In for a penny, in for a pound say undeterred travellers

By COLIN MOORE

To hell with the falling dollar, we're travelling anyway.

That's the overwhelming reaction of the Herald Tripsters when we asked them whether they intended changing travel plans because of the poor exchange rate.

Most Tripsters gave an emphatic "no" and said a low exchange rate was just part of the cost of travelling.

"I've spent too many years feeling poor in money and being poor in available time that, now I'm footloose, the cost is not the major concern," says Andy Brewis, of Auckland.

"Well-laid plans are not to be changed," says Valerie Martin, of Auckland.

"Travel life goes on," says Brian Giblin, of Auckland.

"The New Zealand dollar has never really stacked up against overseas currencies when travelling, so it is not a major issue in the decision of destinations for me," replies Aucklander Jennifer Haydock.

Many frequent travellers admit, however, that they are now less likely to go to Britain and the United States and are more likely to visit Australia, the Pacific Islands and Asia.

But for some Tripsters, the fallen dollar has dashed their travel plans.

"We were planning a month off in January and wanted to go back to our favourite destination, the United States, but the pathetic dollar has meant this is not feasible anymore," says Sue O'Donnell, of Auckland. "And the Asian countries are really not our cup of tea," she adds.

Tripster Bryan Bates, of Auckland, is postponing a visit to the United States in favour of Australia and South America.

Aucklanders Roy and Christine Bennett are also likely to head for Australia instead of Las Vegas, as they had planned.

One winner could be domestic tourism. Several Tripsters plan to spend more of their dollars at home.

*Next week our Tripsters give us money-saving tips.