With the world facing a global recession, international travel is on the decrease. However, South Africa is the new affordable destination where travellers get more for their money. South Africa has fast become a popular travel destination due to its diversity that combines natural beauty, wildlife, culture and nightlife.

Furthering all of this, South Africa has recently become even more attractive to tourists due to the current exchange rate. At present, the exchange rate is at ZAR 12.86 to 1 Euro, ZAR 9.95 to 1 USD and ZAR 15.24 to 1 GBP. Tourists to South Africa thus get more for their money in a country that was already affordable prior to global recession.

FACTS AND FIGURES ...

ACCOMMODATION
A double room in a reputable 3 star hotel currently costs approximately ZAR 1550 (Euro 120.45, USD 156, GBP 101.77) on a BB basis. If travellers prefer something more upmarket, a 5 star hotel costs approximately ZAR 3,960.00 (Euro 308.04, USD 399.13, GBP 259.87) for a double room in low season.

PETROL
Petrol costs can cut down travel expenses immensely for those clients on self-drives. Currently, petrol costs ZAR 8.96 per litre. Converted, this is Euro 0.70 per litre USD 0.90 per litre & GBP 0.59 per litre.

DINING OUT
Food and wine in an upmarket restaurant averages at a cost of ZAR 280 per person (Euro 21.78 USD 28.22 & GBP 18.37). This cost includes a 3 course meal with drinks. A brilliant example of such is BAIA Restaurant located at Cape Towns V&A Waterfront. One may indulge in a 250g fillet for ZAR 129 (Euro 10.02 , USD 13.01, GBP 8.47). The result is a 22 percent saving on the current exchange rate compared to the rate of exchange just 6 months ago.

ACTIVITIES
Leisurely activities such as tours and shopping in some of the countrys best malls is even more affordable as ZAR 500 (Euro 38.85 , USD 50.43, GBP 232.83) can buy you a designer pair of Levi jeans!

FAMILY DESTINATION
Parents need not leave the children at home either. South Africa is a brilliant family destination due to the fact that children under 12 years of age stay for free or at half price at most of the major hotel chains when sharing with parents. Many lodges also offer dicsounted rates for chilren, their activities and their meals.

FACTS AND FIGURES ASIDE...

As South Africa proves to be the affordable choice, it is also the RIGHT choice for any vacation. The price is right and the activities innumerable. One does not need to pay to see the amazing natural scenery that South Africa has to offer. Make your money go further and come to a country "Alive with Possibility" ... your affordable dream vacation awaits!