Head east, young man. That’s the advice from the Post Office, whose latest Long Haul Holiday Report claims that the Far East offers “unbeatable value” for this winter.
The survey highlights Thailand as the long-haul destination where spending money is likely to go furthest. Bali and Malaysia are close contenders.
The Post Office says all three holiday spots are “significantly cheaper” than any of Europe’s winter sun options.
And while all three destinations boast a variety of established beach resorts, there are plenty of up-and-coming alternatives or you to consider too.
Phuket
This winter promises bargains galore for holidaymakers to Thailand, package prices are up to 25% lower than a year ago. A vast array of special offers is available at just about every hotel. Promotions include free extra nights, free meals, and free accommodation for children.
One week’s bed and breakfast at the three-star Patong Beach Hotel costs from £285.
Khao Lak
It has unspoilt beaches and is away from the madness of Phuket. It is close to the Similan Islands for scuba diving and Khao Sok for wildlife-spotting and jungle trips. La Flora Resort is recommended for beach lovers. It is right on the beach and is a well-priced smaller, boutique-type property.
One week’s bed and breakfast at La Flora costs £1,175 from Heathrow on November 18.
Bali
An increase in Bali bookings means several operators are looking beyond the popular resorts of Kuta , Nusa Dua and Sanur in the south of the island this winter. On the east coast, Alila Manggis is a beautiful property. It’s just a short drive from the unspoilt cultural village of Candi Dasa. Seminyak, north of Kuta, is recommended for visitors looking for more vibrant nightlife. It’s only just up and coming for British holidaymakers but is very well established in the Australian market, which means it has lots of trendy bars and restaurants.
One week’s bed and breakfast from £1,089 at Alila Manggis and £1,289 at the luxury Anatara Seminyak. Both prices include Malaysia Airlines flights from Heathrow.
Langkawi
Renowned for luxury accommodation, Langkawi is less developed than Malaysia’s other main holiday island, Penang. It has fantastic, white sandy beaches nestled beneath rolling mountains. It also has mysterious caves and pockets of virgin rainforests dating back millions of years. The Holiday Villa Beach Resort and Spa is a perfect winter pick, with its own private beach. The hotel has snorkelling and diving facilities, allowing guests to explore the colourful reefs.
One week on a room-only basis at the Holiday Villa Beach Resort from £939 for Heathrow departures before November 27.
Hoi An
Vietnam boasts several emerging beach resorts. Destinations such as Nha Trang and Phan Thiet have been boosted by international chains including Novotel and luxury brand Evason.
Hoi An is a good choice for visitors looking to do more than just sunbathe. As well as an excellent sandy beach, it boasts a picturesque old town that has been designated a World Heritage site by Unesco.
There is lots of local culture to enjoy, from historic buildings to intriguing craft shops, street markets and excellent restaurants.
Hoi An has grown in popularity as access has got easier. The nearby city of Danang is served by flights from Bangkok and Singapore.
The resort is also a good base for visiting other cities in central Vietnam, including historic Hue.
Bed and breakfast rates start at £20 per person per night at the Hoi An Trails Resort.
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Monday, 2 November 2009
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