Where to get more for your money – Holiday 2012

Holidaymakers will be able to splash less cash this year in Bulgaria, Turkey and Portugal, while middle-haul travellers would do well to choose Dubai (yes, you heard it right!) over Egypt, according to The Post Office’s annual Holiday Money Report.

The survey, which tots up the cost of eight common holiday purchases in 36 countries, identifies the best destination for offering value to travellers. What interesting this year, the researchers at Post Office have found huge variations in the cost of living not just across different countries, but also in destinations within the same country.

Where to go in Turkey – Bodrum or Marmaris?

Yes, Turkey was found to be one of the best value holiday destinations, but you still need to be careful when choosing were to go. The good news is that Sterling is 11% higher against the Turkish lira than it was this time last year – but it won’t benefit you that much if you choose Bodrum for your spot, where the cost of holiday living is 46% higher than Marmaris. The biggest gap was found in cost of eating out; the average price for three-course meal for family of four, including wine, was £70 in Marmais compared to £117 in Bodrum.

Who is the winner in Greece – Corfu, Crete, Halkidiki.

The survey compered prices in Corfu, Crete and Halkidiki. A three-course dinner for four that cost in Halkidiki £62 rose to £100 in Crete. Smaller items varied hugely too: a bottle of beer that cost £2.5 in Halkidiki was £3.91 in Corfu. When comparing the overall cost, Halkidiki was a clear winner. Corfu was 15% more expensive that Halkidiki, while Crete was whopping 44% pricier.

It’s the best time to holiday in Spain!

There’s been better news for travellers to Spain, where minimal differences were found between Costas. The bill for the family dinner ranged from £62 to £78, and £1.74 was the most paid for a beer.

For the full results of the survey, go to post office website here. And if you still not sure, have a look at our trip planner that shows you the best destinations based on your choice of weather and continent and you might discover a holiday spot you didn’t consider before.