There are ways to make your money go further on a winter sun break
Sun-starved Brits can escape the winter chill and get more bang for their buck in a number of luxury destinations – including one where you can buy pints for just £1.30. With the pound performing strongly against key foreign currencies, a travel money expert said there are five destinations where you can get more bang for your buck.
Mike Wiltshire, travel money expert at H&T Group , has crunched the numbers. In London, the average pint now costs around £6.50, although can easily exceed £8 in central areas, a mid-range three-course meal for two is approximately £80, and a coffee nearly £4.
TOP FIVE DESTINATIONS WHERE YOU CAN GET MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK
1. Tenerife, Canary Islands (19% increase in searches in last month)
Just a manageable four-hour flight from the UK, the Canary Islands offer mild winter temperatures of 18-22 degrees Celsius, golden beaches and a range of resorts to suit all budgets.
With the pound trading strongly against the euro, Brits can enjoy more meals, drinks, and activities for less. It’s the perfect escape for those seeking sun, sand and scenic landscapes without leaving Europe.
COSTS
Pint: €1.50–€2.50 (£1.31–£2.19)
Mid-range ( dinner for two: €40–€50 (£35 -£44)
Coffee: €1 – €1.50 (£0.88–£1.31)
**Current exchange rate: £1 (GBP) = € 1.14 (EUR)
2. Algarve, Portugal (51% increase in searches in last month)
For Brits seeking a short-haul European escape, the Algarve is a classic winter destination.
With flights taking between two and three hours from major UK airports and mild temperatures of 15-18 degrees Celsius, it’s another ideal location for some winter sun.
With the pound strong against the euro, holidays here are surprisingly affordable. From dining out to exploring local attractions, there are endless options to explore.
COSTS
Pint: €2.97 (£2.60)
Mid-range dinner for two: €52.80 (£46.31)
Coffee: €2.14 (£1.88)
**Current exchange rate: £1 (GBP) = € 1.14123 (EUR)
3. Antalya, Turkey (40% increase in searches in last month)
The coastal city of Antalya boasts warm winter weather, averaging around 12-18 degrees Celsius, as well as affordable luxury, thanks to the generous Turkish lira.
From the UK, you can reach Antalya in four to five hours, making it an accessible long-haul option.
From stunning beaches to rich history and all-inclusive resorts, Antalya is ideal for sun-seekers wanting an exotic feel without the hefty price tag.
COSTS
Pint: ₺140 (£2.59)
Mid-range dinner for two: ₺2,000 (£37.00)
Coffee: ₺136.59 (£2.53)
**Current exchange rate: £1 (GBP) = ₺ 54.0513 (TRY)
4. Koh Samui, Thailand (18% increase in searches in last month)
Koh Samui, a tropical island off Thailand’s east coast, offers a relaxing beach escape with soft sandy shores and sparkling turquoise waters.
For the more adventurous souls, the island offers an array of experiences – from exploring temples and historical sites to enjoying sports like paddleboarding and hiking.
December usually marks the start of the dry season, with temperatures averaging between 17-23 degrees Celsius, making it an excellent time to visit.
The pound is currently strong against the Thai baht, meaning your spending goes further on food, markets, and excursions.
Whether you fancy lounging on a beautiful beach, exploring different food markets, or visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary, Koh Samui delivers a unique winter sun experience.
COSTS
Pint: ฿70 (£1.72)
Mid-range dinner for two: ฿1,000 (£24.63)
Coffee: ฿67.86 (£1.67)
**Current exchange rate: £1 (GBP) = ฿ 40.60661 (THB)
5. Cape Town, South Africa
For those willing to travel further afield, Cape Town provides summer weather during the UK winter, with temperatures around 25-30degrees Celsius.
With searches for South Africa Safari searches a breakout term on Google, the pound goes far against the South African rand, meaning accommodation, dining out, and activities offer exceptional value.
From the iconic Table Mountain views to beautiful beaches and wine tours, Cape Town is a beautiful destination for a long-haul winter sun adventure.
COSTS
Pint: R50 (£2.45)
Mid-range dinner for two: R800 (£39.20)
Coffee: R39.20 (£1.92)
**Current exchange rate: £1 (GBP) = R 20.41123 (ZAR)
Mike Wiltshire said: “With the sterling strong against so many currencies a trip further afield this winter will feel even more enjoyable.
“A winter sun holiday isn’t just about escaping the cold, it’s a chance to sample local cuisine, discover new cultures and make memories in places you may not normally get to visit. Whether you’re seeking a short-haul European escape or a far-flung tropical adventure, now is the perfect time to make the most of the exchange rates.”