Asia

A JFC Traveller's tale of her time in Tashkent and beyond…

Frankfurt

Germany

Tashkent

Uzbekistan

Dreaming of Uzbekistan? From the breathtaking architecture to the delightful local eats, it’s the perfect destination for your next getaway. With Jack's Flight Club on your side, you can score budget-friendly flights and explore all that this marvelous country has to offer. Ready, set, book!

Brussels

It’s rare to find a country that packs so much culture into such a travel-sized package, yet Belgium remains one of Europe’s most underrated escapes. Whether you’re nursing a legendary Trappist ale in a Brussels tavern, getting lost in the storybook canals of Bruges, or soaking up the historic, edgy energy of Ghent, you’re doing it all in one of the most accessible corners of the continent. We’re obsessively tracking the best Belgium flight deals to make sure you get there for less, leaving you more of your travel budget to spend on moules-frites and local chocolate. Skip the high-priced travel packages, secure your cheap flights to Belgium, and discover why this compact gem is punching way above its weight class.

Belgium

It’s rare to find a country that packs so much culture into such a travel-sized package, yet Belgium remains one of Europe’s most underrated escapes.

Berlin

Hamburg

Dusseldorf

Stuttgart

Munich

Paris

France isn't just about Eiffel Tower selfies; it’s a country that deserves a serious deep dive without the pretension—or the heavy price tag. We’re here to help you snag cheap flights to France so you can spend less on airfare and more on what actually matters: endless glasses of Bordeaux, buttery croissants, and authentic French food. Whether you’re planning a culture binge in the romantic streets of Paris, hunting for sunshine along the French Riviera, or wandering through the vineyard-lined hills of Provence, we’ve got the insider intelligence to get you there for less.

France

We’re here to help you snag cheap flights to France so you can spend less on airfare and more on what actually matters: endless glasses of Bordeaux, buttery croissants, and authentic French food.

Stockholm

Sweden isn’t just the sleek, high-design wonderland you see in glossy magazines—it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, packed with history and a café culture that’s arguably the best in the world. Whether you’re hunting for the best Sweden flight deals to experience the midnight sun in Swedish Lapland, wandering the historic streets of Stockholm’s Gamla Stan, or exploring the maritime charm of Gothenburg, we’ve got your back. Our navigators are on the hunt for the genuinely good value airfare that unlocks the magic of Scandinavia, giving you the insider tips you need to book smarter, save on the essentials, and secure cheap flights to Sweden.

Sweden

Sweden isn’t just the sleek, high-design wonderland you see in glossy magazines—it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, packed with history and a café culture that’s arguably the best in the world.

Amsterdam

If you’re still picturing the Netherlands as just one giant postcard of windmills and wooden shoes, you’re missing out on one of Europe’s most dynamic corners. This is the place where historic canal-side cycling meets cutting-edge urban design and a bar culture that’s second to none. We’re scouting the routes to land you the best Netherlands flight deals, whether you’re plotting a culture-heavy weekend in Amsterdam, exploring the industrial cool of Rotterdam, or getting lost in the medieval charm of Utrecht. Don’t just scroll through photos—book the cheap flights to the Netherlands and find out why this place is so much more than just the stereotypes.

Netherlands

This is the place where historic canal-side cycling meets cutting-edge urban design and a bar culture that’s second to none.

Uzbekistan 🏞️ in €330s-€490s rtn

Washington DC

The United States is a travel heavyweight, packing everything from dazzling skylines and buzzing neon cities to natural wonders so epic they make your camera feel inadequate. It's the land of big ideas and even bigger distances—which is precisely where Jack’s Flight Club comes in. We’re here to help you skip the seriously long bus rides and the soul-crushing flight search by finding the cheap flights for you and proving you don't need to break the bank just to cross a few time zones.
Whether you're planning a swift weekend trip to the Big Apple, a surf session on the West Coast, or a grand tour of the national parks, we've got your back. Our Navigators love sprinkling in a generous helping of insider knowledge to make your trip count—because life’s too short to pay silly money for flights you can’t even brag about.

United States

The United States is a travel heavyweight, packing everything from dazzling skylines and buzzing neon cities to natural wonders so epic they make your camera feel inadequate. It's the land of big ideas and even bigger distances.

Samarkand

Chicago

Samarkand, Uzbekistan 🕌 at $937 RT

These turquoise domes and aquamarine tiles are calling your name...

London Stansted

Forget the stereotype that England is nothing but endless gray drizzle, overpriced tourist traps in London, and people obsessing over the weather. We’re here to help you get past the postcard clichés and uncover the real magic, from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds and the moody peaks of the Lake District to the buzzing, eclectic streets of Manchester. We’re always hunting down the best England flight deals so you can save your cash for the actual essentials—like proper pub grub and a decent pint. This is your insider’s guide to booking cheap flights to England, and proving that the best of the UK is well within reach if you know how to search for it.

England

We’re here to help you get past the postcard clichés and uncover the real magic, from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds and the moody peaks of the Lake District to the buzzing, eclectic streets of Manchester.

Uzbekistan 🏞️ in £330s-£450s rtn

Tashkent at $830 rtn from Chicago

New Delhi

India isn't just the chaotic, colourful, and curry-fuelled whirlwind you see on postcards—it’s a continent packed into a country, and we’re here to help you get there without emptying your travel fund. Forget paying full price for your flights to India; whether you’re chasing non-stop trips to Mumbai (the Gateway of India), searching for soul-stirring moments in the shadow of the Taj Mahal, or mapping out a chaotic country road trip for the ages, we curate the best India flight deals and travel guides. Our navigators are on the hunt for the genuinely good value airfare that unlocks the magic of the subcontinent, giving you the insider tips you need to book smarter, bolder, and cheaper.

India

India isn't just the chaotic, colourful, and curry-fuelled whirlwind you see on postcards—it’s a continent packed into a country, and we’re here to help you get there without emptying your travel fund.

Mumbai

Bangkok

Ditch the overpriced travel guides and stop treating cheap flights to Thailand like a myth. From the chaotic, delicious street eats of Bangkok to chasing paradise on the dreamy, Instagram-perfect islands of Phuket and Krabi, Thailand is waiting—and we've got the insider articles and outrageous Flights to get you there without breaking the bank. Whether you're looking for last-minute flights or planning your perfect Thailand travel adventure for next year, this page is your ultimate cheat sheet for unlocking the Land of Smiles on a budget.

Thailand

Ditch the overpriced travel guides and stop treating cheap flights to Thailand like a myth. From the chaotic, delicious street eats of Bangkok to chasing paradise on the dreamy, Instagram-perfect islands of Phuket and Krabi, Thailand is waiting.

Singapore

Let’s be honest: Singapore is essentially a giant, high-speed outdoor food court with a futuristic airport attached, and you’ll likely spend more time deciding between laksa stalls than you will in your hotel room. We’re tracking down the best Singapore flight deals to get you to the Lion City without the premium price tag, because your budget is much better spent at a hawker center than on the airfare. Snag some cheap flights to Singapore, wander through the neon glow of Gardens by the Bay, and prepare for a satay-induced food coma that makes the long-haul journey entirely worth it.

Wander through the neon glow of Gardens by the Bay, and prepare for a satay-induced food coma that makes the long-haul journey entirely worth it.

Nairobi

If you’re looking for a sign to finally book that trip to Kenya, this is it: wide-open savannas, world-class wildlife, and vibrant local culture are closer (and more affordable!) than you think. We’re constantly tracking the best Kenya flight deals so you can swap your daily commute for a sunrise safari in the Masai Mara or a relaxing escape to the white sands of Diani Beach without spending a fortune. Our guides break down exactly how to navigate the travel landscape, from picking the best time to visit to uncovering the most underrated places in Nairobi, ensuring you score cheap flights to Kenya and make your budget go further.

Kenya

If you’re looking for a sign to finally book that trip to Kenya, this is it: wide-open savannas, world-class wildlife, and vibrant local culture are closer (and more affordable!) than you think.

Johannesburg

South Africa isn't just a country; it's practically a whole continent squeezed into one incredible, diverse package. Where else can you start your day spotting the Big Five on safari and finish it sipping world-class wine near Cape Town, all while marveling at the sheer majesty of Table Mountain?
From the dramatic coastal drives of the Garden Route to the buzzing, complex history woven into every street corner, this place demands your full attention and rewards you with breathtaking scenery and adventures at every turn.
Prepare for epic views, mind-blowing food, and a destination that constantly reminds you that life is far too short not to own a pair of binoculars. Bonus points for spying the tiny penguins!

South Africa

Adventurous Travelers, assemble! South Africa delivers a jam-packed itinerary where you can start your day spotting the Big Five on safari and end it sipping local wine at the foot of Table Mountain. Think dramatic coastal drives and a rich, complex history alongside mind-blowing nature.

Abu Dhabi

Forget the rumors about needing a private jet and a trust fund to visit the United Arab Emirates. We’re here to prove that finding cheap flights to Dubai and Abu Dhabi is not a fantasy—it’s just a matter of knowing where to look, and we know exactly where to look. Whether you’re dreaming of desert safaris, debating Dubai’s wild nightlife versus Abu Dhabi’s unmatched culture and majestic mosques, this page is your insider Travel Guide for tackling the UAE on a budget, complete with the flight tips you need to get you there for a price that will make the big airlines sweat.

United Arab Emirates

Forget the rumors about needing a private jet and a trust fund to visit the United Arab Emirates. We’re here to prove that finding cheap flights to Dubai and Abu Dhabi is not a fantasy.

Kuwait City

Kuwait

Muscat

Oman

Almaty

Kazakhstan

Astana

Copenhagen

Denmark is far more than just sleek architecture and an obsession with bike lanes—it’s an effortless blend of Scandi-cool design, cosy hygge culture, and historic harbour cities that don't need to shout to be impressive. Whether you’re planning a weekend of design-spotting in Copenhagen, exploring the ancient, cobbled streets of Aarhus, or chasing music festival highs in Roskilde, we’re constantly tracking the best Denmark flight deals to get you there for a bargain. Stop overpaying, snag some cheap flights to Denmark, and find out why this corner of Scandinavia is worth far more than just a quick layover.

Denmark

Denmark is far more than just sleek architecture and an obsession with bike lanes—it’s an effortless blend of Scandi-cool design, cosy hygge culture, and historic harbour cities that don't need to shout to be impressive.

Gothenburg

Oslo

Norway has a knack for making almost every other landscape look a bit ordinary, and with the right intel, getting there doesn't have to cost a fortune. We’re deep in the data to find you the best Norway flight deals, clearing the path for you to trade your local view for the dramatic, towering fjords, the Northern Lights, or the historic charm of Bergen. Our insider strategy will help you score cheap flights to Norway and keep your travel budget focused on the important stuff—like exploring the vibrant streets of Oslo and experiencing the wild, untamed beauty of the Arctic north.

Norway

Norway has a knack for making almost every other landscape look a bit ordinary, and with the right intel, getting there doesn't have to cost a fortune.

Dubai

Cape Town

Hanoi

Vietnam is a sensory overload in the best possible way—a land where chaotic, motorbike-filled streets somehow harmonize with serene emerald waters and world-class street food that costs less than your morning coffee. And whether you’re dreaming of the bustling energy of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, cruising the limestone pillars of Ha Long Bay, or cycling through the ancient, lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, we’ve got the insider intel to get you cheap flights to Vietnam. Ditch the premium price tags, snag the best Vietnam flight deals, and finally make your Southeast Asian adventure happen without breaking the bank.

Vietnam

Vietnam is a sensory overload in the best possible way—a land where chaotic, motorbike-filled streets somehow harmonize with serene emerald waters and world-class street food that costs less than your morning coffee.

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia is the ultimate playground where you can trade city skyscrapers for ancient rainforests and world-class street food in the span of a single afternoon. We're on a mission to find you the best Malaysia flight deals so you can dive into the vibrant bustle of Kuala Lumpur, explore the heritage-rich streets of Penang, or simply kick back on a pristine tropical island without blowing your entire travel budget. Stop settling for overpriced airfare—we’re here to help you snag those cheap flights to Malaysia, so you can spend less on the journey and more on the satay.

Malaysia

Malaysia is the ultimate playground where you can trade city skyscrapers for ancient rainforests and world-class street food in the span of a single afternoon.

Seoul

South Korea is where neon-lit skyscrapers sit comfortably alongside ancient temples and the scent of sizzling Korean BBQ is never more than a few steps away. We’re committed to making this place accessible, which is why we spend our days hunting down the best South Korea flight deals. From hitting the bright lights of Seoul and exploring the volcanic terrain of Jeju Island to soaking up the history in Gyeongju, our insider guides are here to ensure you bypass the tourist traps and overpriced airfares.

South Korea

South Korea is where neon-lit skyscrapers sit comfortably alongside ancient temples and the scent of sizzling Korean BBQ is never more than a few steps away

Jakarta

Indonesia is far more than just the rice paddies and yoga retreats of Bali—it's an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, making it the ultimate destination for adventure, beaches, and ridiculously good street food. Whether you're hunting for genuinely cheap flights to Indonesia or just the best Indonesia flight deals, we’re here to help you navigate this massive country without getting soaked on airfare. Find flights to major hubs like Jakarta and use your savings to go temple hopping, chill out on the surf beaches of Bali and Lombok, or escape the “concrete jungle” of the city for the actual, lush, tropical jungle of Java. Stop overpaying and start exploring this stunning corner of Southeast Asia, from a sunrise trek up a volcano to stuffing your face with nasi goreng.

Indonesia

Indonesia is far more than just the rice paddies and yoga retreats of Bali—it's an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, making it the ultimate destination for adventure, beaches, and ridiculously good street food.

Mahé

Let’s face it, your current desktop background is probably a picture of the Seychelles, so why not make the jump from screen-saver fantasy to actual reality?
Visiting this tropical haven means trading your office chair for a sun lounger beside postcard-perfect beaches, where giant granite boulders meet impossibly clear turquoise water. It’s the kind of escape that’s both ridiculously luxurious and genuinely wild, where you can spend the morning snorkeling vibrant coral reefs and the afternoon greeting ancient giant tortoises. 
Forget fighting for towel space; the only thing you’ll be wrestling is the urge to never, ever leave, proving that sometimes, the most cliché paradise is actually the best one.

Seychelles

Forget fighting for towel space; the only thing you’ll be wrestling in the Seychelles is the urge to never, ever leave, proving that sometimes, the most cliché paradise is actually the best one.

Kampala

Uganda

Luxembourg

India, Vietnam, Thailand and more 🌊 in €320s-€590s rtn

These turquoise domes and aquamarine tiles are getting more and more popular!

London Gatwick

Tashkent, Uzbekistan 📸 at £413 rtn

I BOOKED A flight for my birthday and Im so excited. Off to Uzbekistan! VERY excited. Thanks JFC!


Booked to Uzbekistan

Cant wait...we are off to Riga and Tashkent!  2nd trip this year from you for 2024 the other was Turks and Caicos!

Postcard from Roddy

Thanks so much for sharing this one, Legends!
I booked it and even though it is not until May next year I already cannot wait! 
Love the more unknown destinations so keep it coming. 

Postcard from Keren

Scotland

Jamaica

China

Canada

Jordan

Curaçao

Cabo Verde

Hey there, Travellers!
This week's travel news has revolved a lot around the FIFA World Cup, which kicked off yesterday. From Scotland's <a href="https://news.stv.tv/sport/tartan-army-in-boston-6-30am-bagpipe-wake-up-call-beer-running-dry-and-soaring-temperatures">Tartan Army drinking their flight dry</a> within the first hour of a transatlantic crossing to the German national team <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c9v2nvm02llo">paying for their fans' train fares</a>, it's already been an eventful tournament.
Among the most excited teams and fans to be there are likely the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2026/5/20/which-teams-will-make-their-debut-at-world-cup-2026">four nations making their debut</a>&mdash;Cura&ccedil;ao, Jordan, Cape Verde, and Uzbekistan. Coincidentally, also four of the most popular and up-and-coming travel destinations this year.&nbsp;
Between Uzbekistan's recent loosening on visa restrictions, Cape Verde becoming an attractive alternative to spots that might include transit through the UAE, Cura&ccedil;ao's lush, hurricane-free Caribbean shores, and <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/middle-east/jordan-petra-tourism-travel-middle-east-b2990285.html">Jordan quietly rebounding</a> from the effects of neighbours at war, this outing to the World Cup will no doubt be a nice PR opportunity for the first-timers, regardless how they perform.
I've certainly got a soft spot for Uzbekistan after my visit there two years ago, but I'd love to hear about your experiences in the other three. Even if they end up scoring an own goal or two over the coming weeks, what made you love them when you visited? <a href="https://members.jacksflightclub.com/articles/detour-241-essentials-for-your-first-trip-to-china-perths-around-the-world#comments">Let us know in the comments</a>!
Happy travels and safe landings,

Katy - Editor of The Detour

What I Learned During My First Trip to China

Currently based in Spain, you&rsquo;ll likely find Lauren skateboarding along the beachfront. When she&rsquo;s not falling off her board, you&rsquo;ll catch her hunting for bargain flights cheap enough to make up for the dreaded 3 AM start.

By Lauren

China has always had a place on my bucket list, but its complicated and pricey visa regulations had me putting it off for ages. Until earlier this year, that is, when the government updated their entry regulations allowing Brits (like me) <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c875d3d3x34o">visa-free travel</a>! And that was it. My China trip was on, and I got to work planning a two-week itinerary.
My plan was to fly into Chongqing, then travel by train to Zhangjiajie, Chengdu, Xi&rsquo;an, and finally Beijing, where I would catch a flight home.
I'll go into more detail about what I got up to in each of those cities below, but first, here are a few things to note&hellip;
Ease of travel
Right off the bat, the first thing that struck me after landing was just how efficient the country is. Queues moved quickly, taxis often arrived less than a minute after ordering them, trains were boarded seamlessly and left on time; it was all very impressive.
In general, everyone I interacted with was very friendly and happy to try and help me. Although it's worth noting that many people do not speak English, so I mostly communicated with locals through language translation apps.

I only travelled to big cities and popular tourist areas, but I always felt incredibly safe. Streets were well lit, and if I had found myself in any kind of danger, there always seemed to be an open convenience store nearby that I could dip into for help.
One particular aspect of travel through China that I appreciated was the lack of &ldquo;hassle.&rdquo; Street vendors and shopkeepers rarely tried to push me to buying their products/tours, which meant I could usually shop around in peace. Although sales assistants did occasionally shadow me around a store, just in case I needed their help.
Internet
If you connect to Wi-Fi or use a Chinese SIM, you will find that a lot of your apps do not work. To get around this, you can either install a VPN or an eSIM. I opted for an eSIM from Airalo, and I was able to continue using all of my apps as usual. I found that 10 GB just about saw me through my two-week trip, but if you're a big social media user, I'd suggest 15 GB.

Cash and payments
Pretty much all payments are made through apps like WeChat and Alipay. It's best to make an account and link your card to these before you travel, since you may need to wait a while for your details to be verified. When paying, either you or the vendor will need to scan a QR code from one of your apps. It's all very quick and efficient once you get your head around it, but it can become a bit panic-inducing if you're low on battery. Thankfully, most cities are filled with rentable street-side power banks if you ever get caught off guard.
I only saw physical cash once during our trip. A taxi driver &ldquo;accidentally&rdquo; overcharged me for a ride, and refunded me the difference in notes. But I didn't have any issues spending it in 7-Eleven.
Train travel within China
The high-speed train network within China is extensive, efficient, and affordable. In my opinion, it's the best way to move around the country. Even the train stations were impressively spacious and swish-looking. The trains themselves were also very comfortable with tables, charging ports, and a food ordering service.

The easiest place to book tickets is <a href="https://www.trip.com/trains/china/?locale=en_xx&amp;curr=usd&amp;departurecitycode=hk001xja&amp;arrivalcitycode=cn001izq&amp;allianceid=742331&amp;sid=23143527&amp;ppcid=ckid-53906045033_adid-740095378266_akid-kwd-2411442721130_adgid-158876778430&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=20704910865&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=20704910865&amp;gbraid=0AAAAABn2eFIs8nUg1eUDGNGJEgHjE5P2P&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw2rrQBhBuEiwAarLWHTbckXPyzHREsjRJgawMZqpiesEgB57zDTTq1EgiZf6YKs0VGNtX7BoC1dMQAvD_BwE">trip.com</a>, where the tickets will be linked to your passport. You can book up to two weeks in advance of your journey, but be aware that popular routes often sell out close to the departure date.
Toilets
Honestly, I am a huge fan of the toilet situation in China. Public toilets are everywhere, and they are mostly very clean. Just to be up front, 99% of the time, the public toilets will be squat toilets. But don't let that intimidate you if you are unfamiliar. They are very easy to use, and I promise you'll get the hang of it quicker than you think. Just remember to bring a pack of tissues with you whenever you leave your hotel.

And if you really miss the comfort of a western-style toilet, fear not, as most hotels have them installed.
Food
I can only talk about food from my vegetarian perspective. I am sure if you are a meat-lover who enjoys trying new flavours, textures, and spices, this will be your idea of food heaven! However, as someone who primarily eats a meat-free diet, I&rsquo;ll admit that I did struggle. Vegetarianism isn't really a thing in China (let alone veganism), and most restaurants that I visited did not serve any large meat-free dishes.
To get around this, I would either politely ask if they were able to prepare one of the listed meals without meat, or I would order a selection of smaller vegetable side dishes.

All the food I ate was delicious. However, with my limited options, it did become slightly repetitive over the course of my trip.
If you have specific dietary preferences, I would suggest saving a few translated key phrases into your notes app to show restaurant staff so your mealtimes run as smoothly as possible.
I do need to shout out one specific vegetarian restaurant in Beijing that I will probably remember for the rest of my life.<a href="https://guide.michelin.com/en/beijing-municipality/beijing/restaurant/tianchumiaoxiang-vegetarian-chaoyang"> Tianchu Miaoxiang</a> is an affordable, Michelin-starred veggie restaurant. And honestly, I would fly back in a heartbeat just to try their kung pao (faux) chicken one more time.
Keep reading for all the inside info on <a href="https://members.jacksflightclub.com/articles/china-my-tried-and-tested-2-week-itinerary">Lauren's 2-week China itinerary</a>&hellip;

Travel Tips

All roads lead to Perth. Just not that one...

With journeys spanning more than 30 countries and ten years, Akasha's best memories live in the pages of her passport. She always consults her tarot (and her cats) before any big trip. Currently based in Ireland, when she isn't travelling, she&rsquo;s probably drawing in a caf&eacute; somewhere.

By Akasha

Few things make us happier than scrolling through <a href="https://jacksflightclub.typeform.com/the-detour-2026">your submissions</a> of places you'd love to read more about. Except for maybe traveling there ourselves!&nbsp;
Now, this anonymous member &mdash; let's call them Loquacious Lars &mdash; didn't give us much to go on:

No context. No clues. Just &ldquo;Perth&rdquo;.&nbsp;
Thus we can only assume he&rsquo;s looking for the lowdown on one of the&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perth_(disambiguation)">17 (or more) places on Earth sharing that name</a>. Minus the one with the sunshine and kangaroos, though, because we already know all about it, right?
So dear readers, I give you&hellip; Perth. Just not that one.
<h2 dir="ltr" id="perth-scotland-the-og-minus-the-sun">Perth, Scotland: The OG (Minus the Sun)&nbsp;</h2>

Population: 47,000
Scotland&rsquo;s former capital rarely sees the flocks of tourists that descend upon Edinburgh&rsquo;s Royal Mile. A shame considering its sharp spires and streets, a blend of Gothic Revival and Georgian grandeur has been <a href="https://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryMagazine/DestinationsUK/Perth-Scotland/">fundamental in shaping Scotland&rsquo;s history</a>. Scone Abbey was once the coronation site for all Scottish kings, including Macbeth and Robert the Bruce.
The Fair City is fiercely local, home to more than 100 independent shops, cafes, and boutiques, and has been crowned the UK&rsquo;s first <a href="https://unesco.org.uk/our-network/creative-cities/perth">UNESCO City of Craft and Folk Art</a>.&nbsp;
It doesn&rsquo;t hurt that it sits at the gateway to the whiskey-soaked Highlands too. Those fairytale landscapes of the Cairngorms, Ben Nevis and Glencoe are all reachable in under 2 hours.&nbsp;
<h2 dir="ltr" id="perth-ontario-canada-the-one-built-on-big-cheese">Perth, Ontario, Canada: The One Built on Big Cheese</h2>

Population: 6,469
About an hour from Canada&rsquo;s capital city, Ottawa, Perth is a town known for, well, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/mammoth-cheese-replicas">MAMMOTH BLOCK OF CHEESE</a>. Why does this deserve aggressive all caps? The enormous wheel of cheddar was created in 1893 (before Kraft destroyed the craft) and took the efforts of 12 cheesemakers and 10,000 cows.&nbsp;
Standing at 6ft high, the aim was to showcase Canada&rsquo;s fermenting feats at Chicago&rsquo;s World Fair. Transporting it to the Windy City wasn't exactly easy; at 22,000 pounds, it was so heavy it fell through the floor of the train!&nbsp;
Nowadays it&rsquo;s just <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.ie/Attraction_Review-g499284-d14058597-Reviews-The_Mammoth_Cheese-Perth_Ontario.html">a highway replica</a> but worth a photo stop en route to one of Canada&rsquo;s most underrated national parks: <a href="https://visit1000islands.com/">the 1000 Islands,</a> an archipelago of over 1800 emerald islands shared with New York.&nbsp;
<h2 dir="ltr" id="perth-north-dakota-usa-six-away-from-a-ghost-town">Perth, North Dakota, USA: Six Away From A Ghost Town</h2>

Image courtesy of Andrew Filer on <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/afiler/6176675639/in/photolist-8GkDwR-apP5tz-apRNfY-apRN17-apRMuj-apRMCu-apRMkS-apRMSJ-apP6k4-5DeXwG-GrSiTX-4fEHYP-ap21rb-8kmdJN-2hFKjbp-dhZTfT-9MuMhR-3eZLg9-3hHAwa-MsSoW-2sbPHXg-2sbMmao">Flickr</a>.
Population: 6
Deep in the prairies of North Dakota, you&rsquo;ll find a rickety wooden sign posing a jarring existential question: &ldquo;While on Earth, Why Not Perth?&rdquo; The &ldquo;o&rdquo; in Not is an unnerving smiley face, reminiscent of Microsoft's clip art in the 1990s.&nbsp;
Perth, North Dakota, boasts a whopping population of six, none of whom are the man in <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122153317448189209&amp;set=pcb.122153320034189209">this photo</a>. A total outsider and the entire tourism demographic for the region, if I could hazard a guess.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Once a booming and raucous railroad community of 200 people, you&rsquo;ll find more headstones here than residents now. But back in its heyday, the town boasted all the typical businesses, including a general store, a blacksmith, livery barns, a hardware store, and its very own newspaper, The Perth Journal. Impressively, the post office managed to hold on for over a century before finally closing its doors in 2003.&nbsp;
Unless your hyperfocus is the type that compels you to visit places around the world with the same name, there's absolutely no reason to visit this Perth. Except perhaps if you're <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g49769-d11843641-Reviews-W_eel_Turtle-Dunseith_North_Dakota.html">really into turtles</a>.&nbsp;
<h2 dir="ltr" id="perth-jamaica-coffee-spuds-and-a-whole-lotta-fog">Perth, Jamaica: Coffee, Spuds, and a Whole Lotta Fog.&nbsp;</h2>

Image courtesy of Kevin on <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nfrhtp/8435313706/in/photolist-dRpbTd-4SURK2-BNB5sq-dRpbGA-dRpbZ3-dRiCTv-3cebQD-dRpbqw-dRiCMZ-dRpcr1-dRpcwS-9nGftr-eCQKZ-dRiC2i-2j3tGeV-aRbxdX-aRbpP4-qRXY8B-aRbxW8-3ciAyq-aRbxzM-aRbphr-aRbykr-aRbiMz-aRbxk8-2n8zxvV-aRbjqp-aRbq6c-aRboiK-2n8B4Ys-mhe7-2n8sT1U-8Yek85-2n8zxw1-aRbfbg-aRby4c-aRbqiR-8YejBb-4QukqW-3cebvt-3ciB45-aRbyuv-8YejRL-8YbhLD-aRbjCa-aRbgye-aRbxLZ-wNaa-8YejpY-2p8WV">Flickr</a>
Population: 20,000 (and growing).
Forget sun-baked beaches;&nbsp;this Perth sits in the mist-shrouded mountains of south-central Jamaica right on the outskirts of Mandeville (pictured above). 
And while the country is synonymous with sugarcane, the high elevation and cooler climate made it impossible to cultivate. In its place grew one of the world&rsquo;s most sought-after coffees:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/2022/09/06/we-created-the-high-mountain-coffee-jamaica-standard-products-story/">Jamaican High Mountain Coffee</a>, often fetching $50-$100+ a pound.&nbsp;
Perth also was part of the region that introduced the very <a href="https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/2018/11/03/potato-pioneer/">first Irish potatoes</a> to the island in 1902.
&nbsp;Today the area's rolling green hills have been transformed into Perth Estate, a rapidly growing upscale residential community known for sprawling modern homes and a fondness for looking at fog.&nbsp; 
So there you have it, Lars. Four distinct flavors of Perth, none of which involve Vegemite or budgie smugglers.&nbsp; 
There are more where these came from, of course, so please, dear readers, let us know all about your chosen Perths. And just in case it was that Perth&nbsp;Lars was looking for, please drop your tips for the Antipodean alternative <a href="https://members.jacksflightclub.com/articles/all-roads-lead-to-perth-just-not-that-one#comments">in the comments</a>!
Oh, and don't forget to <a href="https://members.jacksflightclub.com/postcards">send us a postcard</a> of the mega cheddar.&nbsp;

Reader's Corner

All the important (or silly, or strange) travel chatter from around the Jack's Community this month.
<ul>
<li>The chickens are finally coming home to roost for budget airline Ryanair, as the <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/czj87rvx349o">UK's competition watchdog launches an investigation</a> into the fees they charge for families to sit together. </li>
<li>A <a href="https://www.popularmechanics.com/science/archaeology/a71536193/new-statue-discovery-easter-island-mystery/">new moai statue appeared</a> on Easter Island, and scientists are floored. </li>
<li>United Airlines is working on <a href="https://www.paddleyourownkanoo.com/2026/06/10/united-airlines-is-reportedly-working-on-a-new-economy-product-with-a-blocked-middle-seat-to-reduce-flight-attendant-requirements/">a new economy seating concept</a> that will make sure you can't stretch out, even though there's nobody sitting next to you. Thanks a bunch. </li>
<li>Sardinians are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jun/10/sardinian-beach-bans-umbrellas-people-aged-10-65-punta-molentis">scrambling to borrow extra children and grandparents</a> just to guarantee an umbrella at the beach this summer. </li>
<li>And finally, Toronto is celebrating the World Cup in a way that only Canada possibly could: with a <a href="https://apnews.com/article/world-cup-toronto-beavers-db94c803ca2a2f2af29a5889818d75dc">giant beaver hunt</a>. If you find all 51 beavers before they disappear, please send us pics, and then consider whether you might have too much time on your hands.</li>
</ul>

Travel News

Essentials for Your First Trip to China & Perths Around the World

Japan

Kyrgyzstan

Hey there Travellers,
You'll all be glad to know that I made it back from Portugal last weekend without so much as a drop of wine spilled down my front.
However, it's safe to say that my jeans were feeling a little tighter after a few days of sampling the Portuguese cuisine. Nobody warned me that I'd still be dreaming of that mustardy <a href="https://tasteporto.com/pt/portuguese-francesinha-the-deconstructed-version/">pica-pau</a> sauce a week later!
And no sooner had I returned than, once again, the good old&nbsp;Pastel de Bel&eacute;m was named <a href="https://www.tasteatlas.com/best/foods-by-category">sweet pastry of the year</a> for 2025. But would you visit just for its custardy goodness?&nbsp;
A few weeks ago, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/jacksflightclub/permalink/2654233541599157">we asked our Facebook Community</a> what food they'd travel abroad for time and time again. For me, it's an authentic&nbsp;<a href="https://polinachesnakova.com/blog/2020/3/29/imeruli-khachapuri">Imeruli khachapuri</a>, for others it's a Costa Rican breakfast, or Indian street food.
So tell me, dear readers, what's the tasty treat that you'd hop on a plane for right now? <a href="https://members.jacksflightclub.com/articles/detour-216-island-life-bc-and-diy-pan-asian-adventure#comments">Let us know in the comments</a> (so we can organize a grand Jack's Food Club tour, obviously).
Happy travels and safe landings,

Win 5 Nights in Dreamy Puglia

We&rsquo;ve teamed up with DAYMADE to give one lucky Jack's member an unforgettable 5-night escape for 2 to Puglia &mdash; flights, hotel, sunshine, all sorted.
It&rsquo;s totally free to enter. Just pop your details in, and you&rsquo;re in the draw.
Someone&rsquo;s going&hellip; why not you?

In Partnership with DAYMADE

A Taste of Island Life: Day Trips from the British Columbian Capital

A San Diego native, Olivia left home a few years ago to live on the road. Since then, she's had homebases everywhere from Quebec to England to New Orleans, but she always ends up back on the West Coast.&nbsp;

By Olivia

This week, Jack's released a new <a href="https://members.jacksflightclub.com/articles/jacks-guide-to-victoria">city guide to Victoria</a>: British Columbia's provincial capital, located at the southern end of Vancouver Island.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The island,&rdquo; as it's colloquially known, is truly the jewel of the Pacific Northwest. It's roughly the size of Belgium, and packed with seaside villages and lush woodlands. Everywhere you turn, there are rocky coastlines, moss-covered pine trees, and boardwalk caf&eacute;s.
While the charming capital city is worth a few days on its own, it'd be a shame to stay in town when there's so much beauty right in your backyard. And you don't have to look very far to catch views around here! Even a quick stopover in Victoria comes with some pretty lovely day trips.&nbsp;
So if you find yourself contemplating a visit to the island (and any cheap YYJ fares that you just so happen to see in your inbox), allow me to introduce you to some local sights...
<h3 dir="ltr" id="butchart-gardens">Butchart Gardens</h3>
This is THE day trip from Victoria &mdash; the one pretty much every visitor takes.&nbsp;

<p dir="ltr" id="its-not-hard-to-see-why-the-butchart-gardens-cover-55-acres-of-land-in-beautiful-floral-displays-descend-into-the-manicured-sunken-garden-meander-through-a-forest-of-japanese-maples-and-admire-fountain-after-bubbling-fountain-while-its-worth-seeing-at-any-time-of-year-springs-rose-blossoms-and-autumns-bright-red-foliage-make-for-especially-colorful-visits">It&rsquo;s not hard to see why!&nbsp;<a href="https://butchartgardens.com/">The Butchart Gardens</a> cover 55 acres of land in beautiful floral displays. Descend into the manicured Sunken Garden, meander through a forest of Japanese maples, and admire fountain after bubbling fountain. While it&rsquo;s worth seeing at any time of year, spring&rsquo;s rose blossoms and autumn&rsquo;s bright red foliage make for especially colorful visits.
You can reach the Butchart Gardens from downtown Victoria in about 30 minutes by car, or with a one-hour bus ride aboard the 75 or 30.
<h3 dir="ltr">Nanaimo</h3>
Pronounced nah-NYE-mo, this is the second-largest city on the island. It&rsquo;s got a much more small-town feel, with a cute downtown and Old City Quarter.

Other than whale-watching and ferry connections, its biggest claim to fame is the Nanaimo bar: a chocolatey, coconutty, custardy treat that just might ruin you for every other caf&eacute; dessert.
You can get to Nanaimo from Victoria by city bus or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.islandlinkbus.com/">Island Link</a>, but driving the full ~90 minutes yourself is much more fun. The highways will take you through several charming villages worth the stop &mdash; my favorites are Cowichan Bay, Duncan, Chemainus, and Ladysmith. Expect cozy shops, dockside restaurants, small local museums, and tons of gorgeous bay and island views.
<h3 dir="ltr">Provincial and Regional Parks</h3>
The island may only have one &mdash; difficult-to-reach &mdash; National Park, but it&rsquo;s covered in Provincial and Regional Parks. These protected areas include dense, mossy woodland, waterfalls, tons of lakes, and rocky coastlines.

I could fill an entire article just with outdoor day trips from Victoria, but a few highlights within a mere half-hour&rsquo;s drive include Thetis Lake (Canada&rsquo;s first nature sanctuary), Mount Wells (known for wildflowers and a challenging summit hike), and Goldstream (massive trees and a beautiful waterfall).
<h3 dir="ltr">Sidney</h3>
One of my favorite things about Vancouver Island is the abundance of lovely coastal towns, and Sidney is one of the coolest and most accessible from Victoria.
Unique highlights here include the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea (a small but very well-done aquarium), a fish market frequented by the local seals, and a pier that offers an excellent view of the Gulf. On clear days, you can even spot Washington&rsquo;s Mount Baker across the water.

It&rsquo;s also home to the Victoria airport, and the first big town you&rsquo;ll see if you arrive at Swartz Bay on the ferry. This means you&rsquo;ll likely pass through Sidney anyway, so take some time to look around!
<h3 dir="ltr">Salt Spring Island</h3>
If you only take one more ferry during your trip, it should be the one to Salt Spring! This island is around the size of Aruba, and it&rsquo;s become quite the artistic outpost on the Gulf. The main town, Ganges, is packed with galleries and nifty boutiques, plus there&rsquo;s a weekly street market each Saturday where local artists take to the sidewalks.
It&rsquo;s also one of the best hiking spots in the area &mdash; drive down to Ruckle Provincial Park and follow the trail along the coast for some gorgeous, peak Pacific Northwestern views.

To get there from downtown Victoria, either drive or take one of several direct buses up to Swartz Bay, then hop on the ferry to Fulford Harbour. You&rsquo;ll be much better off with a car on Salt Spring Island, but <a href="https://www.bctransit.com/salt-spring-island/schedules-and-maps/">buses do run every couple hours</a> and cover most of the highlights. 
Want to learn more about Victoria? <a href="https://members.jacksflightclub.com/articles/jacks-guide-to-victoria">Check out the guide</a>.

Silk Road to Sakura: A Choose-Your-Own Adventure

&ldquo;I am looking into planning the itinerary for our big trip to Asia and it is a bit confusing where to start and what to do with visas (China). But we are planning to fly less and use rail and buses to enjoy the scenery. 
Our departure airport is Manchester and we&rsquo;re aiming to be gone from the last week of March to about June. We definitely want to include: Uzbekistan, China, South Korea, Japan, and maybe Vietnam. Rough budget around &pound;2000.&rdquo;&nbsp;- Nehla

Navigator Akasha finds phenomenal Flights faster than you can decide where you want to take a trip to next. A pro at finding the best of the best fares, she's also a master at sharing must-visit spots for when you land.

Answered by Akasha

Hi there, Nehla! Wow, what an adventure! Consider me officially jealous. Slow travel is by far one of the best ways to connect with the land and the people (and yourself!) on a deeper level. It&rsquo;s the anti-checklist trip.&nbsp;
I&rsquo;ve done some research and dug up your best options for traveling overland, and flying when necessary.
<h2 dir="ltr" id="stage-1-manchester-to-uzbekistan">Stage 1: Manchester to Uzbekistan</h2>
Currently, <a href="https://www.google.com/travel/flights/search?tfs=CBwQAho8EgoyMDI2LTAzLTI1KAFqDAgDEggvbS8wNTJid3IMCAISCC9tLzBkbDNncgwIAxIIL20vMGZzbXmQAY4CQAFIAXABggELCP___________wGYAQI&amp;tfu=EgoIABAAGAAgAigB&amp;gl=GB">one-way fares</a> from Manchester to Samarkand or Tashkent in March are pretty decent, in the &pound;240s&ndash;&pound;380s.
Uzbekistan is a firm bucket-lister at Jack&rsquo;s, with Detour Editor Katy the first of us to chart a course through its mesmerizing blue mosques and mausoleums.

&ldquo;In Samarkand, your journey will no doubt start at<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2015/mar/31/registan-samarkand-square-history-cities-buildings"> Registan Square</a>, the city's most iconic landmark. It is dominated by three ornately tiled madrasahs&mdash;Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor, and Tilla-Kari. Each one is a masterpiece, and pictures seriously do not do them justice.&nbsp;
There are hundreds of small alcoves and rooms to explore within the Madrasahs, not to mention handmade Uzbek crafts for sale. Needlework and embroidery are an integral part of the Uzbek culture, and you'll find gorgeous examples at shops all throughout the city.
If you look carefully, inside certain shops you&rsquo;ll spot narrow spiral staircases heading up. Follow them, and you&rsquo;ll emerge onto beautiful balconies overlooking the square, where you can grab a cuppa and watch the people go by.
Another highlight of Samarkand is <a href="https://www.baytalfann.com/post/the-beauty-history-of-shah-i-zinda">Shah-i-Zinda</a>, which is more or less a village of brightly-coloured mausoleums. To snap the best shots, plan to visit early in the day. The narrow pathways get pretty crowded, so a bit of patience is needed for unintentional photobombers.&rdquo; - Katy

<h2 dir="ltr">Stage 2: Uzbekistan to China</h2>
Option 1: Flying from Uzbekistan to China
Obviously, <a href="https://www.google.com/travel/explore?tfs=CBwQAxopEgoyMDI2LTA0LTA4agwIAxIIL20vMGZzbXlyDQgEEgkvbS8wZDA1dzNAAUgBcAKCAQsI____________AZgBArIBBBgBIAE&amp;tfu=GioaKAoSCVmL8zotQUhAEXruTojanVpAEhIJfdK0362sN0AR9NydEDUQTUA&amp;gl=GB">flying from Uzbekistan to China</a> is the easiest and quickest option and will cost you around&nbsp; &pound;100-&pound;180. Flying non-stop, you can either fly to Urumqi (close to the border with Kazakhstan), Guangzhou, Xian or Beijing.&nbsp;

Option 2: Crossing overland into China&nbsp;
Alternatively, if you&rsquo;re up for an adventure, you can cross overland into China, either via <a href="https://caravanistan.com/border-crossings/kazakhstan/#kazakhstan-%e2%80%93-china-border-crossings">Khazakstan</a> or <a href="https://caravanistan.com/border-crossings/kyrgyzstan/">Kyrgyzstan</a>. It&rsquo;s more difficult to cross from Kyrgyzstan because the region that borders it is Xinjiang, which is <a href="https://caravanistan.com/east-turkestan/">quite tightly controlled</a>, and they don&rsquo;t usually let foreigners visit. You&rsquo;d have an easier time crossing from Khorgos (Horgos) in Kazakhstan. The road is better, and you can cross by bus.&nbsp;
While you&rsquo;re in Kazakhstan, you might want to consider crossing the steppes by train; this <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2021/oct/22/across-kazakhstan-by-rail-a-photo-essay?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other&amp;fbclid=IwY2xjawOmN9FleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF5czdqRWlPU21WOWlvYmtzc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHl-dy5BRK4EbERMEiciMj5sJvKtWQcnvqEoTDjGx1kX5jg-U2dvxJt_U0Kr4_aem_karr_pNUs9Emx9HVMjFJ1g">dreamy photo-journal</a> certainly entices me to!
From Tashkent, you can take <a href="https://www.railrussia.com/routes/tashkent-almaty">a train overland to Almaty</a> (Khazakstan) in about 17 hours, and then catch a bus from <a href="https://thetripgoeson.com/almaty-to-urumqi/">Almaty to Urumqi</a> (China). The bus takes about 19&ndash;20 hours and costs around &pound;30 on average. This is by far the easiest way and beats trains with changes or separate border buses.&nbsp;
From Urumqi Railway Station, direct connections span Xinjiang regionally, as well as east to central China via the <a href="https://www.chinadiscovery.com/china-trains/urumqi-high-speed-train.html">Lanzhou-Xinjiang High-Speed Railway</a> &mdash; no transfers needed for most.
This 12-hour train route follows the ancient Silk Road via the oasis town of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8RR-hlrRZrs">Turpan</a>. From here, it travels through some of China&rsquo;s wildest terrain, whizzing past lunar landscapes like the rainbow mountains of Zhangye and <a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/china/gansu/dunhuang/attractions/mogao-grottoes/a/poi-sig/1496278/355964">the caves of the thousand Buddhas in Mogao</a>. This is one of the most important collections of Buddhist architecture in the world.&nbsp;

<h2 dir="ltr">Stage 3: China to South Korea</h2>
Option 1: Flying from China to South Korea
It&rsquo;s very <a href="https://www.google.com/travel/explore?tfs=CBwQAxooEgoyMDI2LTA0LTA4agwIAhIIL20vMDE5MTRyDAgEEggvbS8wNnFkM0ABSAFwAoIBCwj___________8BmAECsgEEGAEgAQ&amp;tfu=GgA&amp;gl=GB">easy to fly</a> between the two countries &mdash; expect to pay around &pound;60 one-way.
Option 2: China to South Korea via ferry
I imagine you'll train-hop from Urumqi across China to the Beijing area. From Beijing, hop on a high-speed train to Qingdao (3&ndash;4 hours, around &pound;40 for economy seats), where you can take <a href="https://4corners7seas.com/asia/china/china-korea-ferries/">a ferry to Incheon, South Korea</a>. The Weidong ferry sails every Mon/Wed/Fri at 17:30 and takes about 17&ndash;18 hours, costing around &pound;85+.&nbsp; 
<a href="https://members.jacksflightclub.com/articles/silk-road-to-sakura-a-choose-your-own-adventure">Continue reading...</a>

All the important (or silly, or strange) travel news from across web this week.
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Storm Bram&nbsp;<a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/storm-bram-flights-trains-ferries-cancelled-weather-warnings-b2881568.html">brought chaos to travellers</a> in the UK and Ireland this week, disrupting everything from flights to trains to ferries. </li>
<li dir="ltr" role="presentation">No photo can truly do the Northern Lights justice, but these <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamiecartereurope/2025/12/08/25-award-winning-northern-lights-photos-to-inspire-your-next-adventure/">25 award-winning photographers</a> have gotten pretty close. </li>
<li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Spirit&rsquo;s bankruptcy is <a href="https://simpleflying.com/is-american-spirit-merger-in-the-cards-new-court-filing-draws-speculation/">drawing rumours of an American Airlines buy-out</a>. Now, would their celebrity couple name be Spamerican or Amerit?&nbsp; </li>
<li dir="ltr" role="presentation">After several shipping containers full of fruit were <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/uk/cruise-ship-iona-delayed-fruit-overboard-b2879752.html">accidentally plunged into waters off the Isle of Wight</a>, officials have warned locals not to eat any loose bananas they find washed up on shore. Darn it, there goes our whole lunch plan! </li>
<li>And finally, let's&nbsp;paws on a warm and fuzzy note: From donuts to shrines, this entire neighborhood in Tokyo is <a href="https://japanjourneys.jp/tokyo/lifestyle/things-to-do/cat-lovers-need-to-visit-yanaka-right-now/">themed around its feline residents</a>. It's&nbsp;purr-fect!</li>
</ul>

A Taste of Island Life in British Columbia & a DIY Pan-Asian Adventure

Sometimes, we receive a question from the Jack's Community that sets our soul alight. The kind of question that excites us, ignites our wanderlust and transports us across continents.&nbsp;
This was one of those questions.&nbsp;
Navigator Kash fell so far down a pan-Asian rabbit hole that she's yet to fully emerge, so it's only right that we share all the goods she dug up along the way.
<hr>

Hi there, Nehla! Wow, what an adventure! Consider me officially jealous. Slow travel is by far one of the best ways to connect with the land and the people (and yourself!) on a deeper level. It&rsquo;s the anti-checklist trip.&nbsp;
I&rsquo;ve done some research and dug up your best options for traveling overland, and flying when necessary.

<h2 dir="ltr">Stage 1: Manchester to Uzbekistan</h2>
Currently, <a href="https://www.google.com/travel/flights/search?tfs=CBwQAho8EgoyMDI2LTAzLTI1KAFqDAgDEggvbS8wNTJid3IMCAISCC9tLzBkbDNncgwIAxIIL20vMGZzbXmQAY4CQAFIAXABggELCP___________wGYAQI&amp;tfu=EgoIABAAGAAgAigB&amp;gl=GB">one-way fares</a> from Manchester to Samarkand or Tashkent in March are pretty decent, in the &pound;240s&ndash;&pound;380s.
Uzbekistan is a firm bucket-lister at Jack&rsquo;s, with Detour Editor Katy the first of us to chart a course through its mesmerizing blue mosques and mausoleums.

&ldquo;In Samarkand, your journey will no doubt start at<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2015/mar/31/registan-samarkand-square-history-cities-buildings"> Registan Square</a>, the city's most iconic landmark. It is dominated by three impossibly ornately tiled madrasahs&mdash;Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor, and Tilla-Kari. Each one is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, and pictures seriously do not do them justice.&nbsp;
There are hundreds of small alcoves and rooms to explore within the Madrasahs, not to mention handmade Uzbek crafts for sale. Needlework and embroidery are an integral part of the Uzbek culture, and you'll find gorgeous examples at shops all throughout the city.
If you look carefully, inside certain shops you&rsquo;ll spot narrow spiral staircases heading up. Follow them, and you&rsquo;ll emerge onto beautiful balconies overlooking the square, where you can grab a cuppa and watch the people go by.
Another highlight of Samarkand is<a href="https://www.baytalfann.com/post/the-beauty-history-of-shah-i-zinda"> Shah-i-Zinda</a>, which is more or less a village of brightly-coloured mausoleums. To snap the best shots, plan to visit early in the day. The narrow pathways get pretty crowded, so a bit of patience is needed for unintentional photobombers.&rdquo; - Katy

Tip: When it comes to your first glimpse of public transport in this area of the world, you&rsquo;re in for an absolute treat in Tashkent. Its <a href="https://twinperspectives.co.uk/the-most-beautiful-metro-stations-in-tashkent-2025/">metro stations are more like museums</a>. A myriad of mosaics and motifs, each spinning tales of the Silk Road and crumbled empires.&nbsp;

Option 2: Crossing overland into China&nbsp;
Alternatively, if you&rsquo;re up for an adventure, you can cross overland into China, either via <a href="https://caravanistan.com/border-crossings/kazakhstan/#kazakhstan-%e2%80%93-china-border-crossings">Khazakstan</a> or <a href="https://caravanistan.com/border-crossings/kyrgyzstan/">Kyrgyzstan</a>. It&rsquo;s more difficult to cross from Kyrgyzstan because the region that borders it is Xinjiang, which is <a href="https://caravanistan.com/east-turkestan/">quite tightly controlled</a>, and they don&rsquo;t usually let foreigners visit. You&rsquo;d have an easier time crossing from Khorgos (Horgos) in Kazakhstan. The road is better, and you can cross by bus.&nbsp;
While you&rsquo;re in Kazakhstan, you might want to consider crossing the steppes by train; this <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2021/oct/22/across-kazakhstan-by-rail-a-photo-essay?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other&amp;fbclid=IwY2xjawOmN9FleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF5czdqRWlPU21WOWlvYmtzc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHl-dy5BRK4EbERMEiciMj5sJvKtWQcnvqEoTDjGx1kX5jg-U2dvxJt_U0Kr4_aem_karr_pNUs9Emx9HVMjFJ1g">dreamy photo-journal</a> certainly entices me to!

Tip: This website, <a href="https://caravanistan.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Caravanistan</a>, is a great resource for destinations all along the Silk Road. Here&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1Ml8xrhk9Jwr00_GdccYtBrEYScU&amp;ll=41.93493861474455%2C79.74287294999999&amp;z=3">a handy map of border crossings</a> on the Silk Road.

From Tashkent, you can take <a href="https://www.railrussia.com/routes/tashkent-almaty">a train overland to Almaty</a> (Khazakstan) in about 17 hours, and then catch a bus from <a href="https://thetripgoeson.com/almaty-to-urumqi/">Almaty to Urumqi</a> (China) the bus takes about 19&ndash;20 hours and costs around &pound;30 on average. This is by far the easiest way and beats trains with changes or separate border buses.&nbsp;
From Urumqi Railway Station, direct connections span Xinjiang regionally, as well as east to central China via the <a href="https://www.chinadiscovery.com/china-trains/urumqi-high-speed-train.html">Lanzhou-Xinjiang High-Speed Railway</a> &mdash; no transfers needed for most.
This 12-hour train route follows the ancient Silk Road via the oasis town of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8RR-hlrRZrs">Turpan</a>. From here, it travels through some of China&rsquo;s wildest terrain, whizzing past lunar landscapes like the rainbow mountains of Zhangye and <a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/china/gansu/dunhuang/attractions/mogao-grottoes/a/poi-sig/1496278/355964">the caves of the thousand Buddhas in Mogao</a>. This is one of the most important collections of Buddhist architecture in the world.&nbsp;

<h2 dir="ltr">Stage 3: China to South Korea</h2>
Option 1: Flying from China to South Korea
It&rsquo;s very <a href="https://www.google.com/travel/explore?tfs=CBwQAxooEgoyMDI2LTA0LTA4agwIAhIIL20vMDE5MTRyDAgEEggvbS8wNnFkM0ABSAFwAoIBCwj___________8BmAECsgEEGAEgAQ&amp;tfu=GgA&amp;gl=GB">easy to fly</a> between the two countries &mdash; expect to pay around &pound;60 one-way.

Option 2: China to South Korea via ferry
I imagine you'll train-hop from Urumqi across China to the Beijing area. From Beijing, hop on a high-speed train to Qingdao (3&ndash;4 hours, around &pound;40 for economy seats), where you can take <a href="https://4corners7seas.com/asia/china/china-korea-ferries/">a ferry to Incheon, South Korea</a>. The Weidong ferry sails every Mon/Wed/Fri at 17:30 and takes about 17&ndash;18 hours, costing around &pound;85+.&nbsp;

Tip: It&rsquo;s easier (and cheaper) to buy tickets in person than online, and you&rsquo;ll want to arrive no later than two hours before departure to fill out customs declaration and boarding cards. The amenities on board are basic, so pack snacks accordingly, or consider splurging for a higher tier like Business or Royal class.

<h2 dir="ltr">Stage 4: South Korea to Japan</h2>
Option 1: South Korea to Japan via ferry
Once you arrive in Incheon, you can then take an AREX train or subway to Seoul, which takes about an hour and costs around &pound;5.&nbsp;
At this stage, a few days of rest and rejuvenation probably wouldn&rsquo;t go amiss! In Seoul, a visit to <a href="http://google.com/search?q=siloam+sauna&amp;oq=Siloam+Sauna&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqBwgAEAAYgAQyBwgAEAAYgAQyBwgBEAAYgAQyBwgCEAAYgAQyBwgDEAAYgAQyBwgEEAAYgAQyBwgFEAAYgAQyBwgGEAAYgAQyBwgHEAAYgAQyBwgIEAAYgAQyDQgJEAAYhgMYgAQYigXSAQgxMTAwajBqN6gCALACAA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">Siloam Sauna</a> offers traditional Korean spa relaxation for you weary travellers. Alternatively, a gentle hike up Achasan Mountain will do wonders for the spirit, and afterward, reward yourself with a quiet tea at <a href="https://firefortysix.com/2023/07/08/a-relaxing-afternoon-interlude-at-tteuran-teahouse-in-ikseondong/">Tteuran Tea House</a>.
From Seoul, you can then take <a href="https://www.koreantrain.com/train-seoul-busan">a highspeed KTX train to Busan</a> (stop off in the city known as <a href="https://southkoreahallyu.com/gyeongju-south-korea-things-to-do/">&ldquo;the museum without walls&rdquo;</a> if you have the time). From Seoul straight to Busan it takes about 2hrs 15 mins and costs around &pound;30.&nbsp;

Next up, <a href="https://whirled-away.com/ferry-south-korea-japan/">hop on an overnight ferry across to Fukuoka</a>. The ferry prices usually fall somewhere between &pound;46 and &pound;77 depending on the season and what kind of seat or cabin you pick. All in, you&rsquo;re looking at roughly &pound;76&ndash;&pound;108.&nbsp;
Another option is the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcleb7YgKGA">PanStar Cruise Line</a> to Osaka, offering a longer, more cruise-like experience that honestly might be worth the detour!
Option 2: Flying from South Korea to Japan
If you&rsquo;d rather get there fast, <a href="https://www.google.com/travel/explore?tfs=CBwQAxoqEgoyMDI1LTEyLTI0KABqDAgDEggvbS8waHNxZnIMCAQSCC9tLzAzXzNkQAFIAXACggELCP___________wGYAQKyAQQYASAB&amp;tfu=GgA&amp;gl=GB">flights from Seoul</a> to places like Tokyo, Osaka, or Fukuoka are typically pretty cheap and only take around 1.5&ndash;2 hours, with fares starting from &pound;40&ndash;&pound;70 if you catch a deal.

Tip: In Tokyo, instead of sticking to Shibuya, Asakusa, or Ginza, venture to neighbourhoods like Yanaka, Shimokitazawa, Kiyosumi‑Shirakawa, or Kichijoji for more local energy. 
<a href="https://monocle.com/travel/yanaka-neighbourhood-guide/">Yanaka</a> offers a quiet, nostalgic Tokyo with over 70 different temples, wooden houses and cozy eateries - and <a href="https://japanjourneys.jp/tokyo/lifestyle/things-to-do/cat-lovers-need-to-visit-yanaka-right-now/">most importantly, cats</a>!

<h2 dir="ltr">Stage 5: Japan to Vietnam</h2>
Option 1: Ferry and Overland
This one is tricky. You can do it overland by heading back to China by ferry (although the <a href="https://www.shinganjin.com/en/schedule/">Kobe/Osaka&ndash;Shanghai service</a> was suspended this week due to ongoing tensions), and then travelling south by train.
If you want to go for it, just be aware that there&rsquo;s a time investment involved! The crossing takes 45&ndash;48 hours, then it&rsquo;ll be around another 10 hours by train from Shanghai to the Vietnamese border.
Trains crossing from China into Vietnam <a href="https://www.indochinatour.com/china-vietnam-tour/china-to-vietnam.html#:~:text=hub%20in%20China.-,The%20Train%20to%20Vietnam%20from%20China%20is%20Available%3A%20A%20Very%20Scenic%20Route%20from%20Nanning,-Instead%20of%20flying">were not reinstated after the pandemic</a>. That means you&rsquo;ll have to alight at Pingxiang, take a taxi to the border crossing, and then hop on a train from Dong Dang on the Vietnamese side to continue towards Hanoi.

Option 2: Flying from Japan to Vietnam&nbsp;
You can catch <a href="https://www.google.com/travel/explore?tfs=CBwQAxorEgoyMDI1LTEyLTI0KABqDAgDEggvbS8wN2Rma3INCAQSCS9tLzAxY3JkNUABSAFwAoIBCwj___________8BmAECsgEEGAEgAQ&amp;tfu=GgA&amp;gl=GB">a direct flight from Tokyo</a> to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City in about six hours, with economy fares that can drop as low as &pound;80&ndash;&pound;90 one way.
In Hanoi, I recommend starting your mornings early at <a href="https://lilystravelagency.com/quang-ba-flower-market/">Quang Ba Flower Market</a> to see the city come alive with traders&rsquo; fresh flowers before the crowds arrive.&nbsp;
You can also use buses, trains, or the app Grab (similar to Uber) to catch a motorbike or taxi to quieter districts or artisan villages like Bat Trang and Duong Lam.&nbsp;
In <a href="https://artsandculture.google.com/story/0AUR6zBKq7ucyg">Bat Trang</a>, arrive in the morning to watch artisans shape pottery by hand, and try making a small piece yourself. In <a href="https://wander-lush.org/duong-lam-ancient-village-hanoi-day-trip/">Duong Lam</a>, take a bus or Grab through scenic rice paddies, then walk or cycle among clay-tiled houses and temples. Bring cash and wear comfortable shoes, and consider visiting on weekdays for a quieter, more authentic experience of local crafts and village life.

Tip:&nbsp;If you decide to go south, take a look at our <a href="https://members.jacksflightclub.com/articles/jfcs-guide-to-ho-chi-minh-city">Ho Chi Minh Guide</a> &mdash; it&rsquo;s packed with Katy&rsquo;s tips for your trip.

<h2 dir="ltr">Stage 6: Homeward Bound</h2>
Flying back home
Once you&rsquo;re done exploring Vietnam, getting back to the UK is easiest via London: there are several direct flights from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to London, and from there it&rsquo;s just a quick hop on a domestic flight or train to Manchester.&nbsp;
Total flight times from Vietnam to London are roughly 13&ndash;14 hours for a direct route, with fares ranging from &pound;390s&ndash;&pound;600 depending on the airline, season, and how early you book. Currently, <a href="https://www.google.com/travel/flights/search?tfs=CBwQAho4EgoyMDI2LTA2LTE1KABqDAgDEggvbS8wZm5mZmoMCAMSCC9tLzBobjRocgwIAhIIL20vMDRqcGxAAUgBcAGCAQsI____________AZgBAg&amp;tfu=EgoIABAAGAAgAigB&amp;gl=GB">fares in June </a>are reasonable at &pound;396.&nbsp;

<h2 dir="ltr">Rough totals</h2>
Overland/ferry-heavy route: &pound;1,400pp
Mostly flying: &pound;1,200pp

<h2 id="visa-notes">Visa Notes</h2>
Uzbekistan
<ul>
<li data-start="288" data-end="412">UK, EU, Canadian &amp; US Passports: Most will qualify for up to 30 days visa-free for tourism. Longer stays require a visa, usually via the official e-visa portal.</li>
<li data-start="288" data-end="412">Other passports: Many nationalities still qualify for visa-free entry or simple e-visas, but rules vary. Check your specific passport eligibility on the <a href="https://e-visa.gov.uz/">Uzbek government visa site</a>.</li>
</ul>
China
<ul>
<li data-start="640" data-end="900">UK, US &amp; Canadian Passports: A visa is usually required, depending on the exact duration and destination of your visit. The current process involves an online pre-approval form on <a href="https://www.visaforchina.cn/VIE3_EN/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">visaforchina.cn</a>, followed by an in-person biometrics appointment at a Chinese Visa Application Service Centre. Fees average about &pound;130. Allow 3&ndash;4 weeks total.</li>
<li data-start="903" data-end="1128">Other passports: Most European countries, as well as Australia and New Zealand, will qualify for 15-days visa-free entry to China. These rules change frequetly, and requirements, fees, and processing times can differ, so travelers should always check the rules for their specific nationality.</li>
</ul>
South Korea
<ul>
<li data-start="1150" data-end="1270">Most UK, European &amp; North American passports: No traditional visa needed for trips up to 90 days, but you must <a href="https://www.k-eta.go.kr/">apply for the K-ETA</a> before travel.&nbsp;Some passports may require a short-stay visa, so check the K-ETA site for nationality-specific entry rules.</li>
</ul>
Japan
<ul>
<li data-start="1150" data-end="1270">Most UK, European &amp; North American passports:&nbsp;Visa-free for up to 90 days. You may be asked to show proof of funds and onward travel/accommodation.</li>
<li data-start="1582" data-end="1742">Other passports: Japan offers visa-free entry to many countries, but not all&mdash;travellers should confirm whether their passport is on Japan&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/short/novisa.html">visa-exempt list</a>.</li>
</ul>
Vietnam
<ul>
<li data-start="1760" data-end="1813">UK &amp; European passports: Most qualify for visa-free entry for up to 45 days.</li>
<li data-start="1816" data-end="1994">Other passports: Visa exemptions vary greatly by nationality. Many travellers will need an e-visa, which is generally straightforward to obtain via <a href="https://evisa.gov.vn/">Vietnam&rsquo;s official portal</a>.</li>
</ul>

Safe travels! I&rsquo;d love to know which routes you end up choosing! And <a href="https://members.jacksflightclub.com/postcards">send us a postcard</a> on the road!

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan in €330s-€490s rtn

Samarkand, Uzbekistan at $937 RT

Uzbekistan in £330s-£450s rtn

$830 rtn

India, Vietnam, Thailand and more in €320s-€590s rtn

Tashkent, Uzbekistan at £413 rtn