Okay, so we know Europe is pure city break material – the classics like Paris, Rome and Berlin are always a good idea. But let’s talk long haul… you’ve got a bit more AL to spare, so why not head further away? Add a couple of hours onto your flight time and you’re looking at New York or Dubai. And if you’re really serious, you could be touching down in Las Vegas, Mexico City or Bangkok. Who said city breaks only deserve a weekend of your time, anyway?
Get the best of both worlds in Dubai
If you want a slice of the VIP lifestyle, there’s nowhere more glitz and glam than Dubai. This city’s got that ‘bigger is better’ vibe going on… everything’s super-sized, shiny and futuristic. Its iconic skyline is unmatched – you’ve got the Burj Khalifa – AKA the tallest building in the world – and the Dubai Mall, the largest shopping centre in the world. On top of that, you’ll find world-class hotels, boujie bars and exclusive clubs. But Dubai is so much more than your typical city getaway. Sat on the shores of the Persian Gulf, it’s also a top beach destination. Picture super soft sand, luxury marinas and man-made wonders like the Palm Jumeirah.
Tick off iconic sites, green spaces and serious street food in NYC
City breaks don’t get more iconic than New York. You’ve basically grown up with this city on your screens… Madagascar, Miracle on 34th Street, Friends, Gossip Girl – the list is endless. This city packs in the sights left, right and centre, and they’ll all feel so familiar – The Empire State Building, Central Park, Times Square – but nothing beats seeing them IRL. Spend the morning watching the sunrise across Brooklyn Bridge or take a trip to the Statue of Liberty. In the afternoon, channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw with some serious shopping down Fifth Avenue and then in the evening, catch a classic Broadway show – Wicked, The Lion King and Hamilton are some of the big-name productions on offer here. Finish the night off wandering around the city with its flashing lights and supersized billboards, and fill up on NYC’s fave eats… yes, we mean pizza slices, bagels and hot dogs.
Take a look at trips to New York
Go bold in Bangkok
Thailand is literally nicknamed the ‘Land of Smiles’, and it makes sense. The super welcoming vibe of the locals here really puts you at ease, and they have a lot to be happy about – beaut beaches, natural beauty and a next-level street food scene. We all know NYC is the city that never sleeps but Bangkok is fighting for that top spot. This city’s usually the first stop for backpackers, so it’s got a reputation for a wild night out – think rooftop bars and underground clubs. Beyond the nightlife, there’s also buzzy night markets and 24/7 street food spots. Try everything from chicken satay and pad Thai to the more adventurous picks like skewered scorpions and bugs. And if you’re after adding a bit of culture to your getaway, you’ll find the Grand Palace and Wat Arun temple super serene.
When in Thailand, why not pick an All Inclusive deal?
Pick Mexico City for margaritas and mariachi bands
Mexico City‘s all about the festival feels, with Day of the Dead celebrations on the 1st and 2nd of November and loads of live music, bars and clubs keeping it buzzing throughout the year. If you’re a bit of a foodie, you’ll love it here. Think tequila, tacos and tostadas. This place isn’t all about the party, though, the historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage, site so there’s plenty of history and culture to get stuck into. Charming architecture, world-class museums, old-school cantinas? This place has it all and on top of that, there are lush green spaces, too. Chapultepec Park is Mexico’s answer to NYC’s Central Park… although it’s twice as big. It’s home to museums, gardens, squares, art galleries and even a castle.
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What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas
Casinos, street performers, live music… The bright lights of Las Vegas are really something else. Yes, the rich and famous love it here, but Sin City’s not just for the big spenders anymore. Everything centres around the iconic strip. It’s full of glam casinos, first-class restaurants and exclusive clubs. Where else can you feel like you’re travelling the globe without ever leaving one city? Think Gondola rides in Venice, dim sum in Asia and heading to the top floor of the Eiffel Tower. You’ll also find huge shopping malls, live music performances and lively pool parties.
Take your pick from these long-haul destinations for some more inspiration.
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Author: Rachel Coppenhall (she/her)
Last updated: 14.08.2025
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