Make your way to Europe: Our top 3 stopover destinations

Thinking about heading to Europe on your next getaway? Enjoy a break halfway at one of these popular stopover destinations. It’s the perfect chance to catch some shut-eye and enjoy two fabulous holidays in one. Tick an extra place off your bucket list and see the sights before heading to Europe, feeling refreshed and energised. We’ve done our research to give you a quick rundown on what to expect at these top stopover destinations.

Singapore

Step inside the award-winning Changi International Airport and enjoy the impressive range of entertainment at your fingertips. Before you head out the doors, take a look around and see why this airport is highly touted for its state of the art facilities. Browse the multi-sensory Changi Aviation Gallery or catch a free movie at one of the onsite theatres. Relax and unwind in the world’s first airport Butterfly Garden or visit the open-air rooftop Cactus Garden.

If you have a stopover of five hours or more, you can take advantage of the free city tours on offer. Experience the heart of Singapore with the Heritage Tour, which will take you to see renowned city highlights, including the Singapore Flyer, Gardens by the Bay, Chinatown and Merlion Park. In the evening, the City Lights tour will showcase Singapore in all its glory. Appreciate breathtaking views of famous icons as you tour the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade.

Prefer to go your own way? Consider visiting the fantastic Singapore Botanic Gardens, showcasing the world’s largest orchard display. History lovers must tour the city’s fascinating museums including the Asian Civilisations Museum or the National Museum of Singapore. Shopping on Orchard Road is a must, while a scenic cruise along Marina Bay is a peaceful way to see the city sights.

Hong Kong

Find yourself at the stylish Hong Kong International Airport en route to Europe, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the ultra modern facilities. Shopping at the airport is a popular pastime, with over 280 retail stores and 80 dining outlets. Golf aficionados may appreciate a hit at the SkyCity Nine Eagles Golf Course nearby Terminal 2 or catch a flick at the UA IMAX theatre, boasting the largest IMAX screen in Hong Kong.

Jump on the Airport Express Train and you’ll be standing in the heart of the city in less than 30 minutes. First stop is Victoria Peak for incomparable city views. One of Hong Kong’s top attractions for a reason, you can ride the Victoria Peak Tram to the top, before visiting the Sky Terrace for a panoramic outlook.

Nature lovers will be delighted with a stroll through the pretty Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens. In the evening, visit the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and stand in awe as the city’s skyscrapers burst to life, with the nightly Symphony of Lights show. A cruise along Victoria Harbour in the evening will offer wonderful views of Hong Kong’s magnificent skyline.

Dubai

Many Aussie travellers heading to Europe will make a stop midway at the Dubai International Airport. If you need to stretch your legs, go for a dip at the onsite swimming pool or enjoy time out at the fully equipped gym. For a little peace and quiet, head to the Zen Gardens or shake off that jet lag with a nap at one of the Snoozecubes, offering weary travellers a full sized bed and television.

Once you are feeling rested and refreshed, you can head into the heart of the city for a day of exploring. Touted as the world’s tallest building, the soaring Burj Khalifa is impossible to miss. The observation deck on the 124th floor offers jaw dropping views across the sprawling city, but is not one for the fainthearted.

Admire the complex architecture of the Burj Al Arab, believed to be one of the world’s most luxurious hotels or enjoy the dazzling choreographed water show at the Dubai Fountain. For a little bit of retail therapy, try the monumental Dubai Mall or for a more authentic shopping experience, visit one of the more traditional souks.

What’s your favourite stopover city?

This article is sponsored by Escape Travel and they have written the story with us, specifically for over 60 travellers. We bring you this article to share insights into what we feel is relevant and interesting to our community.   Consider Escape Travel  for your next holiday.  Click here for more information.