Travelling abroad is a dream for many South Africans, but with the weakening rand, some destinations can be really expensive.
While certain cities are renowned for their beauty and cultural richness, they can also burn a hole in your pocket faster than you can say “exchange rate.”
If you’re planning an international trip but need to keep costs in check, here are five expensive cities that South African budget travellers might want to avoid – or approach with caution…
1. Zurich, Switzerland
Why it’s expensive: Zurich regularly tops the list of the world’s most expensive cities, and it’s easy to see why. With a strong Swiss franc, South African travellers will find the cost of food, transport, and accommodation daunting.
How much: A simple lunch at a café can cost around R600-R800, while a night at a budget hotel could easily cost R4 000 or more. Even public transport is pricey, with a single train ride costing over R100.
Budget alternative: For similar alpine beauty, head to towns like Lucerne or Interlaken, or even consider Austria’s Innsbruck. These destinations offer stunning mountain views at more reasonable prices.
2. Oslo, Norway
Why it’s expensive: Norway’s high standard of living translates to eye-watering prices, especially when converting from rands. While Oslo’s fjords and Nordic charm are undeniably attractive, the costs can quickly make it inaccessible for South African travellers.
How much: A single beer can set you back around R200, while a meal in a casual restaurant might cost R400-R500. Accommodation is similarly steep, with budget hotels often charging R3 500 a night.
Budget alternative: Consider visiting Tallinn, Estonia, or Riga, Latvia. These Baltic cities offer a similar Nordic feel at a fraction of the cost.
3. Tokyo, Japan
Why it’s expensive: Japan’s capital can be surprisingly expensive for South African travellers, especially when factoring in transport costs and the high price of centrally located accommodations. While Tokyo does offer affordable street food, other aspects of the city can stretch your budget.
How much: A day’s worth of train travel on Tokyo’s subway can cost over R200, and many attractions, such as the famous Tokyo Disneyland, come with hefty entrance fees. A night in a mid-range hotel can also cost R2 500 or more.
Budget alternative: Explore Osaka or Kyoto, which are slightly cheaper but still offer a rich mix of Japanese culture, food, and history.
4. New York City, USA
Why it’s expensive: The “City That Never Sleeps” might also leave your wallet restless. With the rand-dollar exchange rate, everything from food to accommodation is painfully expensive for South African travellers.
How much: A budget hotel in Manhattan can cost upwards of R4 000 per night, and even a basic meal at a diner can easily cost around R300-R500. Iconic experiences like seeing a Broadway show or visiting the Empire State Building also come with steep ticket prices.
Budget alternative: For a more affordable urban adventure, consider cities like Chicago or Atlanta. They offer a similar bustling vibe with more affordable prices for South African travellers.
5. Reykjavik, Iceland
Why it’s expensive: Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes make it a bucket-list destination, but its high prices can be tough for South African travellers to manage. The cost of food, transport, and accommodation is driven up by its remote location and high import taxes.
How much: A burger in Reykjavik can cost around R400-R500, and even hostels can charge R2 000 or more per night. Renting a car to explore Iceland’s famous attractions can cost thousands of rands per day.
Budget alternative: Head to Scotland for similarly rugged landscapes and charming small towns. Flights to Scotland are also often cheaper than flights to Iceland, saving you even more.
Which other expensive cities have you always wanted to travel to?
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