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4 Suddenly-Cheap Holiday Destinations For Singaporeans

Can't wait for the long National Day weekend to come soon? With 4 straight days of public holidays (7-10 August, 2015), either you have already planned a getaway, or you haven't.

Because of recent currency fluctuations of the Singapore dollar against some other currencies, you may be curious about which countries you can visit that will give you more bang for your buck!

The recent decline in the Malaysian Ringgit has caused a stir in Singapore, with money changers running out of the currency to sell as Singaporeans and Malaysians working here rush to exchange their money.

The US dollar has been strengthening since last year after the Federal Reserve announced measures to pull back on their easy monetary stance adopted a few years back to aid economic growth after the financial crisis.

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While many countries are worried about the strengthening US dollar causing downward pressure on their own currencies, on the brighter side of things, it makes travelling relatively cheaper as well!

To help you GET more for your money, we at GET.com will share with you a list of 4 countries that were traditionally thought to be expensive that you may want to visit soon due to currency fluctuations.

1. Malaysia

The Malaysian Ringgit fell to a new 16-year low against the USD in early July after news claimed that 1MDB, a state investment fund, had transferred a huge sum of money into the Malaysian Prime Minister's bank account, prompting suspicions of corruption.

With Malaysia just a stone's throw away from Singapore, it is no wonder many are exchanging money even just to keep the Ringgit on hand for future use.

If you are looking for a short weekend getaway, Johor is always a bus ride or short drive away for a day of cheap massage, seafood dinner and buying of groceries.

The MYR fell more than 10% against the SGD in just 2 years:

Source: Oanda

2. Europe

Source: Deutsche Zentrale für Tourismus

The Euro dollar fell more than 11 percent in April but has unfortunately bounced back stronger to lose around 8% in the last 2 years to the SGD.

Still, if you have been dreaming of a big trip touring around the various European countries, there's still value in doing it, although you might want to avoid Greece for the moment due to the recent political and economic chaos.

Cash withdrawals from the banks in Greece are available in limited qualities, you have been warned!

Source: Oanda

3. Australia

The Australian dollar has fallen more than 11 percent against the SGD in the last 2 years. Although the country is not suffering from any obvious form of crisis, the economy hasn't been in the best state as commodity prices (Australia is known for its mining businesses) took a hit in the last 2 years due to cooling demand from China.

It doesn't have to be a long trip if you are planning to go, make it cheaper with budget flights from Scoot and spend a long weekend in Gold Coast!

Source: Oanda

4. Japan

Source: Ishikawa Prefecture Tourism League

Who doesn't love going to Japan for a holiday? The country is so rich in culture – you'll find old traditions amidst the fast-advancing tech-driven youngsters on the street.

Nature, culture, shopping, food – there's something for everyone and something special for every season.

Take advantage of the cheaper yen to travel in one of the most expensive countries in Asia.

Source: Oanda

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