{"id":807622,"date":"2025-01-22T07:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-01-22T05:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/?p=807622"},"modified":"2025-01-21T16:15:23","modified_gmt":"2025-01-21T14:15:23","slug":"6-countries-you-can-travel-to-where-the-rand-is-stronger-in-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/lifestyle\/807622\/6-countries-you-can-travel-to-where-the-rand-is-stronger-in-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"6 countries you can travel to where the rand is stronger in 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>As South Africa grapples with the rand reaching a nine-month low in early 2025, South Africans might feel disheartened about international travel. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, there are still destinations where the rand holds considerable strength, allowing for affordable exploration. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These countries\u2014Colombia, Egypt, India, Thailand, Turkey, and Vietnam\u2014not only offer favourable exchange rates but are also renowned for their vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unique travel experiences. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While the currency exchange rate is crucial, the true measure of affordability lies in the buying power of your money, and these six countries stand out for their value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here, we\u2019ve compared typical costs of food, drinks, and travel to give you a clearer picture of what your money can achieve in each location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The costs of food, drinks and travel in these countries were done using data from&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.numbeo.com\/common\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Numbeo<\/a>&nbsp;\u2013 one of the world\u2019s largest database of user-contributed data regarding cities and countries worldwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The base cost of the various measures&nbsp;<strong>at restaurants<\/strong>&nbsp;in South Africa are listed below for comparison purposes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Eating out at a restaurant for one:&nbsp;<\/strong>R160.00<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cappuccino:&nbsp;<\/strong>R35.40<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Draught Beer (500ml):&nbsp;<\/strong>R40.00<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Average taxi trip (per kilometre):<\/strong>&nbsp;R18.00<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Colombia<\/strong> presents a compelling case for budget-conscious travellers, with R1 fetching 232 Colombian pesos. Eating out at a local restaurant for one costs around R86.02, significantly less than South Africa\u2019s R160. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A cappuccino is priced at R27.73, a draught beer at R21.50, and an average taxi ride per kilometre at R30.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These low costs, coupled with Colombia\u2019s rich history, colourful festivals, and diverse natural beauty, make it an attractive option for South Africans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In <strong>Egypt<\/strong>, R1 equates to 2.68 Egyptian pounds. Dining out at a restaurant is remarkably affordable at R74.43, while a cappuccino costs R25.58, and a draught beer is R26.05. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Getting around is particularly inexpensive, with a taxi trip averaging R5.58 per kilometre. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>India<\/strong> is another destination where the rand goes far. R1 buys 4.62 Indian rupees, making meals at an inexpensive restaurant work out to just R54.04. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A cappuccino is R34.40, and a draught beer is R36.75, while a taxi ride per kilometre is only R5.40.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>India\u2019s rich cultural heritage and stunning landmarks like the Taj Mahal make it a destination of immense value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Thailand <\/strong>has long been a favourite for South African travellers, and with R1 buying 1.83 Thai baht, it remains a cost-effective choice. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dining at a local restaurant will set you back R54.45, while a cappuccino costs R37.60, and a draught beer is R38. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Transportation is also affordable, with an average taxi trip per kilometre priced at R21. Thailand\u2019s pristine beaches, bustling cities, and welcoming locals add to its enduring appeal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Turkey<\/strong> offers a fascinating blend of East and West, with R1 converting to 1.90 Turkish lira. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dining out costs R157, cappuccinos are priced at R55, and a draught beer is R57.80. Taxi fares are reasonable at R12 per kilometre. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite slightly higher restaurant prices compared to other countries on this list, Turkey\u2019s stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant bazaars make it a must-visit destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Vietnam<\/strong> is another gem where the rand stretches far, with R1 equivalent to 1,349 Vietnamese dong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Meals at local restaurants cost a mere R36.96, while cappuccinos are R32.20, and draught beers are exceptionally cheap at R18.48. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Taxi rides average R11.83 per kilometre. With its lush landscapes, bustling cities, and delectable street food, Vietnam is a paradise for travellers on a budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Note: These comparisons focus more on travel and touring rather than general living costs,<\/em>\u00a0<em>and conversions were done on 20 January 2025.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Colombia<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a  data-lightbox=\"post-image\" href=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/shutterstock_1258073146.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/shutterstock_1258073146.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-596648\" srcset=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/shutterstock_1258073146.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/shutterstock_1258073146-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/shutterstock_1258073146-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>R1 will buy you:\u00a0<\/strong>232 Colombian pesos<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Eating out at a restaurant for one:\u00a0<\/strong>R86.02 ($19,914)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cappuccino:\u00a0<\/strong>R27.73 ($6,419.57)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Draught Beer (500ml):\u00a0<\/strong>R21.50 ($4,977.31)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Average taxi trip (per kilometre):<\/strong>\u00a0R30 ($6,945.08)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Egypt<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Egypt--1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-795352\" srcset=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Egypt--1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Egypt--300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Egypt--768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Egypt-.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>R1 will buy you:\u00a0<\/strong>2.68 Egyptian pounds<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Eating out at a restaurant for one:\u00a0<\/strong>R74.43 (E\u00a3199.29)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cappuccino:\u00a0<\/strong>R25.58 (E\u00a368.65\u00a0)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Draught Beer (500ml):\u00a0<\/strong>R26.05 (E\u00a369.49)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Average taxi trip (per kilometre):<\/strong>\u00a0R5.58 (E\u00a314.95)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>India<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/India-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-807660\" srcset=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/India-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/India-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/India-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/India.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>R1 will buy you:\u00a0<\/strong>4.62\u00a0Indian Rupees<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Eating out at an inexpensive restaurant for one:\u00a0<\/strong>R54.04 (Rs249.41)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cappuccino:\u00a0<\/strong>R34.40 (Rs158.76)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Draught Beer (500ml):\u00a0<\/strong>R36.75 (Rs169.61)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Average taxi trip (per kilometre):<\/strong>\u00a0R5.40 (Rs24.92)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Thailand<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thailand--1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-795357\" srcset=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thailand--1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thailand--300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thailand--768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thailand-.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>R1 will buy you:\u00a0<\/strong>1.83 Thai baht<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Eating out at an inexpensive restaurant for one:\u00a0<\/strong>R54.45 (\u0e3f99.49)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cappuccino:\u00a0<\/strong>R37.60 (\u0e3f68.94)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Draught\u00a0Beer (500ml):\u00a0<\/strong>R38 (\u0e3f69.43)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Average taxi trip (per kilometre):<\/strong>\u00a0R21 (\u0e3f38.37)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Turkey<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a  data-lightbox=\"post-image\" href=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Turkey.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Turkey.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-774104\" srcset=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Turkey.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Turkey-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Turkey-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>R1 will buy you:\u00a0<\/strong>1.90\u00a0Turkish lira<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Eating out at an inexpensive restaurant for one:\u00a0<\/strong>R157 (\u20ba297.92)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cappuccino:\u00a0<\/strong>R55 (\u20ba104.37)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Draught\u00a0Beer (500ml):\u00a0<\/strong>R57.80 (\u20ba109.68)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Average taxi trip (per kilometre):<\/strong>\u00a0R12 (\u20ba22.77)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Vietnam <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vietnam-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-807666\" srcset=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vietnam-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vietnam-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vietnam-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vietnam.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>R1 will buy you:\u00a0<\/strong>1,349 Vietnamese dong<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Eating out at a restaurant for one:\u00a0<\/strong>R36.96 (49,888 VND)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cappuccino:\u00a0<\/strong>R32.20 (43,463 VND)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Draught Beer (500ml):\u00a0<\/strong>R18.48 (24,944 VND)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Average taxi trip (per kilometre):<\/strong>\u00a0R11.83 (15,968 VND)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Read:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/lifestyle\/794357\/warning-for-shopping-malls-across-south-africa\/\">Warning for shopping malls across South Africa<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Here are six great countries to travel to where the rand is stronger in 2025.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":92,"featured_media":774108,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[9876],"tags":[1799,9625,3670,853,9657],"class_list":["post-807622","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lifestyle","tag-nedbank","tag-numbeo","tag-rand","tag-south-africa","tag-travel"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/807622","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/92"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=807622"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/807622\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":807675,"href":"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/807622\/revisions\/807675"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/774108"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=807622"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=807622"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/businesstech.co.za\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=807622"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}