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USA or Europe: Where is Better for South Africans?

For South Africans, deciding whether their next big international trip should be to the USA or Europe is no small task. Many of us have dreamed of Times Square, Buckingham Palace, or the Eiffel Tower – and little compares to seeing it in real life. When you’re booking a river cruise through Europe or a USA tour to hit a few bucket list destinations at once, the main choice really comes down to personal interest and travel style.

2min read

Published 11 September 2024

Sophie Baker

Guest Blogger

Here we’ll take a look at the cultural experiences, food and drink scene, landscapes, and cost of both to help you decide which destination might be better for your next grand holiday.

In this blog

USA vs Europe: History and Culture

Europe is incredible in the sense that you get a huge variety of cultures in a relatively small space. Each country boasts its own identity, language, and traditions. From the romantic streets of Paris to the ancient ruins of Rome, Europe offers a deep dive into history that is often centuries old. Tour operators like Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, Globus and Cosmos provide guided tours that focus on these rich cultural experiences.

Fancy a detailed exploration of Italy's iconic cities on the Jewels of Italy tour? It's available from Costsaver, which has seen a price reduction, making it even more appealing if you’re dreaming of soaking in the Italian art and history.

The USA, on the other hand, offers a different kind of cultural experience. Though it isn’t as old and stories as Europe, it certainly has plenty to offer and culturally, has been shaped by the thousands of immigrant stories that have shaped the nation. American cities like New York and San Francisco are cultural giants where you can experience world-class museums, diverse cuisines, and vibrant nightlife. And of course, you’ll recognise plenty of Hollywood scenes!

For those interested in the American experience, tours like the Icons of America which include major U.S. cities offer a comprehensive look at the country's diverse cultural landscape.

Does USA or Europe have Better Natural Wonders and Outdoor Activities?

When it comes to natural landscapes, both destinations are powerhouses. Seriously, there’s no clear winner in this particular Europe vs USA battle!

You might think of the USA as full of cityscapes, and it certainly delivers on that front, but it’s also home to an array of spectacular sites. There are national parks galore, and you can see everything from the Rocky Mountains to the vistas of the Grand Canyon, and the forests and hills of Montana, which is just like stepping onto the set of Yellowstone. Adventure seekers can explore these natural wonders through packages offered by companies like Contiki, which often include activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking.

Europe isn’t far behind with its geographical diversity either. Think about it; there’s the fjords Norway to the beaches and cliffs of the Mediterranean. The Alps make for incredible skiing scenery, and you’ll find gorgeous lakes and forests all over the Balkans. If you are looking for an adventure, hit the snowy slopes with a Club Med Ski holiday.

For those looking to combine scenery with physical activity, the tour packages from On the Go, such as the Sailing Split in Croatia, offer an relaxing way to see Europe’s picturesque landscapes. It would be a shame not to take advantage of both places by getting out in nature.

Affordability and Travel Deals: Which is Cheaper?

Determining which destination offers more value for money can vary widely depending on travel preferences and timing. Europe can be quite affordable, especially in Eastern European countries where your money stretches further. But of course, countries like France and Germany are famously expensive. Tour packages like Escape to Mykonos provide affordable luxury in some of Europe’s most sought-after locations. To cut costs, travelling during the shoulder seasons (early spring or late autumn) can also help stretch your rands further.

Conversely, the USA offers a range of price points depending on the region. States like Florida and cities like Las Vegas are known for their excellent value. There is a plethora of entertainment options that can be tailored to any budget, and there are often package and inclusive deals. San Francisco and New York are both on the pricier side of things. And obviously, the more rural towns and states tend to offer good value and a unique tour experience. Despite the long distances between states and cities though, you can find surprisingly good overland touring packages, like those exploring the West Coast or the Southern states.

That said, flights to Europe are usually cheaper for South Africans. It’s much closer than America, and there are plenty of airlines flying to different cities. And it’s surprisingly affordable to get around once in Europe, thanks to trains, low-cost airlines, and buses. Sometimes the time spent on the road (in both destinations) is actually one of the best parts of the tour, with beautiful scenery and plenty of time to take it all in.

Comparing the Rand to Dollar & Euro

Consider these few aspects when comparing the South African Rand (ZAR) to the US Dollar (USD) and the Euro (EUR) when travelling:

Exchange rates
Cost of Travel
Budgeting

To give you a rough idea, if the exchange rate is 1 USD = 17.95 ZAR and 1 EUR = 19.77 ZAR:

1 USD would be equivalent to R 17.95
1 EUR would be equivalent to R 19.77

If you are comparing costs like meals, accommodation, and shopping in the USA and Europe, the difference would depend on the relative cost of those items in each destination.

*Exchange rate based on 12 September 2024

Why Cruising is a Budget-Friendly Option for South Africans

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Whether You Choose to Cruise Europe or Tour the USA, You’ll Have a Blast

Ultimately, the choice between touring the USA or cruising Europe on a Uniworld or Avalon Waterways River cruise comes down to what kind of experience you’re looking for. If immersing yourself in history and experiencing a variety of cultures sounds appealing, Europe might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you’re looking for dramatic landscapes, bustling cities, and plenty of open-road glory on your tour, the USA might be the right choice.

If you’re raring to go and are ready to explore these incredible destinations, check out our World on Sale latest offerings on the Flight Centre holiday deals page. We have everything from ski trips to cultural tours across both continents, so you’re guaranteed to find the perfect fit for your big trip.

Explore our World on Sale Holiday Deals

*All prices, exchange rates and deals are correct on the day of this blog being published and are subject to change at any time.

Sophie Baker

Guest Blogger

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*Travel restrictions & conditions apply. Prices are in ZAR and are correct as at the date of publication & are subject to availability and change without notice. Prices quoted are on sale until the dates specified unless otherwise stated or sold out prior. Prices are per person. We charge an Online Booking Fee for flight bookings made online. These fees are charged in addition to the advertised price and displayed fares. View Booking Terms and Conditions for more information.

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USA or Europe: Where is Better for South Africans?

In this blog

USA vs Europe: History and Culture

Does USA or Europe have Better Natural Wonders and Outdoor Activities?

Affordability and Travel Deals: Which is Cheaper?

Comparing the Rand to Dollar & Euro

Why Cruising is a Budget-Friendly Option for South Africans

Whether You Choose to Cruise Europe or Tour the USA, You’ll Have a Blast

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