With the last chilly blast of winter upon us, it’s more tempting than ever to take a little sunny respite.
And it doesn’t matter whether you are heading overseas, or to one of the fine Aussie getaway destinations, an informed choice will deliver all the luxuries for up to 50% less.
Expedia.com.au has an awesome Annual Value Tracker. This handy tool helps identify the best locations for Aussies to holiday.
The tracker is based on a number of factors to ensure Aussies get the most bang for their buck including; the performance of the Australian dollar against major global currencies the average cost of international flights and accommodations booked from Australia like for like tourist attractions, beaches, monuments, and activities.
So if you are considering an Aussie mini-break, or something further afield, why not do something a little different and save a bunch of money while you’re at it.
Here are just a few of my favourite ‘value swaps’ to consider:
1. Byron Bay for Hervey Bay
Nightly room rates in Byron have increased by 4% to $206, making a room in Hervey Bay a massive 36% cheaper than Byron ($131).
2. Gold Coast for Mackay
A good night’s sleep in Mackay is 25% less expensive than its ritzier coastal competition further south. Hotel rates on the Gold Coast are up 3% to $157 a night compared to Mackay, which has recorded a drop of more than 11% in room rates, to just $118 a night.
3. Whitsundays for Norfolk Island
Same budget, double your island time!
The average cost of a room at Norfolk Island has plummeted by 15% to just $74, half the cost of the Whitsunday’s $152 a night.
4. Alice Springs for Darwin
If you’re looking for an outback adventure in the Top End, swap Alice Springs with Darwin for better value.
The average nightly room rate has dropped more than 13% in Darwin and at $146 it’s almost 14% cheaper than a night in Alice Springs ($169).
5. Hong Kong for South Korea
Money-conscious travellers looking for an Asian escape full of modern cities and delicious authentic cuisine, may want to consider South Korea over Hong Kong.
Savvy Aussie travellers are catching on, with a noticeable increase in demand of over 35% for travel from Australia to South Korea recorded during the first six months of 2016.
With the Australian dollar depreciating by 3% against the Hong Kong dollar, while remaining stable against the South Korean won, now is the time to visit.
Average flight prices from Australia to Hong Kong have increased by 12% YOY, compared to a more enticing 7% drop in average flight prices from Australia to South Korea.
This means it was 24% cheaper to fly to South Korea from Australia, at $725, compared to a flight from Australia to Hong Kong’s pricier average of $950.
Accommodation prices were also down in South Korea by 8%, to $133 on average per night and 38% cheaper when compared to accommodation prices in Hong Kong.
6. Malaysia for Fiji
If you’re hankering for a tropical island escape, (and who isn’t?) check out Fiji.
There was a 15% decrease in average flight prices from Australia to Fiji to just $378, compared to Malaysia’s 10% increase.
Within easy reach from Australia, Fiji is a picturesque paradise made up of more than 300 islands, meaning world-class diving and snorkeling is at your fingertips.
6. Singapore for Thailand
If you, like me, are dreaming of all things tropical you should consider Thailand over Singapore for better value.
The stunning South-East Asian holiday spot offers hotel prices at $96 on average per night, compared to Singapore’s $212 on average per night.
Average flight prices from Australia to Thailand also increased by 8% for Singapore, compared to a slight drop of 2% for flights from Australia to Thailand.
With the Australian dollar experiencing some growth against the Thai baht by 1%, and the Singapore dollar depreciating 3%, Aussie travellers are better placed to enjoy relaxing massages, yummy street food and savvy shopping in Thailand, that will ensure you come home with full suitcases and a not-so-empty wallet.
- The Carousel would like to thank the Savvy Shopaholic Jo Munro for this article. Check our her site here for more amazing money-saving shopping tips.
