The United States dollar is worth over 20% more against the Euro than it was a year ago. With this astronomic rise in value over recent months, the time has never been better to book that long-awaited international trip. The exchange rate might have been painful to think about in the past, especially against the British Pound (£) or the Euro (€), but whether the destination you’ve been dreaming about is a chic European hot spot, a South American adventure, or an exploration of the far east, now is the time!
{Pictured: Pretty pink building façade in Lyon, France}
If I haven’t convinced you already, here are my top 5 reasons to travel this year:
1. Cost savings: The strengthening U.S. economy means on-the-ground costs have dropped for Americans in foreign markets and show signs of continuing to do so. What’s better? Hotel booking rates are dropping significantly all over the world, including Europe (down 13% in France and 11% in Germany), from 2014. This also means that that dining out, leisure shopping (because of course you’ll need souvenirs) and ground transportation costs are likely to continue trending down.
2. Cultural awareness: Stepping out of our comfort zones and experiencing new things allows us to be more empathetic and understanding of other people. The world is getting smaller and smaller (metaphorically speaking) with new technologies continuing to make travel and communication ever easier. One day you may have a co-worker in another part of the world, and being aware of the little things, like normal business hours and cultural holidays can help you maintain a more productive relationship. Why do you think most colleges have study abroad programs? We all need a more global perspective.
3. Language skills: Travelling will force you to pick up some new language skills or work on those you already have but don’t use on a day-to-day basis. Worried about the language barrier? Brush up using Babble for a few minutes here and there to get the basics down (for free).
4. The food: Why is it that foreign cuisines are often so much better than American food? I mean just look at that gelato (below)! Everything is made so tastefully and is such a pleasure to consume. Foreign cultures tend to take a lot of pride in preparing and serving quality foods, which means they actually take the time to enjoy them. Plus, organic produce is the standard in most other countries, meaning you won’t even have to think about yucky chemicals contaminating your indulgences. Tell me you don’t want to dig into a real Italian pizza or munch on a classic French baguette with cheese.
5. Travel is GOOD for you: Let’s face it, certain logistical aspects of travelling (especially to a completely unfamiliar culture) can be stressful, confusing, and downright scary. But just think, once you’ve proven to yourself you can navigate around and become comfortable in a foreign country, you can do anything! Once you’ve arrived, that feeling of accomplishment will allow you to decompress and really appreciate your trip. Vacation is about enjoyment – which you deserve!
{Pictured: Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris}
{Pictured: Bridge overlooking the Saône River in Lyon, France}
{Pictured: Possibly the most compelling reason to travel – delicious French gelato – yum!}
Where are your travel plans taking you this year?
