Adventure Traveling Guide

South Africa - 10.45 South African rand to the dollar
Cape Town is Africa’s answer to San Francisco: Nestled between Table Mountain and Table Bay, it claims an equally stunning natural setting, a similarly temperate climate and the continent’s most progressive cultural scene. Attractions include Long Street’s Pan African Market, a fabulous souvenir emporium. Or, visit […]

Indonesia - 11,600 Indonesian rupiahs to the dollar
If you can stomach the long flight, Bali offers incredible value for the money. The village of Ubud is one of the island’s chief draws; some popular sites include the Agung Rai Museum of Art, with a full calendar of performances, and the Blanco Renaissance […]

Costa Rica -    554 Costa Rican colones to the dollar
This Central American favorite spoils visitors with its well-developed system of national parks and some of the region’s best Pacific beaches. For the former, the Rincon de la Vieja National Park is both spectacular and remote- a four-wheel drive vehicle is a necessity- offering a respite […]

Vietnam     – 16,950 Vietnamese dong to the dollar
If capital city Hanoi is too overwhelming, use it as a jumping-off point for exploring the rest of this scenic country. Try the town of Sapa, easily accessible by the Victoria Express train. The Sapa REsort offers the area’s most luxurious accomodations, where rooms with a garden view […]

Argentina    - 3.31 Argentine pesos to the dollar
Argentina’s not the bargain-basement destination it was in 2001, but it still provides plenty of continental graces on a budget. Buenos Aires remains a top draw, with a culture both competitive and distinct from its European colonizers; expect a world-famous, meat-centric cuisine, a popular cafe culture, bustling tango […]

Mexico - 13.25 Mexican pesos to the dollar
Who isn’t looking for a little respite from the cold weather this winter? For U.S. earners looking to stay close to home, head south where you can find a room at even an upscale, exquisitely designed boutique hotel like Playa del Carmen’s Basico for less than $200. […]

Poland - 2.99 Polish zlotych to the dollar
Spend this holiday in beautiful and historic Poland. The country offers much of what neighboring Germany offers, but at a fraction of the price and a small portion of the crowds. In addition to housing several theaters and museums, the Palace of Culture and Science also […]

Be aware of more strictly enforced fuel policies. Some companies will hit you with a top-off fee unless you show them a receipt form a service station near the rental office. Pass on the option of returning the car with less than a full tank unless you want to pay a steep premium over gas-station […]

Consider booking through a foreign car rental company when travelling abroad. Not only can you find better deals, but you can help support the local economy. Try DanDooley (which specializes in Ireland) or TigerCarRental (37 countries, including many in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East). You may even get a broader selection to choose […]

Airport locations are often required by law to add local and state surcharges. One industry consultant estimates that airport fees can hike the cost of renting a car by 25-45%. To make sure you don’t pay more than you have to, try reserving in a city center or suburban location.