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Australia's Weakening Dollar: Massive Travel Bargains for Americans Right Now

Australia is the ideal winter escape for Americans, and here's why.

The Australian dollar (AUD) has fallen below US$0.70 for the first time since 2009, driven by investor outflows, declining commodity prices, and economic challenges in Greece and China. Experts predict further drops; an economist told The Sydney Morning Herald on Sept. 29, 2015, that it could reach as low as US$0.60.

What does this mean for travelers? This winter, U.S. visitors can enjoy Australia's summer sun while benefiting from a nationwide "sale." With the AUD's depreciation, everything from dining to excursions is 30%-40% cheaper, stretching your dollars further. Now's the perfect time to book flights and plan your trip.

4 Key Travel Bargains

Dining
Farmhouse Kings Cross tops TripAdvisor's Sydney rankings, offering modern regional favorites at communal wooden tables in a rustic setting. Its set menu is AU$55 per person (about US$39.60 as of Oct. 7, 2015)—down from US$48 a year earlier.

Activities
In the Outback, Australian Age of Dinosaurs—a nonprofit showcasing prehistoric finds—charges adults AU$33 (US$24 now), versus US$28 last year.

Flights
Travelzoo deals from the West Coast to Sydney start at $1,225 roundtrip via Air New Zealand (sale ends Oct. 16, 2015), covering six top cities Down Under.

Hotels
Travelzoo's Asia Pacific team updates their Australia site daily with negotiated deals. Search by city or check the Top 20 weekly hotspots.

Essential Pre-Trip Info

Visa: Non-Australian/New Zealand residents need a visa. Options include tourist and working holiday visas—apply before departure via your nearest Australian consulate or the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.

Airports: Major gateways include Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and Brisbane—ideal starting points for U.S. flights.

Currency: Australian dollar (AUD).

Calling Code: +61.

Taxes: GST (goods and services tax) ranges 10%-17.5% (2014 rates). Tourists can claim refunds at airports—keep receipts.

Tipping: Not expected or required. Menus must list all charges; tip modestly for exceptional service if desired.

Ideal for Travelers Who Love:

  • ✓ Architecture & Design
  • ✓ Adventure
  •   All Inclusive
  • ✓ Arts & Culture
  • ✓ Beach
  • ✓ Culinary
  • ✓ Escorted
  • ✓ Family
  •   Golf
  •   Last Minute
  • ✓ LGBT
  •   Luxury
  • ✓ Nature
  • ✓ Nightlife
  • ✓ Romance
  •   Shopping
  • ✓ Singles
  •   Spa
  •   Ski
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