The best long-haul destinations

The best long-haul destinations

Sometimes, a quick European getaway just isn’t enough to truly switch off from reality and enjoy the holiday you deserve. So now we’re talking proper long-haul travelling. The destinations you can reach when you embark on a long-haul escape (we’re talking seven hours or more in the air) make the flight times worth it. Plus, your camera roll won’t have seen anything like it on this side of the globe.  

 With destinations including tropical Mauritius, surf-perfect Costa Rica and party-filled Jamacia available to book through First Choice, you can escape the 9-to-5 and see more of what this beautiful planet has to offer on your next holiday.  

 Check out our long-haul destinations and take a look at our best long-haul deals. Just remember to pack plenty of snacks for the journey. 

Mauritius 

Holidays to Mauritius aren’t just about sun, sea and sand. Okay, the beaches are show-stopping, but away from the water’s edge, you’ve got sugarcane fields, Instagram-worthy waterfalls and nature-filled jungles home to mischievous macaque monkeys. Plus, because the island is volcanic, impressive backdrops of jagged, green-cloaked mountains aren’t hard to come by, either. 
 
Flight time: 11 hours and 45 minutes from London Gatwick 
Currency: Mauritian Rupee 
Time difference: GMT +4 
 
Check out our best Mauritius escapes

Mexico

Margaritas, Mayan Ruins and mariachi bands are just a few things you can expect from a long-haul trip to Mexico. If you’re searching for legendary nightlife, white-sand beaches and chilled-out vibes, look no further than Cancun, which is set on the Caribbean Coast. Or, make tracks for Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific Coast, which boasts some of the best restaurants in Mexico, action-packed jungles and easy access to some of the world’s top snorkelling spots. Fantástico. 
 
Flight time: From 10 hours and 45 minutes to 12 hours and 15 minutes from London Gatwick 
Currency: Mexican Peso 
Time difference: GMT –6 
 
Check out our best Mexico deals. 

Costa Rica

Did you know that the best time to visit Costa Rica is from December to April? The perfect spot to escape the grey misery of January and February, then. This place offers a mixture of tropical beaches, towering volcanoes and thick rainforests, so it’s ideal for adventurous types. Plus, it just so happens to be one of the best places in the world to go surfing, so whether you’re already a pro or are looking to try something new, grab a board and take to the waves. Playa de Matapalo is a top choice for those wanting to really switch off – you’ll likely see more monkeys than people on this private beach.  
 
Flight time: 11 hours and 30 minutes from London Gatwick 
Currency: Costa Rican Colon 
Time difference: GMT –6 
 
Check out our Costa Rica getaways. 

 

Dominican Republic 

 This place has become a holiday favourite and it’s easy to see why. You’ll find pristine beaches along every coastline, mixed with rainforest-covered mountains for the perfect Insta backdrop. Embrace the Caribbean atmosphere with lively towns and laid-back locals keen to show you a good time wherever you end up. Head to Puerto Plata on the north coast for a bit of culture and history, or La Romana on the south coast for the most luxurious of hotel stays.    

Flight time: 8 hours and 50 minutes from London Gatwick 
Currency: Dominican Peso
Time difference: GMT –4

Check out our Dominican Republic inspiration. 

Jamaica 

 All the clichés you’ve heard about this area of the Caribbean are true – from the all-white beaches lined with bars, to the laid-back vibes you’d expect from the home of reggae. Stick to the coast for swaying palms and party vibes through the night, or head inland to explore green mountains, banana plantations and hidden waterfalls. Montego Bay, on the north-west coast of Jamaica, is a big, vibrant resort packed with Caribbean charm, and makes the perfect starting point for your travels across this larger-than-life island.  

Flight time: 9 hours and 45 minutes from London Gatwick
Currency: Jamaican Dollar
Time difference: GMT –5 

 Check out our Jamaican holidays. 

Ready to embrace the world of long-haul? Check out the latest deals to all our destinations. 

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Authors: Becky Wells & Olivia Hunt

Last updated: 25/09/2023