Back in 2013 , I wrote a blog post about how I would choose my next travel destination using “The Big Mac Index“.
For those unfamiliar, The Big Mac Index is an interactive map used to measure the purchasing power between two currencies by evaluating the prices of McDonald’s famous Big Mac sandwich in its restaurants across the world. The data is published every spring by The Economist.
In the 2013 index, South Africa and India’s currencies were undervalued by more than 50%, simply meaning you were most-likely to get the “most bang for your buck†in those countries that year.
Here’s what the 2013 index looked like:
In the 2013 post, I asked for input from readers, and many responded that I should visit Thailand, South Africa, Poland, and Cambodia. I am happy to report that I have since visited Thailand, South Africa, and Cambodia, and they all were excellent value destinations, so thanks for the great suggestions and inspiration to take those trips!
When analyzing the data, some prefer to use the adjusted index, because it takes into account that Big Macs may be cheaper simply because labor costs are lower. But to keep this post simple and aligned with the success I had with the 2013 results, I’m sticking to the “Raw Index” results.
I need your help again this year. With the strong dollar currency run-up, I decided to take a peek at what is on the newly-published 2015 Big Mac Index, and see how it compares to the 2013 list:
On the 2015 Big Mac Index list, the following countries have currencies that are the most undervalued (against the US dollar):
- Ukraine
- Russia
- India
- Malaysia
- South Africa (already visited)
- Indonesia (already visited)
- Egypt
Where do you think I should I go and why? Ukraine, Russia (need a visa), India, Malaysia, or Egypt? Part of me is leaning towards Russia and Ukraine, but I am also open to seeing other places.
Have you too used the Big Mac Index to help pick a travel destination?
Would love your input, and your help is always appreciated.
The Dad.
Anyplace but Russia #ScrewPutin
If things quiet down, I’d recommend Egypt. I was there with my wife in January, and we really enjoyed it. Beware though, its a much different experience than what you might see in Indonesia or Thailand or UAE. But, the pyramids are still there, and the visa on arrival may be sticking around (TBD I think).
As an added bonus, if you wanted to do multiple trips to Egypt, you could jump on one of the cheap Qatar Airways sales and fly business for ~$1650 round trip to the US. I’ve found cheapest availability to PHL on the east coast.
@kfm- Funny. Why don t you like Putin?.One of the few dictators left. Show him some love.
@ Trevor- Yes Egypt is on my must do list. I would like to pair it with Israel and Amman Jordan.
Every country you just named is a war torn dangerzone. Yeah an American should really stay out of Egypt right now. No wonder Ukraine and Russia are cheap they’re blowing each other up. Posts like these are not helpful to people looking for bargains without trading safety
@Gcar-Thanks for your comment. If you don t feel comfortable with my choices. Just move up the list. Maybe Hong Kong, Poland or Taiwan may be better for you. Post like this sometimes opens the reader to new ideas and experiences.
i recommend both Ukraine and Russia. The former should include Odessa and the latter should include both Suzdal and St Petersburg ( and of course Moscow)
India is a bigger risk due to hygiene, crime, pollution and weather.
@Marcus thanks for your comment and suggestions. I agree with India. I like your Russia and Ukraine ideas. I will research to see if i can make it work on one trip.
I found Russia terribly grey and depressing, but I think Malaysia is gorgeous and Kuala Lumpur is a very up and coming place with lots to see.
Just my 2 cents (which won’t buy a big Mac anywhere!)
@mbh Thanks for your comment and 2 cents. Russia does seem gray @ times. Business Insider had a story that rated St Petersburg top place to visit in 2015. We enjoyed our trip. Moscow would be a lot better if the country improved the tourist infrastructure.