Cheap Long Haul Holidays
Back to Holidaying Abroad
As summer approaches, many of us are beginning to think about where to go on our summer holidays and, for some, this may be their first time abroad. With so many destinations for holidaymakers to choose from it can be daunting, especially for those of us who have a strict budget in mind. However, while many first-time holidaymakers will look to traditional destinations such as Europe, new findings suggest that broadening our horizons further doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune.
For example, according to online Travel Money Card provider Fair FX, Dubai - once the exclusive playground of the rich and famous - is fast becoming one of the best-value holiday destinations of 2010. As Dubai’s dirham is pegged to the dollar, the currency has suffered from the recent economic slump as well as well-publicised debt problems. This has meant that Dubai might not be the exclusive and expensive destination that it once was. In addition, the seven-hour flight makes it one of the closest of the ‘value’ long-haul destinations, and flights for under £250 are easy to find.
Many hotels are cutting their rates in line with the recent economic slump, meaning that some of Dubai’s premium five-star hotels are offering four-night breaks for less than £350, and rates across the board have dropped by approximately 35% in the last two years. The budget hotel market is also beginning to make its mark in Dubai with British brand Premier Inn opening its first hotel there earlier this year.
While Dubai has become a favourably cheaper destination for UK holidaymakers, the eurozone has, according to Fair FX, become more costly. Similarly, many former bargain hotspots such as Turkey have become considerably more expensive, as the Turkish lira has strengthened against the pound in year-on-year comparisons.
However, if Dubai isn’t your cup of tea, sterling has increased in value in other long-haul destinations such as Japan, Thailand and India, compared to this time last year.
In light of the research, spokesperson Stephen Heath, Chief Executive of FairFX, said: "Dubai is defying its exclusive reputation and offering UK travellers a surprisingly good deal. With year-round sunshine, a favourable exchange rate and numerous cheap flights from the UK, it has a lot to offer. A bit of research into exchange rates can save a significant amount of money when it comes to booking holidays."
Back to Holidaying Abroad