With the 2010 FIFA World Cup tournament just around the corner, questions are being raised about whether inflated travel and accommodation costs will stop international visitors returning to South Africa.

The Competition Commission is already investigating alleged price collusion amongst local airlines. It is alleged the airlines have agreed to boost ticket prices during the month-long tournament.

A survey conducted on bed and breakfast establishments and hotels around the country shows that accommodation costs have doubled, and even tripled in some instances, for the duration of the soccer tournament.

However, even with the inflated prices there are still rooms available for under R1000 a night at three-star lodges, breakfast included, while tourists will have to cough up for five digit bills at luxurious hotels without a hot meal.

Despite the bumped up bills, soccer fanatics are determined not to let the costs red card their plans.