Return to main articleBest Places to Stretch a Weak Dollar
New Zealand
Why It's a Bargain: This South Pacific nation has been hot for years, but it still hasn't gotten too pricey; one New Zealand dollar costs Americans just 77 cents. How to Go: With lush rolling hills, fjords, and glaciers—terrain that Lord of the Rings-lovers know as Middle Earth—this is a great country to take in by foot. U.S.-based outfitter Country Walkers offers a 10-day "South Island Splendor" trip; you'll hike, kayak, and taste local wines; rates start at $4,198, with all meals included (800/464-9255; www.countrywalkers.com). If you come here solo, it's hard to argue with Hotel So in Christchurch. Rooms may be petite, but they're enticingly crisp and contemporary in an IKEA sort of way, with flat-screen TV's and free wireless—plus rates start at a staggering $68 a night for a double (64-3/968-5050; www.hotelso.co.nz). What to Buy: New Zealand greenstone—a semiprecious stone called pounamu by the native Maori—resembles jade, and goes for about $15 for a simple necklace. If you really want to dazzle (or freak out) folks back home, bring them some merinomink gloves for about $20. They're incredibly warm, thanks to the fact that they are made of, yes, local possum fur.
