NO destination has risen in popularity as a holiday hotspot over the last 10 or 15 years quite like Dubai.
The city has an otherworldly feel to it – with the best hotels, restaurants, bars and beaches (provided you have a deep wallet).
This week I reveal where Dubai lovers can get a similar experience, if they’re looking to visit somewhere new this year
AlamyQatar offers a similar holiday experience to Bahrain, thanks to its location on the Persian Gulf[/caption]
AlamyBahrain is another alternative to Dubai, with some great attractions[/caption]
What’s more, its year-round warm weather makes it an ideal spot to more or less guarantee a bit of sun .
For those who’ve already visited and loved it but fancy somewhere new, I’m revealing where you can get a similar experience next year in my latest blog for Sun Online Travel.
There are other emerging destinations in the region, including Bahrain and Qatar, which have the same grandeur.
Both places have the same big luxury hotels and they’re both in the Persian Gulf, meaning they have the same sea and the same weather.
What’s more, their stricter rules around drinking have relaxed in recent years, meaning western people can still have what they would consider to be a good time.
Bahrain has some great attractions, including the Lost Paradise of Dilmun waterpark, which is home to different zones, loads of slides, shops, cabanas, and a swim-up bar.
The mosques and souks are as impressive as those in Dubai and often less crowded.
Meanwhile, just down the coast in Qatar, there are similar sights, including the Souk Waqif, the Museum of Islamic Art and the Villaggio shopping mall.
This is where I’d recommend seeking out, if you want another holiday to that part of the world with a similar vibe.
Another wildcard destination I always recommend is South Africa, simply because of its variety and how cheap everything is there.
It’s crazy how far your money goes due to the favourable exchange rate – and there’s so much to see and do there.
It’s home to some amazing cities, wildlife safaris, beaches, wine tasting – literally every type of holiday is catered for.
When I started this job, I didn’t understand why it was such a popular route among the cabin crew, with people arguing with one another over who gets to work it.
Now it’s one I’m always really happy to see come up on my roster – I’d really recommend going to anyone who may not have considered it before.
Whatever you’re looking for in a holiday destination, South Africa has it – and it won’t cost you very much to find it out there either.
Meanwhile, these are the worst routes for flight attendants to fly.
And cabin crew believe this is the most overrated holiday destination.
GettySouth Africa home to some amazing cities, wildlife safaris, beaches, wine tasting – literally every type of holiday is catered for[/caption]
GettyYour money will go much further in South Africa than you would think[/caption]
AlamyBahrain is set to become more popular with influencers in the near future[/caption]