destinations is cooler but still pleasant, and prices are right for bargain-hunters.
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In 2022, when inflation spiked worldwide, central banks responded by raising interest rates. The U.S.
economy fared better relative to many other countries, which in turn led the Federal Reserve t.