Japan offers best value for Aussie travellers

Japan is the destination offering Australians the best value for money for the second year in a row with a growing number of travellers taking advantage of the favourable exchange rate, according to Expedia.

The 2014 Expedia Foreign Exchange Index showed that, despite a recent weakening of the Australian dollar which has seen it fall to a three and a half year low against the US dollar, its value increased by 2.3% against the Japanese Yen.

The website also revealed that interest in Okinawa and Hokkaido had grown by 50% in 2013 demonstrating rising interest in the destination that was once considered expensive. Japan National Tourism Organisation reinforced the reports of rising interest levels, with 2013 a record year for Australian arrivals as numbers climbed 18.5% on the previous year.

Meanwhile, the Index showed that the Aussie dollar fell against the currencies of 13 of the top 15 destinations for Australian travellers. It declined 15% against the US dollar and 17% against the British pound.

But Expedia Australia and New Zealand managing director Georg Ruebensal stressed that the decline is not deterring Aussies for travelling overseas.

“However, Aussies need to be smart as their purchasing power is impacted,” he said.

“There are still plenty of places both close to home and further afield that provide great value. While it’s great to see Japan is still offering the best value for money, it’s exciting to see other destinations like Indonesia, Brazil and Canada becoming more affordable.”

He advised travellers to keep a “close eye” on exchange rates, search for deals and be flexible with dates.

Check out Expedia's list of the top destinations based on the purchasing power of the Australian dollar against other major currencies in 2013: