Winter sun holiday destinations where you can get the pound further

Over the past year, currencies in popular destinations have strengthened against the pound. While the average January temperature may be tempting at 22°C (72°F), the currency in the Dominican Republic has appreciated 12.5% ​​against the pound sterling since 2021.

The story is the same in America. The dollar has risen 11 percent against the pound in the past 12 months. According to the Post Office vacation expenses in the United States are higher than in most European destinations.

In Orlando, Florida, a typical three-course evening meal for two with a bottle of wine costs an average of £43.50, while a cup of coffee costs £1.87. Meanwhile, a bottle of beer costs £3.77 – more than eight times the equivalent price in Bulgaria.

Reykjavik in Iceland is the most expensive destination. Barbados, Dubai, and Dubai follow. Nick Bowden, from the Post Office, stated that there have been “significant price increases” in certain destinations, such as Sri Lanka where fares went up 26 percent and Cancun, Mexico up 22 percent.

Despite this, the report found that prices have been falling ever since the pandemic became more severe.

The report revealed that prices are now lower for two-thirds, with the highest drop of more then 50% in Costa Rica.
Simon Phillips, from No1 Currency, advised holidaymakers not to take any local currency to hot spots during winter as “cash” is still the king in many destinations outside of the EU.

He said: “Ordering your foreign currency before you leave also gives you a chance to shop around for the best deal, giving you the best value for your money – or euros – when you arrive.

Don’t wait until the last minute to get travel money. Airport exchange bureaus often offer the lowest exchange rates.