Eid escapes
City stays, far-flung destinations and mini-breaks await you this summer. Here’s our pick of the best deals
London
Even if you’re from the British Isles, you’ll find it hard not to love this Eid deal. Our pals at Virgin Atlantic are offering all What’s On readers a special 15 per cent discount off all cabins (economy, premium economy and upper class) if they book their flights to Blighty now. Simply call (04) 4060600 and quote ‘WhatsOn’ to reedem your discount. Explore the capital’s rich history, see a West End Show, take a day trip to the seaside town of Brighton, or do it all. After all, with an exchange rate of ten dirhams to just over two British pounds, there has never been a better time to book a trip to the UK and take advantage of the additional savings.
virginatlantic.com
Sri Lanka
If you’re in need of stunning panoramas on Sri Lanka’s palm fringed shores, Cape Weligama ticks all the right boxes. Explore the soaring southern part of the island, where 39 individual retreats, a crescent shaped pool and several dining venues make sure to cater for all your gastronomic needs. Stay for five nights, pay for four.
resplendentceylon.com
Thailand
You’ll have to take a couple of extra hours’ flight for this one, but it’s such a steal, we couldn’t resist. Discover the best of both worlds in Thailand – the chaotic streets of Bangkok and the laidback vibe of cultural Pattaya. Cobone is offering a fixed-date tour over Eid, with two nights in Pattaya, one in Bangkok, a half-day Bangkok city tour, all transfers and return flights from Dhs3083.
cobone.com
Nepal
A luxury trip tailored by the staff of Pomalo Travel to your liking, this trip caters for those awe inspiring moments you’ll never forget. Visit ancient buildings, Unesco heritage sites and fly over the roof of the world – by helicopter. And pack for a purpose as you’ll be visiting a local school and will be able to supply needed school items. Prices start at Dhs9,250.
pomalotravel.com
Salalah
There’s more to Oman than Muscat; namely its second largest city, Salalah. Some say it feels more like Zanzibar than Oman, with its lush banana plantations, palm-fringed, white, sandy beaches and the aromatic alleyways of Al Husn Souk. And for an added bonus, average temperatures are a pleasant 28°C (borderline Baltic compared to the UAE). Flight Centre is offering return flights and two nights at the Hilton Salalah Resort, with breakfast, from Dhs2,050 per person.
flightcentre.ae
Bodrum
Located by the Aegean Sea, Bodrum is becoming Turkey’s answer to the French Riviera, thanks to a celebrity following including the likes of Kate Moss, Sting and the Jaggers. Known for its glamorous beach resorts, ancient ruins and hedonistic nightlife, it’s a great choice for a beach break with some celeb spotting thrown in. Emirates Holidays is offering return flights and a three night all-inclusive stay at Bitez Garden Life Hotel from Dhs3,268 per person.
emiratesholidays.ae
maldives
While the honeymooners’ island is expensive, bear with us while we explain why it doesn’t need to cost the earth. Crystal clear waters, postcard powdery sand and some of the Maldives’ best surfing spots can be yours at the four-star Malahini Kuda Bandos, north of Male. Flight Centre is offering a Maldives EID Break package including three nights’ accommodation and half-board, return flights and speedboat transfers from Dhs3,795 per person.
flightcentre.ae