Looking for travel inspiration? These are some of the most popular destinations right now, based on AAA Travel booking trends. Discover what makes each one worth the trip and find out which currency you’ll need before you go.
AAA recommends bringing the equivalent of $50–$100 US dollars in local currency per person, per day for small expenses such as taxi fares, snacks, souvenirs and purchases at businesses that may not accept credit cards.
To avoid long lines, added fees and less favorable exchange rates abroad, arrive prepared by getting your foreign currency ahead of your trip. Stop by at any AAA Northeast branch and place your order at least three days before departure. Happy travels!
Japan
Local Currency: Yen
Experience centuries of traditions and the latest technology while touring Japan. Explore Kyoto, the country’s imperial capital for more than 1,000 years, where historic temples, shrines and gardens offer a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage.
Tokyo is a must-see. Stroll through the Ginza shopping district, visit the Meiji Shrine, browse stores showcasing the latest in anime and experience teamLab Planets, an immersive digital art museum. And no trip to Japan is complete without setting aside time to see iconic Mt. Fuji.
Looking for souvenirs? Popular keepsakes include name stamps or hanko, shaped postcards, miniature figurines, chopstick rests and omamori — a blessing inside an envelope found at shrines. Don’t forget to keep some change handy for Japan’s famous gacha machines, which deliver random prizes for a few coins.
Switzerland
Local Currency: Swiss Franc
Switzerland’s stunning landscapes seem almost too beautiful to be real, from its crystal-clear lakes and snow-capped peaks to its rolling green meadows. Much of Switzerland’s appeal lies outdoors, whether you’re hiking scenic trails or visiting its many lakes and waterfalls. It’s charming towns are just as captivating.
Visit Lucerne for waterfront streets, quaint shops and cafes, or take a gondola to Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps. You can also tour a castle, visit a watchmaker’s studio or explore the Open Art Museum, one of many.
If you’re looking to bring a piece of Switzerland home with you, Swiss chocolate tops most travelers’ lists. Watches and Swiss Army knives are also common choices.
Peru
Local Currency: Sol
In Peru, Machu Picchu — the world’s most famous Incan monument — is a top attraction.
Another must-see destination is Arequipa, known as the White City for its buildings made of pale volcanic stone. Surrounded by three volcanoes, it is also home to one of Peru’s most beautiful town squares. In Lima, the nation’s capital, visitors can explore world-class museums and enjoy a renowned culinary scene.
Tourists like to shop for hats, scarves, sweaters and blankets made from alpaca wool, as well as vibrant handwoven placemats and wall hangings. Handwoven finger puppets and brightly colored ceramic bulls also are also often purchased as souvenirs, reflecting Peru’s rich artistic heritage.
South Africa
Local Currency: Rand
Wind through the jungle to spot the amazing native wildlife on safari in South Africa. Johannesburg, the country’s largest city, houses numerous museums as well as game farms and nature reserves.
Continue on to the Cape Peninsula, where you can visit Boulders Beach Penguin Colony to see thousands of African penguins, and explore the dramatic scenery of the Cape of Good Hope.
When shopping, look for locally made stone carvings, hand-painted ostrich eggs, carved wooden masks, beaded jewelry, and woven bowls and bags.
Croatia
Local Currency: Euro
A remarkable blend of exquisite scenery and centuries of history, Croatia has something for everyone. Many visitors enjoy the country’s beautiful beaches and eight national parks, some with multiple waterfalls.
“Game of Thrones” fans often head to the walled city of Dubrovnik, which served as a filming location for King’s Landing. In the capital city of Zagreb, travelers will find ancient ruins, museums and lively outdoor cafes.
When it’s time to hit the stores, look for lavender products. Croatia has grown lavender for centuries. Its olive oil is also considered among the best in the world. Other popular items include statues, bowls and jewelry made with white stone from the island of Brač.
Learn more about AAA foreign currency exchange.
You’ve Read About It — Now Experience It
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Last updated on June 15, 2026 by AAA Staff
Ellen is a content producer for AAA Northeast, covering automotive, finance, public affairs and electric vehicle news. She is a former newspaper reporter with experience writing for print and online publications about everything from higher education to sustainability. She recently returned to her native Long Island after living in Connecticut for 20-plus years, and has never met a beach she didn’t like.
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