Damn you, weak dollar!

A hostile exchange rate is a budget’s worst enemy.

These days, if you count in US dollars, this implies that only the most impoverished of third world countries are desirable conference destinations. I have barely managed to secure accommodation in the UK within my per diem reimbursement range - we are naturally expected to make our own arrangements as the conference centre does not accommodate all -  at considerable cost, which I must carry forward until the check arrives from Central in 6-8 weeks. I happen to have some money stashed away for rainy days and stupid conference setups, but really! How do they expect post-docs to lay their hands on a spare couple of grand for a booking?