There are some places around the world where your dollar, pound or euro will simply stretch much further. Whether it’s a weak currency, low cost of living or even a combination of both, travellers can take real advantage of the travel opportunities provided by these factors. If you are looking to have an amazing, but still affordable, holiday consider these destinations:
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town has consistently been voted one of the world’s top travel destination because of its exceptional beauty, wide diversity, world-class cuisine and excellent value for money. Visitors to Cape Town are absolutely spoiled for choice depending on what they are looking for in a holiday. Whether it’s stunning beaches, luxurious wine farms, award-winning restaurants, quirky neighbourhoods, breath-taking nature, or colourful locals, Cape Town has it all and for a fraction of the cost.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
One of the world’s biggest national parks and one of the best places to view African wildlife, including the popular Big Five. Kruger National Park is also in South Africa so travellers will benefit from the weak currency here as well. There are a variety of lodges and accommodation option to choose from, from rustic bush camping to 5-star luxury lodges. You may even be surprised by how affordable your luxury camp will be with your stronger currency. Game viewing in Kruger is absolutely excellent, you really get a feel that you are on the animal’s turf and that you are just a fascinated visitor to their world.
Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
This special park in the north-west corner of Zimbabwe is known for its super herds of elephants, off-the-beaten-track location and being the largest national park in Zimbabwe. As it’s a national park, entrance fees are less than private reserves and the cost is significantly less than the parks of East Africa. It has one of the largest elephant populations in Africa as well as an abundance of other wildlife such as buffalo and lions. The park is also one of the few places left where you can find wild dogs and the Painted Dog Conservation Centre is a must see to learn more about these special creatures.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
As one of the world’s 7 Natural Wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage site, these majestic falls are a real bucket list item. Also known as Mosi Oa Tunya “The Smoke That Thunders” in the local language in reference to the referring crashing noise of the water pummeling down and the towering mist that rises above it. Victoria Falls border Zambia and Zimbabwe, both countries with weak currencies so while you can simply take in the Falls visually from walking through the national park there are a whole host of adventure activities you can indulge in that won’t have you digging too deep in your pockets. Bungee jumping, white water rafting and a helicopter flip are all on offer around the Falls. If you’re not an adrenaline junkie a sunset cruise with refreshing sundowner on the Zambezi river is not too be missed, you’ll even spot some elephants and hippos in the water.
Namibia
The unspoilt and vast landscapes of Namibia are like no other place on earth, with the massive red sand dunes of Sossusvlei, the Etosha salt pan that can actually be seen from outer space and one of the largest canyons in the world, the Fish River Canyon. Namibia is a bit of an undiscovered destination but won’t be for long as its many attractions become a major drawcard. The currency is the same as the (weak) South African Rand, operating on a one on one exchange. This translates to lower costs and a once in a lifetime holiday that won’t break the bank.
