Whether you’re jetting off for a weekend break or embarking on a two week trip in search of some sun, sea and sand, nothing quite beats a holiday, does it? But there’s more to holidays than a short trip around Europe.
From journeying across the Atlantic to explore the highlights of America or venturing to the Middle East, the perfect holiday is ready and waiting for you with flights available from Birmingham Airport.
And if you’re after some inspiration for the next adventure, or are planning your trip of a lifetime, we’ve pulled together a list of our top long haul destinations that you can fly to, with one-stop, from our very own city.
—
New York
Nicknamed the city that never sleeps, New York is a popular destination to visit if you want to never run out of things to do. Whether you’re heading to catch a show on Broadway, taking a stroll around Central Park, hitting the shops, browsing through its world-famous galleries, visiting its famous landmarks or walking The High Line – you’ll be exploring everything this city has to offer from beginning to end.
The Big Apple also ticks alot of boxes when it comes to eating out. From bagels to pizza slices and the iconic pastrami on rye, you’ll be able to fill your bellies with some of the most delicious food. Plus it’s home to some of the most luxurious hotels, including the New York Palace Hotel & The Empire, which fans of the hit teen drama, Gossip Girl, will recognise as Chuck Bass’s stylish pads.
Kuala Lumpur
Filled with atmosphere and bustling streets, Kuala Lumpur has earned its stripes as Malaysia’s capital by its locals. Offering a blend of architecture combined with energetic city life, here you’ll find delicious street food on every corner as the city is passionate in celebrating its diverse mixture of Malay, Chinese and Indian heritage.
There’s plenty to explore in this picturesque destination. Beyond its beautifully landscaped gardens, you’ll find everything from soaring skyscrapers to tranquil parks, the elegant Masjid Jamek mosque and the Lake Gardens. Rich in heritage, Kuala Lumpur could be the perfect choice for your 2020 holiday.
Sydney
As one of the most iconic cities in the world and a top spot for travellers and explorers alike, adventure is ready and waiting for you in Sydney. Beyond the legendary opera house and Harbour Bridge, this exciting city is an ideal holiday destination for everyone. Hike your way to the top of Habour Bridge, grab your walking boots and head out for a hike from Palm Beach all the way to Cronulla for breathtaking sites.
Of course, a trip to Sydney wouldn’t be complete without visiting its beaches with crystal clear water. Home to the world-famous Bondi Beach, where you can even try your hand at surfing. If you’re a bit of a culture bug, you’ll find a wealth of museums, theatres, bars and restaurants at the tip of your fingers at Darling Habour.
Fly to Sydney indirect with Emirates, Qatar or Air India.
Tokyo
Blending cutting-edge technology with history, Tokyo is rich in culture and filled with hundreds of places of worship and an ever-evolving skyline. Although it may be known as one of the most populated places in the world, don’t be fooled, it holds a wealth of wonders to explore at its core. It’s also one of the cheapest places to visit too.
Alongside its extravagant places of worship, you’ll find streets filled with stalls selling a weird and wonderful range of foods, as well as shops, skyscraper buildings and some of the most luxurious hotels. Take your camera for this one, this is a long-haul trip you’ll never want to forget.
Fly to Tokyo indirect (one stop) with Air France. Click here for more information.
Rio de Janeiro
Home to Christ the Redeemer and Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro is a city that breathes energy with every step you take. With its signature beaches and colourful food scene, you’ll be immersed in Rio’s party atmosphere from the moment that you step off the plane.
Take a ride on the Sugarloaf Cable Car for 360 views of the city that you won’t find anywhere else, before heading to the Lapa Steps where you’ll journey up 215 colourful tiled steps that lead you to Santa Teresa.
If a night out is on the cards, then head to Copacabana Beach’s promenade for live music, or make your way to The Maze for an unforgettable night of jazz music.
São Paulo
If Rio doesn’t take your fancy then why not make your way to São Paulo? Rich with culture, architecture and street art, hot spots for a visit to this city include a visit to the Municipal Market, filled with a huge selection of fresh produce that’s sure to get your creative juices flowing in the kitchen. Football fans won’t want to miss a trip to the Museu de Futebo in the Estadio Pacaembu.
Mumbai
Home to the Gateway of India, Mumbai is known for its designer shops and Bollywood studios which give visitors an insight into how some of the most successful Bollywood movies of all time were filmed.
No trip to this city is complete without visiting the Gateway of India, built in 1911 to commemorate the landing of King George V and Queen Mary on their visit to India. Once you’ve ticked those off your list, check out Zaveri Bazaar, Mumbai’s gold market.
Or, if people watching’s your thing, make your way to the Dhobi Ghat, the world’s biggest open-air laundry where millions of pieces of clothing are washed and dried each year.
Fly to Mumbai with Air India, Emirates, Qatar, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, Air France and KLM.
Johannesburg
Maybe a safari’s on your bucketlist? If so, there’s no place better to experience than Johannesburg. Book a trip to the Pilanesberg National Park and you could spot some of the most incredible wildlife in their natural habitat that will make for some truly memorable moments.
And if you want to delve deep into the history of Joburg, be sure to fit in a visit to Constitution Hill where you can learn about some of the most famous political activists including Nelson Mandela.
