Got champagne tastes and a beer budget when it comes to holidays? Here are cheap ways to see expensive destinations

Got champagne tastes and a beer budget when it comes to holidays? The only thing stopping you from booking a trip to your dream destination is your imagination.

The first time I went to French Polynesia, I had next to no money.

Sure, like everyone I had all these ideas in my head about stepping into the lagoon from my overwater pool villa and while I was able to do that (for a couple of nights at least), I had well and truly blown the budget.

I then had to spend the rest of my time trying to work out how to eat and play cheaply, which I did after some serious research.

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No matter where you're dreaming about visiting, there's no doubt you've got an idea of what that particular holiday should look like.

If you practise a little flexible thinking, however, you might still be able to enjoy that fantasy holiday for a price tag significantly lower than what you'd been anticipating.

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Here are a few ideas to get you started.

You want… postcard-perfect Bora Bora

Why not: think beyond those fantasy overwater bungalows and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of French Polynesia's most celebrated island by booking a campsite instead?

Bora Bora Eco Camping for example, lets you set up camp right on one of Bora Bora's most spectacular motus, while Alaroots Bora Bora Camp, offers traditional tent camping, as well as bungalows and dorms - all priced between $55 and $109 per night. 

You want… to go on an African safari

Why not: opt for a day tip with Uber Safari?

The perfect package for those short on time and money, the all-new Uber Safari costs a flat $200 fee for a day trip out to a private game reserve to see the Big Five - no matter where you're travelling solo, or with up to three friends.

Yes, this means your full-day safari adventure could cost as little as $50 for the experience, which begins and ends with pick up and drop off at your choice of destination within Cape Town city limits.

Just note that Uber Safari is only available during the South African tourist high season between October and February 1, 2025. It's booking from 90 days up to 24 hours in advance and the experience will run on Fridays and Saturdays. 

You want… to experience the highlife in Monaco

Why not: stay within walking distance of Monte Carlo, but get yourself a French address?

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The neighbourhood of Beausoleil is a mere 10 minute walk from the bright lights of Place du Casino, but is priced considerably lower than anything you'd find within Monte Carlo itself.

Sure, you may have to part with eye-watering sums for meals and drinks at restaurants and cafes, but inexpensive activities are everywhere you look, from the Saint-Martin Gardens and Palais du Prince Square, to relatively inexpensive eats at Marché de la Condamine.

You want… to see the icy landscapes of Antarctica 

Why not: give those expensive cruises a miss and fly over the White Continent instead?

Departing at 8am and returning at 10pm (for Sydney departures), a full day experience with Antarctica Flights is priced from $1,199 per person - a Qantas experience which lets you see Antarctica's mesmerising landscape from above as you enjoy the comfort of your in-flight system.

True, you won't get to interact with wildlife, but you know what you'll also miss? Crossing Drake Passage (those waves aren't for everyone). 

You want… to enjoy a European brat summer on the Riviera 

Why not: give the crowds gathering on the French and Italian Riviera a miss, and head to the Albanian Riviera instead?

The beach towns of Ksamil, Himara and Dhermi, in particular, are the place to set up shop, each one offering up dazzling turquoise seas, a long line of beachfront bars, restaurants and clubs for a tiny fraction of what you'd expect to pay in western Europe.