Families planning a getaway abroad this October half-term will welcome the news that seven in ten popular foreign holidays will come in at a more a wallet-friendly price this year, compared to 2011.
Research from M&S Bank revealed that the continued strength of the pound against the Euro (up by 7.6 per cent) shaves an average of £30 a week per adult off breaks to a number of destinations in Europe.
Corfu in Greece emerged as the most affordable holiday destination in October (2012), at £662 per adult. This is down by £58.80 (8.2 per cent) compared to 2011.
This was followed in second place by Alicante, Spain, at £687 per adult, a saving of £21.33 compared to 2011, and Bodrum, Turkey at £870 per adult, down by £54.71.
The top five was completed by Tenerife at £1,005 per adult, down by £13.55, and Faro, Portugal, at £1,035 per adult – a saving of £32.58.
“Many families will be pleased to see that 7 in 10 foreign holidays are cheaper this half-term compared to last year,” said Gill Roberts, Head of Travel Money at M&S Bank.
“With value for money increasingly important, the strength of the pound against other currencies and relatively low inflation rates may well enable more families to book a getaway in the sun this October.”
The line-up of cheaper half-term destinations continued with Disneyland Paris at £1,055.68, saving £49.36, and Paphos, Cyprus, at £1,209.94 – down by £20.31.
“To maximise your holiday budget, be sure to take into consideration factors such as local costs and exchange rates as well as getting the best deals on flights and accommodation,” added Ms Roberts.
“A favourable exchange rate can make many destinations more affordable and could have a significant impact on how much money you can spend while you’re away.”
(Images: clio1789, billandcathy, Deror avi, myhsu)
