Travelling in Economically-challenged countries

We were in Spain this summer and it was great, cheaper then most of northern Europe but not as cheap say Mexico etc.. We had a great time and would go again.

Hmmmm... when I lived in Denmark for the past few years, most of the Danes considered the USA an Economically-challenged country. Of course, the cost of living there was INCREDIBLY high. So when we traveled to other countries (except Norway) we always felt like we got more for our money. The disadvantages could be, but not limited to: strikes, store closures, higher (and different) prices for YOU the tourist, demonstrations (we almost got stuck in Greece one trip!), and asking YOU (the tourist) to pay cash in advance. As you are visiting, and they may be struggling, you perhaps need to be more aware and "respectful" of the culture and traditions in those countries. I have friends in Spain who have not worked in 2 years. They are hurting. I've been to Spain many times the past few years... and I LIVED in Spain when Franco was alive - I'll take the economy and environment now!

Different situation on each country. Greece is really suffering the impacts of a depression that, relatively to size of economy and time is worse than the Great Depression. Many museums have curtailed hours, some now open just some days per week. Public transportation on the Greek countryside has been reduced, some train lines were shut down altogether.

Thanks so much, everyone. I wasn't as worried about protests and that sort of problem as costs and availability of travel and accommodations. I've encountered protests in France, Turkey, England, Prague and other places. I just get out of their way!

The advantages, for the traveler, are probably depressed prices and lodging/restaurants are less likely booked up. You may also find better fares to sell empty seats on flights. I think people are also more happy to see visitors, with money to spend, than they might be if the economy was booming. The disadvantages, there is more potential for protests/strikes/riots, seeing the effects of a depressed economy (homeless, closed businesses, etc.), and potentially more thieves targeting tourists.

I think this is relative, as Ron pointed out. Some friends were concerned that I was going to Italy during the recession, but everyone there seemed happy to see me (and the euros I was escorting home).

Most Latin and South American countries are a good travel bargain if you care to try traveling to a non-European destination.