July 9, 2024
A Vacation Within Your Vacation
Working with a travel advisor in advance can help you seamlessly incorporate these exciting layovers into your itinerary. I can provide expert advice, plan the perfect activities, and ensure you experience the most of each stopover.
Heading to Europe during the fall or festive season? Consider flying on an airline that allows for a night or two in Reykjavik, Iceland to soak in the Blue Lagoon (an excellent way to handle jetlag, I might add). In addition to the Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik offers breathtaking views of the Northern Lights, fascinating geothermal landscapes, and rich Viking history at places like the National Museum of Iceland.
Passengers flying to Asia can work in multiday stops to vibrant cities such as Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Singapore where even one or two nights is enough time for a fantastic meal and some sightseeing. Tokyo, with its blend of ultramodern and traditional, offers must-see spots like the historic Senso-ji Temple, the bustling Shibuya Crossing, and tranquil gardens such as Shinjuku Gyoen. In Hong Kong, travelers can take the iconic Star Ferry, visit the vibrant night markets, or hike up to Victoria Peak for panoramic views of the cityscape.
Or perhaps there’s a city you already know and love – stopovers give travelers just enough time to hit a shop you missed or return to that great restaurant you discovered on your last visit.
Singapore’s Changi airport (already a haven for transiting travelers with its rooftop pool, movie theater, sleeping lounges, butterfly garden, and play areas) even includes a free city tour for visitors with layovers longer than five hours. This tour offers a quick but enriching glimpse into the city’s highlights, including the Marina Bay Sands, Merlion Park, and the exciting streets of Kampong Glam.
Dubai is another popular spot for an extra few nights. And why not? It’s a great chance to explore its legendary malls and shop till you drop or head out on a sand dune safari and camel ride tour if only to tick both off your bucket list!
Many airlines allow passengers to add a few days in a stopover destination when booking. Turkish Airlines, for example, offers tours and one or two nights in Istanbul to passengers with at least 20 hours of layover booked into their itinerary.
Check with me for details on how to make the journey part of the fun of getting away.
