You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a holiday abroad. From relaxing beach getaways to bucket-list adventures, there are plenty of cheap overseas holidays to choose from.
South Africa may not seem like an obvious budget destination, but according to Post Office Travel Money, it’s the cheapest place for UK travellers to visit right now.
- Vietnam
Whether you’re craving life-changing street food or spectacular scenery, Vietnam’s got it all. This narrow slither of South Asia is an unforgettable medley of wide-awake cities and sandy beaches, vertigo-inducing mountains and lush rice fields.
The best value in Vietnam is found at street stalls where meals can be consumed for as little as $1-3. You can also find bargains in upscale restaurants that offer the same mouth-watering cuisine.
It’s best to book your tour package to Vietnam around Christmas and January when prices are at their lowest, however the country is a year-round destination. Just be sure to avoid the typhoon season that occurs from May through November.
- Thailand
Known globally for its cuisine, gorgeous beaches and warm hospitality, Thailand is the kind of destination that you can visit at a reasonable price. With Wotif’s Thailand holiday packages, you can experience the country and tick off all those cities and sites on your travel bucket list.
There’s far more to Thailand than palm-fringed sand and our specialists know it well. They’ve journeyed the country and can advise you on the best destinations for your budget. Traveling by road (coach/bus) is the most economical way to get around and many journeys can be done overnight, saving on accommodation costs. Also, book your flights in advance and be flexible with your dates – it can be as much as 50% cheaper! Just remember to dress modestly and respect the local culture.
- Bali
The Island of the Gods isn’t just a tropical dream; it’s also startlingly affordable. Budget hotels and home stays abound, tours and activities are bargain-basement (think less than $30 for cookery classes or guided sunrise treks up Mount Batur) and even transport costs are low.
Dining can be pricey if you go for restaurants that cater to tourists, but there are plenty of casual cafes and “warungs” in which you’ll find a full meal for just $15 or so. For cheap eats, stick with classic street food snacks like nasi jinggo or a bowl of noodle soup.
The cheapest time to visit Bali is the off-season, between October and March. Accommodation rates drop as well as flights from Australia. The trade-off is that the weather isn’t ideal for sunbathing and heavy rainfall can cancel outdoor activities, such as whitewater rafting.
- Portugal
Portugal is one of Europe’s cheapest destinations and its world-class beaches are a big draw. You can go gallivanting in Lisbon’s chic city sights, or spend an afternoon on a family-friendly Blue Flag beach in the Algarve. You can also explore its subtropical islands of Madeira and the Azores to discover dramatic volcanic scenery.
If you’re looking for a bit more excitement, you can dance the night away in Lagos. Or sip port in the Duoro valley – home to the post-match tipple that famously ingratiated Jose Mourinho with Sir Alex Ferguson. You can even enjoy all-inclusive breaks here, with bountiful buffets and stellar sea views on your hotel balcony. The best part? You won’t have to worry about a massive bill when you get home.
- Morocco
A short hop from Europe, Morocco satisfies Lawrence of Arabia-type fantasies with ancient cities, soaring mountains and desert dunes. Its famed hospitality makes this North African paradise a dazzling feast for the senses.
Whether you’re camping beneath the stars of the Sahara or sipping mint tea in a shady Moroccan riad, there’s something for everyone here. Thrill-seekers can hike to the summits of the High Atlas Mountains or take to the air in a hot air balloon for an extraordinary bird’s eye view over Marrakech.
Morocco’s beaches – from the long stretch of beach at Agadir to the quieter sands of Taghazout – are also worth visiting, especially when the sea breeze brings a hint of coolness. And you can find a great deal on holiday packages to this exotic destination.
