One of the great things about budget airlines is that they have expanded our choice of holiday destinations from the tried and tested favourites like the Costa Del Sol or Greek islands to more unusual locations. Part of the benefits of holidaying off the beaten track is cheaper flights too, as fewer people want to go where you’re going. So take a chance on something a bit different for your summer holiday 2017 and see what destinations are served from your local airport.
Carcassonne
Flying into the southern French airport of Carcassonne can prove a lot cheaper than the more established airports on the coast, and the countryside surrounding the medieval city is stunningly beautiful. The walled city of Carcassonne has fairytale towers and battlements, and there is ample holiday accommodation within the town itself or in the surrounding countryside. If you are looking at venturing further afield, the coastal towns of Beziers and Perpignan are a short drive away, and the Pyrenees are close to the south.
Derry
Closer to home, the Northern Irish town of Derry or Londonderry is only an hour’s flight from UK mainland airports. The walled city centre is bursting with history, and there are numerous museums, galleries and walking tours to guide you round the main sights. If you’re more interested in the great outdoors and sporting pursuits, the surrounding countryside offers miles of walking trails and cycle paths, and the world-famous Giant’s Causeway and Antrim Coast is a short drive to the east.
Eilat
With Egypt off the holiday brochures because of worries about ongoing security issues, more and more British travellers are considering the southern Israeli city of Eilat for a summer sun break, and Eilat’s position at the northern tip of the Red Sea practically guarantees wall to wall sunshine throughout the summer, with temperatures often peaking at over 40 centigrade. The Red Sea is popular with divers due to the wide range of aquatic species found in the waters, and there is a wide range of hotels and other accommodation for the visitor to choose from.
Podgorica
Montenegro is one of the newer European countries, and its capital Podgorica lies slightly inland from the Adriatic coast. The city itself is not particularly noteworthy, but think of the airport as a stepping stone to the spectacular countryside of Montenegro, with lakes and mountains to rival any other European country. This is one of the best European destinations for a road trip holiday, or a countryside holiday based around swimming in rivers or hiking in the mountains. Don’t forget to take a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Dubrovnik, just a few miles across the Croatian border.
Minsk
If you’ve an interest in 20th century history, then Minsk, the capital of Belarus, is a fascinating place to visit. Visitors won’t fail to be impressed by the Soviet-era Victory Square and Independence Avenue, and there are many public parks and gardens offering places to take a break from the sightseeing. English isn’t widely spoken though, and as Belarus is outside the EHIC cover area, you will need comprehensive travel and medical cover.