5 flight deals to snap up for your Golden Week getaway
With 650 million people set to be travelling domestically this coming Golden Week (October 1-8) and a further six million looking to go abroad, travelling during the October holidays seems like a terrifying prospect. However, if you're brave (crazy) enough to face the crowds and still fancy going away, here are five return flight deals that won't burn a hole in your pocket.
Jeju Island, South Korea
From around 600RMB return on Ctrip
Visiting Jeju, only an hour and a half from Shanghai, is one of the easiest ways to set foot on Korean soil from China – it’s also one of the few places in the world where hardly anyone needs a visa. With a load of great hiking trails, from the dormant volcano Mt Hallasan to the peak of Seongsan Iluchulbong and the Jeongbang Waterfalls, Jeju is a destination for outdoorsy types. As well as its outdoor activities, Jeju is famed for its oranges, black barbecue pork (the island’s local delicacy) and a number of bizarre but brilliant museums – including the Teddy Bear Museum, the Chocolate Museum, the World Eros Museum and more.
Jakarta, Indonesia
From around 1,200RMB return on Ctrip
Beyond the daunting skyscrapers and madding crowds, the capital of the Republic of Indonesia is a cultural and culinary goldmine that often goes unnoticed in the rush, with a wealth of incredible food (don't miss the nasi padang) and a strong party scene.
Osaka, Japan
From around 900RMB return on Ctrip and Qyer
While it might suffer in comparison to the excitement and out-there weirdness of Tokyo – where doesn’t? – it’s unfair to dismiss Japan's second biggest city as a bore. Alongside the city’s (perhaps) bizarre source of pride, the Glico billboard – which originally erected in 1935 actually serves as a decent geographical anchor-point for you to get your bearings in the city – there's plenty to keep you busy. And, in a country that takes its eating very seriously, Osaka is renowned as a foodie favourite. It’s a well-trotted out line that the city’s maxim of kuidaore means ‘eat yourself into ruin’. While there are so many Michelin stars here that they’re almost unremarkable, there are also some bargainous street snacks and deliciously fresh seafood to be had. Don't miss the central Kuromon Market, which is akin to a pick-and-mix of assorted seafood, marbled beef cuts and pickled vegetables. It’s a little touristy, but the quality of the produce makes it a worthwhile visit, and you can happily put together your own lunch by wandering from tempura stand to yakitori grill to fresh uni stall.
Manila, Philippines
From around 500RMB return on Ctrip
The capital of the Philippines is sadly misunderstood. Often a mere transit point for travellers on the way to the lush islands of the south, Manila is regarded to have little to offer the casual weekender. As those who have made their way out of the airport will know, the triple blast of crazy hot weather, appalling traffic and wide-spread poverty make for an overwhelming introduction. But get past the first few minutes and there’s plenty more on offer, including a buzzing indie music scene, charming café culture, sleek bars and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. And then there's the food. Anthony Bourdain was quoted as saying Manila has some of the best roast pork he has eaten anywhere, so make sure to try the staples like lechon (suckling pig), barbecue pork skewers and chicaron (crispy pork rind).
Macau, China
From around 500RMB return on Qunar
With a variety of colonial architecture and local temples sitting side-by-side, Macau is the place where the East and West meet. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Historic Centre of Macau includes important sites like the A-Ma Temple, dedicated to the Chinese sea-goddess Mazu and the famous Ruins of St Paul's (pictured above). Architecture aside, described as the 'Las Vegas of the East', Macau is also home to world-renowned casinos like The Venetian Macau, MGM Macau and Hotel Royal Macau.
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