Long haul trips 'offer best value this year'

Long-haul destinations will be the most affordable options for British travellers this year, according to the latest holiday costs report from the Post Office.

The organisation's research found that better exchange rates, lower living costs and discounts on flights and accommodation could bring "some of the most aspirational long-haul destinations within reach".

After surveying the cost of staple tourist products in a number of countries, the Post Office found that Thailand was the cheapest destination of all, with prices 41 per cent lower than in Spain, the most affordable eurozone country.

Post Office Travel Services spokesman Andrew Spice said: "The Thai baht may have strengthened against sterling but prices remain very low in the country…and the discounts now available to top resorts like Phuket and Hua Hin will make Thailand unbeatable value."

The second most affordable holiday location this year, according to the research, will be South Africa, followed by another popular destination in Asia - Malaysia.

Kenya could prove this year's "surprise success", ranked fourth in the Post Office report following its political unrest last year, while mid-haul destinations, led by Egypt and Dubai, also look set to be popular.

Posted by Andrea, 06 January 2009 13:58

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