City thinking, local knowledge

Where to holiday with a weak pound?

By Dina Patel

If you are heading abroad over the summer, chances are you will be travelling to an E.U. country. 63% of us hope to travel to Europe in the next 12 months, making it by far the most popular destination for British holidaymakers.

However, in the run up to ‘Brexit day’ next March, the affordability of holidaying in Europe remains uncertain… Those of us who’ve visited the continent since the referendum will have already noticed that they are getting a lot less bang for their buck than previously.

As of yet we have very little information on how Brexit will look. With a ‘no-deal’ Brexit looking increasingly likely, it is possible that the pound will remain turbulent until it becomes clear how Brexit is going to pan out.

Ultimately, it is this which will determine whether or not the pound remains weak against the Euro – something that will have a large effect on how our future holidays feel.

In light of all this dreary information, looking outside of the eurozone for your future holidays may be your best bet for your wallet.

This is because the pound has not fallen equally against all currencies. In fact, it has actually gained against some. These countries are generally long haul destinations, although there are a few closer to home.

For instance, since Brexit, the notoriously flukey Argentine peso has fallen 72% against the pound. So, if you want a really good value holiday, your best bet is a 14 hour flight to Buenos Aires.

For those of you who prefer culture and history to warm seas and white sand, Russia should be on your agenda. E.U. and American sanctions have hit the Russian economy hard since part of their Army “accidentally” invaded Ukraine in 2014.

This has meant Sterling has gained 13% on the Ruble, excellent for those of you who don’t mind swapping St Petersburg for Santorini.

Closer to home – but equally lacking in quality sunbathing – Iceland is significantly cheaper than it was a year ago: The Icelandic krona has fallen by 11% on the pound.

Traditionally pricey Switzerland is also cheaper than usual. The Swiss franc is 7% weaker than it was a year ago. If skiing is your thing, the sliding franc makes Switzerland a viable option.

Unfortunately, landlocked Switzerland and freezing Russia and Iceland have very little to offer those of you who want a beach holiday.

Luckily, the pound has risen by 10% on the Indian rupee, so the sandy beaches of Goa and Kerala are an affordable option. What’s more, the Brazilian real is 18% weaker than it was last year. So, for those of you hankering for warmer climes, these may be your best bet.

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