'Gappers' get more for money
If you’re looking to take a gap year this summer then now is the best time to do it as you will be considerably better off, according to a new survey.
Travel money specialists, No.1 Currency, revealed a list of ‘Top 20 Gapper Hotspots’ and a staggering eighteen of the places recommended to visit, will see your money stretch further, compared to last year.
If you want to get more for your money, countries such as Argentina, Chile, South Africa and Thailand are the places to visit offering the best value for money, with the pound soaring a whopping 68%, 21%, 17% and 16% respectively against those currencies in the past year.
Other popular travel destinations may prove more popular this summer with the ever-strengthening sterling. The pound is at a record six-year high against the US dollar, giving 11% more than last year. Japan, which is renowned for being a pricey place to visit, has seen the yen drop almost 16% against the pound.
The best value in South East Asia is classic backpacker destination, Thailand (16%), followed by Vietnam (12%), Malaysia (12%) and Cambodia (10%).
The countries giving you the least punch for your pound on your travels are New Zealand and the Cook Islands, with the New Zealand dollar showing the only sterling fall in the chart at 1% in 12 months.
Simon Phillips, head of retail for No1. Currency, comments: “There have been some significant currency fluctuations in the past 12 months, especially in countries such as Argentina, Chile, South Africa and Thailand.
“For the majority of travellers cost is still the priority, which is why the strengthening pound will come as welcome news for those jetting off this summer. However, as we have seen over the last year, things can change dramatically and travellers may find a different economic outlook by the time they reach their destination many months into the trip.
“Argentina is a must-see for gappers this summer as you will enjoy a staggering amount more for your money than you would have last year. If you hop across the border to neighbouring Chile, you can enjoy another incredibly favourable exchange rate, up a fifth on last year.
“Spontaneity and adventure is all part of the gap year experience but a little forward planning is key and ensures you don’t run out of money before you’ve seen everything you want to see. Countries that offer more bang for your buck may mean you can enjoy more experiences, perhaps treat yourself to a few nights in more luxurious accommodation or even extend your trip.”
Top 5 destinations for gappers, and the strength of the pound against the local currencies in these countries
Argentina- PESO- 68.12 increase
Australia- DOLLAR- 9.7 increase
Brazil- REAL- 11.57 increas
Cambodia- RIEL- 9.96 increase
Canada- DOLLAR- 13.75 increase