There are some destinations we love to visit, even though we know they are relatively expensive. With prices increasing since the pandemic, some of these destinations might be out of reach, at least for the moment. So, that’s why we have compiled a list of alternatives which give similar experiences, but for a lot less money.
Lake Bled vs Switzerland
Slovenia might not be on the immediate radar of many, but it’s a great holiday destination in the summer. Lake Bled is small, but it sure is mighty – complete with a castle overlooking the lake, and a church actually on it! The region is great for walking, with some absolutely stunning scenery nearby, and there’s enough to keep the kids entertained as well. All of this less than an hour from Ljubljana airport.
Mauritius vs Seychelles
We’re long-term fans of Mauritius, an island of so much value. Yes, it’s really just one main large island, but its beaches are amazing, hotels of great quality and extremely hospitable people who just want to make sure you have the best holiday (or honeymoon) possible. At around 20-30% less than you would pay to go to Seychelles, and substantially easier to get to with direct flights from London, Mauritius is a perfect beach destination for couples and families alike.
Ras Al Khaimah vs Dubai
If you’re looking to stay directly on the beach in Dubai, you know it isn’t going to be cheap in 2023. Although we have substantially more choice now, than we did 20 years ago, it’s also more expensive.
For an alternative beach destination in the Middle East, why not consider staying an hour down the road in Ras Al Khaimah. What it lacks in the glitz and glamour of Dubai, with its bright lights and monstrous complexes, Ras Al Khaimah has a more relaxed vibe. It isn’t to say that it doesn’t have great hotels, there’s an excellent Waldorf Astoria which is great for families, along with the brand new Intercontinental and a soon-to-be-opened Anantara, with overwater villas like you would find in the Maldives.
Who wouldn’t want to go to the Middle East for not that much more than what you would pay to go to Egypt, and still have the option of getting into Dubai if you wanted to for the day? It’s a win, win situation!
Malta vs Sicily
Malta is one of those destinations which offers everything. As a city by the sea, Valletta is an ideal base to explore the island, where you can take the advantage of the excellent bus network. You’ll want to explore because of the history of the island, having been controlled by the British, Roman, Morish and Turks.
Barcelona vs Valencia
Valencia is Spain’s third city and is often overlooked as a city break destination, even better than that its also great value for money. It ticks all the similar boxes to Barcelona – it has a great beach (possibly even better than Barcelona), has an interesting old town – complete with one of the most impressive indoor markets I have seen in Western Europe, and a lovely park linking the old and new towns, created from a dried up river bed. Who wouldn’t love a trip to the home of Paella?
Long Haul vs Short Haul
There are some places in the height of the summer, which become very expensive with such a short season. For what you would pay to spend a week or two in the South of France, the Amalfi Coast or maybe a Greek island, your money will get you to somewhere much more exotic. There are caveats when travelling a lot further afield in the summer, you have to be careful on extremes of weather – but it’s quite safe to travel to somewhere like Barbados (or the newly accessible Aruba), Mauritius and parts of Thailand.
