As South Africans, international travel can be quite harsh on our wallets. Flight Centre Travel Group has compiled its predictions for 2019’s Rand-friendly destinations to help you make your next holiday more about the experience than the expense. With wellness destinations becoming a popular travel trend, here are some affordable island holidays for you to discover.
Thailand
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A staple destination for affordable holidays, Thailand is an exquisite country that offers a multitude of attractions and things to do. From cultural outings and Buddhist temples, to pristine beaches where you can snorkel and dive with the beautiful marine life, to shopping and food experiences, to the famous nightlife of Bangla Road, Thailand has an adventure for everyone.
If you plan on visiting Thailand, here are some islands we recommend you visit:
Southern Islands
- Ko Samui
- Ko Phangan
- Ko Tao
- Nang Yuan Island (a 10 minute boat ride from Ko Tao)
- Phi Phi Islands
- Similan Islands
Mauritius
The island of Mauritius is extremely beautiful, relaxing and revitalising. With the clear turquoise waters, it’s definitely the perfect destination for water babies. Tubing, parasailing, chasing waterfalls, snorkelling, water skiing, sitting pool-side, and sampling mouth-watering food are some of the many ways you can relax and have fun in this tropical paradise.
With the incredible hotel packages available and the relatively short distance from South Africa, Mauritius is an easily-accessible destination that won’t cost a ridiculous amount to travel to. If you need more convincing, read our editor’s experience of Mauritius and all the magnificent food experiences the island has to offer here.
Vietnam
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A country steeped in culture, Vietnam is an ideal adventure destination. With delicious street food, enchanting markets, lots of jungle to explore, terraced rice fields, costal coves, and a fascinating history, Vietnam is becoming increasingly popular with South Africans. The country is perfect for island hopping, as there is so much to see.
If you are planning to visit Vietnam, here are some places we recommend:
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Hanoi
- Ha Long Bay
- Nha Trang
- Hon Khoi Peninsula
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has made its way up the ranks to become one of the must-visit destinations of 2019. This island nation is both exotic and enticing, with landscapes you have to see to believe. There are temples to explore and beaches to visit that will help you relax and unwind. Sample some incredibly flavourful food and absorb the rich culture of your surroundings. The marine life of this tropical island is also definitely worth exploring.
If you are planning to visit Sri Lanka, here are our must-visit recommendations:
- Colombo
- Kandy
- Nuwara Eliya
- Chilaw
- Negombo
Bali
Bali has been a South African favourite for many years. The freedom of island life is a major part of this Indonesian island’s allure. From beach bars, to yoga retreats, to underwater museums, some of the world’s best surf breaks, and extremely healthy food, one will never be bored in Bali. The island holiday makes for the perfect escape, with ample opportunity to unwind and experience the Balinese culture.
If you are planning to visit Bali, here are our recommended places to visit:
- Ubud
- Seminyak
- Gili Islands
- Uluwatu
- Sanur
- Kuta
Image source: Pixabay
