Skip the usual route and turn a regular trip into an adventure.
The best adventures often hide just around the corner. Skip the usual route, hop on a train, catch a quick flight, or cross into a nearby country, you never know what surprises are waiting. Every little detour can turn a regular trip into a story full of unexpected twists, secret spots, and moments you will never forget. Below are some fun detours you can try on your next adventure.
London to Paris
One of the most classic detours you can take is travelling from London to Paris on the Eurostar. This high-speed train journey takes just over two hours and is one of the fastest and easiest ways to travel between the UK and France. The journey itself is part of the fun, and arriving in Paris means instant access to world-famous sights, cafés, museums, and romantic streets. It’s an iconic and unforgettable way to add another country to your trip.
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Qatar to Saudi
After the UAE, Qatar and Saudi are among the busiest travel hubs in the GCC. If you are visiting Doha, it’s easy to add a quick trip to Saudi Arabia. Riyadh is just a 1.5-hour flight away, while Jeddah is around 2.5 hours. This detour lets you experience Doha’s culture and museums, then explore Saudi’s growing tourism scene in one trip.
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Tokyo to Kawagoe
Tokyo is one of the most popular cities in the world and a must-visit for any traveller. But if you want to see something different and avoid big crowds, Kawagoe is a great choice! Only 1.5 hours away by train or car, Kawagoe is known as “Little Edo” thanks to its well-preserved historic area. Walk along old streets, see traditional buildings, and enjoy local sweet potato snacks. It feels like stepping back in time.
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Taipei to Taroko Gorge
Taipei is well known as a business and technology hub, with a strong food scene, shopping, and lively night markets. If you have extra time, take a just over two-hour train ride to Taroko Gorge. Located in Taroko National Park, it’s one of Taiwan’s natural wonders, with marble cliffs, bright blue rivers, hiking trails, and insight into the island’s Indigenous cultures. It’s the perfect nature escape from the city.
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Nairobi to Maasai Mara
If you are travelling to Kenya, Nairobi is usually the starting point but the real magic begins when you head to the Maasai Mara. This world-famous safari destination is an easy add-on, just a 45-minute flight or a 5–6 hour scenic drive from the capital. It’s one of the best places in the world for a first safari, and a detour that turns a city trip into an once-in-a-lifetime wildlife adventure.
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Dubai to Hatta
Escape the city and head to Hatta, just 90 minutes' drive away, where the Hajar Mountains meet serene waters. Hike scenic trails, kayak on Hatta Dam, explore the heritage village, or get your adrenaline pumping with mountain biking, wall climbing, and even axe-throwing at Hatta Wadi Hub. For a luxurious stay, book the JA Hatta Fort Hotel and enjoy a night surrounded by nature in style.
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UAE to Oman
Oman is becoming more popular for its incredible natural beauty. The country offers deserts, mountains, beaches, wadis, and historic villages. You can hike, swim, bike, see whale sharks, watch turtles nesting, or explore ancient towns. Oman is easy to reach from the UAE with a four-hour drive or a 1.5-hour flight, making it a perfect short detour.
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New York to Barbados
Barbados may seem far away, especially from the GCC, but it’s surprisingly close if you are already travelling to the US East Coast. From New York City, the flight takes just 4.5 hours. You will find beautiful beaches, tasty Bajan food, a famous rum distillery, and a vibrant culture, plus, it’s the home of global star Rihanna.
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