Japan Travel Costs Drop 30% as Yen Hits 34-Year Low Against US Dollar in 2024

Japan Travel Costs Drop 30% as Yen Hits 34-Year Low Against US Dollar in 2024 - Why Cherry Blossom Season 2025 in Japan Just Got 30% Cheaper for US Visitors

The weakening Japanese yen against the US dollar presents a unique opportunity for American travelers in 2025. With a projected 30% decrease in travel expenses, visiting Japan during the famed cherry blossom season becomes significantly more affordable. This vibrant spectacle, characterized by the blooming of the 'sakura' trees, typically unfolds between late March and early April. Past years have shown the peak bloom period falling between March 24th and April 2nd, offering a breathtaking display of nature's artistry. However, the beauty is fleeting, lasting only a couple of weeks.

To truly appreciate the blossoms, careful planning is essential. Destinations like Tokyo's Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, known for its diverse cherry tree species, are sure to attract a throng of admirers. It's wise to consider visiting during the weekdays to escape the larger crowds that usually gather on weekends. Given this window of opportunity and the significant cost reduction, exploring Japan during the cherry blossom season might be a travel choice worth seriously considering.

The weakened Japanese Yen, a consequence of its 34-year low against the US dollar in 2024, is expected to make the 2025 cherry blossom season a much more affordable affair for American travelers. Essentially, daily expenses such as meals, local transport, and lodging, are predicted to be significantly lower. This favorable exchange rate gives visitors more spending power, potentially allowing for extended stays or more opportunities to explore the country's diverse culinary scene.


This isn't just a one-time occurrence. Japan has been working hard to bolster its tourism industry, with infrastructure upgrades designed to improve the visitor experience, and efforts to maintain competitive costs for travelers. Some carriers seem to be capitalizing on this shift, offering more accessible flight options to Japan. Whether it's expansion of their routes or adjusting their pricing strategy, the result could be more affordable flight options, particularly during normally pricey peak travel periods such as cherry blossom season. This may benefit travellers as airlines might be incentivized to engage in competitive pricing to attract more visitors.

Moreover, hotel groups are anticipating the travel surge and are adjusting their pricing accordingly, likely to boost occupancy. One might expect to see more reasonable room rates compared to previous years, which is a promising prospect for visitors.

Traditionally, the cherry blossom season comes with higher prices due to increased demand. The hope is that the added benefits like reduced entry fees or events in some of the popular parks may help offset that. There could be more value for money for travelers seeking a culturally immersive experience and wanting to indulge in the beauty of the blossoms without the typical peak season price increases.



Interestingly, travel technology, too, has made it easier to navigate the complex booking process. While not a direct result of the currency exchange, improved access to information and deals might lead to more people seizing this opportunity. This can particularly impact those who are looking to optimize travel and utilize the more favorable exchange rate to their advantage.





Furthermore, it remains to be seen if the current market conditions will influence loyalty program structures to Japan, and potentially lead to easier redemption of points for flights during peak periods. At least in theory this could provide another angle for budget-minded travelers.

Lastly, increased competition among airlines combined with a more competitive landscape overall may very well lead to more aggressive promotional campaigns or flash sales. These can be enticing opportunities for budget-conscious travelers to secure lower prices during cherry blossom season. However, these deals can often be very short lived and require a degree of flexibility in one's travel plans.

What else is in this post?

1. Japan Travel Costs Drop 30% as Yen Hits 34-Year Low Against US Dollar in 2024 - Why Cherry Blossom Season 2025 in Japan Just Got 30% Cheaper for US Visitors
2. Japan Travel Costs Drop 30% as Yen Hits 34-Year Low Against US Dollar in 2024 - Japan Airlines Adds Extra Flights from Los Angeles to Tokyo Haneda Starting December 2024
3. Japan Travel Costs Drop 30% as Yen Hits 34-Year Low Against US Dollar in 2024 - Tokyo's Michelin Star Restaurants Now Cost Less Than a Manhattan Diner Meal
4. Japan Travel Costs Drop 30% as Yen Hits 34-Year Low Against US Dollar in 2024 - 7-Eleven Japan Food Items That Cost Less Than $2 at Current Exchange Rates
5. Japan Travel Costs Drop 30% as Yen Hits 34-Year Low Against US Dollar in 2024 - Japanese Ski Resorts See Record American Bookings for Winter 2024-2025
6. Japan Travel Costs Drop 30% as Yen Hits 34-Year Low Against US Dollar in 2024 - Japan Rail Pass Price Drops to $175 for 7 Days Thanks to Currency Shift

Japan Travel Costs Drop 30% as Yen Hits 34-Year Low Against US Dollar in 2024 - Japan Airlines Adds Extra Flights from Los Angeles to Tokyo Haneda Starting December 2024

Japan Airlines (JAL) is expanding its flight options between Los Angeles and Tokyo, with the addition of extra flights to Haneda Airport starting in December 2024. This move comes at a time when travel to Japan is becoming more affordable than it has been in decades, thanks to the weakened Japanese yen. The yen's drop to a 34-year low against the US dollar means that trips to Japan could be 30% cheaper for American travelers. JAL is offering competitive fares, with some flights in December 2024 already priced between $776 and $782.

This increased flight frequency suggests that airlines are anticipating a surge in travel demand to Japan, potentially fueled by the lower travel costs. It will be interesting to see how this impacts other airlines operating routes between Los Angeles and Tokyo. While the availability of more flights from LAX to Haneda is undoubtedly a positive for travelers, it's important to remember that Haneda is typically busier than Narita, and that can also translate to more hustle and bustle for the traveler. It remains to be seen how this expansion will influence pricing across the board, and whether other carriers will adjust their strategies accordingly. Of course, with more options and possibly lower fares, it's probably easier for more travelers to make their way to explore Tokyo and the rest of Japan.

Japan Airlines' decision to add more flights between Los Angeles and Tokyo Haneda starting in December 2024 is an intriguing development. It's particularly interesting given the current state of the yen, which has dropped significantly against the US dollar. This added flight capacity on this already popular route could potentially lead to a more competitive pricing environment, possibly benefitting travelers looking for deals.

The choice of Haneda as the destination airport is noteworthy. It's closer to central Tokyo compared to Narita, meaning a quicker and more affordable trip into the city for travelers. This factor alone might incentivize more people to choose Japan Airlines' flights over other options that require longer or more complex commutes from the airport to the city center.


The timing suggests that the airline is anticipating a surge in travel from the US to Japan, which is likely tied to the weakening yen and the associated cost savings for American travelers. It's an interesting interplay of economic factors and travel demand.

One consequence of this increase in travel could be an interesting change to Japan's culinary landscape. As more tourists arrive, it is plausible that we might see a wider acceptance of a fusion between Western and traditional Japanese cuisine. This cross-pollination could create innovative and enjoyable dining experiences for tourists.

It's not out of the realm of possibility that the success of these flights will also stimulate other carriers to take similar actions. For instance, more charter options or even potentially a new carrier could emerge, increasing competition on the route and offering potentially cheaper and more flexible travel options for travelers, particularly during periods of high demand like the cherry blossom season.

With more people traveling, Japan's tourism infrastructure is likely to be further developed and optimized. This may lead to improved experiences beyond standard tourist attractions. More specialized events or activities could emerge, catering to a broader range of tastes and offering a greater variety of experiences for visitors.


It's fascinating to consider how this change in travel cost influences visitor behavior. If airfares become more accessible, it's possible that travelers might reallocate their budget toward enriching experiences rather than minimizing travel costs. They might choose to stay longer or invest in more immersive cultural activities.

Another factor influencing travelers' decisions will be the increased use of algorithms in fare pricing. As technology advances, we might expect to see more personalized deals and targeted offers for flights and accommodations. Savvy travelers can potentially exploit this to their advantage and further benefit from the more affordable travel costs.

The influx of new routes could make frequent flyer programs more attractive. With more available seats, redeeming points for travel during peak periods might become easier. This presents a strong incentive for budget-conscious travelers who strategically manage their points and miles programs.

This increased air traffic and activity on this route could be a significant step toward greater connectivity between the US and Japan. If Japan Airlines or other airlines observe a positive response to these extra flights, we could witness further expansion into the North American market, possibly opening up new destinations. It remains to be seen whether these extra flights will create the anticipated growth, but it will be interesting to follow.

Japan Travel Costs Drop 30% as Yen Hits 34-Year Low Against US Dollar in 2024 - Tokyo's Michelin Star Restaurants Now Cost Less Than a Manhattan Diner Meal

Tokyo's culinary scene, celebrated for its Michelin-starred restaurants, is becoming remarkably affordable for travelers, particularly those from the US. The city now holds a notable 183 Michelin-starred restaurants, including a new three-star addition for 2024, showcasing the depth and breadth of Tokyo's dining landscape. With the yen's recent drop, reaching a 34-year low against the US dollar, a high-end meal in Tokyo might cost less than a simple diner experience in Manhattan.

This shift presents a great opportunity for travelers. While luxury remains, it's now possible to experience Michelin-recognized cuisine without breaking the bank. Lunch at a renowned establishment like Tempura Kondo in Ginza can be had for 8800 yen, a significant value. Even more budget-friendly options, like Anda Gyoza, a Bib Gourmand restaurant, offer a set meal for a mere 1320 yen. This demonstrates a broader trend: travel costs to Japan, overall, have decreased by around 30%, opening up more opportunities for exploring Japan's unique and enticing culinary scene without extensive financial sacrifice.

The convergence of factors, a weakened yen and Tokyo's rich gastronomic offerings, has made Japan, and Tokyo especially, an attractive travel destination for food enthusiasts. This is a compelling development that can enhance the overall experience for visitors. However, it remains to be seen how long these conditions will last, or if the city's culinary scene will adjust as more travelers seek out these incredible values.

The weakening of the Japanese Yen against the US dollar in 2024 has created a fascinating ripple effect in Tokyo's culinary landscape. It's now possible to enjoy Michelin-starred meals at a fraction of the cost compared to just a few years ago, with some experiences costing less than a casual diner meal in Manhattan. This intriguing trend stems from the 30% drop in overall travel costs to Japan.

Tokyo currently boasts the world's highest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants, a figure exceeding even Paris with over 200 establishments. This increase in the number of starred venues combined with the favorable currency exchange provides a unique opportunity for American travelers to experience high-end Japanese cuisine without the traditionally associated high price tag. The impact of the Yen's depreciation is significant, opening up access to a wider audience who might previously have considered such experiences out of reach.

The change in currency exchange has stimulated a shift in airline strategies as well. Airlines are responding to the rising travel demand by adding more flight options to Japan from major US cities. The increased competition could lead to more affordable fares, potentially making travel to Japan, and Tokyo's culinary scene in particular, accessible to a much larger group of people. It'll be interesting to see how the airline industry adapts in the future.

This rise in tourism coincides with peak travel seasons like the renowned cherry blossom season, further enriching the visitor experience. The influx of tourists and associated events may catalyze the creation of novel culinary offerings, possibly including exciting combinations of Western and Japanese cooking styles. The dynamic nature of this period, combined with the lower cost of travel, is quite intriguing.

As one would expect, accommodation costs are reflecting the economic climate. Hotel prices in Tokyo are expected to stay competitive, making comfortable and convenient lodging accessible to those eager to explore the city's culinary offerings. This combination of affordable flights, dining, and accommodation makes exploring the city a much more accessible possibility.

One interesting trend emerging is the creation of dedicated tourist tasting menus in restaurants. Many chefs are tailoring their offerings to attract international visitors, blending traditional Japanese flavors with contemporary techniques and interpretations of international influences. This could significantly diversify and enrich the overall dining experience in Tokyo.

The contrast between a basic meal at a New York diner, estimated at around $20, and a multi-course tasting menu at a Michelin-starred establishment in Tokyo, frequently starting below that, is stark. It showcases the remarkable value proposition offered by Tokyo's high-end culinary scene in the current economic environment.

The interaction between a growing tourism base and Tokyo's established culinary scene can foster innovative collaborations between local chefs and international influences, creating a fertile ground for the development of unique fusion dishes that combine the best of both worlds. The exchange between cultures and cooking styles may spark a period of exciting gastronomic innovation.

The rise in flight options and increased travel demand could bring positive change to frequent flyer programs as well. Travelers might find it easier to redeem points and miles for travel and dining experiences in Tokyo with airlines and hotels potentially adjusting their programs in response. This could further incentivize budget-conscious travelers to optimize their travel planning using points and miles.

The development of new travel technologies and associated booking systems offers increased transparency into the availability and pricing of high-end dining options. Accessing reservations at Michelin-starred restaurants has become a smoother process, especially when combined with a deeper understanding of local pricing and deals. It will be insightful to monitor the evolution of these systems and their influence on the overall tourism experience.

The evolving landscape of Tokyo's culinary scene, interwoven with the drop in travel costs, suggests an exciting future for the city's tourism sector. It remains to be seen how the various trends, from new flight options to increased competition in the hotel industry, will shape the visitor experience over the next few years. It's a fascinating space to observe, particularly for those interested in travel and international culinary trends.

Japan Travel Costs Drop 30% as Yen Hits 34-Year Low Against US Dollar in 2024 - 7-Eleven Japan Food Items That Cost Less Than $2 at Current Exchange Rates

With the Japanese yen at a 34-year low against the US dollar, travel to Japan has become notably more affordable. This shift has opened up possibilities for budget-conscious travelers, and a prime example is the wealth of affordable food available at 7-Eleven stores across the country. For under $2, you can find a wide array of food options, including classic Japanese staples like onigiri (rice balls) and prepared bento boxes. The convenience store also stocks a selection of sandwiches and an intriguing variety of snacks, encompassing both traditional Japanese treats and more international fare like chips and chocolate.

The appeal of 7-Eleven extends beyond its low prices. The food items are generally well-regarded for their freshness and quality, offering a viable and appealing alternative for a quick meal or snack while traveling. It's quite feasible to build a reasonably priced multi-course meal by utilizing the various options within the store. 7-Eleven has become a crucial part of Japan's food scene, serving as both a practical and budget-friendly option for locals and visitors alike. The combination of low prices and a wide variety of food makes it a popular spot, and a noteworthy consideration for tourists who want to maintain a budget while exploring Japan.

Here are 10 intriguing observations about the food offerings at 7-Eleven Japan, currently priced under $2, particularly within the context of Japan's recent economic shifts:


1. **Onigiri's Versatility**: 7-Eleven's onigiri (rice balls) showcase a surprising level of variety, from classic salted salmon to contemporary flavors like spicy tuna, typically priced around 100-200 yen. It's a testament to how Japan prioritizes both convenience and quality, catering to busy consumers without sacrificing taste or culinary norms.


2. **Elevated Convenience Store Fare**: The quality standards for food in 7-Eleven Japan seem to be quite high, often exceeding what you'd expect from typical fast-food chains. Many food items undergo rigorous testing to ensure freshness and taste, making them surprisingly comparable to restaurant-quality meals.


3. **Chef-Driven Innovation**: The collaboration between 7-Eleven Japan and well-known chefs, incorporating their culinary expertise into readily available convenience store products, is quite interesting. It shows a fascinating trend of elevating everyday food through professional culinary insight while keeping costs exceptionally low.


4. **Bento Boxes with Variety**: Many bento boxes priced under $2 include a satisfying mix of rice, pickled vegetables, and various protein options. This is compelling from an economic as well as nutritional standpoint – a well-rounded meal without the standard expense associated with quick dining.


5. **Cultural Integration**: The vast array of food at 7-Eleven reflects a deeply ingrained cultural connection to food in Japan, even within the convenience store format. Ingredients and recipes frequently feature seasonal elements and traditional techniques, suggesting a rich culinary heritage is integrated into daily life.


6. **24/7 Accessibility**: 7-Eleven stores are often open 24 hours a day, offering a rare level of continuous access to inexpensive meals. This is especially useful given Japan’s sometimes limited late-night dining options.


7. **Beyond Food**: The beverage selection at 7-Eleven is also impressive, with unique Japanese bottled teas and ready-to-drink coffees, priced under 200 yen. It's a great way to explore Japanese beverage preferences and brands without overspending.


8. **Daily Freshness**: Many perishable items come with daily freshness guarantees, ensuring they are produced or prepared daily to optimize taste and quality. This attention to freshness stands in stark contrast to the reputation of many Western convenience store offerings, frequently criticized for excessive processing.


9. **Regional Exploration**: Some 7-Eleven stores stock regional food products, giving travelers an opportunity to explore local flavors within a convenience store environment. It's a captivating aspect of the Japanese retail landscape, enabling a degree of geographic exploration without extensive travel.


10. **Technological Efficiency**: 7-Eleven Japan’s intricate inventory management systems, utilizing real-time data, help to minimize food waste. This is a technically sophisticated way to manage inventory, ultimately leading to fresher products, better customer satisfaction and lower prices.


The multifaceted nature of 7-Eleven's offerings in Japan makes it a fascinating case study in effectively balancing convenience, quality and affordability within a constantly evolving economic climate.

Japan Travel Costs Drop 30% as Yen Hits 34-Year Low Against US Dollar in 2024 - Japanese Ski Resorts See Record American Bookings for Winter 2024-2025

American skiers and snowboarders are flocking to Japanese slopes this winter, with bookings for the 2024-2025 season hitting record levels. Resorts are reporting a more than doubling of bookings compared to the entire previous season, a remarkable increase. This surge in interest likely stems from the recent weakening of the Japanese Yen, which has made travel to Japan significantly more affordable for Americans.

The yen's slump to a 34-year low against the dollar has resulted in an estimated 30% decrease in travel costs. This translates to lower expenses for accommodation, dining, and local transport. The opportunity to ski in Japan at a lower cost, combined with the country's reputation for exceptional powder and varied terrain, is a powerful incentive for American travelers.

Popular destinations like Niseko, renowned for its world-class powder and upscale accommodations, are already seeing a flood of bookings for the upcoming season. Some resorts have already opened reservations, and there are indications that many properties are anticipating high demand. Several resorts are offering early booking deals on both ski passes and lodging, making the trip even more attractive for those planning ahead.

While the official start of the ski season is projected to be around November 30, 2024, Snow Park Yeti, a well-known Hokkaido resort, has already begun operations, starting earlier than usual – a testament to early snowfall and a potential sign of a strong season. Resorts across Japan are bracing themselves for a surge in visitor numbers as the season approaches. Other ski destinations like Furano, known for its lighter snow and extended season, are also attracting interest, with some offering deals on lodging.

The increased demand and popularity of Japanese ski resorts for American tourists is likely to continue throughout the 2024-2025 season. It's an opportune moment for winter sports enthusiasts to experience the unique Japanese ski culture and benefit from the current favorable economic conditions. Whether you're seeking world-class slopes or a less-crowded experience, Japan's ski scene seems poised to be a popular destination this winter.

The current winter ski season in Japan, spanning 2024-2025, is seeing an unprecedented surge in American bookings. This surge appears to be directly linked to the significant drop in the value of the Japanese Yen against the US Dollar. Bookings have more than doubled compared to the entire previous season, suggesting a strong appeal for American skiers and snowboarders.

While resorts like Niseko have been popular for years, it appears a larger number of Americans are discovering the options available in Japan's mountainous regions. This presents a chance to enjoy both world-class skiing and unique cultural experiences, a trend that seems to be gaining momentum. The allure of Hokkaido, famed for its heavy snowfall and pristine slopes, is a strong draw. With average annual snowfall exceeding 600 inches in parts of the region, the quality of the powder and duration of the season are enticing to experienced winter sports enthusiasts.

The accessibility to these resorts also seems to be a factor. Japan has significantly improved its transport infrastructure, shortening journey times with high-speed rail. This has made access from larger population centers like Tokyo more efficient and has likely opened up Japan's ski areas to a broader segment of travelers.

Beyond the skiing, it appears that the overall Japanese experience contributes to the rising demand. Factors such as well-regarded service, modern facilities and a reputation for consistent snowfall are likely contributing to strong visitor satisfaction. Surveys and online reviews indicate a high degree of customer satisfaction, making it seem plausible that these factors contribute to the strong booking numbers.

Resorts, recognizing the influx of visitors, are trying to capitalize on the market conditions by offering incentives and more competitive rates. Several are offering bundle packages that incorporate lift tickets, lessons and accommodation at reduced prices. This could be a significant driver in increasing the attractiveness of these destinations for travelers focused on value.

Moreover, the resorts have been integrating culinary elements that appeal to international visitors. Traditional Japanese dishes are increasingly highlighted, particularly regional delicacies. Integrating these elements with existing options has the potential to enhance the traveler experience, particularly for those interested in broadening their understanding of Japanese gastronomy.

Another factor playing a part appears to be the availability of improved travel technology. Specialized ski resort apps make access to information and booking processes significantly smoother. This gives a competitive edge to destinations with a strong digital footprint and likely encourages travelers who are more comfortable with streamlined booking experiences.

In response to the booking surge, airlines are now also starting to make it more attractive to use frequent flyer points to secure travel to Japan, with promotions that allow travellers to use accumulated miles. This opens the option for budget-oriented travelers to participate in winter sports, even in what can typically be a rather expensive period for air travel.

It remains to be seen if the current influx of travelers will continue in coming seasons, or if the novelty factor will wear off. Nevertheless, there is a compelling trend at play that shows Japan's ski resorts have become increasingly attractive destinations for American winter sport enthusiasts. While factors like currency exchange and new technological tools are clear contributors, the underlying attraction remains the country's uniquely curated experiences that combine outdoor adventure and cultural richness.

Japan Travel Costs Drop 30% as Yen Hits 34-Year Low Against US Dollar in 2024 - Japan Rail Pass Price Drops to $175 for 7 Days Thanks to Currency Shift

The recent decline in the price of the Japan Rail Pass, now available for $175 for a 7-day period, is a significant development for travelers. This price reduction, influenced by the weakening of the Japanese Yen, which has hit a 34-year low against the US Dollar, represents a substantial saving compared to its previous price point of roughly $265. This aligns with the broader trend of decreased travel costs to Japan, estimated at 30% for 2024.

The Japan Rail Pass, designed specifically for foreign visitors, provides unrestricted access to the majority of Japan's extensive railway system for a set duration (7, 14, or 21 days). This feature makes it particularly useful for those who intend to see multiple parts of the country, simplifying travel and potentially saving a significant amount of money compared to purchasing individual tickets. With tourism expected to surge, this reduced price on the Japan Rail Pass presents an attractive proposition for maximizing travel within the country, affording greater flexibility and convenience for exploring diverse locations. Whether it's the historical sites of Kyoto or the modern metropolis of Tokyo, having access to a robust and convenient rail network at a lower price will likely stimulate a wider range of travel choices for visitors.

The recent decline in the price of the Japan Rail Pass, now available for $175 for a 7-day period, is a direct result of the current exchange rate between the US dollar and the Japanese yen. This shift highlights the substantial impact currency fluctuations can have on tourism, affecting not just major purchases like the rail pass but also the day-to-day costs of travel in Japan. It's quite likely we'll see a notable surge in travelers opting for the rail network, given its efficiency and now even more appealing cost. Japan boasts one of the world's most extensive and intricate rail systems, connecting over 1,000 cities and towns. This connectivity might very well lead to travelers exploring beyond traditional tourist hubs, exploring more of the country's vast and diverse landscape.


The 7-day pass, offering unlimited travel on most JR lines including the Shinkansen, has historically provided significant savings – up to 40% compared to buying individual tickets. The current price reduction further strengthens its appeal as a cost-effective option for those wanting to explore Japan via rail. Economic research suggests that even a 10% decline in travel expenses usually triggers a 5-7% bump in visitor numbers. With a predicted 30% overall reduction in travel expenses to Japan, it's quite probable we'll see a strong uptick in American tourists. This could lead to more evenly distributed travel throughout the year, potentially mitigating some of the seasonal peaks seen during the famed cherry blossom season.

The increased air travel options, such as expanded flight routes between the US and Japan, appear to be a direct response to the lowered travel costs. In the past, before pandemic-related disruptions, US carriers reported a notable increase in capacity to Japan – a trend likely to continue with the yen's current exchange rate. It's not just the rail network that benefits from this change. Daily expenses are also affected, like the cost of a classic Japanese bento box, which can be purchased for around 600 yen, or about $4.50 at the current exchange. This kind of everyday affordability helps make exploring Japan's unique culinary landscape a far more accessible option.

The shift in cost isn't just attracting more travelers, it's changing how they plan their trips. The adoption of travel apps and digital booking platforms is contributing to this, with some research showing travelers using these tools see savings of up to 20%. With the increase in tourists likely to use such services, we might observe airlines adjusting their frequent flyer programs, potentially offering more appealing opportunities for travellers to use accumulated miles for Japan flights. This could make it more feasible for budget-conscious individuals to take advantage of the lowered travel costs and explore Japan during traditionally expensive peak seasons.


In summary, the decreasing cost of travel to Japan, heavily influenced by currency exchange rates, presents an attractive opportunity for travellers from the US. It's highly probable that we'll see changes in traveler behavior, with more people utilizing the rail network, exploring less-conventional destinations, and taking advantage of affordable food and accommodation options. It will be interesting to see how airlines and other service providers react to this shift in the coming years.