Cheap Holiday Destinations, you didn’t know you needed!

Black Friday is the holy grail of the retail sales calendar. Big SALE signs pop up everywhere, and the sound of money leaving wallets fills the air. If you’re still debating between a flat-screen TV and an actual adventure, let us nudge you in the right direction. Call us biased but a holiday on an exotic beach trumps any LED screen. Don’t be left wishing you had snagged Black Friday travel deals when you had the chance. So, without further ado, here are 2024’s top 5 Rand-friendly holiday destinations to book this Black Friday.

Disclaimer: No travel excuses allowed beyond this point, these destinations are in some of the cheapest countries to visit from South Africa in 2024, so you really have no excuse.

1. Zanzibar: Tropical Bliss Without the Price Tag this Black Friday

Whether you’re after a solo travel adventure, a family vacation, or just a solid excuse to dodge that third cousin’s braai, Zanzibar delivers on both memories and affordability. 

Why it’s perfect: Think pristine beaches, spice tours and awe-striking sunsets. Zanzibar gives you all the tropical vibes of the Maldives but without the financial regret.

What to do:

• Stroll through Stone Town and pretend you know stuff about history.
• Snorkel, dive, or just float around like a boss in the warm Indian Ocean.
• Feast on fresh seafood at Forodhani Gardens (cheap eats for the win).

Liking Zanzibar? You might like one of these Zanzibar packages. 

Free tip for your next vacation: Ever left for the airport and realised you forgot to do something at home? Too late to turn back now! It would be a good idea to use this pre-vacay checklist from Naked Insurance instead.

2. China: The Great Wall and even greater views

A Black Friday travel deal that can be seen from space, literally!

Remember watching Chinese movies as a kid and thinking you could be the next Shaolin Master? Well, that dream is out of view but that doesn’t mean China is. It’s a land of deep culture, rich heritage and great food. 

While you won’t run into Mister Miyagi, you can:

• Walk the Great Wall (or a small part of it, there’s a reason it’s visible from space.)
• Witness captivating Kung Fu performances at a Shaolin Monastery.
• Slurp up some noodles in Shanghai because carbs are always a good idea.

Here’s a tip, you can get R1,000 off your next international trip, if that won’t convince you to see China we don’t know what will. In a saving mood? Get the best China holiday package

3.  Phuket, The Ultimate Island Experience

Yep, you guessed it, Thailand is one of the Black Friday travel deals to snag.

Why it’s perfect: Phuket is where tight budgets meet endless fun. Beaches, nightlife, and actual Thai massages in the land of their origin, what’s not to love?

What to do:

• Visit the Big Buddha and soak in those sweeping island views.
• Hop on a boat tour to James Bond Island (Golden Gun not included, you’ll have to settle for golden views).
• Stuff your face with pad Thai and mango sticky rice at the night markets.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to pack for all the humidity, and maybe budget for a second suitcase. Phuket’s markets won’t let you leave without bargains.

4. VISA-Free Türkiye

Good news, Türkiye is part of the visa-free countries South Africans can visit. 

Why it’s perfect: Türkiye serves up ancient ruins, bazaars and Turkish delights (and we’re not just talking about the sweets)

What to do:

• Visit Istanbul and see how East meets West (literally, there’s a bridge).
• Leap into Greek myths and explore the remains of the legendary city of Troy
• Shop the Grand Bazaar for treasures you’ll brag about later.

Feeling adventurous? Experience The best of Türkiye.

5. Niagara Falls. USA meets Canada

Thought North America was expensive? With Black Friday travel deals, it’s not!

Want to feel small in the best way possible? Niagara Falls is your answer. And yes, it’s way cheaper than you think. Fun fact: Niagara Falls is in between Ontario, Canada and New York, USA. 

Why go:

• The sheer force of the Falls. It’s like nature’s ultimate flex.
• Wine tours in the surrounding region (because holidays and wine are a perfect pair).

Must-do list:

• Take the Maid of the Mist boat ride (yes, you’ll get wet but who cares?).
• Cross the Rainbow Bridge and confuse your friends with “Which country am I in?” photos.

Niagara Falls is one of those wonders you just have to see in person and it’s so much easier to see with this USA package. 

Turns out, travelling is cheaper than you thought (thanks to Black Friday)

Black Friday 2024 isn’t just about deals, it’s also about decisions. Will you buy gadgets you’ll get over in a few weeks or opt for lasting memories from around the world? You no longer have an excuse, if you can afford a new couch, then you can afford to travel, especially with these Black Friday deals. 

Here’s a head start to Black Friday 2024! Get discounts on flights, accommodation and holiday packages. Don’t be left staring at the sky while others take off, sign up for our newsletter and be the first to know when our Black Friday sale goes live. 

Let your festive season begin with Travelstart, stay glued to our Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for Black Friday madness!

You might also like: 5 Black Friday Mistakes You’re Making in 2024 and 17 Rand-Friendly Overseas Destinations