With growing concerns surrounding travel to Egypt due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Spain’s Costa Blanca is rapidly gaining popularity as a viable alternative for British tourists. The region offers comparable attractions with a significantly reduced flight duration.

Egypt's Declining Appeal

Egypt has historically been a favoured destination for UK travellers, celebrated for its Red Sea resorts, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly activities. However, current instability in the Middle East has understandably increased apprehension about travelling to the country this year.

Costa Blanca's Rising Popularity

As a result, many tourists are exploring alternative destinations, and the Costa Blanca is emerging as a compelling option. Search interest in Costa Blanca has increased by 28 percent year-on-year, while searches for Egypt have decreased by 12 percent, demonstrating a notable shift in traveller preferences.

Convenience and Affordability

First Choice managing director Kevin Nelson emphasizes that Costa Blanca delivers the same ‘extraordinary moments’ as Egypt, featuring unique landscapes and natural beauty within a convenient two-hour flight from the UK. The region is easily accessible via Alicante airport, with flights taking approximately two hours and forty minutes from London.

Remarkably affordable flights are currently available, with Skyscanner listing one-way tickets for as little as £13 on May 9th.

Natural Wonders and Attractions

The Costa Blanca boasts several natural wonders, including Laguna Salada de Torrevieja, a stunning naturally pink lake – a rare sight in Europe. This unique coloration is caused by halobacteria and Dunaliella salina, organisms that release pink pigments into the water. The lake is also a habitat for flamingos, reminiscent of the vibrant salt lakes of Egypt’s Siwa Oasis.

Beyond the Pink Lake

Beyond the pink lake, Costa Blanca offers diverse attractions, including Elche’s UNESCO-listed palm grove, home to over 200,000 trees and possessing a distinctly North African ambiance, evidenced by its impressive 4.6 out of 5 rating based on over 17,000 Google reviews. The car-free Tabarca Island, with its thriving marine reserve, provides a pristine environment for snorkelling and exploring underwater life, mirroring the experience of diving in the Red Sea.

Culinary Delights and Costs

Costa Blanca’s appeal extends to its culinary scene. The region’s signature dish, ‘caldero’ – a rich fish stew cooked with fresh local seafood and rice – is a must-try for food enthusiasts. Dining in the area is reasonably priced, with a three-course meal for two costing around €50 (£43), and a pint of local beer available for €3 (£2.60).

Accommodation options are also affordable, with hotels available from as little as £36 per night.

Travel Advice and Alternatives

Currently, the UK Foreign Office advises against all travel to certain parts of Egypt, including areas near the Egypt-Libya border and the North Sinai Governorate, and advises against all but essential travel to other regions. For those seeking a longer-haul alternative to Egypt, Australia’s Coral Coast offers white sand beaches and pristine reefs.

Qantas Airline offers direct flights from London to Perth, taking 16 hours and 40 minutes, with connecting domestic flights available to other Australian destinations. These prices were accurate as of April 24, 2026.