On paper, opting for indirect flights with short layovers may seem like a recipe for added stress and inconvenience, especially when travelling with children. However, there are some surprising benefits to a longer journey. Read on to discover how you can fall in love with the less direct route to your holiday.
With young children, the thought of sitting through a long flight can be daunting—both for the kids and the parents. Breaking up the journey not only helps manage this but turns what could be a tiresome experience into an exciting adventure. Scheduling a layover of at least two hours gives you all a precious window in which to relax and refocus. The kids get to stretch their legs, explore a bit, and indulge in some pocket money spending. Whether it's savouring a local delicacy in Greece or exploring the shops in a German airport, every layover becomes a mini experience in itself, enriching the overall holiday.
Breaking up the monotony of travel has more benefits than meets the eye and there’s something to be said about landing at your destination feeling refreshed. By splitting the flight into manageable chunks, everyone arrives with energy to spare, ready to make the most of the stay from the moment you arrive. This stark contrast to the exhaustion often felt after a long, direct flight, can set a positive tone for the entire holiday.
“Every year my family and I take a holiday to see friends in Cyprus. The habit of booking indirect flights started when the children were young and longer flights proved challenging with tired tears and tantrums. Now they are older, it’s more about adding to the holiday experience and arriving in the resort refreshed and ready to enjoy our sejour.” ~Travel Counsellor colleague
Another understated benefit of flying indirect is the assurance that comes with it. Scheduled carriers, which typically operate these flights, offer a safety net if things go awry. Should any delays or cancellations occur, the airline will be well-equipped to swiftly rebook you onto the next available flight, ensuring minimal disruption to your holiday plans. This automatic protection provides a level of peace of mind that is priceless when travelling.
Airlines are aware that indirect flights might not be everyone's first choice. To make them more appealing, these flights often come with a more attractive price tag. This means that, aside from the additional experiences and comforts, choosing an indirect flight can also be a cost-effective decision. More often than not, the savings made can be put towards enhancing your holiday experience on the ground.
Next time you're planning a family holiday, consider taking the scenic route through the sky. The adventure that awaits might just surprise you.
This twelve night cruise connects five of Scandinavia's most distinctive cities in one well built route, sailing from Amsterdam on Celebrity Eclipse with a Veranda cabin, gratuities and private transfers included at both ends. Oslo, Skagen, Stockholm, Tallinn, Helsinki and two full days in Copenhagen. Late May means long evenings, mild temperatures and the best of the region in full swing.
This twelve night road trip connects three of America's most musical cities in one well built route. Flying into Nashville and out of New Orleans with American Airlines, five days car hire and accommodation throughout included, the drive takes you through the heart of the Deep South, from Tennessee through Mississippi and Louisiana. Nashville, Memphis, Natchez and New Orleans, each one different, each one worth the time.
Ten nights through three of Central Europe's great capitals, flying into Budapest with Aer Lingus and home from Prague, with first class rail connections between each city and private transfers at both ends. September is one of the best months to do this trip, with warm days, quieter streets and the cities looking their best.
