Another glorious long weekend is on the horizon for UAE dwellers. With confirmation this week that Eid Al Adha will begin on Thursday, June 6, giving many people a four-day weekend, the time has come to officially click ''book'' on the hotel or flight we’ve been hovering over the past few weeks.
For some, the occasion will be a call to Hajj, with millions of Muslims from around the world expected to descend on Makkah. For others, it's prime time to explore a new location or take a holiday closer to home by snapping up staycation deals (which we've helpfully rounded up here) offered across the Emirates in celebration.
This year, I'll be freshly back from exploring the colourful side of Warsaw – having embarked on the inaugural Etihad Airways flight from Abu Dhabi to the Polish capital – so I'll stay put over the long weekend. But I’ve had many memorable Eid breaks in my time, and my visit to Georgia in July 2021 jumps out.
Some of you will remember well; during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, travel from the UAE was restricted to countries on the ''Green list''. Georgia was in good company with a handful of places, including Azerbaijan, Portugal, Morocco, New Zealand and Saudi Arabia – but it was Tbilisi that caught my eye.
In part, that was due to its ease of access, as the flight is just over three hours. If you're still deciding where to go, we’ve rounded up destinations that are likewise under five hours and have direct flight paths – think Amman, Baku, Alexandria, Kathmandu and others.
That was enough to convince me, despite not knowing much about the Eastern European country. But that's what made it one of my most memorable trips yet. With little expectation (and sheer gratefulness to be on the move again), I learnt about the country's unique language with its distinct script, tried the local food, which fuses European and Middle Eastern flavours, spoke to residents about its history and battled-over borders with neighbouring Russia, visited healing sulphur spas that hint at the city's original roots, and walked around a millennium-old church.
Over the same long weekend, a close friend of mine travelled to Albania to explore its near-untouched landscapes. Inspired by her – and the endless social media reels and articles labelling it an affordable Maldives replacement or “dupe” – I headed there the following year. Now, it's all over my Instagram feed.
Destination dupes have been top of mind the last few weeks here on The National's travel desk. Just as Evelyn Lau was busy pulling together a list of the best cities as alternatives to US destinations, stats from the International Trade Administration revealed falling visitor numbers from the region. Couple that with visa difficulties, and it seems fewer people will be heading Stateside.
It's a good thing, then, that there are so many incredible destinations to visit closer to home – such as New Delhi – which is just over four hours away. If you do book a visit to India's capital, don't jet off without reading Aarti Jhurani's extensive guide to one of Old Delhi's most famous markets.
Oh, and if you choose Istanbul as your weekend getaway, ensure your travel manners are up to scratch. The Turkish Directorate of Civil Aviation announced this week it'll be handing out fines to impatient passengers who stand up before the plane comes to a stop or open the overhead lockers before the cabin crew gives their signal.
Personally, I'm glad to see it. Next, let's tackle tech etiquette on board...
Until next time, travel well.
Staycation deals around the UAE
If you're not jetting off, then making the most of the best hotels around the UAE is a worthy way to spend the Eid weekend.
Luxury seekers, check into the Park Hyatt Dubai as the hotel celebrates its 20th anniversary, or head to The Chedi Al Bait in Sharjah to experience laid-back Arabian charm.
For adventurers, Hilton Yas Island is offering free theme park tickets with each stay, as is Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers.
Families, scoop the kids up and head to Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, and take advantage of its Kids Go Free offer, or Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel in the northern emirate, which is cosy as well as family-friendly, with complimentary breakfast for up to two children on top of Eid discounts.
See the full list here.
Destination dupes for popular US cities
Are you a fan of a quick trip to New York? Or been dreaming of exploring Boston? If your travel plans to the US have been put on hold, perhaps it's time to consider mirror cities around the world.
For big-city buzz, Toronto is a solid alternative to New York City. It has skyscrapers, diverse neighbourhoods, a vibrant food scene, a passionate sports fanbase and a laid-back vibe. Its cosmopolitan atmosphere, with a mix of cultures and languages, reflects its global character.
Edinburgh makes a strong case as an alternative to Boston, offering a similar blend of academic prestige, historic charm and a walkable city centre. It’s a city deeply rooted in history, with centuries-old architecture, literary landmarks and top-tier universities. Edinburgh also has vibrant arts festivals that can be taken in at a slightly slower, more romantic pace.
For tips on travelling to Panama instead of Miami and choosing Macau over Vegas, see more here.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk market
Is there anything better than exploring a new destination with all the wonder of seeing it with fresh eyes, but all the passed-on knowledge of a local who knows it inside out?
That's what reading Aarti Jhurani's guide to Chandni Chowk market feels like. She walks us through the best places to shop and tastiest dishes to sample, but not before recalling some of her fondest memories of the nearly 400-year-old market.
TRAVEL NEWS THIS WEEK
Top travel tip
Book a walking tour for your first morning in a new city, especially if it's a quick break. Many are free to book – although tips and donations are appreciated, even expected – and can help you get your bearings early on. It's a ritual for me so I can learn more about the culture and destination (often) from a local, suss out the spots worth coming back to explore in more depth, and get recommendations of hidden foodie spots and scenic bars that are a must-visit.
