Since we can remember, the pound has been one of the strongest currencies in the world. We used to moan if we got less than $1.80 or €1.50 to the pound. But now we have to make do with anything around $1.50 and almost parity with the euro at €1.1 ish. This may attract tourists to the British Isles, which of course helps our economy out quite considerably, but where can we go on holiday if we really want to get a good deal?
It may sound crazy, but long haul holidays are now the way to go. Recent research by ABTA and Kuoni revealed that Thailand was one of the ten most popular long haul destinations. Also included were Malaysia – Thailand’s neighbour – China, the Maldives and Singapore.
According to ABTA, these destinations are so popular because they represent much better value for money. Not only have long haul flight prices been coming down recently – an attempt to lure us back to air travel amidst recession – but once you arrive, your pound, euro or buck goes a lot further.
You can currently get over 49 Thai Baht to the pound. To put this into perspective, you can buy a pretty decent Thai curry for around this price, and a really good one for 100 baht. You can get yourself a charming, although basic beach villa in Krabi for example for around £10 per room per night.
All this means you can stay on paradise beach eating fresh locally produced food for as little as £50 per person per week. You couldn’t do this anywhere in Europe. You could even upgrade to more luxurious surroundings and eat in Westernised restaurants, and still see the change from £200. But this value for money is not the only thing attracting us pasty Europeans.
The weather is fantastic, the beaches are so attractive they were described as the epitome of paradise by Alex Garland in his book ‘The Beach’ and Thailand is affectionately known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Smiles’ thanks to its warm, welcoming and hospitable people despite their immense poverty. It is rich in culture, yet has reminders that it is firmly part of the global economy and the food speaks for itself as it is now in the top five of a typical British citizen’s favourite foods.
DialAFlight offer cheap flights to Bangkok from £345, including taxes.
