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Photograph: Gettyy/mbbirdy
Photograph: Gettyy/mbbirdy

Four slices of paradise you can travel to right now

Craving a sunny escape? Qatar Airways is on hand to help you secure a well-deserved getaway

Written by Time Out. Paid for by Qatar Airways
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If the two days of British summertime we had this year didn’t quite cut it for you, you’d be forgiven for desperately hunting down a quick and easy getaway. And no, we don’t mean yet another (albeit delightful) Cornwall or Margate staycation.

With special fares to over 140 destinations from London Heathrow, you’ll find your next holiday location in no time at all. Putting your mind at ease with an enhanced on-board cleaning process and flexible booking policy right through to May 2022, Qatar Airways should be high on your list when considering your next abroad jaunt. Not only that, but Qatar was named World’s Best Airline 2021 by Skytrax – so basically, you know you’re in excellent hands. Still not sure where to gallivant off to next? Here are four stunning spots to get you inspired.

Maldives
Photograph: Qatar Airways

1. Maldives

If glistening white sand and clear blue waters are your bag, a trip to Maldives might be in order. A top destination for making romantic memories thanks to the secluded enclaves the country has become known for, it’s also world-famous for the populous marine life that calls the country home - perfect for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. When you’ve had your fill of being pampered, make sure you get your fill of Maldivian cuisine such as the traditional Garudhiya, a fragrant soup cooked with fish most likely caught just that morning.

Economy Class return tickets start from £659.

Seychelles
Photograph: Getty/Simon Dannhauer

2. Seychelles

Beginning to feel the chill of yet another British winter? With all-year-round excellent weather in The Seychelles, just a flight away, there’s no need to suffer through it this year. With temperatures generally sticking around the 30 degree mark, your body will thank you for treating it to a little warmth – and maybe a piña colada while you’re at it. You’ll never run out of things to do on these islands, whether that’s strolling across pristine white beaches, trying local creole delicacies or experiencing the Seychelles’ Carnival in all its glory.

Economy Class return tickets start from £579. 

Sri Lanka
Photograph: iStock/danilovi

3. Sri Lanka

Despite being one of the smallest countries in South Asia, Sri Lanka makes up for it (and more) with the golden beaches of Mirissa and Unawatuna, six UNESCO-protected cultural heritage sites and distinctive cuisine. The island country boasts 26 national parks and two marine parks, where you can catch a glimpse of elephants, leopards and rare birds such as the serpent eagle. Popular street food dishes such as kottu – a Tamil delicacy with chopped roti flatbread, eggs, meat, vegetables and a helping of salna, a tasty masala gravy – will expand your palette while you make your way around this gorgeous destination.

You can discover Sri Lanka with Economy Class fares starting from £649. 

Zanzibar
Photograph: iStock

4. Zanzibar

Beyond its status as an idyllic beach destination, Zanzibar’s history, culture and architecture are huge pulls for this autonomous region of Tanzania. Envelop yourself in Zanzibar’s rich history by visiting the historic Stone Town, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When you’ve had your fill of beachside cocktails, windsurfing and island hopping, lose yourself amongst impressive old palaces, like the Sultan’s Place or the House of Wonders, before buying all manner of trinkets from the nearby bazaars and market stalls, perfect gifts to take home and remind everyone you went on holiday.

Flights to Zanzibar start from £529.

Book now with Qatar Airways

Maximise your time away
Photograph: Qatar Airways

Maximise your time away

Qatar Airways’ stopover packages allow you to turn one holiday into two, offering up to four nights to explore everything that makes Qatar iconic, on top of your original holiday plans at a very reasonable price. Packages start from $14, including luxurious accommodation at four or five-star hotels.

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