Mancunians are facing unprecedented challenges, and travelling to far-flung corners of the globe might not be high on agendas right now. But with the government cautiously optimistic that we will turn a corner in a matter of weeks, let’s look ahead to better times. When things return to normal, most of us will be ready for a holiday, or at least a short break. Here, we look at some of the surprising destinations served by our very own Manchester airport.
Las Vegas
Someone once described Las Vegas as “Like Blackpool, but with more strippers and fewer guns.” All joking aside, Sin City is a unique destination, and somewhere that everyone should visit at least once. When it emerges from the current lockdown situation, there will be an air of celebration, so 2020 could be the perfect time to go. You can fly direct with KLM or Virgin Atlantic and return flights start at around £850. If you don’t mind hubbing through. Philadelphia, it’s around £200 cheaper.
Phuket
Thought you needed to go to Heathrow to visit Thailand’s most popular holiday destination? Think again, Turkish Airlines can get you from Manchester to Phuket for as little as £500 return. Flights are via Istanbul, which is one of the easiest airports through which to transit. Phuket nightlife is completely different to Las Vegas, and is all about beach culture. No casinos here, but if you are desperate for some Thai-style gaming, you can always go online, where ThaiCasino online 2020 is all about Thai casino games, platforms and casino game rules.
Stockholm
Scandinavia has an atmosphere all of its own, and Sweden’s capital is one of Europe’s hidden gems. Sure, it is not cheap, but at the same time it’s not crazy expensive like Oslo and Helsinki. The city actually sprawls across 14 islands, all interconnected by a network of 57 bridges. Each has its own character and something unique to be discovered. If you thought Sweden was just Abba and Ikea, prepare to be surprised. Best of all, you can fly there from Manchester for less than £80 return with EasyJet.
Milan
Here’s a secret worth knowing. If you want style, romance and sophistication, forget Paris. Milan is the place to go. The city is as achingly beautiful as its inhabitants, and the £50 return flights from Ryanair will leave you plenty of money to spend in all those designer fashion stores. If you can drag yourself and your significant other away from them, be sure to visit the Duomo. This incredible cathedral dominates the city and took six centuries to build.
Hamburg
Historically best known for its port and industry, Hamburg has stealthily morphed into something of a hot destination for those who enjoy bustling, no-nonsense nightlife. The Reeperbahn is the party district, heaving with bars, clubs, cafes and more street food options than you could sample in a month. Return tickets start at just £33, which you could easily pay just parking the car on a night out in Manchester, so what have you got to lose?