Today’s financial news in the United States has seen better days. Stock markets closing at record lows. Housing values dropping. Education costs on the rise. However, contrary to these and several other recent financial trends, the US Dollar has gained in value for travelers destined to many international markets.
We’re seeing the buying power of the American tourist is stronger today than it was before the recession. So why the shift? I believe there are three components of today’s international travel landscape that has sparked the change:
- Exchange rates in a variety of countries are showing favor to the US Dollar
- Travel companies are offering rarely seen, significant incentives
- Airlines are rolling back fuel surcharges saving travelers hundreds of dollars
Exchange rates in just one year have allowed U.S. travelers to take advantage of international travel like they’ve never been able to before. I’ve witnessed various examples when comparing January 1, 2008 to January 1, 2009. International currency exchange rates have tipped back in favor of the U.S. in several markets, with the dollar gaining 20-30% in buying power.
Another benefit to American travelers – many of the world’s most renowned luxury brands are offering aggressive incentives to fill occupancy rates. Companies such as Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruise Line, Lindblad Expeditions and Wilderness Safaris are luring travelers in 2009 with appealing offers.
Regent is offering 50% off plus free airfare and free shore excurions to a variety of destinations, while Wilderness Safaris is offering a seventh night free with a six-night stay. These types of incentives are rarely seen. You just need to know where to look.
Finally, the dramatic drop in the price of oil has positively impacted the buying power of American travelers. To help compensate for the large oil price increase over the past few years, airlines were charging passengers significant fuel surcharges. Today, several of these fuel surcharges have been completely rolled back, reducing the cost of many international flights. In some cases, it could save travelers upwards of $400.
Travel is an important aspect of many Americans’ lives. It’s nice to see economic factors finally coming back around to benefit the U.S. international traveler. With these rarely seen values there is no better time to enjoy the rejuvenating power of travel.
Tags: airline fuel charge, cruise values, currency exchange, exchange rates, travel buying power, Travel Deals, travel incentives, travel offers, US Travel Dollar
