The Best Destinations to Make the Most of a Stopover

Kiwis have to fly quite a distance to take an adventure outside of our home land. However, this doesn’t need to be a negative. Long-haul flights mean stopovers, and these present the perfect opportunity to slip in a micro holiday on the way to your destination.

Research with 18,000 travellers, including 500 kiwis, conducted by Booking.com, has revealed the five best destinations to spend one magical day. So, stretch out that lay-over, get out of the airport and make the most of every single second of your holiday.

1. Paris, France

Known as the city of love, it is no surprise that the top endorsement for Paris by Booking.com travellers is romance**, making this the perfect getaway for you and your special someone.

Paris is also endorsed for its indulgent food, and almost one in five (17%) said they’d want to go to Paris after being inspired by social media posts. So, if you visit, be sure to take a picture in front of some of the many iconic monuments while tucking in to a Parisian pastry.

Where to stay: If staying on the airport floor isn’t quite your style, then try the stunning My Home for You Luxury B&B. Located in a beautiful 19^th Century building, right in the heart of Paris, these apartments are perfect for making every second of your stopover special. Wake up to daily fresh pastries and enjoy wine tasting sessions, homemade cakes and cheeses, or take a short stroll to the Opera Garnier or the Louvre Museum – dreamy!

2. Sydney, Australia

The sun-kissed city of Sydney was voted as the second-best destination to spend 24 hours. You’ll want to make the most of your stopover by visiting the famous Sydney Harbour, dropping a pretty penny at the many markets and boutiques and, of course, filling up at some of Sydney’s renowned foodie spots. And don’t forget to get the coveted Instagram photo at the oh-so-cool Bondi Icebergs pool.

Where to stay: Bondi Backpackers is the ultimate hostel for those looking to explore this beautiful city. While it is a little journey from the airport (30-40 mins), the amazing location makes it worth the trip (and there’s an easy airport shuttle available on request). Just two minutes’ walk to the beach, travellers are seconds away from the famous sands and surf of Bondi. Offering spacious living areas and panoramic views, this multi-story hostel is the perfect spot to relax for 24 hours in between flights.

3.New York City, USA

Known as the ‘city that never sleeps’, New York is a great place to stay up and make the most of your stopover. Take a trip to famous landmarks such as the Empire State Building or the Statue of Liberty, have a picnic in sunny Central Park or watch your favourite Broadway show. One in five travellers think you can get a good sense of New York in just 24 hours. And 20% say they love the local food and drink, so be sure to stop by the famous one dollar pizza hot spots and hot dog carts!

Where to stay: The chic and modern 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom Times Square apartments are just a short walk away from Restaurant Row, NY Cruise Port and Times Square – meaning you can squeeze all the sights in to your quick trip. Then come back to relax in your spacious apartment with your own living room and a fully equipped kitchen, giving you lots of space and comfort before cramming back in to those dreaded plan seats.

4.Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is famed for its fusion of experiences, from the ultramodern and neon-lit skyscrapers to its historic temples and holy sites. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll be able to experience it all in just one night in Tokyo.

And make sure to fill your quick trip with as much food as possible. With an abundance of Michelin star restaurants as well as cheap street eats, Tokyo is a must for any foodie fanatic. After experiencing the local cuisine, you can enjoy the seasonal Adachi Fireworks, the Tokyo Tower and the Shinjuku Gyoen National Gardens – this eclectic city has something for everyone.

Where to stay: With an impressive seven on-site restaurants, a spa and free-access fitness centre and pool, Palace Hotel Tokyo is the perfect place for guests to eat, relax and get out some extra energy in between flights. Located next door to the Imperial Palace, directly connected to the Otemachi Subway Station, a 10-minute walk to Ginza shopping area and a short train ride away from the popular Akihabara electric town and Tsukiji Fish Market – this hotel is the ideal base to experience everything Tokyo has to offer in one short hit!

5.Gold Coast, Australia

At number five is the beautiful Gold Coast. If you’ve got a stopover in the sunny Gold Coast then you have to hit the beach. Travellers to the Gold Coast loved the friendly locals, warm weather, beaches and local food. The Gold Coast is a brilliant place to reconnect with nature, chill out, and refresh yourself before your next trip.

Where to stay: Set in Beechmont is the luxurious Clouds Safari tent. Featuring a patio, outdoor bath, garden and BBQ, this serene property is perfect for those famous Aussie barbeques watching the sunsets. This unique stay is ideally located with the famous Gold Coast and Surfers Paradise both just a short car ride away. So, get in the Aussie spirit and immerse yourself in the outdoors before you have to board that aeroplane again.