9 unforgettable destinations to escape to this summer

'Nothing beats getting away for a summer holiday...'

Let’s face it, whether you’re exploring exotic lands, topping up that tan by the pool (aka slowly burning to a crisp if you’re like us) or unleashing your inner Britney at the karaoke bar (oops… we did it again), nothing beats getting away for a summer holiday. And, with the airport just a coach journey away, escaping to sunnier climes has never been easier!

We have brilliant fares to each of the UK’s major airports, leaving you with plenty of pennies to spend on a souvenir (or ten). But, if you’re wondering where on earth to visit this summer, we’ve taken care of that, too. So, cast that holiday brochure aside, close those 20 TripAdvisor tabs – here are nine unforgettable destinations you should jet off to this summer.

Mallorca

The largest of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca is a self-acclaimed playground for grown-ups.

So, round up your mates, get those Inbetweeners-style holiday t-shirts printed and prepare for some serious fun in the sun.

Bursting at the seams with life, Mallorca is home to many buzzing resorts, including S’Arenal, Palma Nova, Cala Millor, and Cala Ratjada, where you can enjoy a range of sports facilities, night-time entertainment and electric clubs.

Or, if exploring the island’s majestic capital city, Palma, is firmly at the top of your list, book yourself into Hostel Fleming where you can get a six person room from as low as £39 a night and it’s just two kilometres from the city centre which, we have to admit, is pretty perfect.

Plus, with our direct services dropping you straight outside the terminal door at the airport, catching the short flight has never been easier.

Image credit: thomson.co.uk

Thailand

Whether you’re into those Thai-hard full moon parties on the beach, or find yourself gravitating towards holidays that are full of long hikes and yoga, Thailand’s the place to go for an activity-packed adventure. Plus, you won’t have to take out another student loan to afford your travel because, bonus, Thailand’s wonderfully cheap! In many cases, you can enjoy yourself on just over £20 a day and sometimes even less, as so many attractions are free.

We’d also recommend you head to Khao San Road. Described as the ‘backpacking centre of the universe’ you’ll be greeted by a stream of budget-friendly bars, hostels, restaurants and clubs.

Speaking of which, when you’re in the clubs, make sure you grab a ‘booze bucket.’ It’s a small bucket filled with a weird and wonderful mix of Thai whiskey, soda and Red Bull and is possibly the cheapest way to get more booze for your buck.

Of course, you may be tempted to go in classic travelling style for your South-East Asian adventure, carrying everything you can possibly fit on your back. But don’t worry if you’ve gone into full back-packer mode, as our drivers are more than happy to load everything (we have a generous luggage allowance, you know) onto the under bay of the coach – ideal!

Image credit: kuoni.co.uk

Sicily

Sicily pairs wonderful weather with an intriguing mix of Greek temples, Norman churches and Baroque palazzos that you should definitely visit all of, if you get chance.

But, there’s so much more to Sicily than simply its architecture (which is pretty breathtaking, can we just point out). For example, did you know that the capital city, Palermo, has some of the most mouthwatering and deliciously affordable street food going? We’d recommend ChipSweet.

You are, inevitably, going to want to splatter pictures of these all over Instagram and, to be honest, we don’t blame you. Plus, with our on-board power sockets, you can avoid those catastrophic red-bar battery moments by charging your phone on the way to the airport. There’s also Wi-Fi, so you can plan where you’ll hop to the moment you touch down. Ciao, bella!

Image credit: planetware.com

The Bahamas

If laid-back island living sounds like your kind of thing, why not spend your summer relaxing and reviving on the white (and even pink) sands of the Bahamas? You don’t even have to wait until you get to the Caribbean to unwind – it all starts on the way to the airport! Just sit back and our comfy, reclining leather seats will soon work their magic.

Or, if you plan on doing anything but kicking back and relaxing on the sub-tropical islands, there’s plenty of adventure to be had beyond the backdrop of pearly blue seas.

Cable Beach is home to a variety of affordable restaurants, casinos and nightlife opportunities. If you want discounted access to some of the swankiest clubs going, many hotels and even taxi drivers will sell you a pass for just 5 BSD, which equates to roughly £4 – an entry price cheaper than most clubs back in Blighty!

Seriously, the Bahamas can be done on a budget, so maximise the free attractions on offer. Snorkelling equipment provided by the hotel? Breakfast all included? Organised excursions? Go forth, keep the cash firmly in your pocket and enjoy the Bahamas!

Image credit: bahamas.com

The Canary Islands

From seeing Lanzarote’s famous Fire Mountains through to making the most of the wind and riding the waves in Fuerteventura, the Canary Islands offer a whole other world beyond their seafront resorts.

For the thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies, a visit to the world’s best waterpark, Siam Park in Tenerife (according to TripAdvisor) is a must. Whether you want to bob along the Mai Thai River in a rubber ring while gossiping with the girls, or speed through a huge aquarium of sharks and rays on the Tower of Power, making a splash has never been so fun!

Image credit: getsready.com

Paris

Easily one of Europe’s most popular and beautiful spots, France is ideal for a summer holiday getaway. And, we ask you, is there really anywhere better to take in the country’s cultural and artistic flair than the magnificent capital itself?

You may be surprised, but Paris doesn’t have to be expensive either, and we’d recommend you stay in the beautifully boutique Plug Inn in Montmartre. As a great base for exploring the city, the hostel offers stylishly decorated and modern rooms with free Wi-Fi, breakfast and fluffy towels. Plus, you can even enjoy a a stylish and comfortable coach journey the whole way to the city with us!

If you want to sprinkle some magic into your holiday, a few days enjoying the theme parks and film studios of Disneyland Paris certainly won’t go amiss. This year marks the park’s 25th anniversary and to celebrate, they’re offering incredible deals including 25% off your hotel and tickets this summer. Not bad, right?

Image credit: mirror.co.uk

Ibiza

It’s the self-acclaimed all day, all night party island and if you and your mates are looking to let loose this summer, we promise that Ibiza will take care of you.

With a jam-packed party calendar and all-star celebrity appearances, you could easily find yourself burning up the dance floor to the likes of Sven Väth, Rudimental and Fatboy Slim.

Or, if you’re partying on a budget, visit Kanya Beach Resort, located in San Antonio. With free entry on the weekends, you can enjoy awesome music beside a poolside social hub . Plus, you’re just 10 feet away from the deep blue sea – bonus!

Image credit: lonelyplanet.com

Cyprus

As the birthplace of Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love, it makes sense that you should expect to fall head over heels for Cyprus.

With golden sands and turquoise waters, the coastline stretches for hundreds of kilometres, so make the most of it and go snorkelling – there’s a whole other world waiting underwater (note: make sure you go snorkelling as opposed to diving, the latter will set you back about 70 euros just for an introductory course)!

Image credit: atostogu.lt

Portugal

From basking in the idyllic scenery pictured above (need we even say more?), to experiencing cultural gratification at its finest in the beautiful and historic capital of Lisbon, a holiday in Portugal can be whatever you want it to be.

If charming and traditional is your kind of thing, we’d recommend visiting Tavira, whilst Lagos in southern Portugal is ideal if you’re looking for a lively beach resort with an wild party scene.

On a separate note, here’s a fun fact for the Harry Potter fans out there! Did you know that Porto, the town that gave the country (and port wine) its very name, served as major inspiration for the magical novels?

Image credit: absolutportugal.com

We know, we know!

How can you possibly choose a destination with such an impressive line-up like that? We understand. But one thing you can guarantee, without any hesitation or doubt, is a seat on the coach to the airport. No pre-flight drama or hanging around until the cows have actually come home, just smooth sailing straight to the terminal doors.

And, when you’re living it up abroad and getting your photography skills sharpened up, send one to @nationalexpress, ok?