The hustle and bustle of London is part of the city’s charm and provides an exciting lifestyle for those looking to explore a diverse range of cultural highlights. Even for the most ardent Londoners, however, a short trip abroad can offer a welcome escape from the non-stop pace of city life. Here we look at some of the best options for weekend getaways offering much-needed rest and relaxation as well as how to avoid any unwanted anxieties that may come attached.
Taking flights abroad for short breaks, for instance, can often be fraught with concern for passengers who may be anxious about losing precious holiday time to delays. Companies like Flightright, for example, work to protect passenger rights by offering legal assistance with no cost risk to the consumer. They allow people to rest easy in the knowledge that should there be a flight cancellation, Flightright will be able to quickly enforce a compensation claim against the airline at fault. Holidaymakers can focus on enjoying their trip without having to worry about having to jump through hoops to press a claim.
Dubrovnik
Although technically a city break, Dubrovnik’s rustic charm and small-town feel combined with its pristine location by the Adriatic Sea makes it the ideal location for a relaxing getaway. The temperate Croatian climate provides the perfect conditions for a dip in the sea or swimming pool as well as wonderful sun-bathing weather. Its historic limestone streets are littered with exquisite restaurants for delicious evening meals, all within the stunning surrounds of the ancient city walls.
Those with a bit more time on their hands can even take a ferry trip to one of Croatia’s many picturesque islands including Hvar and Korcula for a more secluded getaway. The beauty of Dubrovnik is less than a three-hour flight away from London and can offer an exotic escape without the need for an extensive journey.
Heraklion (Crete)
Heraklion, the so-called jewel of Crete, is a little further away with a near-four hour flight time but offers fantastic rewards to the travellers willing to be patient. The island of Crete offers countless beaches and scenic views along the glittering Mediterranean coast. It provides fresh, seafood cuisine amongst its ancient, cobbled paths and a welcoming atmosphere borne of the generous, hospitable Greek culture.
Black Forest (Stuttgart)
For those looking for a different kind of relaxation to the sun and sea, the Black Forest provides the perfect escape for a walking holiday amongst the woodland. Its extensive miles of forest trails are filled with pounding waterfalls, rocky time-worn vistas and charming timber farmhouses. Indeed, the story of Hansel and Gretel is said to have drawn inspiration from the Black Forest and its varied, fast-changing landscape certainly makes it an obvious candidate for a fairytale world. London to Stuttgart can take as little as 90 minutes and from there the relaxation of log cabins and the woodland canopy in the Black Forest is just a short drive away.
Whichever the best way for you to unwind there are plenty of restful options a short journey away from London. For those looking for a short break from the pressures of city life, these locations offer a sample of the delights which await.
