Weak Yen/Pickpocket-Proof Pants/Free Hotel Stays
Time to Check Out Japan?
The Japanese yen dropped to 137 to the U.S. dollar this week, a level we haven't seen since the 1990s. (It is also at a 6-year low vs. the euro.) Japan is normally an expensive destination to visit, so this could widen its appeal once this holdout country is fully open to all visitors again.
A Strong Dollar Is Great for Some...
Reader Jon S. pointed out that while this is a great time to be a US-dollar-earning traveler or expat, there are negative repercussions on the other side of that equation. These range from Sri Lanka's collapse to thinner profits at tech companies. Take advantage of the opportunity while it lasts: Hungary, Argentina, and Turkey are the best bargains this year but Americans will find better prices than usual almost everywhere.
Pickpocket Proof Clothing
Next up in our series of items that help you hold onto your valuables when traveling is pickpocket-proof pants, shorts, shirts, and skirts from Clothing Arts. I take a pair of their pants on every trip to Europe and with a series of zippers and buttons, the pockets are nearly impossible for sticky fingers to navigate. They've received raves from more than 200 customers who thwarted attempted theft attempts. (Paris, Rome, and Barcelona have the lead.)
The Best Hotel Price is "Free"
Earning points for free travel doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. One of the best credit card offers out there right now is the Hilton Amex card. You earn a 100K-point sign-up bonus after spending just $1,000 and there's no annual fee or foreign transaction fees. That's enough points for four or five nights at their 3-star properties or a splurge at a Waldorf-Astoria with points left over.
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