Stopovers you will love as much as the final destination

By Valeria Garibotti on 29th June, 2023

If you dread the long waits at an airport before catching a connection flight, get inspired by these iconic cities!

You are not alone, here at Fleewinter we don’t like waiting for flight connections either, but what we know, is that more often than not, outside that airport terminal there is a bustling, vibrant and beautiful city waiting to be explored.

So skip the waiting time and spend a few nights in these fabulous cities before reaching your final destination.

And who knows, you might enjoy it as much as the the holiday!

Singapore's futuristic gardens, traditional culture, and world renowned food make it more than a stopover.

SINGAPORE

We’re pretty sure you’ve heard about Singapore … A small island nation with the bulk of its highlights packed into a downtown area and an airport hub that connects the world, it’s a great spot for breaking up a journey.

To really get a feel for it, you’ll need at least two full days to see the city-state’s highlights. The Supertrees, Marina Bay Sands, a hawker centre, the colonial district, Kampong Gelam, Chinatown, Fort Canning or one of the parks, maybe a tipple at The Raffles…

If you stay an extra night or two, you’ll have time to get off the beaten track, take a cable car ride with stunning views, a sunset sail through the islands, walk through a rainforest canopy, or dive further into any area you choose. And of course, you can try some of that Michelin-awarded street food you may have heard about.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

Often overlooked for its more showy neighbour to the south, Kuala Lumpur offers an alternative to Singapore that won’t feel quite as rushed. With two full days in KL, you can spend one day exploring the multicultural city and one day away from the bustle visiting the Batu Caves and nearby artisan areas. Catch an evening light show at the Petronas Twin Towers from a rooftop bar or eat your way through Jalan Alor with its vibrant night-time food stalls.

With a little more time, pay a visit to one of the Chinese temples, wander a wet market, take a guided heritage food walk, visit a traditional medicine man, or watch the day begin in a Malay village that’s within the city limits.

Stay within walking distance of many hotspots at Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur – ideally in a room with a view of the city’s gleaming towers!

SAO PAULO, BRAZIL

If you think of South American cities, Sao Paulo might not be at the top of your bucket list. But we think this vibrant metropolis is one of the most misunderstood cities in the continent. Yes its size can be intimidating but it is one of Brazil’s most cultural and artistic destinations, and it is a must if you want to experience some of the world’s best restaurants. It is the foodie capital par excellence, from Michelin starred restaurants to smart cafes and bistros offering gastronomic delights.

Sao Paulo is the hub of South America’s main airline, so you can easily add a stopover here directly from the UK, break the long plane journey and let the Paulistanos – the city’s residents – show you why they are so proud of their city and why they wouldn’t live anywhere else.

Surrounded by gorgeous countryside, you can choose to stay at Unique Garden Hotel & Spa, near enough the city to be able to explore but far enough to enjoy a relaxing stay away from Sao Paulo hustle and bustle. With a stopover like this, you will start your holiday relaxed and recharged, having discovered one of South America’s hidden gems.

COLOMBO, SRI LANKA

Overnight flights to Sri Lanka operate daily from London, landing at lunchtime just north of Colombo city. It’s an easy connection to the Maldives, southern india and more!

If you have a few days, you can visit the city or even head north into the ancient cultural triangle to climb Sigiriya rock before moving on to your next destination – but even with a one night stopover you can get a taste of the country. Sleep on a coconut plantation just 30 minutes away, or choose a cosy homestay and take an authentic cooking class.

HANOI OR SAIGON, VIETNAM

There are daily direct flights from London to these vibrant Vietnamese cities, making Hanoi in the North or Saigon in the South the perfect stopover to start your adventure in SE Asia. Cambodia can’t be reached directly from the UK, so take a few days exploring Hanoi like a local before taking a quick connection to visit the temples in Angkor – and beyond. Or do some shopping and rooftop bar-hopping in Saigon before going off grid on a luxurious island!

We’ll set you up with an expert local guide to introduce you to the all the highlights from historical spots to hidden markets and some of the best streetfood you’ll ever taste – whether you have 24 hours or 4 days in the city.

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO

An opportunity to explore the bustling Mexico City on a stopover before your final destination in central or south America.

Here you will see the ruins of Teotihuacán and Xochimilco canals (Mexico’s Venice) and visit Frida’s Blue House, galleries and museums and attend a Lucha Libre Wrestling match and take a good tour.

Immerse yourself, indulge, and also spend free time enjoying a walk or shopping downtown. Depending on the number of days you decide to spend here, we will help you plan your activities for the entirety of your stay in this fabulous city.

ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Istanbul is the hub to so many far-flung destinations, instead of hanging around the new airport (impressive as it may be!), waiting for a connecting flight to somewhere even more exotic, why not head into the city for a few nights and soak up the culture and fascinating sights. We have a selection of gorgeous hotels right in the heart of Sultanahmet, moments from the major highlights including the imposing Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia and bustling Grand Bazaar.

Hop on the tram to Taksim Square for a spot of shopping, wander through the pretty Gulhane Park, cruise down the Bosphorus and take in the city views from the sea and sample some of Turkey’s finest cuisine from one of the many rooftop restaurants, Istanbul is a city not to be missed en-route to one of our beautiful long-haul destinations.

Tokyo, Japan view of Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest crosswalks in the world.

TOKYO, JAPAN

Dreaming of exploring the wonders of Australia and New Zealand, but discouraged by the long travel time? Fear not! We have the perfect solution for you. Break up your long-haul flight and embark on an unforgettable journey via Tokyo, the gateway to the other side of the globe.

Tokyo offers the best of both worlds, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant cityscape, indulge in Japan’s unique traditions and mouth-watering cuisine, and delve into its rich cultural heritage. After your Tokyo adventure, it’s time to set off to the breathtaking landscapes of Australia and New Zealand. Encounter the unique wildlife, marvel at the stunning natural wonders, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Eastern and Southern Hemisphere.

This ultimate travel fusion allows you to unveil the wonders of Asia and the Pacific while fulfilling your dream of exploring Down Under. Don’t let the distance hold you back; let Tokyo be your gateway to an extraordinary journey of a lifetime.

BANGKOK, THAILAND

Embark on a captivating journey through to captivating destinations in Asia with an unforgettable stopover in Bangkok first. Bangkok offers a vast number of international connections, serving as a major transportation hub in the region.

With its central location and extensive flight connections, Bangkok serves as the perfect launchpad to explore other enchanting destinations of South East Asia and Far East. Lose yourself in the sensory overload of bustling markets, indulge in mouth watering street food, experience its rich culture, and witness the timeless beauty of ancient temples.

Let Bangkok ignite your wanderlust as you immerse yourself in its vibrant ambiance, paving the way for extraordinary discoveries and lifelong memories in the mesmerizing tapestry of Asia.”

CAIRO, EGYPT

Embark on an extraordinary journey through time and culture with a stopover in Cairo, the gateway to the wider Middle East. As a bustling hub, Cairo effortlessly connects you to the mesmerising cities of Europe, Africa, Asia, and beyond.

Before continuing your adventure, seize the opportunity to delve into the wonders of Cairo’s iconic landmarks – the mystical Pyramids of Giza, the enigmatic Sphinx, and the captivating Egyptian Museum. Immerse yourself in a treasure trove of history and culture, where ancient tales unfold at every turn. Cairo beckons travellers with its vibrant markets, tantalising cuisine, and a vibrant tapestry of traditions.

Prepare to be captivated by Cairo’s charm, as this vibrant city offers an awe-inspiring stopover that promises to leave an indelible mark on your wanderlust-filled soul.

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