Dubai, Istanbul or Sharm: which to choose

All three are served by direct flights from Uzbekistan and sit in roughly the same price range. The difference lies in what you want from the trip.

For a city and shopping — Dubai

Dubai is strongest as a city experience: skyscrapers, large malls, restaurants and a desert an hour away. Visa-free. The drawbacks are extreme heat from May to September and beach holidays costing more than in Sharm.

Best for: first-time travellers abroad, shoppers, families with teenagers and anyone planning a short trip.

For history and food — Istanbul

Istanbul has the richest cultural layer: Hagia Sophia, Topkapı, the Bosphorus, the bazaars and excellent food. It works year-round and the winter is mild. Visa-free. The drawbacks: no beach, and a lot of walking.

Best for: those interested in history and architecture, food travellers, couples and winter departures.

For the sea and children — Sharm or Hurghada

The Egyptian resorts offer the cheapest all-inclusive holidays, with warm water even in winter. Sharm suits coral and diving; Hurghada suits sandy beaches and children. The drawbacks: Hurghada needs a visa (25 USD), and food requires more care.

Best for: families with small children, sun-and-sea holidays, winter escapes and tighter budgets.

In short

A first trip abroad and shopping: Dubai. History, architecture and food: Istanbul. Affordable sea and children: Egypt. If you want both, we will build a combined programme with a beach section.