In a recent blog post we shared some of our favourite holiday destinations that can be reached within six hours from the UK (haven’t seen it? Take a look here). Now, for something a little further afield – from safaris in Africa to exotic beach escapes in South East Asia – we explore places around the world that you can fly to in less than 12 hours.

Jetting off to the States in a little over seven hours is too much of a temptation to turn down. Experience the glitz and glamour of New York on a short break, taking in iconic sights like Central Park and Lady Liberty, and shop till you drop in chic Manhattan before hitting Broadway for show-stopping entertainment. New York is great for a twin-centre holiday; why not head on for a tour of the US or hop down to the pristine beaches of the Caribbean?
Within eight hours you can also fly to Middle Eastern countries, such as Oman with its russet-red deserts and sparkling seas, or ultra-slick cities like Doha and Dubai, for super-luxury hotels and designer shopping.
Hot-foot it to Puerto Rico, the colourful Caribbean island just nine hours away where Spanish, American and Caribbean cultures collide. Awash with powder-white beaches, tropical rainforests like El Yunque and colonial towns showcasing a fascinating history, Puerto Rico is totally unique.
Otherwise, a safari holiday in Africa is a great option if you’re keen on adventure and, surprisingly, flights to Tanzania, Kenya and Zambia are all under ten hours. These enthralling safari destinations boast diverse wildlife, dreamy luxury lodges and stunning, rugged landscapes.
Fly and flop in the idyllic Indian Ocean, surround yourself with jungle and beaches in Central America, or immerse yourself in colourful cultures of South East Asia: these exotic regions are all less than 12 hours away from the UK.
Whether you’re dreaming of peace and quiet on postcard-perfect beaches; hankering after extraordinary food; or yearning for exhilarating wildlife encounters, these can all be found within a 12 hour flight. And nor do you have to face the hassle of airport stopovers, with direct routes from London so you can start your far-flung holiday sooner.