Latest news with #vacation
Khaleej Times
5 hours ago
- General
- Khaleej Times
Eid Al Adha: 5 visa-free countries UAE residents can travel to during holidays
Eid Al Adha is just round the corner and many UAE residents, if not most, have already made plans for the holidays. A majority of them have already made travel plans outside the country to get a brief respite from the sweltering heat, while some have opted for staycations. But if you are one of those who is still undecided on where to go during the break, we have got you covered. There are many visa-free countries which are just a short flight away. Here are five visa-free destinations for a quick getaway: Georgia Georgia is one of the popular destinations for UAE residents as well as for travellers from around the world. Nestled between Europe and Asia, Georgia is known for its natural beauty, mountain landscapes and the popular town of Tbilisi. Georgia is just a short flight away with a travel time of 3.5 to 4 hours. UAE residents can get visa-free entry for up to 90 days. Seychelles Seychelles is another gem in the Indian Ocean and known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. It is the ideal destination if you want escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The travel time to this paradise is approximately 4.5 hours and UAE residents can get visa-free entry. Maldives Maldives is another great destination if you want a quick getaway. The beach destination is known for its lagoons, picture-postcard views and resorts. Maldives offers visa on arrival for all nationalities and can be reached in 4.5 to 5 hours. Azerbaijan Azerbaijan is another go-to destination nestled between Europe and Asia. Azerbaijan known for its natural beauty, old towns and its cultural scene. UAE residents can get a visa on arrival for 30 days and the flying time is 3 hours. Nepal If you wish to be in the lap of Mother Nature, Nepal it is. The Himalayan Kingdom, home to Mount Everest, is known for its mountains, trekking, food, culture as well as ancient UNESCO World Heritage sites. UAE residents can get a visa on arrival and it takes approximately 4.5 hours to get there.
Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
3 International Vacations That Are Cheaper Than an iPhone
While the price of the latest smartphone can easily top $1,000, that same amount can cover an entire international getaway. For budget-conscious travelers, these destinations offer remarkable value without sacrificing beauty, culture, or adventure. Read More: Find Out: From South America's colorful coastlines to Europe's architectural gems, here are three international vacations that are cheaper than an iPhone. Budget-conscious travelers can experience Colombia for a fraction of the cost of a new iPhone. With round-trip flights from the East Coast under $400, they'll have plenty left over to enjoy Cartagena's vibrant culture, historic charm, and nearby island escapes. Cynthia Matthews von Berg, a family travel blogger, recommended flying into Cartagena and enjoying the colorful architecture, food, and easy beach access. She and her family stayed in Getsemani, a colorful neighborhood just outside the walled Old Town. 'Getsemani is funky, and while still touristy, much less crowded than Old Town Cartegena,' said Matthews von Berg. 'We stayed at Casa Villa Colonia, where two adults can stay in September for about four nights for a total of $290. You'll find a small pool on the roof, and breakfast [is] included.' In addition, Cartagena's layered history shapes its vibe, where Spanish, Indigenous, and African influences converge in its food, music, and architecture. 'You can explore an Old Spanish Ford, take a day trip to a mud volcano, or go snorkeling at Playa Blanca,' Matthews von Berg said. 'If you have a few extra days, take a boat out to the Rosario Islands for some truly relaxing island time. Water taxis cost about 70,000 (Colombian) pesos each way, or about $17.' Matthews von Berg recommended visiting Cartagena from December through April, during Colombia's dry season, for more affordable prices. See Next: Rotterdam delivers sleek architecture, bold design, and vibrant culture at a fraction of the cost of more famous European cities. With round-trip flights from the eastern United States for as low as $332, it's an accessible destination for travelers looking to stretch their budget without sacrificing experience. 'Amsterdam isn't the only city in the Netherlands with a river scene,' said Devin Rank, an account executive at Finn Partners representing a&o Hostels Rotterdam. 'Rotterdam is one of the most active cities in the country, with a striking skyline and access to vibrant nightlife and museums.' Travelers can stay at a&o Hostels Rotterdam for as little as 15 euros a night (about $17), according to Rank, who said that the property is located within walking distance of top cultural sites. For food lovers, the Markthal is a must. It is a free-to-enter architectural icon that is home to dozens of local food stalls beneath a massive ceiling mural. To score the best deals, Rank suggested visiting during the shoulder season (March to May or September to early November), when flights and hotels are typically more affordable. Rank said that while Rotterdam is highly walkable, public transportation is an often-overlooked expense that can add up quickly for travelers hopping between neighborhoods or cities. Expect to pay about $1.60 and $3.20 per ride for public transportation. Consider an unlimited day pass to save even more. Lima, Peru, is one of the most affordable international destinations for U.S. travelers, with round-trip flights from major cities often under $500. Once there, visitors can enjoy world-class cuisine, rich history, and ocean views, all for far less than the cost of a new iPhone. Travelers should expect to pay between $40 to $45 for daily costs thanks to affordable lodging, reliable public transportation, and inexpensive, high-quality food, said Carolina Martínez, Communications Manager at GuruWalk, an online platform for free walking tours. 'Lima's coastal views, colonial architecture, and world-renowned cuisine offer enormous value for budget-conscious travelers,' Martínez said. Martínez said visitors can enjoy free walking tours through Lima's historic center and the bohemian Barranco district to learn more about the city. In addition, Martínez recommended visiting in the shoulder seasons (March to May or September to November), when prices are lower and crowds thinner. To save even more, focus on outdoor attractions like the Malecón, a scenic clifftop path with ocean views, and ask local guides for hidden-gem eateries that offer authentic flavors at local prices. Finally, travelers should also plan for commonly overlooked expenses like tips for guides, SIM cards, and entrance fees to archaeological sites, which aren't always included in free excursions. More From GOBankingRates The 10 Most Reliable SUVs of 2025 4 Housing Markets That Have Plummeted in Value Over the Past 5 Years This article originally appeared on 3 International Vacations That Are Cheaper Than an iPhone
Washington Post
8 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- Washington Post
11 hotel room rituals that are nonnegotiable
When I'm lucky enough to stay in a hotel, I have certain rituals that I always perform. It's as if I've never seen furniture or a television before. Everything is somehow more exciting when you're away from home … except those minibar prices.
The Sun
9 hours ago
- General
- The Sun
UK castle that costs less than a hotel stay in London with indoor swimming pool, tropical gardens and private beach
IF you need somewhere cheap to stay with all of your mates, it might be more affordable to stay in your own castle. Wyatt Castle in Dorset dates back to 1797, and is now open to the public to stay the night. 6 6 6 According to luxury rental company it will set you back £8,940 a night. But if you manage to find 19 mates to join you, this means it will cost just £149 each a night - less than the average £158 a night in London. The castle -turned-home rental has nine bedrooms and nine bathrooms so you won't be fighting for space. Towels, robes and toiletries are all included so these can be left at home. Most of the rooms have amazing sea views or garden views as well. Guests will be greeted by a huge reception hall, as well as a library, study and drawing room. When the weather improves, there is even a huge sun terrace with sun loungers and a BBQ. As well as its beautiful landscaped outdoor area, there is even an Italian and Japanese tropical gardens. Its from here that there is a hidden path all the way down to a private beach, which goes past a 13th century church. While there is a huge dining space for 60 people, there are some nearby pubs if you fancy eating out including nearest The Cove House Inn. The pretty pink UK castle that is loved by Disney and Britney Spears Want to splash out? You can hire your own private chef at additional cost, or have an on-site massage. For example, private three-course dinner parties cost £75 each, or there is a food "drop off" service for dinner and breakfast with a range of options. The large indoor swimming pool is private for guests but not in the summer. While the hotel doesn't allow stag or hen dos, it does cater to kids with cots and high chairs. 6 6 The nearest train station is Weymouth which is a 25 minute drive. One person said staying at the castle "makes you feel like royalty". There is space for 20 cars, but to arrive in style it has its own helipad. If you want to explore the rest of the coastline, Durdle Door has been compared to both Portugal and California. Here's another fairytale castle that is open to overnight stays, and thought to be the only Tudor castle that is a hotel in the UK. The Sun's Head of Travel Caroline McGuire stayed at Leeds Castle's new lakeside lodges. We've rounded up seven others castles in the UK you can book for less than £90 a night. 6
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Travel + Leisure
9 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- Travel + Leisure
I Review Clothes for a Living, and These Are the Only 12 Amazon Basics You Need for Summer Trips—From $10
Looking stylish on all your summer trips—without overpacking—starts with well-chosen essentials. A strong summer capsule wardrobe doesn't require dozens of options, but a handful of versatile pieces like basic tank tops and flowy maxi skirts. Think lightweight layers and go-anywhere staples that make getting dressed on vacation (and at home) feel effortless. With the right basics, your suitcase stays light, and your outfits stay on point. I pulled together 12 Amazon basics that are easy to mix, match, and layer no matter where you're headed. The Anrabess Maxi Dress, for example, works just as well with the Rihero Leather Sandals and a sun hat for the beach as it does with New Balance sneakers and the Araz&Cloz Cropped Cardigan for a walking tour—or dressed up with heels for dinner. From wide-leg pants to comfy lounge sets, these are the only summer wardrobe staples you'll need. Prices start at just $10. Best tank top: Anrabess Tank Top, $10 (originally $15) Anrabess Tank Top, $10 (originally $15) Best vacation dress: Anrabess Maxi Dress, $36 (originally $43) Anrabess Maxi Dress, $36 (originally $43) Best travel pants: Chartou Drawstring Wide-leg Palazzo Pants, $31 Chartou Drawstring Wide-leg Palazzo Pants, $31 Comfiest sandals: Rihero Leather Sandals, $29 (originally $34) Rihero Leather Sandals, $29 (originally $34) Perfect walking shoes: New Balance 515 V3 Sneakers, $75 New Balance 515 V3 Sneakers, $75 Amazon's choice: Nenona Sweater Lounge Set, $40 Nenona Sweater Lounge Set, $40 Best summer blouse: Automet Linen Sleeveless Button-down Top, $23 Automet Linen Sleeveless Button-down Top, $23 Comfiest shorts: Nimin Tailored High-rise Shorts, $25 Nimin Tailored High-rise Shorts, $25 Best travel bag: Sumrains Woven Crossbody Bag, $40 Sumrains Woven Crossbody Bag, $40 Best lightweight layer: Arach&Cloz Cropped Cardigan, $30 Arach&Cloz Cropped Cardigan, $30 Best travel skirt: Skritmory Satin Maxi Skirt, $34 A white tank is the holy grail of travel basics. It's what you reach for when you need something that works with everything, and this one from Amazon is flattering, soft, and ultra-versatile. Throw it on with linen pants and sandals for a relaxed sightseeing look; pair it with mom jeans and a cardigan for a museum morning; or layer it under a zip-up hoodie for your travel day outfit. At just $10, you'll wish you bought more than one of the 24 colors offered. If you're packing light, you'll want a black maxi dress that can go from casual café mornings to candlelit dinners. This one checks all the boxes: flattering square neckline, breezy skirt, and—yes—pockets. Wear it with sneakers and a denim jacket for exploring a new city; swap in espadrilles and chunky earrings for date night; or toss it on over your bikini and pair with a straw tote for a beach-to-brunch moment. A good pair of linen-blend pants is the travel gift that keeps on giving. This breezy pair is made with 40 percent linen and features a flattering drawstring waist for a custom fit. Pull them on over your swimsuit with a wide-brimmed hat and flip-flops for beach days, or style them with a cropped tank and platform sandals for rooftop drinks. Their wide-leg cut gives off that effortlessly cool, I-am-in-Italy energy. Packing just one pair of sandals? These are the ones. They're stylish enough to wear with a maxi dress to dinner, minimal enough to throw on with a cover-up for the pool, and comfy enough to stroll around all day. They also take up almost no room in a suitcase and somehow go with any outfit. This cropped cardigan is a layering hero. Ideal for unexpectedly chilly planes or over-air-conditioned restaurants, it also holds its own as an outfit finisher. Button it up and wear it as a top with wide-leg pants and toss it over a strappy maxi dress on breezy evenings. Or, pair it with matching neutrals to build a monochrome outfit. When it comes to summer travel, you need sneakers that won't ruin your outfit—or feet. Enter the New Balance 515 V3 Sneakers. These are lightweight, supportive, and have a neutral enough look to work with everything from leggings and an oversized sweatshirt at the airport to a dress and denim jacket while wandering through cobblestone streets. One traveler swore by them on a trip to Europe, saying 'we walked miles every day and I never got a blister.' Meet your new airport-to-coffee-run uniform: a soft sweater set with a sleeveless top and high-rise shorts that strikes the balance between cozy and pulled-together. Wear it with chunky sneakers and a belt bag for the plane, then swap in strappy sandals for brunch. Break up the set entirely by pairing the top with linen trousers or the shorts with a button-down for lounging by the pool. (I've got my eye on the yellow set.) This understated vest is the epitome of quiet luxury and one of the most versatile pieces you can pack. Between the breathable linen-blend fabric and elevated silhouette, it's just as at home with trousers and heels for a business-casual dinner as it is with denim shorts and slides for a day of exploring. Or, go full Euro summer by pairing it with a silky maxi skirt and gold accessories. If you want to feel effortlessly elegant, even while living out of a suitcase, this satin maxi skirt is sure to be your go-to. Style it in a low-key way with a white tee and sneakers, or with a cropped tank and strappy sandals for rooftop cocktails. Go bold with a matching satin top and gold hoops. It's one of those pieces that feels elevated with zero fuss—and works just as well in spring and fall. Tailored shorts are the summer version of power dressing. These are structured but soft; flattering, but unfussy. Tuck in a black tee, and add a belt with some slides for an effortlessly elevated outfit. Or, wear them with a button-down and sneakers for a more polished travel day 'fit. A reviewer even compared the fabric to Vuori's villa shorts, which are nearly double the price. You only need one great bag for travel, and this one delivers. The handwoven texture gives it a beachy, vacation-ready feel, while the compact size and multiple compartments will keep things organized. Wear it as a crossbody while airport-hopping; bring it along on a walking tour; or dress it up with a maxi dress and espadrilles for a nice dinner. It's neutral, functional, and stylish—the travel trifecta. Socks rarely get the spotlight they deserve, but these make a low-key accessory, leveling up any travel look. They add a sporty twist to chunky sneakers and biker shorts; give off a polished vibe with loafers and tailored shorts; and even pair surprisingly well with ballet flats. Fresh-looking white socks always make an outfit look more intentional. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
