Hi all
I'm going to take holidays over the Christmas peak season with my partner. I'm wondering what my options are for somewhere that is beachy and relaxing, without being ludicrously expensive. Happy to stay in AU or go to SE Asia depending on what's available. Anyone have some advice on setting up a reasonably inexpensive but nice holiday? I'm conscious that I'll probably be a bit hamstrung by peak rates… interested to hear views!
Thanks
There are lots of cheap holiday locations in SE Asia - take your pick from Vietnam, Nepal, Cambodia, Phillippines, Fiji, Malaysia, Bali, etc. Personally I would opt for Vietnam.
Possibly make your choice on the basis of discount airfares or a holiday package. Both Air Asia and Jetstar have flight specials from time to time (sometimes starting from as little as $99). There are often great packages (flights & accommodation) available to Bali in particular. You should be able to get a week in Bali with flights for $500-$700 each or a week in Vietnam for around $1000 each. I've seen flights to Kuala Lumpur for $99 in the past and to Manila for $249…. You can keep your food costs down by eating where the locals eat and by booking mid-range accommodation rather than the 4 & 5 star places. Check traveller feedback for potential accommodation on Tripadvisor website.
Suggest you keep a close eye on the websites of Air Asia, Jetstar and Flight Centre and grab a good deal when it comes up. Good luck.