WHEN it comes to deciding on a long-haul holiday destination, the choice can be overwhelming – but some of the UK’s top flight crew are on hand with some top recommendations.
Sun Travel spoke to British Airways‘ cabin crew and pilots about their top places to visit when flying long-haul.
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From wine tasting in South Africa to street food in Bangkok, here are some of British Airways’ staff’s top long-haul destinations to explore.
Bangkok, Thailand
The capital of Thailand is known for its vibrant culture with large shrines dotted across the city.
With average highs of 32C to 33C and average lows between 22C and 25C between October and January, Bangkok is a great spot to escape the wet and wind in the UK.
Elizabeth Flynn, Heathrow cabin crew said: “One day you could be at a floating market and the next exploring the jungle or lazing on a beach.
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“The city is modern-meets-traditional, with markets, temples, skyscrapers and a food scene ranging from world-class restaurants to street food stalls.”
One spot Elizabeth recommends heading to Wat Arun or Temple of Dawn, which is a Buddhist temple in the Bangkok Yai district with amazing views.
“If you want to experience Thai culture first-hand, book a cookery class; there are plenty available in Bangkok,” she added.
“I did one at Silom Thai Cooking School and it was so much fun!
“When visiting, I never travel without a fan, mosquito spray and comfy shoes!”
British Airways flies from London Gatwick to Bangkok from £599 return per person.
Cape Town, South Africa
Located on the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town in South Africa features a bustling harbour and a prison island that once held Nelson Mandela.
The destination benefits from high temperatures between 24C and 29C and lows of 15C to 18C between October and January.
And last year, Cape Town was named one of the top best-value destinations by the Post Office Travel Money’s latest Long-Haul Holiday Report.
The report stated: “Thanks to falling local prices and a weaker South African rand, British holidaymakers are seeing costs drop by 12 per cent compared to last year.”
Eoghan Fitzmaurice, inflight lead said: “The weather is fantastic (especially during our winter), the food is fresh and local, and the wine is some of the best in the world.
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“I always recommend restaurants like NV80 and The Nines, and
Duchess of Wisebeach on a Thursday night.”
At sunset, Eoghan recommends heading to Camps Bay.
And a cruise provides great views of Table Mountain.
He added: “Whenever I visit, I always head straight to the vineyards, especially in Franschhoek, where the Wine Tram takes you to different estates.”
British Airways flies from London Heathrow to Cape Town from
£690 return per person.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Home of the iconic Christ the Redeemer landmark, Rio de Janeiro reaches highs of 27C to 30C and lows of between 21C and 24C from October to January.
Emyr Al-Rawazik, BA Cityflyer first officer said: “It has it all – it’s vibrant, energetic and full of life. I love Copacabana Market at night as the beach transforms into a night market with an incredible vibe.
“Sugar Loaf Mountain is a great spot to catch a sunset and you’re also able to watch aircraft complete their final turn to land at Santos Dumont airport… an iconic sight for a pilot.
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“I recently discovered Aprazível, a traditional Brazilian restaurant in the hills above Santa Teresa – the food was incredible and the views even more so.”
For a top shopping spot, Emyr revealed Botafogo is great, as are the street markets, which have lots of handmade items from local vendors.
He added: “For nightlife, The Pink Flamingo is a must – Brazilians are some of the friendliest people you’ll meet.”
British Airways flies from London Heathrow to Rio de Janeiro from £598 return per person.
Nassau, Bahamas
The capital of the Bahamas, Nassau, is known for its natural beauty and being a popular cruise destination.
Between October and January, high temperatures reach between 26C and 31C and lows sit between 18C and 23C.
Nicole Williams, Heathrow cabin crew said: “My favourite destination to visit when I’m not working is anywhere in the Caribbean, especially Nassau in the Bahamas.
“The beaches and sea are pristine, the seafood is so fresh, and I love snorkelling the reefs with turtles.
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“A go-to food spot I always recommend is the Fish Fry – it’s a
long road lined with restaurants serving everything from
fresh seafood to burgers and steaks.”
At sunset, Nicole recommends heading to Cabbage Beach, Cable Beach or Junkanoo Beach for breathtaking views.
She added: “To ensure you have the best visit, I recommend booking a historic tour of Nassau – you’ll learn so much about the rich
history and culture of the island!”
British Airways flies from London Heathrow to Nassau from £766 return per person.
Mumbai, India
Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai in India is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and delicious street food.
Between October and January, visitors can expect high temperatures between 29C and 33C and low temperatures between 19C and 22C.
Swati Sharma, global cabin crew said: “Every visit feels like both a homecoming and a new adventure.
“I love grabbing vada pav from a street stall, sipping chai at
Prithvi Café in Juhu and brunching at Candies in Bandra.
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“Each area has its own character: South Mumbai is full of history and
art galleries, Bandra is effortlessly cool with vibrant street art
and boutique shops, while Andheri is the hub of Bollywood
studios and theatres and has such a creative buzz.”
Swati also shared a top shopping spot – Colaba Causeway – known for its eclectic bargains.
And Lokhandwala Market is also great for suburban style.
They added: “My top tip is to take Mumbai slowly – it’s tempting to rush between monuments and markets, but the city is best enjoyed in unplanned moments.”
British Airways flies from London Heathrow to Mumbai from £479 return per person.
British Airways crew also told us their top European spots – from uncrowded Spanish cities to hidden gem neighbourhoods.
Plus, a Sun reporter headed to a beautiful Italian paradise that has new British Airways flights – and found pretty towns away from the crowds.
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