For around two weeks in November — until Apple increased prices — Russia was the cheapest country in Europe to buy an iPhone 6. The sticker price had not changed, but the ruble's 30 percent fall against the U.S. dollar since January meant that the price for those converting from euros, dollars or pounds was much cheaper.
Now, the Russian currency is 40 percent down against the dollar, and national airline Aeroflot has not yet reindexed its ruble prices, giving rise to some bargain ticket prices.
To demonstrate the difference, The Moscow Times looked at three popular New Year's destinations with three different currencies, leaving Moscow on Dec. 27 and returning Jan. 4. When paid in rubles on Aeroflot's website, prices are cheaper across the board — at least for now. ?
Moscow — Berlin:
Aeroflot: Departing 3:35 p.m, returning 9:55 a.m.
Ruble Price: 20,970 (325 euros), but 374 euros when Aeroflot lists euro prices.
Saving: 49 euros ($60)
Moscow — London:
Aeroflot: Departing 9:15 a.m. returning 13:30 p.m.
Price: 21,268 (£259) but £302 when Aeroflot lists prices in pounds.
Saving: £43 ($68)
Moscow — New York City:
Aeroflot: Departing 2:40 p.m., returning 2:20 p.m.
Price: 39,971 ($773), but $888 when Aeroflot lists prices in U.S. dollars
Saving: $115