Volunteer Abroad In A Best Value Destination

Information in this Post comes from Travelmole.

If you are thinking of a volunteer abroad or teach abroad destination, check out this list of best value destinations for 2010, which was reported recently by Travelmole.  GeoVisions supports volunteer projects in four of the ten: Mexico, India, South Africa and Thailand.

Best Value Destinations in 2010   

Iceland and London have made it into Lonely Planet's new top 10 list of best value destinations for the first time.

The economic collapse in Iceland means the island is no longer punitively expensive, said the "Best in Travel 2010" guide, putting the beleaguered country in its best-value list. "Have you always wanted to discover this magical, mysterious country, to explore ice caps and volcanoes, and wallow in hot springs? Been put off because of the prohibitive prices? Well, 2010 is your year."

Meanwhile London's days as a costly destination are now over, Lonely Planet said. "Long ludicrously expensive, London has become much more affordable for visitors from abroad, if not for its residents," said the guide.

Lonely Planet travel editor Tom Hall said: “It may seem a surprising inclusion but as a direct result of the economic crisis London has become much more accessible to foreign visitors. “The tables have turned and London’s reputation as one of the world’s most expensive cities is over. The favourable exchange rate means that travellers will often find hotels and meals up to half the price they were a few years ago."

Elsewhere in the top 10, Thailand remained "perennially good value", said the book. "It's one of the cheapest long-haul holidays for European holidaymakers... visitors are always spoilt for choice regarding accommodation."

Malaysia "is a clever choice for travellers on the lookout for a bargain", while in India "your money stretches almost as far as the infamous Indian 'stretchable' time".

"South Africa is not only about an amazing climate, vast unspoilt scenery, balmy sandy beaches, extraordinary wildlife and adventure activities, but the cost of living is low, so it's also excellent value for money."

Lonely Planet's annual guidebook captures "the world's hottest travel trends, destinations, journeys and experiences for the year ahead."

2010’s Best Value destinations:

Iceland
Thailand
London
South Africa
Malaysia
Mexico
India
Bulgaria
Kenya
Las Vegas

(Note: the destinations are not ranked)