Almost 7 in 10 of Britishes are intending to fly abroad this summer*, but while budget flights, last minute deals and the Pound’s increased strength against the Euro might make the Eurozone a good choice for the budget conscious, the US is also offering good value for UK travellers. Analysis of spending habits in Euro countries compared to the US by ICE (International Currency Exchange), the leading online currency provider, shows that visitors stateside tend to spend far less once they reach their destination. ICE found £242 difference between the average spend on its prepaid currency card, the ICE Travellers Cashcard, in the US compared to the country where people spent the most, Cyprus**.
ICE analysed spend on the ICE Travellers Cashcard in Euros and US Dollars over the peak summer period in 2013. Cyprus proved to be the hardest on the pocket with expenditure on the ICE Travellers Cashcard amounting on average to £564.54.
In contrast, holidaymakers to the US spent £322.51 on average for holiday essentials such as food, drink, transport and hotel tabs. Greece, one of the most popular family destinations***, featured alongside Portugal as a top spending location for UK holidaymakers, with average spends of £493.86 and £460.55 respectively.
Tom Johnson, Head of Online Business at ICE, said: “Visiting popular European destinations may be easier for travellers but this convenience can be offset against the price holidaymakers pay for essential items on holiday. Our research shows big savings can be made by travelling to the US or by choosing a holiday in Italy or Spain instead of Greece or Cyprus.”
“There has been a 10 per cent increase in the strength of the Pound against the US Dollar since last summer and a 5 per cent increase against the Euro, meaning travellers will get more for their money when travelling to the US and Eurozone destinations this year – and the good news doesn’t stop there. By searching online for the most competitive rates and free delivery on currency, you can boost your spending power even further.
“Also, be careful using credit and debit cards, as they may incur a 2.5% charge or more for an ATM transaction. A prepaid currency card instead will lock in rates, but be sure to choose wisely, check the fees that may apply and look for those that offer additional benefits.
The ICE Travellers Cashcard allows consumers to enjoy 1.5% cashback on purchases over $50, €50 or £50 on the corresponding cards. This means, from our research, cardholders that spend an average of £322 in the US, could expect to receive £4.83 cashback for simply having a great time abroad.”
Kaynak : 