Top last minute holiday destinations
Last-minute holidays are ideal for bargain hunters, and those who have been too busy to book a trip; but the enormous amount of offers can make deciding where to go tricky. To make life a little easier, we’ve rounded up nine top destinations.
- For value: Majorca, Spain
Spain offers endless last-minute travel bargains, and the beautiful island of Majorca has a wide range of things to do for all sorts of travellers.
Don’t miss Palma’s impressive Gothic cathedral, and after a day of exploring the city, head to the slick Hotel Puro for a refreshingly zesty mojito.
Outside the capital, active types will want to cycle and hike through the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, whilst beach bums should get their tan on at Cala Llombards; a little cove of white sand and aquamarine water in the southeast of the island.
- For Adventure: Orlando, Florida
Orlando is the perfect destination for those with children, and those who aren’t quite ready to fully grow up yet.
Providing a beautiful climate, where you can catch the sun, this destination isn’t just about relaxation and getting away; with a myriad of thrill seeking opportunities around every corner. Spend the your time zooming through the air on some of the worlds most renowned, and exhilarating, rollercoasters at places like Walt Disney World or the Universal Orlando Resort; where you can also immerse yourself in the magic of film.
Alongside this you’ll find a whole selection of different cultural experiences in the various towns, and make sure you embark on an Everglades excursion.
- For culture: Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is a quick flight from the UK, with plenty of last-minute deals on offer, and a great destination for culture-vultures. It’s best visited at the very beginning or end of summer, when the sun isn’t quite so fierce.
Getting lost in the Medina’s maze of bustling markets is a big part of the experience. Head to the souks via Rue du Mouassine, which is a more relaxing route in. Don’t forget to haggle.
After you’ve exhausted Marrakech’s list of attractions (and your feet), freshen up at a hammam, such as Les Bains de Marrakech, for a good scrub, followed by a well-deserved massage.
- For Shoppers: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
A land of lavishness, Abu Dhabi is the perfect place to head if you want a getaway that’ll treat you like a millionaire; without the vast crowds of sister destination, and equally as extravagant, Dubai.
There’s so much to do here, from exploring the amazing cultural attractions such as the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the Heritage Village and the Flagpole, to the waterfront known as The Corniche, which features actives like go-karting, playgrounds and stage shows. If you want to relax, you can take the time out on the sandy beaches, or relax in the many spas throughout the landscape. For a bit more adventure go on a 4×4 desert safari tour, which includes camel rides, belly dancing performances and traditional food.
Of course don’t forget to unleash your inner extravagance with a spot of shopping. A land of opulence, you can get fabulous items at places like; the Abu Dhabi Mall, The Galleria, the Marina Mall, Mushrif Mall, Al Wahda Mall and many more. Treat yourself to some designer pieces at much cheaper prices than you’d find at home.
- For families: Rhodes, Greece
The Greek island of Rhodes is just a short direct flight from the UK. A great destination for families, Rhodes is a relaxed island with beaches, history and lots of kid-friendly resorts.
Most of the beaches around Rhodes have been awarded Blue Flags for their clean water, safety and environmental management, making them excellent for children. For sports-loving older children and adults, Prassoníssi is one of the top windsurfing destinations in Europe.
The city of Rhodes has crumbling churches and forts with one of the oldest and best-preserved moats in the world. Enjoy an al fresco lunch at a family-run restaurant such as Ipiros, which serves lamb that’ll melt in your mouth.
- For Travellers: Koh Samui, Thailand
For those who love travelling whenever they get the opportunity, Koh Samui offers up the perfect last minute get away. Great on budget, weather, scenery and culture, it’s the perfect getaway.
Thailand’s second largest island, this is somewhere you’ll want to explore, and it feels like multiple holidays in one. You can enjoy wandering and relaxing on the sandy beaches, or explore the colourful corals and marine life at places like Angthong National Marine Park. Or you can take a look at some of the islands more dangerous wildlife at the Snake Farm.
Of course there are plenty of great cultural places, and sights, to explore and see too; spend time at the Secret Buddha Garden, take a look at the Na Muang waterfall, spend time with the mummified monk at Wat Khunaram, or visit Big Buddha, a 12 metre high golden shrine on the northern coast of the island.
- For chilling: Valletta, Malta
Malta is so laid back it’s practically horizontal. It also benefits from more than 300 days of sunshine a year, which is certainly something we Brits need on our holidays. Valletta is the capital and a good holiday base.
A short ferry hop from Valletta is Sliema Beach; the best beach spot around the capital. It’s also great for swimming, with steps leading straight into the deep, blue Mediterranean – follow the locals for the best places to swim.
While away a lazy morning in the city’s meeting place, Caffe Cordina, where you can have a coffee and a pastizzi; a cheese or pea filled pasty.
- For sea: Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt
Sharm el Sheikh is Egypt’s biggest beach resort and perfect for catching some rays and diving in the Red Sea.
Divers should check out Tiran and Ras Mohammed reefs, both less than two hours by boat from Sharm el Sheikh. Sharks and barracudas are commonly found around these colourful reefs, along with angelfish, parrotfish and coral groupers.
Back on dry land, if you can tear yourself away from your sun-lounger, take a trip to St Catherine’s Monastery, which dates back to the 560s, and sits at the foot of historic Mount Sinai.
- For Everyone: The Caribbean
If you want to escape to a destination that can only be described as utopian, the Caribbean is the ideal get away for you. However, unlike many destinations the Caribbean offers a wide choice of places to holiday, with more than 700 islands, islets, cays and reefs creating the region.
With beautiful weather throughout its many possible locations, with stunning beaches and crystal clear water, take your pick from popular destinations such as the Bahamas, Barbados, St Lucia, Jamaica and many, many more.
Whether you’re looking for history, relaxation, exploration or culinary delights, there’s an island destination here to suit all. So what are you waiting for? Take a look and find a Caribbean destination perfect for you.