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A holiday combination is the best way to maximise your time

Plus, the best part is you don’t need to spend 3 weeks away in order to experience the highlights of two unique destinations.  Book a holiday combination and don’t waste time choosing: see both!

Blend your trip to a metropolis with a retreat into the depths of the natural world.  Why not stop over in Dubai on your way to the Philippines, or combine a South African safari with a few days on the beach in the Seychelles?

A holiday combination can help break up a long plane ride, can blend modern and old, and you’ll see the highlights of two (or more!) incredible countries.

Keep reading for Fleewinter’s recommended holiday combinations.

We’ve rounded up the best combination trips that we think you should take in 2023 and beyond.

COMBINE BALI & BORNEO

Marbree says –

There’s nothing quite like the call of a long-nosed monkey or the realization that the rustling of leaves above you is an orangutan moving through the trees to know you that you’re far from home. 

Barbara says –

Bali, known as the Island of the Gods, enchants visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming hospitality, providing an unforgettable experience for all who journey there.

Why does this holiday combination work?

Borneo and Bali. Two bucket-list destinations that we think go together like wine and cheese. Take a bite of adventure in Borneo, swing through vibrant Kuala Lumpur, and sip on the culture of Bali with its beautiful temples, landscapes, and beaches. This is a full meal of a holiday – without the overfull discomfort of an actual holiday meal!

With a week in Borneo, you can see the highlights of Gaya Island, Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, the Kinabatangan River, and get off the beaten track in the countryside. We’ve built in a full three nights on the River for safaris to look for proboscis monkeys, wild orangutans, Borneo pygmy elephants, and more plus an extra day for a trek to a cave or along the elephant paths.

Two nights in Kuala Lumpur gives you time to see the highest twin towers in the world, climb to the top of the Batu Caves, buzz past the city’s historic sights, and gorge yourself on all the nasi lemak, roti canai, and char koay teow you can handle.

Continue with an unforgettable Balinese adventure! Relax on the beautiful beaches of Sanur, immerse in Ubud’s rich culture, witness breathtaking Uluwatu cliffs, and experience the thrill of white water rafting. Bali awaits you with its magic!

COMBINE DUBAI & THE PHILIPPINES

Ramona says – 

Dubai is a place of contrasts in the Middle East with deserts, opulent architecture, and a fusion of old and new

Marbree says –

At least once in your trip, travel like a local and hop into a jeepney or a tricycle. Both are unique to the Philippines and a fun way to explore.

Why does this holiday combination work?

A place of contrasts in the Middle East with deserts, opulent architecture, and a fusion of old and new, a stop in Dubai plus a north-south route in the Philippines can feel like three holidays in one.

Stopover in Dubai and discover the identity behind this cosmopolitan city. Enjoy breathtaking views from atop the Burj Khalifa, get wet at the Wild Wadi Waterpark, check out the Dubai Fountain, go on a shopping spree at the Dubai Mall, go skydiving over the Palm Jumeirah, get cruising on a traditional wooden dhow or a super fast speed boat and admire Dubai’s skyline from the sea.

For a more culturally enriching experience, head over to Al Seef and enjoy traditional arabic architecture, explore the vibrant spice and gold markets and taste the rich local flavors. Embark on a desert safari for an even more authentic, yet thrilling experience. Get a glimpse into the past while enjoying traditional bedouin hospitality. If 5 star luxury and ultimate pampering is what you’re after, then you’ll be spoiled for choice here, so get ready to be amazed!

From the middle east to the far east, fly to Manila and revel in the fact that you’re already accustomed to heat! There are countless ways to experience the Philippines but if you want to really get a feel for the country, you’ll need to go north before you go south.  

Rich in tribal tradition, the Cordillera mountains are home to ancient rice terraces, caves begging to be explored, cliffs mounted with hanging coffins, waterfalls galore, hill stations, and villages home to some of the country’s most unique residents. Fancy a tattoo from a 106-year-old designated living treasure or perhaps her more gentle-handed nieces?

Once you’ve had your fill of trekking and mountain air, flying south to the islands is the ideal foil to all that rugged nature. The white sands of Bohol are made for relaxing beside the sparkling warm sea. The snorkeling is divine, the restaurants are full of local produce and seafood, and when you want a bit of adventure, the chocolate hills, and tarsier sanctuary are a perfect day trip. Your tan might fade but the memories of a holiday like this one will last (and so will that tattoo you got in the north!). 

COMBINE SOUTH AFRICAN & MAURITIUS

Daphne says – 

My favourite activities in and around Cape Town are the Table Mountain, V&A Waterfront, the wine tram in Franschhoek and Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden in Stellenbosch. Enjoy these before heading off on an adventure to track the Big 5 on safari

Rebecca says – 

Unwind in a blue sea, white sand paradise.  Mauritius is the perfect place to relax and unwind after searching for the Big 5 while on Safari

Why does this holiday combination work?

Combine city, safari and sea on a trip from the Mother City to some of South Africa’s most famous game reserves and end the trip on the white sandy beaches of Paradise Cove in Mauritius. Explore beautiful Cape Town with its magnificent waterfront, museums and of course Table Mountain. Visit the Winelands to taste some of Africa’s finest wines.

Track the Big 5 in the famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Early morning and afternoon game drives will give you the possibility for some exciting sightings. In between game drives you can relax and listen to the sounds of the bush, while sipping a refreshing drink.

After your safari it is time to indulge in some rest and relaxation in the tropical climate and sunshine of Mauritius at the end of your trip.

Unwind on the soft white sand beaches of the Indian Ocean in Mauritius.  Relax alongside the turquoise sea, enjoy a catamaran sail to a neighbouring island and explore all the vibrant colours (and delicious food) of the local culture. Rebecca’s favourite thing to do on the island is get out on the boat for a swim with the dolphins and snorkel in the clear warm waters of Flic-en-Flac.

The perfect holiday combination.

COMBINE SINGAPORE & CAMBODIA

Marbree says – 

Can you go to Singapore and not have a cocktail at Raffles? Yes. Should you? No, it’s a classic!

Carly says – 

Ancient temples? Tick. Luxury beach time? Of course. You really can have it all in Cambodia.

Why does this holiday combination work?

Direct flights to Cambodia exist only in our dreams so until someone makes this fantasy a reality, stopping over in Singapore is the next best thing. We’ve put together a holiday combination that takes you to these two picture-perfect places in serious style.

Start with two nights at the iconic Raffles Hotel in Singapore with a vintage Vespa tour that has you whizzing through the city. It’s a way to see the city’s historic sights, landmark neighbourhoods, and glitzy lights in a way few people get to experience. No trip to Singapore is complete without a few meals that leave you wondering why we don’t all eat the way Singaporeans do. We’ve got a guide who will take you to Michelin-awarded eateries and share some of the stories behind the food and the talented people who make it. Fret not, we’ve left you time for a drink at Long Bar, a walk through Gardens by the Bay, and to marvel at Jewel before jetting you off to Cambodia.

Here, explore the history and beauty of the iconic temples in Siem Reap, between rest stops at the incomparable Heritage Suites. Finally, spend 3 blissful nights at Song Saa private island, an other worldly retreat.

COMBINE THE MALDIVES & SRI LANKA

Carly says – 

Despite being just across the water from one another, Sri Lanka and the Maldives couldn’t be more different.  Explore tea plantations and lush rainforests in Sri Lanka before heading to the Maldives for a few days relaxing on the beach.

Why does this holiday combination work?

For the perfect holiday combination of fly-and-flop and exhilarating adventure, combine a luxurious week snorkelling and sunbathing in the Maldives with a few days (or longer) in Sri Lanka, just one hour away. Here, head into the cultural triangle for a taste of history or the lush hills for tea-picking and hiking, and you can even spot elephants and leopards on safari.

COMBINE CUBA AND THE CAYMAN ISLANDS

Barbara says – 

Nowhere else but in Cuba can you find a place where rum flows more readily than water, where antique cars still roam the streets, digitalisation is minimal, and the people’s warmth and hospitality make you feel truly at home.

Marbree says – 

A sunset sail to Rum Point, snorkeling at stingray city, diving one of the vibrant reefs, and a Sunday morning champagne brunch – all absolute musts in Grand Cayman.

Why does this holiday combination work?

These two island nations may be strange bedfellows but after exploring Cuba with its quirky charms, relaxing in Grand Cayman feels a bit like paradise and a bit like a shocking return to the modern world. Which, for some of us, is a great way to transition a holiday before heading home. 

Traveling to Cuba is like a nostalgic journey back in time, where vintage cars, colonial architecture, and traditional music paint a charming picture of the past. With minimal digitalization, the island fosters genuine human connections and authentic experiences. From Havana’s atmospheric alleys to the lush tobacco fields of Viñales, Cuba’s slower pace of life invites you to savour every moment.

To return to 21^st century hop on a direct flight from Havana to Grand Cayman and relax into a world of barefoot luxury.

Whether you’ve had enough exploring and want to sit on a long stretch of sand and stare at the Caribbean or your itchy feet want to keep active, Grand Cayman has you covered.

Step onto a sailboat for a sunset jaunt to Rum Point, grab a mask and snorkel and see why divers return to the Cayman Islands, meet the friendly rays at stingray city, play a round of golf, look for blue iguanas, ride horseback into the sea, take a spin on a wave runner or paddle along the coastline, take the kids underwater in a submarine to marvel at the marine life … the options are endless!

COMBINE MALAYSIA AND THAILAND

Marbree says – 

I love the contrasts of Malaysia: high rises beside traditional villages, ancient rainforest nestled against the beach, it’s like visiting multiple places in one.

Alba says – 

Thailand has it all, regardless of age, travel preferences, how well travelled or not you are… this amazing country will always leave you in awe!

Why does this holiday combination work?

If you’ve done the temples and a well-known island or two of Thailand (we’re looking at you Koh Samui and Phuket), and want a different sort of trip this time, why not combine city lights with island nights and spread your wings to Malaysia.

Start in Kuala Lumpur (or Bangkok – you can easily reverse the order of this trip, add more time or an extra stop or two in either country – it’s your holiday, after all!) with a couple nights to adjust to the delicious heat and buzz of South East Asia. See how old meets new and cultures contrast in this city full of hidden surprises. Fly to Langkawi with its ancient rainforest, wildlife, and stunning beaches. Kayak through mangroves, take a ride up the cable car for a view to Thailand, or just take it easy pool or beachside.

From there, it’s a ferry ride to Koh Lipe, a pristine paradise known as the Maldives of Thailand due to its white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters and colourful and healthy coral reefs full of marine life. Unwind barefoot luxury with some epic snorkeling, beach bumming, and mouthwatering seafood feasts on the laid-back shores of Koh Lipe—where tropical paradise meets pure relaxation. After your relaxing tropical escape head to your last destination, the vibrant city of Bangkok. Discover a captivating blend of ancient temples, bustling markets, and tantalizing street food as you explore this fascinating city like no other will show you, where every corner offers an unforgettable adventure.”

COMBINE LUXURY SAILING WITH A SPA EXPERIENCE

Helen says –

Helen loves a fun filled, action packed day. A morning hike on a beautiful Greek Island, followed by a refreshing swim, snorkelling, paddleboarding and exploring.

Sarah says – 

Sarah loves to slow down and focus on the moment. The feeling of a soft robe against your skin, a tight muscle being stretched by expert hands. The peace and serenity only time in the spa can bring.

Why does this holiday combination work?

Truth be told, Helen would never turn down a spa and Sarah is also partial to a bit of action too. I mean who can resist that glowing feeling when those toxins are expertly being manipulated out of your tired body. And doesn’t that feel so much more deserved after you’ve hiked through history on the island of Corfu or wake boarded around Anti-Paxos?

With this in mind, we decided you shouldn’t be forced to choose between options any longer; you could do both in the ultimate holiday combination experience.

There is no reason why an adrenaline fuelled week one can not be enjoyed alongside the complete serenity of a spa experience in week two. On our private yacht holiday, you can enjoy watersports and sailing in an environment uniquely tailored to you. So, you can in fact do as much or as little as you like. If you wanted to crossover these two experiences together even more why not request a massage on deck…a little taster of what is to come in week two.

If your wellness experience is focused more on detoxing and health we can help you with that onboard too as our yachts come with their own private chef. Nothing builds an appetite more than fresh sea breeze and a wild swim.

Let off some steam with an action-packed week of sailing, watersports and island hopping and then embrace the steam with the most relaxing, soothing experience of your year.

Be invigorated in the Ionian and then pampered in Portugal for two weeks of the most exciting yet relaxing wellbeing experience.

COMBINE SINGAPORE AND VIETNAM

Marbree says – 

Catching a light show at Gardens by the Bay is one of the most relaxing ways to spend an evening in Singapore. It’s free, family-friendly, and absolutely beautiful.

Carly says – 

A few nights on the sandy beaches on Vietnam’s central coast can be relaxing or action-packed with day trips and activities. Perfection

Why does this holiday combination work?

Vietnam and Singapore are both known for their mouth-watering food and whether you want to spend your holiday chowing down, exploring, relaxing, or combining all three, these two countries are easy to combine into one trip.

A three-night stay in Singapore gives you a chance to adjust to the heat and humidity of South East Asia, explore some of the nation’s highlights, visit a few off-the-beaten-path spots, and find your favourite hawker stall. Ok, it might take more than one trip to really find your favourite but you can at least try a few classic dishes and get the hang of eating Singapore-style. For a first-time visitor, we think this is the right amount of time to enjoy the country without feeling rushed but all our trips are tailor-made so you can stay less time or more, it’s up to you.

Next, take a short flight to spend a week on the beach and round off the perfect holiday. Chase the best weather, and head to Da Nang in the centre for summer months, with ample time to explore nearby Hoi An –  a charming UNESCO heritage town packed with history and famed for it’s tailors.  Or in the winter, head further south to the tropical islands of Phu Quoc or Con Dao, both options are simply paradise.  This holiday combination will leave you wanting another.

COMBINE SOUTH AFRICA AND THE SEYCHELLES

Daphne says –

Finally, some time for city vibes and silence. Waking up at 05:30 will never be better – or more inviting – than in the African bush

Gosia says – 

Paradise does exist and I will show you where! Denis Island is the go-to for peace and relaxation, and importantly, a digital detox.

Why does this holiday combination work?

How often have you thought about how great it would be if nobody could get hold of you? Well now you have the time, and we have the destinations!

Start your holiday in Cape Town and feel the vibes of the ‘Mother City’. Stroll over the V&A Waterfront or have a drink on Kloof Street. Book a guided bicycle tour through a township and support the community. Visit one of the wine farms for some wine tasting and a picnic lunch. Your days in Cape Town will be filled with sightseeing, as there is so much to see and do.

During your safari in the famous Sabi Sands, you will have time to relax. Though your wakeup call will be early. The morning game drives are early to be able to still find some nocturnal animals that are still up and running, before they lay down and rest and let the other animals take over the bush.

After two nights in the bush, it is now time to enjoy the serenity of Denis Island in the Seychelles and time to switch off completely.  Think white sand, palm trees, and the gentle rushing of the water lapping the shore.

Your days will be filled with time for you and your loved ones.  Beach walks, water sports, swimming or just read a book in the privacy of your room.  It is all up to you and nobody will disturb your serenity unless you choose it.  Soak up the sun and the tranquillity, before life kicks in again.

COMBINE SLOVENIA AND CROATIA

Sarah says – 

No matter how many times I visits Slovenia the spectacular scenery never fails to take my breath away.

Ash says –

I love the combination of buzzing ancient cities with island hopping. Each destination has a different energy – something new to learn, and really stunning natural beauty. Even the most visited locations have hidden bays and beaches, thanks to the indented coastline.

Why does this holiday combination work?

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Slovenia and Croatia, where nature’s splendors and cultural wonders intertwine to create a mesmerizing experience.

In Slovenia, discover fairytale landscapes with majestic Alpine mountains, emerald lakes, and enchanting castles. Stroll through charming towns like Bled and Ljubljana, brimming with history and warm hospitality.

Then, cross the border to Croatia and experience a melting pot of culture, stunning national parks, ancient walled cities, well-preserved Roman arenas and palaces, and some of 100 islands just off the coast! All while indulging in delicious Mediterranean cuisine and world-class wines overlooking the sparkling azures of the Adriatic.

COMBINE CHILE AND ARGENTINA

Val says:

The vast and mesmerising expanse of Patagonia is shared between Chile and Argentina and for a truly unique, once in your lifetime journey, I suggest experiencing both sides, as they offer different landscapes and perspectives. Plus, you can cross over by land between the two countries!

Why does this holiday combination work?

Patagonia occupies the southern part of Chile and Argentina and combining both countries in an epic adventure is the best way to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the region.

Patagonia is one of the world’s last wilderness destinations and the two countries offer different ways of experiencing the region. The Argentina side is the land of blue lakes, immense and majestic glaciers, small Patagonian villages and remote estancias. In Chile, you will find one of the most beautiful parks in the continent, Torres del Paine, with its granite peaks, glacial lakes and some of the world’s best trekking, whilst the northern part of the Patagonia region offers charming lakeside towns, towering volcanoes and ancient forests.

You can cross by land between the two countries, avoiding taking domestic flights and missing the spectacular scenery. The three lakes crossing from Argentina to Chile in northern Patagonia is simply breathtaking and an adventure in itself, and the transfer from Torres del Paine into El Calafate in Argentina will showcase the beauty and vastness of the region. 

Whew, well done.

If you’ve made it to this paragraph, you must be in the market for a combination holiday!

Give us a call on 0207 112 0019 or email escape@fleewinter.com to find out about any of the trips mentioned above.

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