Rio Olympics a bargain for Aussie travellers and other places good value for money

ARE you keen to make the most of your holiday saving money? These are the places where the Australian dollar is getting us extra cash right now.

ESCAPE : Cancun Beach Picture: Supplied

AUSTRALIAN travellers heading to the Rio Olympics this August are set to get even better bang for their buck as the struggling Brazilian economy sinks even further.

The Aussie dollar has risen more than 28 per cent against the Brazilian real in the past two years as the country suffers a major recession exacerbated by political woes.

“While many Australians might think a trip to the Olympic Games is outside of their reach — that’s not necessarily the case in Brazil.

“Not only is Brazil a fantastic place to take a holiday, it’s becoming cheaper. The Australian dollar is up significantly over the past several years. In 2010 1 AUD bought just 1.5 Brazilian reals (BRL), currently it buys 2.6 BRL — that’s a 173 per cent increase in purchasing power,” says Roberto Boschiroli, head of marketing for MoneyMe.

Most headlines have been around the Aussie dollar’s dismal (but fighting back) performance against the greenback. But Brazil proves that there are still good value destinations for travellers if you choose wisely.

Here are four countries offering value for money right now where better exchange rates mean extra cash, says Boschiroli.

Mexico

Gains in the Australian dollar against the Mexican peso have made Mexico even more affordable. Around 11 per cent cheaper than twelve months ago, visitors can explore its legendary beaches such as Cancun, Acapulco and Playa del Carmen. Or visit the ancient Mayan city of Chicen-Itza, named as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Tulum is also a favourite for its ancient ruins, white sand beach and bars.

The blue waters of Tulum in Mexico.

Brazil

As mentioned, Brazil is having a tough time which is good news for travellers. See the famous statue of Christ the Redeemer, dance the samba through the streets or swim at the famous Copacabana beach.

The 2016 Olympic Games will be held in Rio this August and with only 50 per cent of tickets currently sold, Aussies can snap up some bargains.

South Africa

The South African Rand has fallen 19 per cent against the Aussie dollar over the past year. Famous for its safaris, the strong exchange rate is making this dream holiday a real possibility for those wanting to see elephants, lions, hippos and giraffes in the wild.

Visit Cape Town, one of the most naturally beautiful cities in the world, that was put on the world’s radar after the 2010 World Cup. Hike up Table Mountain, visit Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned or spot penguins on Boulder Beach.

The famous Table Mountain towers over Cape Town. Picture: Alamy

Azerbaijan

Unusual? Yes, definitely. But if you’re looking to tick off different places on your world travel bucket list, Azerbaijan could be a good pick. The country’s currency has lost a third of its value against the Australian dollar over the past 12 months.

It’s capital Baku is an eclectic post-Soviet city sitting on the Caspian Sea and the old walled city is a World Heritage Site. Out of the city you’ll discover mud volcanoes, ancient rock art and plenty of tea houses.