As the UK weather begins to warm up, you might be looking for inexpensive summer holiday inspiration. Look no further!
Whether you’re craving sun, sea, culture, or adventure, you’re sure to find it here, in your Globe IFA rundown of seven stunning destinations perfect for your getaway in 2024. And all without breaking the bank.
1. Greece
While the ancient history of its capital, Athens, is hard to ignore, you might head further afield and visit the volcanic black sand beaches and sun-dappled vineyards of Santorini.
Located off Greece’s south coast of Greece, Santorini boasts incredible natural wonders as well as great food, drink, and hospitality.
You’ll likely find that mid-spring and mid-autumn are quieter, but if you can handle the heat and the summer crowds, there’s plenty to enjoy.
From hiking trails through traditional villages to catamaran cruises and an active volcano complete with hot water springs, you’ be spoilt for choice across the island. Then head to its capital and cosmopolitan hub, Fira.
Greece has long been a popular destination for UK holidaymakers and retirees alike, and when visiting a place like Santorini it’s easy to see why.
2. Portugal
Portugal is the third-most-popular country for retiring Brits, with the Algarve one of the most affordable options. But the country is perfect for a summer break too.
With over 300 days of sunshine a year on average, the wide beaches, vibrant culture, and lower cost of living make the country a must-visit. The average daily cost of a holiday in Portugal is around £119.
In Lisbon, stunning architecture, world-class museums, and fashionable shopping centres await.
3. Montenegro
Montenegro’s reputation as a tourist hotspot is growing, thanks in part to its sandy beaches, and inland, the incredible beauty of Durmitor National Park.
Head back to the coast to explore the small villages that dot the country’s shores. Perast, for example, is a village of just 300 people. It houses 16 churches and a fascinating history as a strategic port that dates back to the 15th century.
4. Kosovo
With flights from just £55 (as of 14/5/2024), Kosovo is no longer the undiscovered gem it once was. Instead, it’s fast becoming a must for UK travellers looking to escape the usual tourist crowds, in search of something a little but different.
This year marks 25 years since the end of the Kosovo War and the country has done a lot in the intervening quarter-century to entice tourists back.
Having said which, one thing the country didn’t need to work on was its scenery. Expect stunning mountain vistas and sweeping countryside perfect for hiking or biking, and incredible hospitality.
Visit the cultural and intellectual centre of Ottoman Kosovo at Prizren and marvel at its minarets. Elsewhere, follow the river to the market town of Gjakova or opt for adventure at the caves and waterfalls of the Rugova Mountains.
5. Thailand
Thailand offers a wealth of experiences, from the bustling city living of Bangkok to the quiet tranquillity and beauty of its southern islands.
Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, is home to more than 10 million people and is a tourist and backpacker hotspot. From the bars of Koh San Road to the Grand Palace and the stunning temple complexes of Wat Traimit and Wat Pho, there’s plenty to take in.
You’ll find street food sellers and heaving market places as well as air-conditioned shopping malls. It’s a sprawling city, so be sure to get out and explore the lesser-visited areas.
Take a ride on the river or opt for a sleeper train to the tropical paradise of islands like Koh Samui and Koh Chang. Here you’ll find white sand and snorkelling opportunities, as well as incredible local wildlife.
6. Cambodia
Flights to Bangkok provide the perfect entryway to Southeast Asia and your next stop might just be Cambodia.
Home to the ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat, Cambodia is rich in history and culture. There are also bars and restaurants aplenty in the nearest town to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap.
Elsewhere, you might want to uncover the dark side of the country’s history with a visit to the Killing Fields, at Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre. Offering a harrowing insight into the genocide perpetrated by the Khmer Rouge, the site is situated just outside the country’s capital Phnom Penh.
The capital is also home to the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum of Cambodia, all of which are must-visit attractions.
7. Mexico
Mexico City is the fifth largest city in the world, and home to some incredible ancient sites, associated with both the Aztec and the Mayan civilisations.
It also boasts great food and cheap prices.
Consider the all-inclusive resorts of areas like Cancun, including the Dreams Riviera Resort and the Moon Palace Resort.
At the latter, you’ll find large and luxurious rooms and plenty to do, from relaxing at the Awe spa to playing golf and swimming in the resort’s outdoor pool.
