Short Breaks in Distant Lands

It may seem odd at this time of belt tightening, but there has been a huge rise in Brits taking short breaks far away from the usual European hotspots. There are obviously some bargains to be had.

Memphis, Dubai, Hong Kong.

You wouldn't think of these are quick holiday stops, but an increasing number of Britons are trading a long weekend in a European city for somewhere even more exotic.

All of these destinations - and many more outside the Euro zone - can be visited on a 4 or 5 night break that makes a few days in, say, Barcelona seem a bit, well... lightweight.

So, what's the attraction?

Likely the terrific exchange rates for the Pound Sterling, making that holiday money go a lot further.

Add to that a heady mix of shopping, sightseeing and excellent dining and you begin to what all of the fuss is about.

→ Next Page: Nearly Two for One in Tenessee

Memphis: Music to My Ears

Memphis, Tennessee has been called the birthplace of Rock and Roll, yet it's musical root go even deeper.

It's also the spiritual home of the Blues and to some of the biggest names in music history, including of course Elvis Presley.

Graceland: Elvis Presley's home

A short break in this vibrant city is sure to begin a tour of his home, Graceland, where three new tours have been added for 2008.

"Private Presley" shows off Elvis's army fatigues, dress uniforms and other items from his army service.
The '68 Special Exhibit takes a look at Elvis's landmark television event
The Graceland VIP Tour now includes new archive material from Elvis' personal life and wardrobe.

Music lovers will also have to make a pilgrimage to Sun Studio where legends of Rock 'n' Roll made their records, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins.

As night falls, head to Beale Street for an authentic Memphis experience, keeps the city's legend alive.

All of this and more make a Memphis city break a true experience. And, with an exchange rate of nearly two Dollars to the Pound, it's incredible value for money.

A trumpeter plays on Beale Street

→ See our Memphis Destination Guide

→ Next Page: Gold Among the Desert Sands

Shopaholic Days in Dubai

Dubai is the new hot spot for city break holidays, boasting lavish hotels, clean white beaches and extensive shopping malls.

The official currency, the Dirham, trades at about 7 Dirham to 1 Pound Sterling, and bargains in the various markets (souks) can be driven down further by a bit of haggling.

Shopaholics will probably spend their entire short break wandering in awe at just one shopping centre, the vast Mall of the Emirates.

All the big names you know are here, from designer labels to Debenhams.

Debenhams in Dubai

You can eat your way around the world in the myriad of food courts then work off the calories afterwards by going skiing; the Mall of the Emirates is home to a vast snow dome.

Superb jewelry bargains can be seen and bought at Dubai's infamous Gold souk, where over 300 traders display their irresistible wares, and prices can be around half that paid in the UK.

Dubai's other treasure is mile upon mile of perfect beachfront.

The clear waters of the Gulf lap white sands that practically squeak underfoot, creating a tropical paradise as good as anywhere you'll find in the Caribbean.

Add to that hotels that offer standards of comfort and service that are among the best in the world, and a few days in Dubai seems the obvious choice for a spot of pampering.

Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai

→ See our Dubai Destination Guide

→ Next Page: China's Favourite Island

Alive and Kicking in Hong Kong

Those in search of the exotic intensity need a city that will live up to their expectations.

Hong Kong is that place.

You may wonder who would fly 12 to 13 hours to spend just a few days there.

The answer seems to be an increasing number of Britons passionate about the shopping, the sights and the sounds of the city, and killer exchange rate of the Hong Kong dollar.

On your short break here, a good way to appreciate the city skyline is from the sea on a ferry ride from the city to Kowloon.

Alternatively, head up to Victoria Peak, which you can reach by tram, to look down on the architecturally crowded metropolis.

Hong Kong skyline from the harbour

If food is an important part of your holiday then you won't be disappointed.

Hong Kong offers a delicious fusion of eastern and western influences resulting in a huge choice of traditional cuisine.

The city is simply stunning as night falls, with an impressive choice of restaurants, bars and clubs to suit most tastes, and a great range of entertainment.

Of course, you could simply continue the shopping you probably started the moment you left your hotel room.

Huge malls, department stores and traditional markets jostle for your attention.

The icing on the cake is that all goods, other than alcohol and tobacco, are tax-free.

Hong Kong shopping centre