Typically trodden with backpackers, Vietnam and South East Asia are now attracting a new crowd of travellers. Vietnam Airlines launched the first direct route between Britain and Vietnam in December last year, which might have helped to see soaring levels of British holidaymakers find themselves in South East Asia.
Post Office research shows that the demand for Vietnamese currency has rocketed this summer, increasing by 68% compared to last year. Direct twice-weekly flight services between Gatwick and Hanoi were launched in December 2011, cutting several hours off the journey.
It was previously only possible to reach the country via regional hubs such as Bangkok, Singapore and Hong Kong. A survey of the fastest-growing foreign currencies also showed that Brazil is becoming a popular holiday destination, with sales of Brazilian real rocketing by two-thirds this summer.
Brazil has become an increasingly popular choice for holidaymakers and as a result, hotel rates have soared. Figures from Hotels.com show that the average price of a double room in Rio de Janeiro has increased by an eye watering 31% over the last year. Prices in Brazil are likely to continue to rise as the country commands the world’s attention over the next few years. Brazil will host both the 2014 Fifa World Cup and 2016 Olympic Games.
Brazil has also been hotly tipped as one of the most popular destinations for gap year travellers to visit. The pound has grown significantly stronger against the real over the last 12 months meaning that Brazil might offer students better value for money. Thailand, Cambodia and Laos also prove to be attractive ventures for gap year students as the pound has increased against local currencies. Wanderlust gap year students and travellers might want to consider taking backpacker travel insurance to give them peace of mind.
Date Created: 12/09/2012
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