Britain is a nation of holiday lovers with brands new research by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealing that UK residents made 19.5 million visits abroad in the three months between April and June. However, amid Brexit chaos and a wavering pound to euro exchange rate, it seems holidaymakers are shunning trips to the continent for long-haul travels instead.
Where are Britons travelling to?
However, it wasn’t just Europe that took a hit.
Travellers also appear to be turning away from North America too, with trips to the nation decreasing five per cent to 1.1 million.
So, where are UK residents jetting off to instead?
A recent report on holiday spending by Globehunters.ca could offer some answers.
The report revealed that there are some countries where British tourists are spending the most money, with one country leading the way.
According to Globehunters, Australia takes the crown for the ultimate spending hotspot, with the average tourist reportedly spending £3,882 each for the duration of their trip.
Other countries that were highlighted include Lebanon and New Zealand with tourists spending £3,361 and £2,372 respectively.
Surprisingly, the report did also show one European country raking in a good sum from tourism, with Luxembourg benefitting from £3,361 per travellers.
Additionally, the USA still made it to fifth place for holiday spending, seeing tourists hand over around £2,246 each per trip.
The report took into consideration the costs of living in these countries, as well as how long tourists may spend in each destination.
The best value for money travel destination
Further research by the Post Office’s Travel Money department also revealed that Europe is not the best destination for Britons hoping to get more for their money.
The report revealed the “best value destination” for Britons, and it turns out travelling further may be the key.
Although its barometer total has risen 4.7 per cent to £60, due to the weak pound, Tokyo remains one of 15 destinations where local prices have fallen.
Other top-scoring cities for value were Cape Town and Bali.
The Long Haul Holiday Report barometer of costs for 10 typical tourist items, which includes good and drinks, found that Japan, South Africa and Bali were the lowest priced destinations. However, the report also notes that costs have risen since last year in all three.
Nick Boden, Head of Post Office Travel Money said: “The rising prices revealed by this year’s report in many destinations highlight the importance of careful planning and research.
“Even though sterling is weaker than last year against every long haul holiday currency, holidaymakers can still save themselves a lot of money and make a big difference to the overall cost of winter sun trips by doing their holiday homework before booking to find out where meals, drinks and other staples are going to cost the least.”