Best value destinations for 2015
The Aussie dollar has taken a hit in the past year and travellers looking overseas have to be more careful with their money. Here are five destinations that will give you more bang for your buck in 2015.
Nicaragua
All Central American countries have traditionally presented very good value for travellers, but as the popularity of places like Costa Rica rises, so does the price tag. Enter Nicaragua. It’s probably the cheapest country in Central America but it definitely doesn’t scrimp on experiences. It’s the largest country in the region and has a coastline on both the Caribbean Sea and North Pacific Ocean, making for great surfing, diving or beach lounging at a budget price. You can catch a local bus for around $1 or splurge on a taxi and pay no more than $5 to go just about anywhere in a city. If you’re careful, it’s one of the few places in the world you can still get by on $50 a day for a couple.
Taiwan
This island nation offers a great value alternative to places like Hong Kong and Singapore. Large chain hotels remain expensive, but there are plenty of cheap options like hostels, homestays and even camping in some of the beautiful national parks (try doing that in Singapore). Getting around is cheap and easy with modern trains and affordable rail passes. Eating is one of Taiwan’s main attractions (it is, after all, the home of legendary dumpling house Din Tai Fung) and you can get delicious meals for just a couple of dollars at any street stall or market. Even fine dining restaurants are cheaper than you would find in similar cities in the region.
Related link: Most expensive cities for Aussies
Samoa
Limited flights and the fact that everything must be imported means that the South Pacific has never been particularly cheap. But Samoa is shaping up to be a more reasonable alternative than ultra-pricey Tahiti or the family mecca of Fiji. There are few major resort chains operating in the country yet and most accommodation is in simple family owned resorts that consist of just a few simple beach huts. The capital city of Apia is big and bustling, with some interesting markets to explore. Get in quick – it won’t be long before the rest of the world discovers this hidden gem.
Portugal
This often overlooked European country has just as much to offer as Spain, France or Italy, but at much lower prices. The capital city of Lisbon is easily as happening as Barcelona but it’s easy to find good quality accommodation on a budget and you won’t have to battle the crowds. The distinctive yellow trams rattle all over the city and will take you around the most scenic spots for only a few dollars. In 2014 the British Post Office surveyed Europe’s cheapest option for a summer beach holiday, and Portugal’s Algarve coast came out on top.
New Zealand
The Australian dollar has dropped against just about every major country in the past year – except the New Zealand dollar. It is still sitting just below the Aussie dollar and the country is cheaper as a whole, so your money will go much further across the ditch. One third of the country is a national park or reserve and they are free to visit, so you can take in million dollar views for nothing. Plus there’s all that delicious wine to drink at local prices.
Related links:
6 ways to save money on your next cruise
Where to find free wifi when you’re travelling
Insider tips for securing an upgrade