5 Close Destinations That Still Offer Great Bang For Buck

Before you sacrifice that already overdue holiday for more weekly tins of baked beans and thin-slice white bread, we've assembled a shortlist of value-for-money holiday spots both here and nearby that might still get a look in on your shopping list.

The prices given are in Australian dollars and based on averages at exchange rates applicable at the time of writing, ie this is a rough but useful guide.

This land of over 7000 tropical islands is a much under-rated gem as close to us as Thailand and Vietnam. Whether you're into rainforest hiking, diving, surfing, sea kayaking, kiteboarding or just hanging out at the beach, the Philippines has an island for you. Its cities are abuzz with culture and its graffiti tagged jeepneys are a national icon The best thing about this alluring archipelago is that it offers some of the cheapest mid-range accommodation this side of the Pacific. 

Coffee: $4.50 per cup  
Three-course meal for two people, mid-range restaurant: $39  
What most people spend on accommodation: $202 per night  

When most Australians think overseas holiday, Bali is more than just a fall-back option. For beach bums, party owls, families and those in search of cultural immersion alike, this magical gift on our doorstep just keeps on giving no matter what the economic tide.

Coffee: $2.23 per cup  
Three-course meal for two people, mid-range restaurant: $33  
What most people spend on accommodation: $318 per night  

From the chilled-out beaches of Noosa Heads and Bribie Island to the gastronomic treats of its hinterland, the Sunshine Coast attracts visitors from all over Australia and beyond. Although summer stays here tend to book out quickly, deals abound if you book a season in advance. 

Coffee: $4.90 per cup  
Three-course meal for two people, mid-range restaurant: $100  
What most people spend on accommodation: $355 per night  

Thailand's largest island is popular among Aussie holiday-makers looking to experience east Asia in a lush, tropical setting. The beaches are clean, the island is leafy and mountainous and the food will spark a thousand cooking ideas. Like Bali it's also perennially cheap in any economic weather.  

Coffee: $3.96 per cup  
Three-course meal for two people, mid-range restaurant: $37  
What most people spend on accommodation: $266 per night  

With an iconic high-rise shimmering above lengthy surf beaches, and its sweep of theme parks up the M1, the Gold Coast is a festive playground for all ages. Like with its Sunshine cousin up the road, book early and you can secure accommodation deals cheaper than you'd expect for world-renowned, summer-loving hotspot.  

Coffee: $4.80 per cup  
Three-course meal for two people, mid-range restaurant: $90  
What most people spend on accommodation: $361 per night  

So relax, loosen your belt a little. A good holiday may not set you back as much as you’d think. 

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