Just as you’re plotting your spring and summer travel plans, we’re back at it again with another cheat code – AKA, our money-saving hacks. This one’s completely wonk in the best way possible… Enter, Wonky holidays.
You’ve heard of wonky veg, well, we’ve brought the concept into the travel world. They’re picks with odd durations, departing in shoulder seasons – a Tuesday flight with a Thursday return, a 6-night trip rather than your classic 7, or a summer holiday in October over July. They might not be appealing to everyone, but they were born this way 
And, slay at maximising value. The fact that not everyone loves them means there are more for you – and the prices can reflect that, too.
Wonky seasons
If you’re one to dodge the school summer holiday crowds, you’ve probably already heard of the shoulder-season hack. They’re not quite as obvious as your winter sun picks. Spring and autumn in the UK can still be pretty pleasant and, especially in April, everyone’s hopes are up for an early summer – that’s where you swoop in. Europe’s usually warming up but holidays here aren’t at their peak prices yet. Think about city breaks with beaches. They’re the perfect ‘either/or’ situation, where you don’t need to rely so much on the weather. If it’s not sunny every day yet, there’s still lots of other things to do. Or, head as south as you can. Greece’s tourist season officially starts in May, so April’s chances for some heat are pretty good.
For a lil extended summer, October’s got the perk of retaining the summer heat. The sea’s warmed up and the dread of winter ahead means a holiday now is the perfect procrastination. Turkey’s known to still hit the mid-20s and for city breaks like Istanbul, it’s actually the perfect temp to get in some sightseeing in the day.
Wonky durations
This one’s maybe a new one to try. Travelling Saturday to Saturday or Saturday to Sunday FEELS like the best value because you’re making the most of two weekends away… but guess what? Everyone knows that 
Most importantly, the airlines know it, too. These are usually the most expensive days of the week to fly on – travelling midweek can be much cheaper. You can still fly on a Saturday but maybe stay an extra couple of days than usual to come back on a Tuesday and miss the weekend rush.
So, we’ve narrowed down some of our best wonky deals to get you started. It’s up to you to make sure they don’t go to waste like that carrot shaped like you know what 
Wonky April deals
April’s the first shoulder season of the year, and ideal for the best deals. Places like Egypt aren’t too hot then, so check out these wonky picks that are perfect for sightseeing and a bit of sunbathing.
Coral Sea Aqua Club, Egypt
A 10-minute walk from the beach and a top-tier snorkelling scene – say less. On Egypt’s Red Sea Coast, Sharm El Sheikh is a prime pick for water-based activities. The sandy seafront near this hotel is lined with sunloungers and a couple of world-famous reefs. You can snorkel safely with local hammerhead sharks and barracudas at Shark Reef, or Yolanda Reef has a sunken cargo ship to explore on a deep dive. There are always the two pools back at base, too, plus a whole waterpark. Think lazy river, surf simulator and children’s splash zone. Food-wise, there are four restaurants to pick from, including an Asian place and a grill where dishes are cooked on hot stones. If your spring’s looking a little sad rn, a wonky 6-night holiday to this place might be on the cards…
Pick this wonky deal from £533pp*
Riu Tikida Palmeraie, Morocco
Morocco in April is giving 25°C and it’s probably safe to say that beats the UK. This hotel is tucked away, a 30-minute drive from Marrakech’s medina, and spreads across 30 acres – plenty of space for three restaurants, a huge swimming pool and lush gardens. Before you think you’re a bit far out, when you want to explore Marrakech’s souks and sites, there’s a complimentary hotel shuttle to take you there. That also makes it super easy to hop back for your All Inclusive lunch at the buffet, where there are themed spreads twice a week. You also get two visits to the Moroccan restaurants with your stay and the bar scene involves live music and a couple of late-night spots.
Pick this wonky deal from £525pp*
Wonky October deals
October is the dream to get a bit of last-minute sun. Turkey is still hitting the mid-20s, so beach days are so on, and Seville in Spain is in its prime for a city break. Check out these wonky durations to lock in a late summer…
Melia Isla Canela, Spain
This hotel is right next to the beach and the décor knows it. The whole place is like a colourful palace on the outside, then a boho glasshouse on the inside. There are loads of windows to flood the place with natural lights and different lounge areas make the most of it. There’s the main restaurant, as well as an à la carte and three bars – one’s by the pool and serves cocktails and ice cream, perfect for when you’re basking in 23°C in October. The hotel has tennis courts, flamenco lessons and bike hire available. Isla Canela is known for its wetlands, so it’s easy to explore the long promenade and local trails on two wheels. Downtime is done right in the spa and there are spin, pilates and step classes, too, for you bootcamp babes.
Pick this wonky deal from £399pp*
Planet Studios and Apartments, Greece
If you love a nightlife pick and summer’s festival season simply isn’t long enough, this hotel’s late-night scene could be a bit of you to keep things going in October. By day, the pool is all about chilling and catching those rays – we’re talking an average of 24°C – and there’s a pool bar to serve you snacks and drinks. Then, in the evenings, the hotel’s main sports bar becomes one of the town’s biggest hotspots, complete with live bands, DJs and cocktails. You’re also right in the heart of Tsilivi, which is a buzzing resort, so there are plenty of other picks along the strip, which come alive after sunset, too. Don’t worry, if you’re not a party person or don’t fancy going out every night, all the apartments here have soundproofed patio doors so you can easily opt out.
Pick this wonky deal from £351pp*
Get on the wonky hype with our entire Wonky holidays page – all the deals there feature odd durations.
Looking for more articles? You’ll find them on the Inspire homepage.
Author: Lily (she/her)
Last updated: 21/03/2025
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