Not only is Portugal’s Algarve known for its stunning coves and beaches, but it has also just been crowned the best value destination for UK travellers for the first time in nine years in the Annual Post Office Holiday Money Report. In its largest-ever global cost comparison across 47 destinations, Post Office Travel Money revealed that a three-course meal for two with wine costs £40.33—making it the lowest recorded and just a third of the price in New York. The report also found that in the Algarve, a cup of filter coffee in a café or bar costs just £1.27 and a 200ml bottle of sunscreen costs £5.08.
Laura Plunkett, Head of Travel Money at Post Office, said: “It’s interesting to see the Algarve back at the top of the barometer chart again and this is largely down to the remarkable consistency in its low prices for meals and drinks. “Even though the Algarve has featured in the best value top 10 since 2010, it has struggled to match the cheapest long haul destinations on price in recent years.
“Now prices have risen in its closest competitors but remained low in Portugal. This makes the Algarve a great choice for holidaymakers who want to keep their holiday spending to a minimum.”
Eight items, including a three-course meal for two with wine, a cup of coffee, a bottle of local beer, a can of cola, a glass of wine, a bottle of still water, suncream, and insect repellent, were chosen as typical purchases that UK tourists are likely to make abroad.
Prices for these items were then verified by Post Office researchers.
Prices for UK visitors to the beautiful Algarve have decreased by 1.6% compared to last year with a holiday cost of £58.95, thanks to the affordable meals and drinks, as well as a 1.8% year-on-year increase in the value of sterling against the euro.
Overall, prices have decreased in half of the many destinations analysed, with the Dominican Republic experiencing the most significant drop of 26.5%.
Despite its growing popularity, the Algarve seems to be one of the small amount of popular holiday places that is currently affordable, all while offering breathtaking beaches and landscapes.
Located in southern Portugal, is famous for its stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and picturesque towns, making it a favourite destination for British holidaymakers.
