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The United States is facing a variety of challenges, with some set to escalate. Nevertheless, one issue consistently sparks discussion: soaring gas prices and the expense of refueling. Presently, gas prices fluctuate between three to four dollars per gallon, contingent on the area. Should prices rise by a dollar or more, as witnessed after the pandemic, it will take center stage in headlines and dialogues.

In Europe, elevated gas prices are not as alarming, primarily due to a dependence on Russian oil and increased fuel taxes that support infrastructure. Europeans are used to high prices and are more forward-thinking regarding climate change, having opted for practical, fuel-efficient automobiles long ago. For instance, in Italy, compact, chic vehicles are prevalent, and there is a growing trend of electric vehicles, leading to diminished costs and emissions.

European nations have made substantial investments in infrastructure, including high-speed rail systems, owing to elevated fuel taxes. These trains are effective, swift, and present a feasible alternative to driving. Conversely, the American automotive culture is swayed by incentives that promote larger vehicles, often shaped by marketing efforts. This has fostered a reliance on gas-hungry vehicles, leaving many Americans ill-equipped for spikes in fuel prices.

Electric vehicles are becoming more popular in Europe, with Norway taking the lead. In September, 96.4% of newly registered cars in Norway were electric. This trend is not as pronounced in the United States, where misinformation and identity politics obstruct advancement. However, economic incentives are slowly pushing a transition towards renewable energy and electric vehicles.

In conclusion, while high gas prices pose a considerable challenge in the USA, they are not as critical in Europe, where innovative solutions and infrastructure investment have lessened their effects.

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When I embarked on my first journey around the globe, I was significantly more carefree than I am now as an older (and hopefully more knowledgeable) traveler. I embraced more risks, improvised much more frequently, and didn’t have much of a safety net, reflecting on it now. I received vaccinations to prevent unpleasant tropical illnesses and focused on preventing mosquito bites, but that was largely the extent of my preparations.

I no longer perceive myself as invulnerable or exceptionally fortunate. You shouldn’t either, regardless of whether you’re in your 20s or 30s. I don’t believe that travel is inherently more perilous than staying at home: the primary causes of death include car accidents, heart disease, and cancer, after all. The risks are more nuanced and unpredictable, which is why every year travelers get injured or even lose their lives due to unforeseen circumstances.

Some incidents could have undoubtedly been avoided, such as taking a selfie near a hazardous cliff marked with a sign that reads, “Do not pass this point.” Nonetheless, some risks aren’t as apparent, so here’s an adventure travel planning checklist to review before embarking on that epic multi-day hike, biking excursion, or safari.

## Travel Insurance *Plus* a Way to Get Home

Regardless of your destination or activities, it’s wise to secure travel insurance. In addition to the reassurance that comes from having medical coverage, it also provides built-in compensation for canceled or delayed flights, lost baggage, and other issues that might arise. The current US administration leans towards the interests of the industry rather than yours as a consumer, meaning that the situation regarding passenger rights is likely to worsen. Airlines may strive to offer you nothing when they cause significant disruptions, so it’s prudent to have additional protection on hand.

I have an annual plan with Allianz that serves as my “set it and forget it” option, something I renew each year while hoping not to use it. However, you can also acquire plans for individual trips, which is advisable especially if you’re booking an expensive slot on a guided tour or a cruise. If unforeseen circumstances arise and you cannot travel last minute, you’ll want to be able to recoup at least some of that money.

This is merely the “baseline” purchase. If you wish to be thoroughly covered in the event of a medical emergency, you require a medical evacuation plan. The top recommendation for that is [Medjet](https://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?gid=394388&mid=20001&awinaffid=411199&linkid=2713345&clickref=). They extend well beyond basic travel insurance.

Some foreign medical facilities are outstanding, but others may fall far short of what you’re accustomed to. If you want to avoid being confined to a foreign hospital, you need a program that provides air medical transport. Most travel insurance will only take you to the “nearest acceptable facility,” but that’s likely where you will need to stay until treated to the “fullest extent possible.” A Medjet membership is what will facilitate your transfer to a hospital back home. Here’s their commitment:

“As a Medjet Member, if you become hospitalized internationally or domestically – 150 miles or more from home – Medjet will arrange medical transportation to a home-country hospital of your choice for inpatient care. All you pay is your membership fee.” That fee can be as low as $99 and can go up to $425 for a comprehensive annual family plan covering trips up to 90 days.

They also provide memberships tailored for expats who are overseas every day of the year, as well as memberships that include 24/7 security and crisis response benefits (if you’re traveling to a destination where safety is a greater concern).

[Check the rates here](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=20001&awinaffid=411199&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fmedjetassist.com%2Fmedjetassist).

## Vaccinations and Disease Prevention

If you’re planning a trip to Patagonia like I will be shortly or embarking on a polar cruise in the Arctic Circle, you won’t need to be overly concerned about the vaccinations required. The majority of medical issues that could significantly disrupt your trip arise in tropical regions, and in some of those countries, a Yellow Fever vaccine is necessary for entry. In others, you’ll likely need to confirm that your childhood vaccinations are up to date with boosters, and you might also need additional shots for cholera and hepatitis A or B. Until the CDC is so defunded that they can no longer maintain their website, you can find the international vaccine [information you need here](https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/travel-vaccines).

This is a crucial

If you happen to be a traveler, where are you most likely to find poor air quality? Which cities globally rank among the most polluted, where your health could be at significant risk?

There are indeed locations in the Americas with problematic air quality, yet they pale in comparison to the notorious pollution found in Asia, particularly in India, where numerous cities make Mexico City seem like a haven of clear skies.

During the onset of the pandemic when stay-at-home orders were in effect and traffic was virtually nonexistent, the Himalayas became visible from Kathmandu and northern Indian cities. However, that clarity was short-lived, and those places have reverted to their usual smoggy conditions. To capture a photo of a day with a clear sky and visible snow-capped peaks, you would need an AI image generator.

If you’re seeking a straightforward recommendation on which areas to steer clear of, avoid India. This country holds the dubious distinction of harboring 83 of the 100 most polluted cities globally, as indicated by a study utilizing data from IQ Air. Another analysis from an air monitoring firm identified India as having 28 of the top 30 most polluted cities, with Dhaka and Peshawar as the only exceptions.

Indeed, the majority of the most polluted cities outside of India are found in its neighboring countries: Pakistan and Bangladesh. If you suffer from respiratory issues, South Asia is the least favorable destination for you. Depending on the season, China and Southeast Asia can also pose significant problems.

Air Pollution in Asia Exceeds That of Other Regions

In the aforementioned study, Asia dominated with 99 of the 100 most polluted cities on the planet—truly an overwhelming majority. The sole city not located in Asia was Benoni, South Africa.

Numerous factors contribute to this situation in developing Asian countries: farmers burning their fields annually after harvest, weak regulation of industrial emissions, reliance on polluting fuels like coal, and ineffective vehicle engines that emit high levels of air pollution. Anyone who has visited a city in India can attest to this first-hand; there are days when simply being outdoors is unhealthy.

If you’re planning a trip to India, it’s advisable to greatly limit your stay in Delhi. As highlighted in the following section, it consistently ranks as the most polluted city globally. Kolkata is a close rival, and there are over 80 other cities with hazardous air pollution levels; fortunately for tourists, many of these cities are lesser-known industrial hubs.

Nevertheless, these assessments may not be entirely comprehensive. There are numerous heavily polluted cities in Africa, but without adequate measurement or reporting on air quality, it’s challenging to ascertain their true pollution levels. According to the report I referenced for this data, “Africa remains the most underrepresented continent, with a third of its population still lacking access to air quality data.” This suggests that there may be several African cities with severe pollution that remain purposely under the radar.

Some cities in South America might also have poor air quality, but we remain uncertain since “70% of real-time air quality data in the Latin America & Caribbean region is sourced from low-cost sensors.”

The World’s Top 5 Most Polluted Cities

The latest report from IQAir lists the five cities with the worst air pollution, all situated in South Asia:

1. Delhi, India
2. Lahore, Pakistan
3. Dhaka, Bangladesh
4. Karachi, Pakistan
5. Kolkata, India

Here’s a concerning statistic that illustrates the extent of the issue:

Over 80 million people reside in the five most polluted major cities.

To put this in context, if those 80 million individuals were consolidated in a single area, it would represent the 20th largest country globally, slightly smaller than Germany and larger than Thailand.

As for Thailand, Bangkok frequently appears on various lists of the most polluted cities, although its pollution levels can vary greatly throughout the year. These rankings are not static; atmospheric conditions, occurrences of fires, and fluctuations in heat or rainfall influence them.

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**Maximize Your Travel Budget in 2025: Best Spots for American Travelers**

As we enter spring 2025, the robust U.S. dollar creates a special chance for American tourists to visit international locales at much lower prices than usual. However, given the potential economic changes ahead, it’s smart to act swiftly. Here are some locations where your travel funds can stretch further this year:

**1. Brazil: A Discounted South American Treasure**
Brazil, once the costliest nation in Latin America, has transformed into a travel steal. The currency exchange has altered significantly, with one U.S. dollar equaling about six Brazilian reals, leading to much reduced travel expenses. While enjoying famous sites like Rio de Janeiro and Iguacu Falls, think about branching out to find lesser-known treasures. Keep in mind that a $160 visa fee for Americans might be reintroduced soon, so prepare accordingly.

**2. Mexico: Budget-Friendly Escapades Await**
Following a short stint of inflation, the Mexican peso has stabilized, providing advantageous exchange rates for American tourists. Although tourist hotspots like Cancun and Tulum are still expensive, delving into the inner highlands or more obscure beaches can lead to considerable savings. Relish economical dining, transport, and cultural experiences throughout the nation.

**3. Japan: An Uncommon Budget-Conscious Chance**
Japan, historically associated with high expenses, is now more attainable due to a favorable exchange rate. With the yen valued between 145 and 160 per dollar, travelers can immerse themselves in Japan’s distinctive culture, history, and modern attractions without overspending. Think about visiting Kyoto, trekking the Kumana Kodo, or experiencing the lively atmosphere of Tokyo.

**4. Egypt: Enduring Marvels for Less**
The fluctuations in Egypt’s currency have turned it into one of the most affordable travel spots globally. With the Egyptian pound trading at 51 to the dollar, visitors can enjoy inexpensive accommodations, meals, and transport while discovering ancient wonders such as the pyramids and Luxor’s temples.

**5. South Africa: A Varied Experience at Lower Costs**
South Africa’s currency has stabilized, offering favorable rates for explorers. With its rich wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities, South Africa delivers a varied travel experience. Although flights may be pricey, utilizing airline points or credit card perks can help mitigate costs.

**6. Turkey: Cultural Richness Amid Economic Hurdles**
Despite political uncertainties, Turkey remains a fantastic value for tourists. The depreciating Turkish lira has rendered the country more budget-friendly, with lowered expenses for attractions, dining, and transport. While tourist regions might not showcase these savings, venturing beyond the typical sites can yield exceptional deals.

**7. Europe: Seasonal Bargains**
The euro’s near equivalence to the dollar makes Europe more budget-friendly for American tourists. While sought-after places like Italy and France might still come with a high price tag, countries like Hungary and Spain present marvelous value. Consider exploring lesser-known regions or visiting during off-peak times to dodge crowds and save cash.

These destinations provide unique chances to extend your travel budget in 2025. Whether your interests lie in cultural experiences, natural marvels, or culinary indulgences, there’s a spot on this list that aligns with your passions. Safe travels!

“Should you earn $1,000 monthly, you could drive a compact car, occasionally treat your family to respectable restaurants, and enjoy outings to places like this during weekends.” This was an unintentional remark from my Nicaraguan guide Pablo while we were at the viewpoint admiring Lake Apoyo, positioned between Managua and Granada. “With that salary, you’re considered middle class here.”

Indeed, Nicaragua is a nation with limited resources, and it’s not a place I wish to reside in currently due to the Ortega regime, yet it exemplifies one among many countries where $1,000 monthly classifies as middle class locally. Therefore, if your income is several thousand a month from a remote position, an online venture, or retirement income/savings, you will instantly elevate from middle class to “wealthy” if you settle in these regions or travel through them as a digital nomad.

Every year, I publish a post and specific overviews on the least expensive locations worldwide, and there’s a singular crucial aspect they share: most residents earn considerably less in their country than the average in yours. This results in your living expenses being halved.

The overarching perspective is genuinely that straightforward. If you come from a nation where the median annual income exceeds $40,000 after taxes, as is the case in the USA, Canada, or Australia, you’ll undoubtedly feel more affluent if you relocate to a region where the median income hovers around $12,000 annually. Even if you subsist solely on Social Security or a pension payment.

Travel further down to an area where individuals make $600 monthly, and you might find yourself among the top 2% of income earners.

These official figures are somewhat clumsy, of course, whether you refer to median income, per-capita GDP or daily consumption per capita. Some “work” isn’t accurately accounted for, bartered commodities are overlooked, and individuals naturally understate their actual income when tax consequences arise. Nevertheless, whether an average worker in Nepal earns $200 yearly or $800 doesn’t significantly alter my argument. In comparison to the Nepalis, you are affluent, even if your income parallels that of a fast-food worker.

Conversely, if you reside in a pricier locale, the earnings from your labor lose value. Your purchasing power diminishes due to the heightened costs of nearly everything. Per-capita GDP could nearly reach six figures in Norway pre-tax, but relocating there means you’ll face exorbitant prices for almost all your expenses. Additionally, income tax is steep (though it comes with significantly better governmental benefits).

While a substantial lunch in Cambodia might set you back $3, the same meal in Norway could run you $20 due to elevated wages, rents, taxes, and ingredient costs. Hence, we must consider overall purchasing power: what individuals can afford relative to the average wage.

In the USA, one must also account for healthcare expenses, which are exorbitant without a corporate health plan. This is often the case for most gig workers and self-employed individuals. This illogical, profit-driven system is absent in most other parts of the globe. Furthermore, the situation is deteriorating as I express this in 2025, with significant reductions in social programs, support for rural medical facilities, and veterans’ benefits.

How Cost Variations Manifest for Expats

Returning to my experiences in Nicaragua from last decade, I was engaged in writing several articles for assignments, hence had an English-speaking guide accompanying me—someone who was raised in Miami before moving back to Nicaragua in high school. He aims to return to the USA at some point, to show his kids Disney World, yet he plans to continue living in his current place. His typical electric bill is around eight or nine dollars. He owns his home. His family enjoys good meals based on his earnings.

Now, envision your circumstances under that cost structure but arriving with thousands of dollars or euros each month. I had coffee with a retired couple residing in Granada during my visit. “My pension is 3-4 times the average Nica’s income,” Jim shared. “We spend about $1,800 monthly, which is lavish by local measures. We occupy a spacious air-conditioned house with a swimming pool and pay $650 monthly in rent. We dine out whenever we wish, at any place we choose.”

“Healthcare is so affordable here that we don’t even have insurance. We simply pay for services as required. I had to visit the best hospital in Managua for surgery, and it was so affordable that I charged it to my credit card,” he remarked.

Another couple I spoke with for my expatriate living book initially resided in Leon, Granada, and later lived

**Discovering the Republic of Georgia: A Dreamland for Budget Travelers**

The Republic of Georgia has been a well-kept secret for budget travelers, digital nomads, and expats in search of an economical yet fulfilling adventure. Thanks to its lenient tourist visa regulations, which permit visitors from over 75 nations to remain for up to a year without the need for extensions, Georgia emerges as an inviting locale. This article examines the diverse factors that render Georgia an appealing option for those aiming to maximize their budget while immersing themselves in a vibrant cultural experience.

**Visa and Living Expenses**

Georgia presents one of the most accommodating tourist visa frameworks worldwide, enabling travelers to reside for up to a year without extensions. This policy greatly attracts long-term visitors and digital nomads. In terms of expenses, Tbilisi, the capital, is considerably more affordable than major cities such as Washington, DC, Toronto, and London. Reported by Numbeo, rental costs in Tbilisi are 77% lower compared to Washington, DC, and both dining and grocery prices are significantly reduced.

**Accommodation**

Lodging in Georgia is exceptionally cheap. In Tbilisi, budget travelers can find hotels priced under $40 per night, with places like Fabrika Hostel offering dorm beds for as low as $9. Numerous listings on Airbnb and Booking.com feature apartments ranging from $14 to $65 per night. In smaller towns and cities, rates decrease even more, making extended stays extremely budget-friendly. Monthly rents for expats fluctuate between $300 to $1,400, contingent on the area and facilities.

**Cuisine and Beverages**

Georgian food is a delightful find for numerous visitors. Fundamental dishes like khinkali (dumplings) and khatchapuri (cheese bread) are both tasty and wallet-friendly. Eating out is affordable, with meals at casual eateries costing under $10, while even fine dining rarely goes beyond $50 per person. Georgia is also famous for its wine, with prices for most bottles ranging from $2 to $15, making it a paradise for wine lovers.

**Transportation and Excursions**

Navigating within Georgia is economical, with buses, trains, and taxis providing budget-friendly alternatives. The metro system in Tbilisi charges merely 1 GEL (40 cents) per ride, and long-distance bus fares are quite reasonable. Although renting a car is not advisable due to road conditions and driving practices, hiring a driver or utilizing services like Bolt serves as a practical option.

**Cultural Sites**

Georgia boasts an abundance of cultural and historical attractions, many of which are free or budget-friendly. The Georgia National Museum and Tbilisi Wine Museum feature modest entry fees, while ancient monasteries and picturesque landscapes present numerous chances for exploration without straining your wallet. Skiing in Georgia is particularly affordable, with lift tickets at the Gudauri ski resort considerably cheaper than in Western countries.

**Final Thoughts**

The Republic of Georgia presents an appealing mix of affordability, culture, and natural splendor, making it a perfect destination for thrifty travelers. Whether you wish to discover its historic landmarks, savor its distinctive cuisine, or simply relish a more relaxed lifestyle, Georgia offers a generous and cost-effective atmosphere. With the potential to live comfortably on a limited budget, it’s easy to see why more travelers are uncovering the allure of this fascinating nation.

If you are passionate about trains, Ecuador has certainly stirred your feelings. There were no options, then some significant choices, and then a long period of nothing. The train traversing much of the nation between the two largest cities was a hallmark infrastructure initiative from a previous administration that generated a multitude of jobs, but it was halted during the pandemic and has yet to resume. However, there is a glimmer of good news in 2025: the Devil’s Nose Train, which I experienced last decade, is operational once more.

Once upon a time, people traveled by train extensively throughout Ecuador, from the capital, Quito, to Otovalo, Cuenca, and the coastal port of Guayaquil. More than 60 trains would leave daily from the primary station in southern Quito.

Then the automobile era arrived, leading to the decline of trains in many regions of the Americas, from a large part of the U.S. down to Patagonia. Unfortunately, Ecuador’s challenging geography exacerbated the issue: it is a land of steep, towering mountains. The initial construction of railways was intimidating enough. Frequently clearing rockslides and repairing damaged tracks after natural occurrences demanded more resources than the government was prepared to allocate.

Riding the Devil’s Nose Train Again

Gradually, journeys were truncated into smaller segments or vanished entirely. One of those segments is worth experiencing purely for the ride: the Devil’s Nose train (Nariz del Diablo) descends a very steep mountain to the valley below. Here’s a video I compiled from my previous ride. (Apologies for the lack of high-definition back then.)

This renowned train ride is distinctive due to the engineering obstacles faced by its builders (which cost the lives of about 2,500 workers) and includes one innovative solution. At one point, the train curves around a bend and stops on tracks that end. At that juncture, the tracks are switched, and the train continues down the mountain facing the reverse direction: the previous rear of the train is now the front. This allows it to navigate a much steeper incline than it otherwise could have. (You can witness that transition in the video above.)

Shortly, it reaches a refurbished station within the narrow canyon, where you can actually spend the night if the lodge is open again. During my visit, I noticed there was a package that included the train ride down and back, accommodations, and two meals for an attractive $50 per person.

Regular day visitors can grab a snack at a panoramic bar up some steep stairs, which also features a museum. Local community members perform traditional dances on the train platform. Plus, there’s a woman with a llama for photo opportunities. Sure, it’s somewhat cheesy, but enjoyable.

For a brief moment, after the government invested billions in track improvements and new rolling stock, a train ran between Quito and near Guayaquil that you could book as a passenger ride. However, they didn’t manage it particularly well, and there were no decent hotels along the route like in Peru. It was operational from 2014 to 2020 but never gained much momentum due to poor marketing and publicity and a lack of tourism facilities at the stops. They should have rerouted it into a regular passenger service that all travelers could utilize, including locals visiting family, akin to the Maya Train in Mexico.

That never occurred, and when the pandemic struck, the train ceased operations and has yet to restart. I’m certain there has been some track damage since then, and the current administration isn’t prioritizing repairs. It’s unfortunate, as it was briefly considered one of the world’s premier train journeys, traversing the “Route of the Volcanoes,” rising from sea level to 3,000 meters coming from Guayaquil.

I’m uncertain if any of the partial routes will reopen. When I rode the Devil’s Nose train, I initially took a train from Quito to Cotopaxi and witnessed new government initiatives in action. There was a refurbished station featuring an inviting new café serving good coffee, a room detailing the history of railroads in Ecuador, and an introductory film about the train system here in two languages. The staff at the station and on the trains were bilingual and donned attractive Tren Ecuador uniforms with a stylish logo. Now, the Tren Ecuador website is missing, so likely all the employees are as well.

We rattled out of the city, passing factories and homes, and ascended the hills to a vantage point overlooking parklands and a valley with snowy mountains on the opposite side. Upon arriving at Machachi station, a brass band performed to welcome everyone. No, this wasn’t a special occasion—they did that for every arrival back then.

The current unfortunate condition of the train system doesn’t provide enough incentive to visit Ecuador, yet this is noted in both of my books.