Published: Wed 27 Mar 2013 at 13:11
Updated: Wed 27 Mar 2013 at 13:12
Those wanting a value-packed summer holiday should consider booking cheap flights to Barcelona, as Spain has been voted the cheapest European and global holiday destination in this year’s Post Office Worldwide Holiday Costs report.
In their quest for cheap flights and accommodation, many holidaymakers forget to factor in the daily cost of living, which can add dramatically to the overall price of a holiday. The annual Post Office Holiday Costs Barometer, now in its seventh year, addresses this situation by comparing eight typical prices likely to be encountered when holidaying abroad. Items include alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, suntan lotion and a meal for two.
Of the 42 global destinations tested, the cheapest places to stay were Spain and Sri Lanka, which tied for first place with a basket costing just £36.14. The Czech Republic, where the items would cost £39.17, came third, while Bulgaria – last year’s European winner – came sixth, at £45.10. The same basket would cost over £145 in Australia or South Korea – the two most expensive locations. Sri Lanka achieved pole position due to a strong exchange rate, but had flights been included the overall winner would undoubtedly have been Spain, where a combination of cheap air fares and price cuts have made this the number one destination for bargain hunting Brits. The cost of dining out is now half what it was five years ago.
Holidaymakers wanting a low-cost city break on the Costa Brava and other Spanish locations should consider cheap flights to Barcelona, available through Jet2.com.
