Pound 'goes further' in long-haul destinations

Long-haul destinations are looking good for holidaymakers wanting to make the most of their money, according to a new report.

The What the Pound Buys Abroad publication from Post Office Travel Services has revealed that sterling has seen significant growth in destinations such as South Africa, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Barbados, St Lucia and the USA over the last 12 months.

Dubai could also offer good value for travellers, as the exchange rate there has been constant over the past year, the Post Office said. It also highlighted the potential for cheaper flights offered by the open skies pact between Europe and the USA.

"We believe that holidaymakers will look very carefully this year at how to get the best value for their money," commented Helen Warburton of the Post Office.

"With the open skies agreement due to come into force in April, they should keep a close eye on transatlantic flight costs, where the market will become more competitive."

According to the International Air Transport Association, there are now 25 per cent more scheduled flights from Europe to the USA a week as a result of the open skies deal.

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