British Airways unveils selection of 19 must-see destinations for 2019

British Airways unveils selection of 19 must-see destinations for 2019

LONDON, UK, 2018-Oct-05 — /Travel PR News/ — British Airways has revealed its annual travel predictions for the year ahead, selecting the top 19 must-see destinations for 2019.

Highly-anticipated events and new routes shape the list, which includes everything from the popular party hotspot of Las Vegas, to the budding land of Osaka and the romantic retreat of the Seychelles.

Durban features on the list for the first time and is a must see for 2019. Located on South Africa’s sublime Indian Ocean coast, 350 miles south-east of Johannesburg, Durban is a tropical, urban gem offering upmarket guesthouses, trendy bars and stylish restaurants overlooking the azure ocean and sweeping beaches.

For those wanting to stick closer to home, Cologne and Kos are tipped for popularity next year with the introduction of British Airways direct flights.

Claire Bentley, managing director of British Airways Holidays, said: “Holiday-makers are always looking for top tips to explore the latest and coolest destinations. Our short list plays a part in the detailed planning for our new routes in the year again as we sift through scores of destinations around the world to find out where are our customers are planning to go, and which up-and-coming cities to add to our worldwide network.”

“Our travel experts review each and every destination to determine the next breakout place to visit, and we have a brilliant mix of new and everyday popular destinations that we believe will be big for 2019.”

Customers can use British Airways Holidays to tailor-make their itinerary; stopping off at cities around the globe, adding car hire where needed and booking accommodation from a huge choice of hotels. With holidays that won’t break the bank, a deposit of just £150 will secure a break away.

British Airways Top 19 for 2019 features:

  • ·       Durban
  • ·       Pittsburgh
  • ·       Osaka
  • ·       Marrakech
  • ·       Seychelles
  • ·       Barbados
  • ·       Toronto
  • ·       Edinburgh
  • ·       Sofia
  • ·       Salzburg
  • ·       Malta
  • ·       Cologne
  • ·       Sydney
  • ·       Croatia
  • ·       Kos
  • ·       Cancun
  • ·       Las Vegas
  • ·       Dubai
  • ·       Tokyo

Destination information and packages

Durban

Located on South Africa’s sublime Indian Ocean coast, 350 miles south-east of Johannesburg, Durban is a tropical, urban gem offering upmarket guesthouses, trendy bars and stylish restaurants overlooking the azure ocean and sweeping beaches. The city offers an array of festivals along with unbeatable surfing in warm waters along the Golden Mile.

Traditional afternoon tea is offered across the city, a throwback to the city’s colonial past, and a bowl of bunny chow is a must to finish off any day in Durban. The signature dish is a fusion between South African and Indian cuisine, made up of a loaf of soft white bread filled with spicy curry. British Airways will be the only airline offering a direct service to the city from October 29.

British Airways Holidays offers five nights at the 5* The Oyster Box £1269 per person, travelling on selected dates in March. Includes World Traveller return flights from Heathrow and accommodation with breakfast. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com/southafrica or call 0844 493 0787.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £461

Pittsburgh

A brand-new route for British Airways in 2019, Pittsburgh has a thriving arts, culture and food scene as well as vast range of outdoor activities afforded by the great rivers, green valleys and majestic mountains. Pittsburgh has also been labelled ‘Robot City’ as Google and Uber have campuses in the region and numerous other tech start-ups have established headquarters in the river valley town. The airline will be flying direct to the thriving city four times a week from April 2019.

British Airways Holidays offers three nights at the 4.5* Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh, from £879 per person, travelling May 1 to May 30. Includes World Traveller return flights from Heathrow and accomodation. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com or call 0344 493 0123.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £814

Osaka

The Far East is closer than you think with the introduction of British Airways’ direct flights to Osaka, Japan’s second city. Osaka is a city that loves to eat: its unofficial slogan is kuidaore (‘eat until you drop’) and was recently named as the third most liveable city in the world.

Must dos include a stroll around Osaka castle, a visit to Universal Studios and a visit to one of the many animal petting cafes. When night falls the city lights up which is perfect to soak up the sights with a locally brewed saké. British Airways’ four per week service takes off from March 31 2019.

British Airways Holidays offers four nights at the 5* Hyatt Regency Osaka https://www.britishairways.com/en-gb/destinations/hotel-information/Osaka/Hyatt Regency Osaka/JP-OSA-6121234, from £979 per person, travelling on selected dates in June. Includes World Traveller return flights from Heathrow and accommodation. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com  or call 0844 493 0787.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £599

Marrakech

Few places are quite like Marrakech and offer so much mystery and mystique for each new visitor. Just a few hours flying time from the UK, Marrakech is an exotic gateway to Africa with mountains, desert and opulent architecture. With so much on offer there is something for everyone –  hike up the Atlas mountains, barter in the buzzing souqs, explore the ancient medina lanes or relax in a hammam.  Between activities visitors can sleep in the famous riads, relax on panoramic roof gardens and feast on tasty tagines. British Airways now offers more Morocco with four direct flights per week from Heathrow launching on October 28, in addition to the eight flights per week from Gatwick.

British Airways Holidays offers three nights at the 5* Palais Aziza & Spa from £299 per person, travelling January 7 to January 30. Includes Euro Traveller return flights from Gatwick and accommodation with breakfast. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com/Marrakech or call 0344 493 0125.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £100

Seychelles

A paradise for honeymooners, families and sun worshippers, the Seychelles is famous for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters and colourful coral reefs. Made up of 115 diverse individual islands, there is something on offer for holidaymakers seeking ultimate relaxation or adventure, from snorkeling and scuba diving to wandering through exotic markets or relaxing on the blissful shores of the numerous white beaches. British Airways is the only airline to fly directly to the Seychelles from the UK.

British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at the 5* Constance Ephelia Hotel from £2069 per person, travelling on selected dates in May. Includes World Traveller return flights from Heathrow and accommodation with Half Board. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com/seychelles or call 0344 493 0778.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £458

Barbados

Discover the best of Barbados with British Airways direct flights. Ringed by glittering azure waters, white-sand beaches fringed with palm trees and lush greenery, this genteel island makes for a truly special holiday. Those looking for action will find exhilarating watersports, whilst those looking for relaxation will love the sandy shores and gentle surf. Soak up the history in Bridgetown, enjoy a spot of afternoon tea at a 17th-century plantation before heading to the legendary Fish Fry for dinner. Wander the scene with a Barbadian rum whilst enjoying the energetic Calypso background music.

British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at the 4* Beach View from £979 per person, travelling on selected dates in June. Includes World Traveller return flights from Gatwick and accommodation. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com/barbados or call 0344 493 0120.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £549

Toronto

Treat yourself with a trip to Toronto, the biggest city in Canada and a metropolis with fantastic art, culture, sightseeing, restaurants and nightlife. Time your visit during the star-studded Toronto Film Festival, which draws global crowds and is one of the largest publicly attended film festivals in the world attracting over 480,000 people annually. With British Airways now offering direct flights from Gatwick as well as Heathrow to Toronto year round , find your way to a vibrant city which is perfect during sunny summer days or snowy winter evenings.

British Airways Holidays offers four nights at the 3.5* Park Inn by Radisson Toronto-Markham  from £599 per person, travelling May 1 to May 31. Includes World Traveller return flights from Gatwick and accommodation. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com/toronto or call 0344 493 0122.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £403

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city that begs to be explored. From the vaults and wynds in the old town to the urban villages, it’s filled with quirky nooks and cosy cafés. With a history dating back over a thousand years, Scotland’s remarkable capital is also one of its oldest cities. This is reflected in the stunning architecture, from the medieval castle on Castle Rock to the Georgian tenements in Stockbridge and beyond. As well as sightseeing there are top shops, world-class restaurants and an abundance of bars that are a welcome respite from the Scottish bluster.

British Airways Holidays offers three nights at the 5* The Edinburgh Grand from £399 per person, travelling March 1 to March 31. Includes Euro Traveller return flights from Heathrow and accommodation. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com/edinburgh or call 0344 493 0125.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £96

Sofia

Bulgaria’s laid-back capital is often overlooked by visitors, but they’re missing something special. Sofia is a cultured city, with domed churches, Ottoman mosques and monuments that lend an eclectic, exotic feel. Sofia is an hour and 45 minutes drive to Plovdiv, a European Capital of Culture for 2019.

Sofia is also a mountain town. Peaks over 2,000 metres high rise directly south of the city, and a cable car takes visitors directly into the Vitosha massif from the suburb of Simeonovo. These mountains contain some of Europe’s cheapest skiing.

British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at the 4* MPM Sport from £499 per person, travelling January 4 to March 15. Includes Euro Traveller return flights from Gatwick and accommodation with Half Board. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com or call 0344 493 0125.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £74

Salzburg

Historic Salzburg is a firm favourite for those seeking a varied European break. With its world-famous Alpine setting and historic baroque buildings and architecture offers something for ski fans and culture seekers. Salzburg boasts a unique charm and appeal, making it unsurprising that it is a listed UNESCO World Heritage site.

Beyond Salzburg’s most famous exports – Mozart and The Sound of Music – there is a city with a burgeoning arts scene, wonderful food, manicured parks, quiet side streets and concert halls.

British Airways Holidays offers three nights at the 5* Sacher Salzburg from £499 per person, travelling January 5 to February 12. Includes Euro Traveller return flights from Heathrow and accommodation with breakfast. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com/salzburg

Return flights in World Traveller start from £61

Malta

Discover remarkable history, glistening hidden coves and timeless villages by visiting Malta, one of the smallest counties in the world and a melting pot of Mediterranean culture. Made up of three tiny Islands on the southern edge of Europe, Malta packs glorious variety into its small archipelago. You’ll find prehistoric temples, fossil-studded cliffs, hidden coves, thrilling scuba diving and a history of remarkable intensity. This remarkable city is small and easy to explore on foot, bursting with ancient palaces and baroque churches.

British Airways Holidays offers three nights at the 4* The Saint John from £399 per person, travelling January 3 to March 18. Includes Euro Traveller return flights from Gatwick and accommodation with breakfast. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com/malta or call 0344 493 0125.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £91

Cologne

Known for its art, history and architecture, visitors to Cologne can immerse themselves in the avant-garde before enjoying a dish of the local speciality Himmel un Ääd, mashed potato with apple sauce and sausage. For those with a sweeter tooth, a trip to the famous chocolate museum is a must before spending the evening at one of the many beer halls experiencing the liberal Rhinelander spirit, or soaking up the party atmosphere in one of the countless bars or restaurants. No other German city has as many pubs per capita.

British Airways has announced it will be adding a new four-per-week service from Gatwick airport to the winter break hotspot, located on both sides of the Rhine, from November 16, 2018.

British Airways Holidays offers three nights at the 5* Hyatt Regency Cologne from £299 per person, travelling January 3 to February 22. Includes Euro Traveller return flights from Heathrow and accommodation. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com or call 0344 493 0125.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £58.06

Sydney

Spectacularly draped around a magnificent harbour and beaches, Sydney has a huge amount to offer with its unique character. As the capital of New South Wales, Sydney is the largest city in Australia and is famous for its superb beaches, its vibrant cultural scene and for its cosmopolitan, international population. Epitomised by the iconic Opera house and Harbour bridge, the city offers fantastic shopping, great nightlife and divine dining. Sydney is the proud host of the Invictus Games this October and has a number of fabulous festivals throughout the year. It may be most famous for its New Year’s Eve fireworks, but Vivid Sydney’s outdoor illuminations or the Biennale art show are equally inspiring.

British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at the 3.5* Arts Hotel from £939 per person, travelling on selected dates in May. Includes World Traveller return flights from Heathrow and accommodation. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com/sydney or call 0844 493 0787.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £711

Croatia

Croatia’s rare blend of glamour and authenticity have made it one of Europe’s hottest holiday destinations. Customers can fly British Airways to the fashionable setting of Game of Thrones, Dubrovnik, to the coastal city of Pula and to the capital Zagreb. Festival fans will be delighted to know that Airways flies directly to Split, situated at the heart of the Dalmatian coast. This city is bursting with energy and a charming Mediterranean vibe set against a backdrop of pine-fringed coastline and mountainous landscape, and is a convenient driving distance to Hideout festival, a leading European music festival.

British Airways Holidays offers three nights at the 5* Hilton Imperial from £499 per person, travelling April 1 to April 30. Includes Euro Traveller return flights from Gatwick and accommodation with breakfast. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com/Dubrovnik

Return flights in World Traveller to Dubrovnik start from £106

Kos

Surrounded by the crystalline blue waters of the Aegean Sea, Kos is an island of endless treasures. Ancient Greek ruins are scattered everywhere you turn, and a mighty medieval castle still watches over the harbour.

Holiday seekers can start plotting their Greek escape now as British Airways recently launched a new route to the island of Kos , with routes operating on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from May 15 through to October 26, 2019.

British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at the 5* Ikos Aria from £1249 per person, travelling June 15 to June 25. Includes Euro Traveller return flights from Gatwick and accommodation with All Inclusive. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com/kos or call 0344 493 0125.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £143

Cancun

Cancun is an endless adventure for the senses set in an area of rich cultural heritage. Alongside the high-rise hotels and world-renowned nightclubs, visitors will find ancient ruins, fresh seafood and delicious cocktails.

With 14 miles of pure white sand, a spectacular barrier reef and myriad of brightly coloured-fish, this Mexican coastal city is heaven for sun-seekers and watersports lovers. Explorers will enjoy the incredible Mayan monuments and temples, including one of the Seven Wonders of the World – Chichén Itzá.

British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at the 4* Allegro Playacar from £929 per person, travelling May 1 to May 31. Includes World Traveller return flights from Gatwick all-inclusive accommodation. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com or call 0344 493 0122.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £606

Las Vegas

See the sights of Sin City with British Airways flights touching down daily. An oasis of indulgence on the desert, Las Vegas’ seduction is unrivalled. The neon strip promises excitement, entertainment, fortune and fame with its epic pool parties, whirlwind casinos, VIP experiences and 24 hour eateries.

The Mojave Desert is a beautiful contrast right on the doorstep, and visitors should venture out to experience the desert heat of the Grand Canyon for an unforgettable experience.

British Airways Holidays offers three nights at the 4* Park MGM Las Vegas, from £599 per person, travelling March 1 to March 31. Includes World Traveller return flights from Heathrow and accommodation. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com/las-vegas or call 0344 493 0122.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £454

Dubai

The epitome of glitz, Dubai is a place that must be seen to be believed. Space-age skyscrapers, endless desert, palm shaped archipelagos, opulent hotels and exceptional service make Dubai an exciting and decadent place to visit. A welcoming, beautiful city with fantastic beaches, year round sunshine and outstanding glamour, Dubai is somewhere that must be visited at least once, or over and over again.

British Airways Holidays offers three nights at the 5* Jumeriah Beach Hotel from £1289 per person, travelling March 1 to March 31. Includes World Traveller return flights from Heathrow and half hoard accomodation. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com/dubai.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £436

Tokyo

Japan’s capital is set to be a popular attraction in 2019 as it hosts a number of matches in the Rugby World Cup. The bustling city mixes the ultramodern and the traditional, from neon-lit skyscrapers and streets thronging with traffic and hordes of pedestrians, to historic temples and traditional culture.

Discover the world’s biggest metropolis through its incredible shops and fine dining – Tokyo has more Michelin stars than any other city – before finding respite in a tranquil Japanese garden, surrounded by candy-floss coloured cherry blossoms trees or by visiting beautiful temples or immerse into soothing spring waters. Tokyo is a city of extremes.

British Airways Holidays offers four nights at the 5* Hyatt Regency Tokyo from £999 per person, travelling on selected dates in June. Includes World Traveller return flights from Heathrow and accommodation. Book by October 31. For reservations visit ba.com/tokyo or call 0844 493 0787.

Return flights in World Traveller start from £820

Contact Details:

For more information please contact press.office@ba.com

Source: British Airways

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