After scouring the list of most-searched cities among GCC travellers, we’re sharing our top picks and why.
Winter is coming, bringing with it the same question that also drives our collective summer plans: where to go? If a little travel inspiration is in order, then you can take a cue from your fellow residents across the region thanks to Wego. With the end-of-year travel season on the horizon, the travel app recently shared its research on the top ten cities that GCC travelers are eyeing, many of which echo the return of expats to their home countries for the festive season. But well before that is UAE National Day, translating to a four-day weekend and (yet) another opportunity to explore a whole new destination. Having scoured Wego’s list, we’re taking a closer look at six places perfect for a quick getaway.
Bangkok, Thailand
Hawker carts, harsh neon signs, whizzing tuk-tuks — while the self-proclaimed ‘City of Life’ can feel more like the city of chaos for first-timers, it truly offers something for every type of traveller. From serene temples and frenetic floating markets to Michelin-starred street food vendors and a UNESCO-recognised dance, there’s something to suit every budget, every taste, and every palate. Don’t forget to look beyond the obvious, too. You’ll be rewarded by a rich art and culture scene, an urban forest designed by architecture firm TK Studio, and ingenious concepts that bear witness to the creativity of local youth. Even better? December is the least humid month.
Stay at: The Mustang Blu, where all manner of taxidermy, found objects, antique furniture, vintage books and potted plants create an eclectic setting
See: the works of Thailand’s forgotten photography masters at the charming Kathmandu Photo Gallery
Do: attend a traditional puppetry show at Baan Silapin, a 200-year-old wooden house built on stilts over the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya river
Cairo, Egypt
While Egypt has long held a place of intrigue for history buffs, recent developments have brought it onto the radars of others — not only has the Grand Egyptian Museum just opened its 12 main galleries, but the site has long made headlines globally by hosting an opera performance by soprano Fatma Said and star-studded fashion show by Dior. A spot among the first to visit this gargantuan institution aside, winter is also a great time to browse Cairo’s colourful markets, sample its beloved street food, take a felucca ride on the Nile, and join an off-the-beaten path walking tour thanks to the cooler temperatures.
Stay at: Le Riad Hotel de Charme, where themed suites with custom furniture in the midst of El Gamaliya offer a true taste of Cairo
See: Perception, a sprawling mural by artist eL Seed that pays tribute to Cairo’s garbage collectors
Do: have dinner at Abou El Sid to escape to a welcoming Egyptian home circa 1930, complete with cosy seating and hearty, authentic food
Istanbul, Turkey
‘Magical’ is a word that comes to mind when it comes to Istanbul in winter — with the summer crowds a distant memory, you can explore majestic landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace with a lot more ease. And because temperatures are relatively mild compared to mainland Europe, taking a stroll down the famous Istiklal Street or getting lost in the themed alleys of Grand Bazaar still comes highly recommended. Interestingly, several Turkish traditions are also best enjoyed during the colder months in this typically summer destination, detoxing in a steamy hammam and indulging in a sweet, creamy salep included.
Stay at: the adults-only Bebek Hotel to immerse in 1950s glamour against the backdrop of the Bosphorus
See: The Museum of Innocence, a fictional masterpiece by Orhan Pamuk, come to life through carefully assembled installations at the eponymous museum
Do: go underground to explore Basilica Cistern, an architectural marvel that holds both secrets and stories after serving multiple civilisations.
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Considering A-listers – both local and global – will hit the red carpet for the fourth edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival this December, all eyes will be on the port city of Jeddah. But it’s not just glitz and glam on offer. Architecture enthusiasts can wander the winding alleyways of Al-Balad to take in its wooden towers and coral-stone houses, while adventurers can chase the unforgettable thrills of dune bashing over and across rolling dunes in a 4×4 vehicle. And considering Jeddah’s location along the Red Sea coast, first-timers can discover its famously crystalline waters with snorkeling trips to Jabal Al-Lith and Bayada Island.
Stay at: The Jeddah EDITION to enjoy décor and amenities driven by modern glamour in the city’s most exciting neighbourhood
See: Al Rahma Mosque at night, when it is beautifully illuminated and appears to be floating on sea waves
Do: trek across the narrow caves and otherworldly rock formations that make for a uniquely lunar landscape in Moon Valley
Lahore, Pakistan
Dating back to 1000 BCE, Lahore was once the prosperous capital of the powerful Mughal Empire, translating to a treasure trove of museums and historic sites complemented by live music venues, indigenous craft stores, contemporary art galleries, and unique spiritual traditions rooted in Sufism. And then there’s the epic food scene and renowned hospitality that captivates first-time tourists in this cultural capital. Incidentally, Pakistan’s tourism potential remains far from tapped, but with the recent launch of its national tourism brand and an online visa system that’s now open for citizens of 192 countries, this is a South Asian city that won’t remain undiscovered for long.
Stay at: the art-filled Wusaaq, a boutique hotel designed to echo the Indian subcontinent’s mid-century grandeur
See: what makes the Attari-Wagah Border ceremony so unique — it’s surprisingly festive considering the contentious India-Pakistan relationship
Do: take the History by Night tour for an especially atmospheric exploration of the labyrinthine Walled City.
London, England
With tourist crowds at a minimum come winter, London is well worth visiting again — pop-up ice skating rinks, cheery Christmas markets, festive pantomimes, and classic theatre with a seasonal twist only add to its enduring appeal. And the culture quest continues after dark as several museums and art galleries open late, with talks, performances, workshops, films and DJ sets ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Bonus: the beloved tradition of afternoon tea makes for the perfect winter pick-me-up, so be sure to try some of the themed offerings (the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych is a favourite among families).
Stay at: Artist Residence to rest your head amongst unique works of contemporary art by leading local artists
See: the city from Level 52 of The Shard at GŎNG Bar, where colour’s role in history and culture is celebrated through ten carefully curated cocktails
Do: catch the world’s longest running play, The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie, at St. Martin’s Theatre
