5 Cheap Holiday Destinations & Where to Find Them

Daydreaming about your next big holiday? As the world opens back up again, why not check out these cheap holiday destinations from Australia (so if you don’t quite have the budget for a luxurious cruise or a 5-star stay in Paris, don’t stress!).

By choosing the right place and booking at the right time, you can enjoy a fantastic getaway without forking out your entire savings account. Pack your suitcase for one of these cheap holiday destinations from Australia and check out the latest in cheap flights and accommodation from leading providers.

1. Indonesia

Mount Rinjani, Limbok - Cigno Loans

Pictured: Mount Rinjani, Lombok

For many Aussies, the first place that comes to mind for cheap places to go on holiday is Bali. If your dream holiday involves breathtaking beaches, bustling markets, vibrant nightlife and delicious seafood, Bali may indeed be the best cheap holiday destination for you.

But Indonesia has so much more to offer than this hyped tourist hub.

If you’re put off by Bali’s reputation or have been before and didn’t enjoy it, consider visiting one of these Indonesian alternatives:

  • Lombok – Bali’s less developed and less crowded sister island
  • Solo – a city brimming with authentic Javanese culture and traditional shopping centres
  • Bunaken – a tiny isle with amazing underwater views (ideal for experienced divers)
  • Bintan – an amazing island for golfers and water sports enthusiasts (great spas too!)
  • Yogyakarta – splendid temples, natural wonders, and plenty of shopping opportunities.

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2. Turkey

Pamukkale - Cigno Loans

Pictured: The white travertine pools and terraces in Pamukkale

Current economic struggles make Turkey a very affordable place to travel at the moment. There’s never been a better time to explore fascinating architecture and panoramas, witness the stunning white terraces of Pamukkale, visit ancient ruins, and cruise the Mediterranean in this beautiful country.

If paying your respects at Gallipoli is on your bucket list, now is a great time to book a holiday in Turkey.

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3. New Zealand

Queenstown - Cigno Loans

Pictured: Jetboating in Queenstown

One of the best cheap holiday destinations from Australia is just across the ditch. While the culture and cost of living aren’t hugely different, the affordable flights make New Zealand a very attractive getaway for anyone who just needs some time away.

From the rich culture and revitalising thermal springs of Rotorua to the modern metropolis of Auckland, from the thrill-seeking paradise of Queenstown to the glorious national parks and scenery on every horizon, there’s something in New Zealand to delight anyone.

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4. Vietnam

Ninh Binh - Cigno Loans

Pictured: Ninh Binh

It may cost a little extra to get to Vietnam, but the cost of living during your trip will be incredibly low. Cheap yet delicious market meals and shopping bargains make it a dream destination for travellers on a budget.

This means you can save your holiday funds to truly enjoy all the attractions the country has to offer. Some of the most highly recommended things to see and do in Vietnam include:

  • The Cu Chi Tunnels
  • The Mekong River with its floating markets
  • Hoi Ann Ancient Town
  • The shops in Hanoi’s Old Quarter
  • The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City
  • Bai Tu Long Bay
  • Lake of the Restored Sword
  • Ninh Binh
  • Hoi An Impression Theme Park
  • Son Doong Cave in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park.

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5. Australia

Cheap Holiday Australia - Cigno Loans

One of the best cheap holiday destinations from Australia is… Australia.

Let’s face it: Our backyard is massive. It would take a lifetime of travelling to explore all the cultural and natural wonders our own country has to offer.

So, if your budget is making it tricky to book overseas flights or a long-term stay in another country, why not take a holiday closer to home? You could:

  • Take in the magnificence of Uluru
  • Sightsee the iconic landmarks of Sydney
  • Immerse yourself in the unique culture of Melbourne or Adelaide
  • Take a winery tour through Western Australia’s renowned Margaret River vineyards
  • Explore the rugged wilderness of the Northern Territory
  • Enjoy the beaches and amusement parks on the Gold Coast
  • Hop on over to Hobart for a cool and culturally rich holiday.

… all without spending most of your holiday budget on an expensive international flight.

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If things are really tight, check this list of cheap school holiday ideas or apply for a small cash loan with Cigno. Borrowing up to $1,000 could help you afford a much-needed getaway to one of the cheap holiday destinations listed here.

Disclaimer: Please be aware that Cigno Loans’ articles do not replace advice from an accountant or financial advisor. All information provided is intended to be used as a guide only, as it does not take into account your personal financial situation or needs. If you require assistance, it is recommended that you consult a licensed financial or tax advisor.

NOTIFICATION OF MISCONDUCT BY CIGNO AUSTRALIA

Ordered by the Federal Court of Australia

The Federal Court of Australia has found that Cigno Australia Pty Ltd (Cigno Australia) and BSF Solutions Pty Ltd (BSF Solutions) have breached the law by engaging in unlicensed credit activity and charging prohibited fees.

In the period from July 2022 to 3 October 2023, over 100,000 consumers have been lent a total of $34 million, and charged fees of over $70 million, under the ‘No Upfront Charge Loan Model’ operated by BSF Solutions and Cigno Australia. At no time has either BSF Solutions or Cigno Australia held an Australian Credit Licence.

The Court also found that Mark Swanepoel (director of Cigno Australia) and Brenton James Harrison (director of BSF Solutions) were involved in these breaches of the law.

With effect from 24 May 2024, the Court has granted permanent injunctions preventing Cigno Australia and BSF Solutions from:

  • demanding, receiving or accepting fees or charges, including amounts of loan principal, from consumers in relation to credit provided under the ‘No Upfront Charge Model’; and
  • engaging in further credit activity pursuant to the ‘No Upfront Charge Loan Model’, including by entering into new agreements with consumers, for so long as they do not hold an Australian Credit Licence.

Cigno Australia was ordered by the Court to, by 5th July 2024, send written communications to consumers who between July 2022 and December 2022 entered into agreements with Cigno Australia and BSF Solutions under the ‘No Upfront Charge Loan Model’.

The Court will later determine whether (among other things) Cigno Australia and Mark Swanepoel ought to pay a pecuniary penalty in respect of this conduct, and whether Mark Swanepoel should be restrained from carrying on a business engaging in credit activity.

Cigno Australia, BSF Solutions, Mr Swanepoel and Mr Harrison intend to appeal the decision of the Court and have filed an application for leave to appeal. If the appeal is successful, some or all of the orders of the Federal Court of Australia may be set aside.

Where can you get more information?

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You can access legal advice in your state at: Free legal advice – Moneysmart.gov.au.

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