It may seem that the forecast this year for taking a well earned break away is cloudy. With the cost of day to day living on the rise and the UK credit crunch taking a hold, holidays feel like an unobtainable luxury. However, it�s not all doom and gloom. Money may be tight but there are still good deals to be had, if you look towards destinations where the pound is strong. Exchange rates for many key holiday destinations are at a high, pushing holiday prices down and giving you more for your money abroad.

In fact the cloudy outcast in the UK is making travel to destinations like Australia, Thailand and South Africa more affordable than ever. With electricity companies hiking up their prices and the cost of living at an all time high, life overseas can be cheap in comparison. Banish the winter blues and jet off to warmer climes where the sunshine is plentiful and the good life can be enjoyed at a fraction of the cost back home.

Terry Fisher, Managing Director of netflights.com is keen to promote the virtues of taking a break; �Despite the current UK financial climate, there�s never been a better time to venture abroad. As the pound�s value strengthens, Australia, Thailand and South Africa holidays are better value than ever.�

Treat yourself to a trip Down Under. Whether it�s the iconic sights of Sydney, cruising the Great Barrier or exploring the rainforest, this great continent offers a wealth of holiday experiences and adventures. With flights starting from as little as �652* and accommodation from �25 per person per night, the possibilities are endless. Whilst there take advantage of the exchange rate and dine alfresco. With a plethora of freshly caught fish available at Sydney�s fish market, why not take advantage of a number of the city�s beauty spots and enjoy the very traditional Australian barbeque.

If you�re looking for rest and relaxation, then try one of Thailand�s tropical beach resorts. These idyllic retreats dotted along Thailand�s coastline offer a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Prices for eight nights in Hua Hin start from �619 per person or eight nights Koh Chang from �899. For a livelier break away, the popular areas of Phuket and Pattaya are a haven for sun-lovers and the adventurous alike. Prices from �589 for seven nights**. Take advantage of the lower cost of living in the Far East and enjoy a candlelit dinner for two in Bangkok for less than �15.

Take a trip to South Africa, where the favourable rates are making limited resources go further, and explore the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town, with its spectacular location and vibrant waterfront. Five nights is available from only �779 per person^^. A restaurant meal in South Africa is roughly half the cost of UK prices and why not accompany it with a fine bottle of the regions excellent locally produced wine?

For further information or to book visit www.netflights.com or call 0844 493 4147.

-ENDS-

Note to editors: * Price based on return flights to Perth, valid for travel 16th April � 30th June 2009. ^ 5* Evason Hua Hin & Six Senses Spa, valid for travel 8th January � 24th March 2009 and 4* Amari Emerald Cove Resort, Koh Chang with breakfast, valid for travel 22nd January � 31st March 2009 ^^ 3* Mercure Hotel Pattaya, valid for travel 18th January � 24th March 2009 ** 3* Protea Hotel Seapoint with breakfast, valid for departures 9th January � 16th March 2009.

All prices include return flights from London, pre payable taxes and accommodation as above on a twin share basis.

For further information contact Sam Day at Gold Medal Travel, sam.day@goldmedal.co.uk or call 01772 835086