Although the dollar’s weak exchange rate may have put that lavish European getaway on hold, a luxury vacation is still within your reach—and at a far more reasonable price. After all, Europe isn’t the only destination where one can find a rich and varied culture with top-of-the-line cuisine, world-class wines, and supremely romantic surroundings. For all this and more, head to South and Central America where you’ll easily find topnotch accommodations that often cost far less than their European counterparts. 

Inn at Coyote Mountain in Costa Rica, Observatory Suite from $219
Instead of reserving a room at a costly Chalet in the Alps, consider a secluded mountain getaway at an eco-friendly lodge in Costa Rica. Perched atop the Cordillera de Tiláran mountains, the Inn at Coyote Mountain is an elegant Spanish colonial-style villa surrounded by 70 acres of private nature preserve. Explore the surrounding tropical forest with abundant nature trails and fabulous bird-watching, or relax at this quiet hacienda with an invigorating soak in the hot-tub. For a truly eco-chic escape, book the third-story observatory from $219/night, a spacious suite with a canopy bed, private en suite bath and stunning 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, mountains, and surrounding tropical highlands.