Brits looking for a getaway while saving some cash can swap an expensive destination for a copycat hot spot.
Taking five of the most popular global destinations for 2022, M&S Bank has identified their cut price doppelgangers.
The most significant savings were found by swapping a week in the sparkling sea staple Santorini, Greece for the golden sands of Sunny Beach, Bulgaria.
Doing so could slash the holiday costs by a cool £1,791.
Alternatively, if sun-seekers’ sights are set on the Balkan peninsula, a break in Dubrovnik, Croatia (£2,482) could be replaced with a stay in Montenegro’s Tivat (£1,717).
The coastal town in southwest Montenegro mirrors Dubrovnik’s historic beauty but comes in at £765 cheaper.
For holidaymakers looking to travel further afield this Summer, visiting Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (£4,113) rather than Tulum, Mexico (£4,741) could mean an extra £628 in their wallets, without compromising on the Latin experience.
Those looking for a sight-seeking getaway might consider switching Cairo, Egypt (£2,413) for Istanbul, Turkey (£1,889) to save £523.
Featuring a Roman-era Hippodrome and Byzantine holy monuments, Turkey’s largest city also offers a vast array of culture and history for families to enjoy.
If vacationers are looking to enjoy island life, they could substitute the Spanish isle of Mallorca (£2,168) for its Portuguese equivalent, Madeira (£1,670).
The Portuguese archipelago offers the same subtropical climate and ample beaches as its Spanish double, but comes in at £498 cheaper.
Paul Stokes, from currency provider M&S Bank, said: “In the current climate, many of us are looking for ways to save and make our money go that bit further. But after more than two years of travel restrictions, it’s no surprise that many are also looking to create new memories with their family and enjoy a well-earned holiday.
“Our research shows that, whether seeking a city stay or a beach retreat, there are still savings to be made and that, by choosing some of the lesser-known or off-the-beaten-track destinations, families could make their holiday budget go further this summer.
“Families should also shop around for their travel money to find competitive exchange rates and the convenience of collecting their currency at a time and location that suits them.”
Follow Paul’s top travel money tips:
- Flexibility is key: if you can travel at less sociable hours (think overnight flights or very early morning) you’re more likely to snap up cheaper tickets
- Check out off peak options: When it comes to booking activities, many attractions offer better value (or even free) admission at less popular hours. Museums like the Louvre in Paris give you free entry the first Sunday of every month
- Loyalty pays: Sign up to any available loyalty programmes with your bookings. Often just a few bookings can add up to cash back or a free night’s stay, so it’s worth investigating if your travel provider offers a scheme that will reward you
- Get your holiday spending organised: Make sure you have your spending money organised ahead of time – many airport bureaux de change offer less competitive rates than their high street counterparts and may not have the note denominations you need. It’s also always worth taking both travel money and a credit/debit card to ensure you have multiple methods of payment
- Be budget-smart : Always set a budget and remember to factor in travel money for snacks, excursions, taxis, tips and other costs, even if you are travelling half-board or all-inclusive
