Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons User Hmaglione10

If you’re looking for a great vacation destination, look at countries where the U.S. Dollar is strongest right now.

One would be South Africa, where the Rand has dropped about 20 percent in value against the U.S. Dollar.

In Argentina and Thailand, the exchange rates represent great bargains for U.S. citizens.

Smart travelers know—especially at this time of year—to plan trips to these countries for holiday shopping because the deals are so great.

You might also be tempted to travel to Eurozone countries.

After all, the Euro has dropped 30 percent against the U.S. Dollar.

But one word of caution.

It doesn’t mean that everything is on sale because of the attractive exchange rate.

Many hotels in international gateway cities have adjusted their rates to cover the drop in the Euro’s value.

But the real savings come with the cost of local goods and services—the cost of a tube of toothpaste, or a cab ride, or a fast food item.

I’m not suggesting you go out and eat a Big Mac in Paris, but these items are a good indicator of what you’re really going to have to pay for your trip.

For more information about money, currency, and credit, check out:

• How to Get the Best Foreign Exchange Rates
• The Most Affordable & Most Expensive Countries to Visit
• What You Should Know Before Traveling With a Credit Card

Keep reading for more travel tips.