The best long-haul destinations

Feel like you haven’t seen or done everything you wanted to do in life by now? Because same. Bucket-list holidays live rent free in our heads, but they’re meant to be booked! It’s never too late to pick that dream trip, so we’ve rounded up a list of the best long-haul destinations that are giving big trip energy…

If you already know the place you’ve been dreaming about, head straight to our best long-haul deals.

Mauritius

Holidays to Mauritius aren’t just about sun, sea and sand. Okay, the beaches are show-stopping, but away from the water’s edge, you’ve got sugarcane fields, Insta-worthy waterfalls and nature-filled jungles that are home to mischievous macaque monkeys. Plus, because the island is volcanic, impressive backdrops of jagged, green-cloaked mountains are all around.

Flight time: 11 hours and 45 minutes from London Gatwick
Currency: Mauritian Rupee
Time difference: GMT +4

Top experience pick: Île aux Bénitiers Catamaran Cruise

Check out our best Mauritius escapes

Mexico

Margaritas, Mayan Ruins and mariachi bands are just a few things you can expect from a long-haul trip to Mexico. If you’re searching for legendary nightlife, white-sand beaches and chilled-out vibes, look no further than Cancun, which is set on the Caribbean Coast. Or, go for city vibes in Mexico City, famous for Frida Khalo, Aztec sites and festival feels – tick off the iconic Day of the Dead with a trip in November.

Flight time: From 10 hours and 45 minutes to 12 hours and 15 minutes from London Gatwick
Currency: Mexican Peso
Time difference: GMT –6

Top experience pick: Cancun skip-the-line taco tour and local beer tasting

Check out our best Mexico deals

Costa Rica

Did you know that the best time to visit Costa Rica is from December to April? It’s the perfect spot to escape the grey misery of January and February. This place offers a mixture of tropical beaches, towering volcanoes and thick rainforests, so it’s ideal for adventurous types. Plus, it just so happens to be one of the best places in the world to go surfing, so whether you’re already a pro or are looking to try something new, grab a board and take to the waves. Playa de Matapalo is a top pick for those wanting to really switch off – you’ll likely see more monkeys than people on this peaceful beach.

Flight time: 11 hours and 30 minutes from London Gatwick
Currency: Costa Rican Colon
Time difference: GMT –6

Top experience pick: Arenal Volcano and hot springs with food from Guanacaste

Check out our Costa Rica getaways

The Dominican Republic

This place has become a firm holiday fave and it’s easy to see why. You’ll find pristine beaches along every coastline, mixed with rainforest-covered mountains for the perfect Insta posts. Embrace the Caribbean atmosphere with lively towns and laidback locals wherever you end up, but head to Puerto Plata on the north coast for a bit of culture and history, or La Romana on the south coast for the most luxurious of hotel stays.

Flight time: 8 hours and 50 minutes from London Gatwick
Currency: Dominican Peso
Time difference: GMT –4

Top experience pick: Saona Island cruise with private beach and lunch

Check out our Dominican Republic inspo

Jamaica

All the clichés you’ve heard about this area of the Caribbean are true – from the all-white beaches lined with bars, to the chill vibes you’d expect from the home of reggae. Stick to the coast for swaying palms and partyingthrough the night, or head inland to explore green mountains, banana plantations and hidden waterfalls. Montego Bay, on the north-west coast of Jamaica, is a big, vibrant resort packed with Caribbean charm, and makes the perfect starting point for your travels across this epic island.