Travellers pointed to long-haul destinations

Holidaymakers looking for a location that will offer maximum affordability this year have been advised to consider long-haul trips.

According to the Post Office 2008 holiday costs barometer, the cheapest international destinations this year will be Thailand, South Africa and Egypt, with holidays in the eurozone set to be more expensive following recent shifts in the exchange rate.

A selection of ten holiday commodities, including drinks and meals out, is estimated to cost £28.58 in Thailand, less than a third of the cost of equivalent items in Australia and half the price of the eurozone.

The USA has also become more affordable this year, according to the research, with the plummeting value of the dollar meaning that the pound will stretch further.

"Holidaymakers planning trips further afield this year will get excellent value for money by travelling to long-haul destinations," said Helen Warburton, head of travel at the Post Office. "The pound is still strong against the US dollar and the new Open Skies agreement introduced this month should mean cheaper flights in the future.

"Elsewhere, sterling is up over eight per cent against the rand, making South Africa a good choice for UK tourists, and booming sales of Egyptian and Thai currency indicate that holidaymakers are already opting for trips where their pounds will stretch further."

People planning a trip to Thailand, South Africa, Egypt or the USA can catch flights from Heathrow Airport, Gatwick, Stansted Airport and Manchester Airport, among others.