WHEN it comes to trips abroad, more and more of us are starting to rethink how we spend our holiday days. The two week break is fast becoming a thing of the past, and many hard working time-poor professionals are instead opting to invest their money in a number of short, high-quality breaks interspersed throughout the year.
It makes sense really. Why blow all your holiday entitlement in one go when you can spread the enjoyment over the year? With so many city breaks available you could experience a different culture, cuisine and lifestyle once every couple of months.
Those looking for complete escapism should look toward the United Arab Emirates and the jewel in its crown, Dubai. Playground of the rich and famous, Dubai holidays 2013 are all about opulence, first-class service and glamour.
What better way to re-charge your batteries than by visiting a destination that has top-class hotels, a fabulous beach and excursions galore?
Whichever hotel you choose to stay in you can expect high levels of discreet yet attentive service, luxurious rooms and truly outstanding cuisine.
Most hotels offer spa and beauty facilities too so you can enjoy some pampering and experience the kind of lifestyle even a Kardashian would envy.
If you can tear yourself away from the poolside and beach you can take part in a number of adrenalin-inducing daytrips such as Dune Bashing, a rip roaring trip across the desert in a 4×4, or maybe spend an afternoon at Wild Wadi Waterpark with its flumes, rides and lazy river.
Those in search of a more authentic experience may prefer to spend a couple of days in a European destination. Rome city breaks are always a popular option. Jam-packed with sightseeing opportunities, a break in this iconic city — the setting for classic films such as Roman Holiday and Three Coins in the Fountain — will make you feel like you’ve stepped onto a movie set.
Top attractions include the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and, of course, St Peters Square, gateway to Vatican City. Aside from sightseeing there are numerous shopping opportunities, art galleries galore, and restaurants serving everything from traditional pizzas to fine Italian cuisine.
Rome is easy to get around by public transport and navigating the Rome Metro underground network is a fun and affordable way to travel, plus it’ll give you a flavour of what it’s like to live like a Roman. Those who’d rather stay above ground can take a bus or tram or flag down one of the numerous taxi cabs which are readily available.
Wherever you choose to go for your slice of city life, one thing’s for sure, as soon as you return home you’ll be planning your next mini-break. Sampling other cultures is not just life-affirming, it’s highly addictive.
Time is precious and taking time out of your hectic schedule to taste a different way of life is not just money well spent, it’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. The benefit of taking a short break is that you know that when you’re back at work enduring the 9 to 5 grind another great escape could be just around the corner.