South Africa has reclaimed its title as the most affordable long-haul holiday destination for UK tourists, according to a new report by Post Office Travel Money. The study revealed that local price drops and the depreciation of the South African rand have reduced costs for UK visitors by 12% since autumn 2023. This makes Cape Town the best value among the 32 resorts and cities examined in the annual survey for the first time since 2018. Typical prices include £1.63 for a cup of filter coffee, £1.81 for a local beer, and a three-course evening meal for two with a bottle of house wine costing £33.31.
Tokyo, Japan, was named the second-best value long-haul destination, followed by Vietnam’s Hoi An, which held the top spot last year. On the contrary, Sydney, Australia, was deemed the most expensive, with tourist staples costing nearly three times more for UK visitors than in Cape Town. A rise in sterling’s value against most long-haul currencies means that UK holidaymakers planning winter sun breaks can expect to pay less than a year ago in over half of the destinations surveyed.
Laura Plunkett, head of travel money at Post Office, highlighted the wide variations in the cost of tourist staples across the 32 destinations surveyed. She suggested that holidaymakers could save money by doing some basic holiday homework before booking to find out where meals, drinks, and other staples are priced the least.
The report showcases the allure of South Africa as a budget-friendly long-haul destination, with Cape Town offering great value for UK travellers’ money. The affordability of key items like coffee, beer, and dining experiences makes it an attractive choice for those seeking a cost-effective holiday option. With sterling’s strength against many long-haul currencies, UK tourists can enjoy reduced costs in various destinations, making winter sun breaks more accessible and economical.
In summary, South Africa’s reclaiming of the top spot as the best value long-haul destination highlights the country’s appeal to UK travellers looking for affordable holiday options. The Post Office Travel Money report sheds light on the cost savings that can be achieved by choosing destinations wisely and doing research before booking. This information equips holidaymakers with valuable insights to make informed decisions and get the most out of their travel budget.