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The pound has seen significant growth in six long-haul destinations over the last 12 months, according to Post Office Travel Services.

A new report from the organisation has shown that South Africa, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Barbados, St Lucia and the US all saw sterling rise last year, potentially offering travellers better value for money in the process.

Middle Eastern metropolis Dubai could also be the ideal destination for those wanting to get more for their cash, according to the Post Office, as rates in the city held steady in 2007.

Meanwhile, Hungary, Turkey and Portugal are the best bets for short-haul holidaymakers looking for a better value break, the report suggested.

'Looking forward, we believe that holidaymakers will look very carefully this year at how to get the best value for their money,' said Helen Warburton, head of travel for the Post Office.

'With the open skies agreement due to come into force in April, they should keep a close eye on transatlantic flight costs, where the market will become more competitive.'

The open skies pact has seen a number of carriers launch new flights across the Atlantic in the last few days, including Delta Air Lines and US Airways.

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