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29 March 2024

Long weekend: Affordable last-minute getaways

[Image via Shutterstock]

Published
By Bindu Suresh Rai

Local jetsetters are probably busy sneaking a peek at those minimised internet windows on their computer screens, hastily planning a last minute getaway as the long weekend fast approaches this June 14.
 
We at Emirates 24|7 have been just as busy, planning a stress-free weekend break for you, with our top five destinations, with flight prices to boost to make for easy planning.
 
So what are you waiting for? Read on and have a great getaway this week. 
 
Salalah, Oman
 
If the scorching summer temps have you sweating in spite of the cooling blast of the air-conditioning, then here’s your chance to escape to the cooler climes of neighbouring Salalah.
 
For the adventure seekers, a drive to the Omani oasis is certainly plausible, but we think a tad bit of an overstretch when all you have are three days and a 17-hour road trip, one-way!
 
But if a drive is what you seek and a shoestring budget is what your heart desires, then you can’t find a more thrilling and breathtaking lonely stretch of a road.
 
A direct contrast from the desert terrain that welcomes us in the UAE and in other parts of Oman, the lush green vista literally transports you into paradise, with misty terrains and occasional showers adding to the romance of the hills – just what the doctor ordered for a stress-free break.
 
Apart from the green mountains, Salalah also boasts pristine beaches such as Shati Al Hafa, Al Balid, Khandaq and more.
 
Oman Air flies to Salalah via Muscat, with airfares starting averaging Dh1,520 over this long weekend.
 
Beirut, Lebanon
 
Get your groove on for a weekend of decadence in Beirut this three-day break and recharge your batteries to beat the Monday morning blues next week.
 
Nothing beats the funky tunes that blast from the clubs of Monot or the bar hopping scene at Gemmayzeh, which promises an über cool night of mayhem.
 
Once the party shoes are stuffed back into the bag, explore the city’s thriving arts and culture scene and if all else fails, a lazy afternoon at any of its bustling streetside cafes are a perfect relaxant as the world passes you by.
 
Flydubai offers direct flights to Beirut with the long weekend priced at a steep Dh2,141 for after work Thursday return fare.
 
Dead Sea, Jordan
 
Soak away your stresses in the medicinal waters of the Dead Sea and pack on some mud for that additional skin exfoliation.
 
The Dead Sea, which is the lowest point on Earth, is a salt-water haven where tourists flock to year round for a treat and a tuck.
 
Most seaside resorts there give residents access to the Dead Sea mud, with comfortable benches erected at a few places to soak up the sun before taking a dip in the saltiest sea on the planet.
 
Do the fun, touristy thing if you dare and pop yourself in for an easy float while reading the newspaper. Everyone, loves to snap that for memories back home.
 
Flights to Amman for the long weekend cost Dh2,190 on Royal Jordania, with a 2.5 hour taxi ride to shuttle you to the Dead Sea.
 
Kathmandu, Nepal
 
Beautiful temples and other visual wonders await, as you bask in the lap of the majestic Himalayas.
 
A must on any trip to capital Kathmandu is visiting the three Durbar Squares, which is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed area.
 
Those who like exploring religious sites must pay homage at the Pashupati nath temple, as well as the Boudhanath Stupa.
 
The rest of the days can be spent exploring the cities side streets for delightful treasures.
 
Flights on flydubai for the long weekend cost Dh1,241.
 
Bentota, Sri Lanka
 
If sun and surf is what you desire, then hop on a flight to the tropical island of Sri Lanka and zip down to the beach town of Bentota.
 
Located on the southwest tip of the island Vivanta by Taj is the ideal luxury getaway on the cheap.
 
Spend the day sunning yourself by the pool, or hop into as tuk tuk to explore the neighbouring villages of Galle and Hikkaduwa.
 
Flights to Colombo via Air Arabia cost Dh1,421 for the upcoming three-day break.

(Image courtesy Shutterstock)

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