Mykonos, Albuquerque and Leeds are three of national carrier British Airways’ top 14 for 2014.
Claire Bentley, British Airways Holidays managing director, said: “Next year is all about vibrant destinations – it’s time to go big, or go home! All eyes will be on Brazil with the World Cup taking place; we’re even planning extra capacity to fly out supporters. There’s also eagerly anticipated new flights to Texas, and top European destinations just in time for summer. For the adventurous traveller there’s still plenty to discover in destinations such as Johannesburg and Chengdu. We’re also upping services to popular destinations including Orlando, Ibiza and Marrakech.”
British Airways top destinations for 2014 are:
Leeds, UK
Just an hour’s flight away and you could be digging for Roman coins, visiting unique breweries and enjoying countryside walks – all in Britain. Boosted by popular TV including Educating Yorkshire and Downtown Abbey as well as the arrival of the Tour de France’s Grand Depart in July, it’s no surprise that Yorkshire came third in Lonely Planet’s top destinations for 2014.
Flights to Leeds from London start from £94 return.
Austin, USA
The self-proclaimed ‘live music capital of the world’ is booming right now. From hundreds of live music venues to barbeque pits and gleaming shopping centres, as well a growing technology industry in the ‘Silicone Hills’. The Texan capital has drawn a young hip crowd thanks to the popularity of its South by Southwest festival.
From March, British Airways will operate its new 787 Dreamliner on the route, with flights from £537 return.
Johannesburg, South Africa
The imminent film release of ‘Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’ is a timely reminder of the social regeneration the country has undergone. There’s so much to discover in this vibrant city, from the Apartheid Museum to the world heritage site of the Cradle of Humankind, as well as game reserves and safaris.
From February, British Airways’ A380 will operate the route, with flights from £637 return.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Caiprinhas at the ready – revellers from around the world will descend on Brazil, for the ‘Copa do Mundo’, which comes to a climax in Rio on July 13. Despite its many cultural attractions, the reason to come in 2014 is to enjoy the party atmosphere and camaraderie among 25,000 British fans, cheering on Roy Hodgon’s men.
British Airways flights to Rio de Janeiro start from £927 return in June.
Albuquerque, USA
Thanks to its cult following Breaking Bad has put Albuquerque on the map and boosted local tourism. But there’s more to New Mexico than chicken shops and car washes – it boasts spas, golf courses, dormant volcanoes, hot air ballooning, ghost tours, sunshine 310 days a year and, of course, tours from the programme.
British Airways operates services to Dallas and Chicago, with connecting flights to Albuquerque with American Airlines, from £574.
Chengdu, China
In the next seven years, China will become the most popular tourist destination, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation. With high-end hotels such as the Ritz Carlton and Six Senses popping up in Chengdu – now’s the time for intrepid travellers to discover this Eastern mystery. While many come for the giant panda sanctuary, British Airways flights have also opened up the possibility of onward travel to Tibet and the rest of China too.
Flights to Chengdu from London start from £591 return.
Las Vegas, USA
When you thought it couldn’t get any better, Britney Spears comes along and announces a two-year residency in Las Vegas. This isn’t the only new attraction – there’s the Aria Hotel and soon-to-open Gordon Ramsay’s Plane Food at McCarran international airport.
Three nights’ room only at the Aria Hotel is from £967 per person, including British Airways flights between January 3 and 6, 2014.
Santorini, Greece
The romantic and magical island of Santorini is expected to be one of the BA’s most popular honeymoon destinations, when it launches in May. The warm reception and great value for money still make Greece one of the top destinations for Britons.
Seven nights’ B&B at the 4* Scorpios Beach Apartments & Studios is from £399 per person, including flights from Heathrow in June
Glasgow, Scotland
Get among the Scottish spirit when the Commonwealth Games come to town on July 23. One of Europe’s most vibrant cities, enjoy a warm friendly welcome and good times.
British Airways operates flights from Heathrow, Gatwick and London City, from £77 return.
Oporto, Portugal
The historic town of Oporto is enjoying somewhat of a renaissance. Wine lovers have long enjoyed its charms and from March British Airways customers will be able to as well.
Three nights’ B&B at the 4* Mercure Porto Centro is from £299, including flights in June.
Hong Kong, China
There’s still so much to discover in Hong Kong. From the rawness of Kowloon market, to the luxury of the Four Seasons Hotel, there’s something for everyone.
Big in 2014 is the merging of venues, such as Duddel’s art-gallery-cum-restaurant, one of many collaborations to seek out.
British Airways’ A380 superjumbo serves the route, with flights from £563 return.
Moscow, Russia
Russia may not instantly come to mind when you think of ski and snowboarding breaks, but the Sochi Winter Olympics has raised its profile as a serious contender for thrill seekers. Moscow is home to the centrally located ‘Three Hills’ resort, or take a quick connecting flight to Sochi with its ‘Rosa Khutor’ resort.
British Airways flights to Moscow start from £229 return in February – connecting flights to Sochi are available using the airline’s codeshare partner S7 Airlines.
