AMMAN, JORDAN

Amman is a city steeped in rich history and culture. With its ancient Roman ruins, bustling markets and modern skyscrapers, this city offers visitors a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored. Begin your journey at the Citadel where you’ll find the remnants of ancient civilisations such as the iconic Roman Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace. Continue with a visit to the Roman Theatre, a majestic amphitheatre carved into the hillside, where ancient gladiators once commanded crowds with spectacular performances. In downtown Amman, you’ll find the lively markets of Al Balad that dates back thousands of years. Surrounded by the seven hills of Amman, it is home to hundreds of street vendors showcasing their wares along a maze of narrow alleyways. While here, take the opportunity to sample some authentic Jordanian street food. For nightlife, venture to a rooftop café for panoramic views of the city. With its blend of ancient history and modern charm, Amman promises an unforgettable experience. However, if you feel you’re missing out on other parts of Jordan, opt for day trips to the Dead Sea, the Desert Castles or to the Roman ruins of Jerash.
Gulf Air: 2h 40m | Multiple direct flights to Amman, throughout the week.
GO: VISIT WWW.VISITJORDAN.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

BAKU, AZERBAIJAN

Boasting a rich history and stunning natural beauty, Azerbaijan offers a diverse array of tourist attractions. Its capital city, Baku, has a unique blend of contemporary and historic architecture, where East meets West. This coastal city is a hub of activity and home to the famous Flame Towers, dominating the city’s skyline with their futuristic design, as well as the Museum of Contemporary Art. Kick-start your day with a traditional Azerbaijani breakfast in Baku’s Old City – one of the most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can wander through the narrow streets, marvel at the intricate architecture of the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and visit the historic Maiden Tower. Baku also has the world’s greatest concentration of mud volcanoes and the ones at Dashgil near the Gobustan reserve, are a must-see. For nature lovers, the resort town of Gabala, nestled in the Caucasus Mountains, offers a serene escape with its refreshing air, scenic vistas and outdoor recreational activities. With plenty to see and do, from modern art galleries and ancient churches to theatres and cafés, Azerbaijan is a perfect little getaway to enjoy a few days of culture.
Gulf Air: 3h 45m | Direct flight to Baku, once a week.
GO: VISIT WWW.TOURISMBOARD.AZ AND WWW.AZERBAIJAN.TRAVEL FOR MORE INFORMATION.

CYPRUS

Renowned for its stunning beaches, rich history and lively traditions, Cyprus offers many delights for tourists. Paphos, a coastal gem has a wealth of archaeological sites, such as the House of Dionysus and Tombs of the Kings – both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, housing intricate mosaics depicting mythological scenes. Close by is another popular landmark, Aphrodite’s Rock, a definite must-see. Enjoy seaside charm with Limassol’s lively promenade, vibrant nightlife and the historic Limassol Medieval Castle, a relic of the Crusader era. Further inland, the Troodos Mountains attract adventurers with their impressive landscapes, scenic hiking trails and ancient monasteries. They’re also home to quaint mountain villages like Kakopetria, Platres and the popular Omodos, known for its cobblestoned streets, traditional architecture and local vineyards. Of course, no visit to Cyprus is complete without exploring the breathtaking beaches of Ayia Napa, known for their crystalline waters and lively beach bars. Finally, the capital city, Nicosia, merges modernity with antiquity, featuring the Cyprus Museum and the historic Venetian Walls surrounding the old city. From music concerts to festivals, Cyprus has plenty happening in April to keep you entertained.
Gulf Air: 3h 35m | Direct flight to Larnaca, three times a week.
GO: VISIT WWW.VISITCYPRUS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

DOHA, QATAR

Just a hop, skip and jump away from Bahrain is Doha. If you haven’t visited in a while, prepare to be amazed by Doha’s dramatic transformation, evidenced in its numerous architectural marvels, swanky restaurants and world-class hotels. Start your journey at Msheireb Downtown Doha, the world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project and one of the smartest cities in the world. Take the tram ride around the area to admire the blend of Qatar’s architectural heritage with modern design and visit the must-see Msheireb Museums. From here, head to Mina District, also known as the Santorini of the Middle East, thanks to its pastel-coloured buildings. No trip here is complete without a visit to the stunning Doha Fish Market, featuring stained glass décor! Then continue with a visit to the Museum of Islamic Arts and the National Museum of Qatar. For a look into the future, venture to Lusail City and see the majestic Place Vendôme Mall, the iconic Katara Towers, Lusail Stadium (which hosted the finals of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022), Lusail Boulevard and the space-like Lusail Plaza Towers. Lusail City, along with the entirety of Doha, will leave you in awe.
Gulf Air: 45m | Multiple direct flights to Doha, throughout the week.
GO: VISIT WWW.VISITQATAR.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

GOA, INDIA

India’s smallest state, Goa, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife and rich Portuguese legacy that is evident in its food, Baroque architecture, old forts, soulful fado music and cathedrals. Begin in North Goa, where lively beaches like Baga, Calangute and Anjuna will capture your heart with their golden sands and azure waters. At night, the beach shacks come alive with music, dance and delicious seafood, offering a taste of Goa’s legendary social life. For tranquillity, head to South Goa’s pristine beaches like Palolem and Agonda, where the only soundtrack is the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. For a glimpse into Goa’s colonial past, explore Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting majestic Portuguese-era churches and cathedrals like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Sé Cathedral de Santa Catarina. Venture inland to experience lush forests, spice plantations and quaint villages. Don’t miss the spice gardens of Ponda or the jungle safari in the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. No trip to Goa is complete without sampling its Indo-Portuguese cuisine. Don’t miss the infamous vindaloo or xacuti. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation or a cultural immersion, Goa promises an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve bid farewell to its shores.
Gulf Air: 3h 45m | Direct flight, four days a week.
GO: VISIT WWW.GOATOURISM.GOV.IN FOR MORE INFORMATION.

GREECE

A country steeped in mythology and history; Greece boasts a plethora of attractions that draw visitors to its shores. Top on the list of things to do is the Acropolis of Athens, an ancient hilltop citadel with iconic monuments, including the Parthenon, symbolising classical Greek civilisation. Explore the ancient ruins of Delphi, home to the sanctuary of Apollo and the Oracle, renowned for its stunning mountain views. Don’t forget to experience the birthplace of the Olympic Games, Olympia, which features ancient ruins such as the Temple of Zeus and the original Olympic stadium. And for a glimpse into Greece’s mediaeval past, check out the fortified town of Mystras, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with Byzantine marvels. Greece, of course, is renowned worldwide for its beautiful and varied islands. From Corfu’s lush landscapes and Crete’s ancient charm to Mykonos’ vibrant nightlife and Santorini’s romantic sunsets, there’s something for everyone in this Mediterranean paradise. The International Day for Monuments and Sites, also known as World Heritage Day, is celebrated on April 18 worldwide and Greece offers free entrance to its numerous archaeological sites and museums. So, don’t miss this opportunity to soak in some culture.
Gulf Air: 4h 30m | Multiple direct flights to Athens, throughout the week.
GO: VISIT WWW.VISITGREECE.GR FOR MORE INFORMATION.

ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE

A capital city bridging two continents, Istanbul is steeped in rich history, culture and beauty. At its heart lies the famous Hagia Sophia with its grand dome and intricate mosaics – a stunning monument that over the centuries has been a church, a mosque and a museum. Nearby is the iconic Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), featuring six minarets, cascading domes and beautiful blue tiles. The imperial Topkapi Palace and the iconic Galata Tower are equally impressive and beg exploration. For a taste of the local culture, visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world. Wander through a maze of colourful shops selling everything from spices to carpets – don’t forget your Turkish Delight! Experience the vibrant energy of Istiklal Avenue with its eclectic mix of boutiques, historic buildings, restaurants and cafes – perfect for strolling and shopping. Below the city’s streets, take in the grandeur of Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir, with its striking columns and mysterious atmosphere. Finally, enjoy a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait for breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. While you’re there, don’t miss the International Tulip Festival held throughout April, with more than 20 million tulips in full bloom across the city – it’s a sight to behold!
Gulf Air: 4h 20m | Multiple direct flights to Istanbul, throughout the week.
GO: VISIT WWW. GOTURKIYE.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

OMAN

Considered a hidden gem of the Gulf, Oman is a treasure trove of tourist attractions with breathtaking natural beauty. Start with the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, featuring one of the world’s largest chandeliers. Standing tall in the north is Jebel Shams, the country’s highest peak, offering stunning views of the Wadi Ghul canyon, often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Arabia. Not far away, explore the historic city of Nizwa with its famous fort and bustling souqs. Soak in some culture at the magnificent Royal Opera House Muscat with world-class performances. Of course, a trip to Salalah in the Dhofar region is an absolute must. Although, the city comes alive during the Khareef season (monsoon) from June onwards, you can still enjoy a day out at Marneef Cave close to Mughsail Beach and Blowholes or picnic at Fazayah Beach with camels for company! From dune bashing and desert safaris at Wahiba Sands, to wildlife spotting of nesting green turtles at Ras al Jinz, Oman promises a world of fun and adventure for any traveller. April is also a great time to enjoy Jebel Al Akhdar’s rose season and witness the harvesting of the fragrant Damask rose.
Gulf Air: 1h 30m | Multiple direct flights to Muscat, throughout the week.
GO: VISIT WWW. EXPERIENCEOMAN.OM FOR MORE INFORMATION.