The Traveller's Magazine
Half-term is very quickly approaching and we promise we won’t judge you if you haven’t booked a trip for the autumn break yet. If you’re looking for a last-minute jaunt that won’t break the bank, head to the Continent. It’s the best value for money, according to the Post Office.
The Post Office Holiday Money Index shows that the sterling has strengthened, especially against Europe’s currencies, even the Euro, so the Continent is offering the best value for money right now. It’s true the pound dipped a bit during the Scottish Referendum but it has now returned to strength, just in time for everyone heading abroad for the half-term break.
European city breaks are a great option for kids this autumn with plenty of sights, museums and parks to explore. The latest report from the Post Office reveals that the sterling will buy you 7.6% more annually than the Euro, 15.7% more than the Czech koruna and 12.6% more than the Swedish kroner. Now, it’s just a matter of choosing where to go!
Head East for the best value
Families planning to book trips to Eastern Europe will be pleasantly surprised to see their pounds stretching further than at home, paired with a low cost of living which makes hotels and holiday apartments all the more affordable. Cities like Budapest and Prague are always popular choices but Croatia is quickly growing in popularity, even in the low season.
PRAGUE
Start your trip planning with flights. From London to Prague there’s a handful of low cost airlines which will certainly offer the cheapest prices: Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyJet all operate the route. Flights during half-term range from £100-£200, depending on your departure dates. On a budget? Don’t miss our guide on how to experience Prague for free. Instead of a hotel, why not try a holiday apartment rental or AirBnB?
BUDAPEST
Budapest is probably one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in central-eastern Europe. It has everything you could hope for in a destination. History (lots of it), culture, shopping, sights, museums… and it’s an ideal spot if you’re travelling on a tight budget. Take in an exhibition in the morning, then hike up to Fisherman’s Bastion (see photo below) for some incredible views over the Danube. Then, don’t miss a day at one of the city’s luxurious thermal bath spas, we recommend Szechenyi in City Park. For more inspiration, try this post on 7 things to do in Budapest.
CROATIA
Croatia is really gaining speed as one of the UK’s favourite travel destinations. According to the Post Office Money Index, the kuna has moved up to 7th place as the most selling currency, with sales trebling in the last five years. Choose between Zagreb, the inland capital, Split (great for beaches) or Dubrovnik, with its incredible old town and beautiful harbour. This time of the year, you can still expect some decently warm weather too, with most days forecast as sunny and above 20°C.
Where are you planning to go for half-term this year?
