Those looking to tick a few more world wonders off their bucket list before the New Year can take advantage of the long weekend by hopping on a quick flight of under 5 hours. Leading global travel search site and app Skyscanner has compiled some of the top trending destinations to visit out of the UAE with short flight times so travelers can make the most out of the upcoming holiday. For great deals on last minute flights, travelers are encouraged to sign up for Skyscanner Price Alerts so they can get real time notifications if the rates change on their destination of choice!
Baku, Azerbaijan – 3h flight
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Baku is the largest city on the Caspian Sea and holds numerous sites, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Maiden Tower, and the popular local shopping area of Teze Bazar. One can walk for kilometers along Primorskiy Bulvar that follows the shore of the Caspian Sea. In June 2016, the Bulvar was firmly on the world stage as Baku hosted its first ever Formula 1 Grand Prix with Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg taking the checkered flag.
Tbilisi, Georgia – 3h30m flight
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Surrounded by mountains and fronted by the River Vari, Tbilisi has one of Europe’s most beautiful settings. To reach a higher part of the city where you will be rewarded with gorgeous views of the entire city, you can take the funicular or the more energetic can walk instead. Near to Tbilisi are the Caucasus Mountains which are well known for ski and snow activities in winter.
Goa, India – 3h10m flight
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This former Portuguese colony is a backpacker’s paradise famous for being part of the hippy trail in the 1960s. The legacy has lived on in the laidback vibe of the island. From ecological accommodation to chilled out full moon parties, Goa is a place to kick back and forget about the rest of the world. With over 65 miles of coastline, Goa’s golden sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing but also for water-sports for those who want a little higher octane activity. Family resorts exist happily next to local villages and unspoiled areas allowing visitors to choose from luxury hotels to a hut on the beach. Every local village has its charms, from fishing boats hauling in the day’s catch to beach front bars, lively little markets and locals chatting outside local cafes. In its towns there are spectacular examples of colonial architecture, museums, parks, shops and restaurants, all surrounded by national parks, gardens, waterfalls and bird sanctuaries. Hiking, climbing, wildlife spotting and water-sports are just a few of the activities visitors can enjoy on Goa while yoga classes and massage offer the ideal way to relax and unwind…as if you would need to!
Amman, Jordan – 3h30m flight
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Bustling Amman is known for its citadel, Roman theater, museums and fine food. However, head south and you’ll reach two of the Middle East’s finest attractions. Visit the ancient city of Petra where you can climb and hike to historic tombs and monuments carved from the red rock. Further south is the spectacular desert scenery of Wadi Rum, where you can pretend that you are Matt Damon and relive his adventures in the movie, The Martian, which was filmed here.
Kathmandu, Nepal – 4h flight
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As the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu is home to many of the country’s most fascinating cultural and historical landmarks. Many flock to Kathmandu to see its ancient temples, monasteries and monuments up close such as Swayambhu Temple overlooking the city or the famous Kasthamandap wooden house situated in the bustling Durbar Square. Kathmandu offers a lot of modern amenities for visitors including quirky bookstores, restaurants and shops, many of which are situated around Thamel Chowk neighborhood or Freak Street. Adventurous visitors won’t be disappointed with the opportunities in Kathmandu such as hiking and trekking around Kathmandu valley in the shadow of the Himalayas.
