There's no denying how amazing it is to visit far-flung, exotic destinations in places like Asia, South America, and Oceania. But we're less enamoured when the jet lag sets in. Long-haul flights come with major downsides, especially for those of us who're unable to blag an upgrade. Luckily, the UK is perfectly placed for jet lag-free travel. With all the wonders of Europe on our doorstep, and some incredible destinations due south, there are so many unique and exciting places to visit that share our timezone, or are just a few hours ahead or behind (subject to British Summer Time — not everyone changes their clocks when we do!). We've rounded up some of the most stunning options, from remote British overseas territories to unspoilt Mediterranean islands. It's time to start packing!
A tropical oasis off the west coast of Africa, this island nation has a unique Creole Portuguese-African culture that offers up incredible food, entertainment, and hospitality on incredible volcanic islands with unspoilt beaches. The islands are just one hour ahead of the UK, with a flight time of around five hours.
The flight may be long (around 11 and a half hours) but as you're flying south, South Africa has a minimal time difference with the UK (usually 2 hours). It's a vibrant city surrounded by beautiful beaches and suburbs you'll want to explore for days, including the beautiful Camps Bay.
There is nowhere quite like the city-state of Monaco, the playground of the rich and famous nestled at the end of the French Riviera. Walk along the harbour and marvel at the yachts (some with their own helicopters) or drop a month's salary in the famous casino. One of the best ways to visit is to fly into Nice and take the scenic train ride along the coast. It takes under an hour and stops at beautiful resorts like Èze and Villefranche-sur-Mer along the way.
A three-hour flight north-east will take you to another incredible European city that shares the GMT timezone. Reykjavik may be notoriously expensive, but don't let that put you off the once-in-a-lifetime experience of visiting this uber cool city. The breathtaking scenery is just the start!
Nestled in the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa, this island nation is about as far removed from Greenwich as you can imagine . . . but it still shares a time zone! Much like Cabo Verde, there's evidence of previous Portuguese rule which gives the islands a culture (and cuisine) based on fusion. São Tomé and Príncipe is a haven of ecotourism, and British nationals don't need a visa for visits of 15 days or less.
It's hard to believe that the incredible souks and beautiful riads of Marrakech are a mere three-hour flight from the UK, and in the same time zone! The intriguing, historic, and atmospheric city is perfect for an impromptu mini break.
Despite being closer to Rio de Janeiro than London, the British overseas territory of Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha actually sets its clocks to GMT. This means if you can find your way to one of the remote islands, you'll be able to enjoy every moment mingling with the 4,500 residents (not counting the penguins) without needing to catch up on sleep.
Lapland (two hours ahead of the UK) isn't just where you go to visit Santa! The snowy region of Finland also offers up a whole host of Winter sports and activities, from Husky-drawn sled rides to skiing and snowboarding. The slopes at resorts like Levi are laden with snow well into March, and you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights if you're lucky!
Who needs the Caribbean when there's water like this in Europe? Corsica is a French-owned island nestled in the sea between France and Italy, and it'll blow you away. It's only an hour ahead of the UK, and can be reached by air or sea.
This vibrant coastal city in the GMT timezone offers plenty for tourists, with museums, monuments, copious places to eat and drink, and a bustling atmosphere. If you're looking to chill out, head to the beaches (many of which are great for surfers) in places like Île de N'Gor, a small island off the city's north shore.
If you're fine catching up on a couple of hours of sleep, the whole of Greece is open to you (it's two hours ahead of the UK). Where better to start than every fashion blogger's favourite holiday destination, the island of Santorini, with its instantly recognisable cliffside towns?
This region of France is lousy with castles, making it the ultimate destination for a European road trip. Visit the historic towns that house the Châteaux of the Loire Valley and indulge your inner Disney princess. The whole area is a UNESCO heritage site.
Portugal is one of 2017's hottest travel destinations, and it's perfect for Brits given the short flight and the fact it sits in the same time zone. Fly into Faro and explore the picturesque Algarve with its beautiful beaches and hidden waterfalls. Package holidays are easy to find, but consider hiring a car and staying in one of the many private villas dotted around the region.
Compact and friendly, Bruges is a brilliant city break destination, with the added benefit that you can reach it from the UK without flying (via Eurostar with a quick change in Brussels). Bruges is all about the three C's: canals, chocolate, and chips. What more could you want? Ok, there's beer too. Lots of it.
Forget Majorca, those in the know are setting their sights on the smaller and more unspoilt Balearic islands, just a few hours flight from the UK, and only an hour ahead. Formentera is the smallest of the island group, reached by ferry from Ibiza (there's no airport). Unsurprisingly, it's the beaches and the snorkelling that people come for. The clear Mediterranean waters are perfect for a spot of underwater exploring!
On the Italian Riviera, five incredible historic fishing villages make up the famous Cinque Terre. Take the coastal train that journeys between the villages, where every vista is crying out to be on your Instagram feed. Monterosso, the most western village, has a beach, if you're dying to get in the water at the end of your trip.
Not only is the Mediterranean archipelago of Malta only an hour ahead of the UK, it also counts English as one of its official languages, so you'll have no trouble communicating with the locals. Be sure to stop by the stunning historic capital city of Valletta between all the inevitable sunbathing and swimming!
