PASSPORT TO PARADISE
In just a matter of hours, you could find yourself in one of our ten holiday hotspots, explains Rosie Morton – and with direct flights from Scotland to all 10 destinations, a luxury getaway has never been so tempting
Fly to ten of the world's most luxurious places direct from Scotland
1 CANCÚN
If your idea of a luxurious break is turquoise sea and pearly sands, the Mexican resort of Cancún is the place for you. With almost 14 miles of beaches – including the beautiful Chac Mool and Playa Tortugas – there are secluded hideaways aplenty to explore. Take a ferry over to Isla Mujeres where glorious vistas of the Garrafon Natural Reef Park can be found. If you’ve had enough reading and lounging on the beach, why not try swimming in one of the underground rivers in the Yucatan Peninsula? Or how about going for Viator’s deluxe lobster and champagne dinner for two on board a private catamaran? Flights from Glasgow: tui.co.uk/flight
2. DOHA
With Qatar regularly topping the list of richest countries in the world, it is a glitzy destination for a shopping spree, with boutiques likes Chloe and Alexander McQueen boasting marina views. The ancient Souq Waqif market is also a spectacular treasure trove – a maze of shops with fabrics, spices and art, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in this bustling city. If you need a bit more breathing space, head out to the desert for some ‘dune bashing’ – a drive across the sands and a night under the stars in a luxury Arabian tent awaits. Alternatively, take a stroll along the Doha Corniche for beautiful views of the bay. Flights from Edinburgh: qatarairways.com
3. CHICAGO
Famed for its magnificent, bold architecture, Chicago is an iconic destination for those seeking an immersive city break in true American style. Try Cindy’s Rooftop Bar – the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel – for views of the Millenium Park, Art Institute and Lake Michigan. For a more peaceful break, the AIRE Ancient Baths are a blissful retreat for indulgent and unique spa treatments. AIRE is particularly known for its thermal baths and red wine experiences, where you can submerge yourself completely in the antioxidant properties of Spanish Ribera del Duero red grapes. Visit choosechicago.com for more novel ideas. Flights from Edinburgh: united.com
4. REYKJAVIK
There are few places more enchanting than Iceland, and with its natural hot springs – said to be a much-loved bathing spot for the resident fairies – it’s a destination fit for the free-spirited. Many of Iceland’s geothermal pools can be easily reached from Reykjavik, with the Blue Lagoon a particularly popular spot. Here you can enjoy exclusive entry to the Retreat Spa and volcanic waters. For diehard Game of Thrones fans, Iceland also became the homeland of the Wildlings and White Walkers, and private location tours can be arranged with Viator to The Wall and Lake Myvatn, where Mance Rayder’s army camp was built in season three. If that’s not enough, take to the skies with Reykjavik Helicopters’ tours. You may even catch the Northern Lights.
Flights from Edinburgh: easyjet.com
5. DALAMAN
When you think of exclusive getaways, Turkey might not be the first to spring to mind, but where there is a will to find the hidden gems of Dalaman, there’s always a way. Private yachts can be chartered through Ocean Blue, whether bareboat, skippered or fully crewed. Set sail for Göcek – the sailing capital of the region – to explore the coastline and beaches that are off-limits to most. Take off in the ‘Regina’, a luxury Schooner – as seen in James Bond’s Skyfall – that can take up to 12 guests. If you’d rather head off on a boat trip down the Dalyan Canal to see rare loggerhead turtles, perhaps TUI’s Ultimate Dalyan Tour is better suited to you. You’ll even visit Sultaniye, a mud spa that is said to leave you looking ten years younger.
Flights from Edinburgh: tui.co.uk/ flight
6. GIRONA
Tourists flock to see the architectural feats in Barcelona, but why follow the crowds when one of Spain’s most photogenic cities is just a stone’s throw away? Girona boasts extraordinary medieval structures, bustling city streets and one of the best preserved Jewish Quarters in Europe. It is also the perfect spot from which to embark on a Michelin Star trail of the 14 acclaimed restaurants across the Costa Brava region. From the Pere Massana to El Celler de Can Roca, it promises to be a gastronomic adventure. Once you’ve had your fill, head up in a hot air balloon with Paddle In Spain - you’ll have 360˚ views of the Natural Park where dormant volcanoes lie, the Montserrat mountain range and the spectacular Catalan Pyrenees. Flights from Edinburgh: ryanair.com
7. PORTO
You’ll not need any Instagram filters for this spectacular destination. Known for its picture perfect port and the Douro River that snakes through its centre, Porto’s glistening waterfronts and pastel-painted merchants’ houses are a technicoloured feast for the eyes. The old town, Ribeira, was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1996, so mustn’t be overlooked. With medieval history spilling out of every street corner, there are plenty terraces to relax on with a glass of port. Alternatively, allow Luxury Tours Portugal to arrange everything for you with their seven-day tour, including exclusive cruises on the Douro River, walking tours of the town’s historic centre and guided visits with wine tastings at three renowned port wine cellars. Flights from Edinburgh: ryanair.com
8. VERONA
The home of Romeo and Juliet’s legendary love story, fair Verona is one for the lovebirds – you can even book out the famous Juliet Balcony to renew your vows or celebrate a special anniversary. Continue the romance by taking a day trip to nearby Lake Garda for a private full-day tour that includes a luxury boat trip on one of Italy’s most iconic lakes, followed by a visit to the Lugana winery and a gourmet lunch. Alternatively, hit the road with a Ferrari and drive through the vineyards with Romeo and Juliet Guide, visiting the Valpolicella land. A driver will take you home after you’ve sampled the local aperitifs. Flights from Edinburgh & Glasgow: flybe.com
9. PAPHOS
This one’s for the history buffs. As well as crystal clear waters, perfect climes and an enviable array of meze menus, Paphos has an abundance of ancient history to delve into. First on the list has to be visiting Aphrodite’s Rock which is said to be the ocean birthplace of the goddess of love and beauty. Having been included in UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites list since 1980, The Archaeological Park of Kato Paphos also contains extraordinary Roman architecture and mosaics that have been magnificently preserved. The Tomb of the Kings – dating back to the 4th century BC – is also an impressive sight not to be missed, where distinguished members of society were buried in Hellenistic and Roman eras. Flights from Edinburgh: jet2.com
10. VIENNA
When I think of Vienna, I think of being glued to the television screen, watching André Rieu – the King of Waltz – perform in the waltz capital itself. An opportunity not to be missed for the classical music fans out there, he will be playing with his Johann Strauss Orchestra at the extraordinarily beautiful Stadthalle in 2020. Through Newmarket Holidays you can book a four-day extravaganza that includes concert tickets and a tour of Schönbrunn Palace. Alternatively, take a dander round the city streets and you’ll find glorious architecture at every turn. Flights from Edinburgh: easyjet.com
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