As we all look at ways of saving money, Sarah Lee suggests destinations where you can make your cash stretch a little further.

The International Herald Tribune reports that instead of cutting holidays Europeans are seeking out value for money destinations. While Sean Tipton of the Association of British Travel Agents said: “The British regard their holidays as one of the last things they will cut back on.”

In these times when a number of international currency exchange rates are proving unfavourable it makes sense to look to destinations where your money will stretch a little further, and you can still be assured a fascinating and relaxing break.

Hot-foot it to Hungary

Why visit?

Hungary has a rich history with medieval cities that are as attractive to partygoers as they are culture vultures, but it is also the perfect place to down-pace and enjoy some serious rest and relaxation. Hungary is home to some fabulous wine-making regions and has an interesting folk-heritage.

Resort focus

The Balaton region of Hungary features the largest lake in central Europe and is the place to head for if you’re looking for a relaxing, rejuvenating break. It ranks as the number one resort within Hungary due to the 170km of shoreline which provides visitors with picturesque scenery and a host of activities such as fishing, sailing, and great cycling routes.

The lake itself is popular with bathers, while many people also make the 37 mile drive to Lake Héviz, Europe’s largest thermal lake. Despite having an area of 47,500 square metres, the strong flow of water in the lake is thought to complete replenish it every day, meanwhile the waters are said to have curative benefits for bathers.

The Mediterranean climate combined with rich soil have made Balaton a notable region for wine production for over 2,000 years and it is home to a number of vineyards such as Szent Orban Borház which produces fine Pinot Noirs.

RCI has 16 resorts in Hungary

Take on Turkey

Why visit?

Turkey is where Europe meets Asia and this makes it an exciting country to visit, full of thriving bazaars, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, great cuisine and Eastern promise.

Resort focus

Between the resort towns of Kuşadasi and Antalya stretches 200 miles of coastline, some of it the most awe-inspiring in the country. Kuşadasi itself has long stretches of sandy beaches, but the jewel in its crown is the Dilek Peninsula National Park, lying 19 miles south of Kuşadasi Bay. Here dense pine trees cover mountains that loom large above the clear water of the Mediterranean and you can view the Greek island of Samos off in the distance.

Nearby Ephesus is a treat for those seeking culture. Famed for the Temple of Artemis – one of the seven wonders of the ancient world – Ephesus is an incredible archaeological site where you can literally touch early history. In fact much of it is still being excavated today.

Further along the coast from Kuşadasi are the popular resorts of Bodrum, Marmaris, and Olu Deniz, perfect for lazy days on the beach, sailing trips, experiencing mud baths, and for nights out on the town. But don’t be deceived – these towns offer more than holiday staples. They are thriving towns with a history at every turn, pretty harbours that hug the coastline and lively markets where you can unearth traditional arts and crafts.

At Antalya the Taurus mountain region provides visitors with the perfect antidote to days on the beach, with some snow-capped peaks running parallel to the warm blue of the Mediterranean. In some areas the mountains plunge sharply into the sea, forming small quiet bays and peninsulas. 

RCI has 46 resorts in Turkey.

Rest at the Red Sea

Why visit?

One of the world’s earliest civilisations, Egypt has much to offer visitors in search of a cultural break, but the country’s incredible history and heritage aren’t the only things that make it an unmissable destination. The resorts on the Red Sea coast offer year-round sunshine and palm-fringed beaches.

Resort focus

In just a few years, Hurghada on the Red Sea coast has grown from a tiny fishing village to become one of Egypt’s premier tourist resorts and a centre for water sports.

From windsurfing, to sailing, deep-sea fishing, diving and snorkelling, Hurghada is the place to get out on the water. Its warm waters account for an enormous range of fish and corals, described as some of the world’s finest underwater gardens, making it one of the world’s best spots for diving. Even the local aquarium and museums are a must see for marine life as they house a complete collection of flora and fauna from the Red Sea.

Another favourite with divers is nearby Giftun Island where the desert rises up out of the aquamarine sea.

For those interested in more land-based activities, the desert around Hurghada is the setting for daily desert safari tours by jeep and dune buggies to see Bedouin communities and ride camels.
In the town, the main attractions are the mosque, which features finely carved accents and striking facades, and Ed-Dahar – the old town – with its ancient streets full of character and the colourful bazaar where you can buy anything from jewellery to brassware, and tea tables. Haggling is de-rigueur.

RCI has 59 resorts in Egypt.