An Indian content creator has sparked widespread discussion online after detailing the high cost of travel in the United States, highlighting how currency differences are impacting Indian travellers.
Aakriti Pandey shared her experience in a viral video on Instagram, stating that everyday expenses in the United States felt significantly higher when converted into Indian rupees. She informed that she found herself reassessing spending habits during the trip as she mentally converted dollar prices into INR.
Pandey stated that a single Uber ride from the airport to her hotel cost approximately Rs 6,300, while a breakfast of three dosas amounted to nearly Rs 5,300.
She spoke about the broader impact of exchange rates, stating that the dollar currently ranges between Rs 93 and Rs 95, which made the overall trip feel considerably expensive for Indian travellers. She added that public transport options were limited, especially during late-night arrivals, making reliance on ride-hailing services costly, with a single ride nearly equivalent to a night’s stay.
Pandey also highlighted the cost of food and beverages, stating that coffee in the US appeared expensive relative to Indian standards, with cheaper alternatives lacking comparable quality. She noted that similar amounts in India could fetch premium coffee options with better ingredients.
She further stated that even familiar foods such as dosa came at a premium, with three servings in the Bay Area priced at around $57, reinforcing the perception of high living costs for visitors earning in rupees.
Pandey suggested that travelling to destinations like the United States may be more viable when expenses are covered through corporate travel or sponsorships, stating that self-funded trips could lead to financial stress for many Indian travellers.
The video has garnered over a lakh views and attracted hundreds of comments, with many users echoing similar experiences. Several users stated that they mentally calculate conversions during international travel, while others pointed to the weakening rupee and rising global costs as key concerns. Some users added that travellers often fully understand the financial impact only after arriving in a foreign country.
First Published on May 10, 2026, 11:52:46 IST
