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Travel far and wide: Beijing, the Big Apple and six other cities for your bucket list

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What better time to start making your way through that bucket list.

Whether it's going a run around New York's Central Park, hiking through the Canadian Rockies, setting foot on the Great Wall of China or riding through the streets of Bangkok on a Tuk Tuk - it's all there for you.

For us there's nothing quite like the sense of excitement that comes with visiting somewhere new, and with direct flights and easy connections to some of the world's most interesting and vibrant cities you can start planning your next big adventure now.

Here are some of the amazing places waiting to be explored.

USA

New York

There's so much going on in New York, you'll want to be a part of it.

Go walking in Central Park, snap a selfie at Times Square, brave new heights at the Top of the Rock, and see some of the world's best theatre on Broadway.

You'll race through your bucket list given how much there is to see and do in the Big Apple, and with year-round flights there's plenty opportunity to plan your visit.

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Washington DC

If US history and politics is your thing, this is the place to be. Few places are home to quite so many iconic sites as the US capital, with photo opportunities everywhere you turn.

You've got history all around you with the White House, the Washington Monument, Capitol Hill and Lincoln Memorial to explore, along with a brilliant arts and theatre scene.

There's tons to like about Washington DC.

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Canada

Toronto

Thinking Toronto? You're in luck as there are some really cool things to CN do.

For many a trip up the CN Tower is top of the list given the city views you get. If you're brave enough check out the glass floor on the observation level which allows you to 'walk on air' (be warned, it's 114 floors up).

The heart of eastern Canada, this is one of the most diverse cities in the world with great nightlife and museums, access to natural wonders like Niagara Falls and Lake Ontario, and, of course, ice-hockey. Enjoy this city all year round with direct flights now operating through the winter too.

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Calgary

If Toronto gives you access to the east of Canada, Calgary is the gateway to the best of the west - where life goes at a different pace.

Go trekking in the Canadian Rockies, embrace the natural beauty of Lake Louise (one of the most Instagrammable places you'll see), and live life like they did back in the day at the Heritage Park Historical Village. Why not combine Calgary with a visit to Vancouver, one of the planet's most highly-rated cities.

Fly Alba to Alberta for a holiday you won't forget.

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Rest of the world

Beijing

One of the most interesting cities you could visit, with no shortage of new experiences waiting for you.

New direct flights mean you've got quicker, easier access to China's capital and the amazing things it's got to offer. Take a day trip to the Great Wall and embark on one of the coolest hikes going, see the Imperial Palace and the amazing Forbidden City, and treat your taste buds with a visit to one of the world famous food streets.

Bound for Beijing? Lucky you.

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Doha

For a true taste of the Middle East you'll want to experience Doha.

Think vibrant souk markets, luxury resorts, an ever-changing modern cityscape and a stunning waterfront. With Qatar Airways operating double daily flights from Edinburgh there's plenty opportunity to plan your getaway.

And if it's further afield you're going Qatar offers connections to all corners of the globe, so you can continue to travel far and wide.

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Just one stop away

Bangkok

Cities don't come much more high-energy than Bangkok.

See what all the fuss is about for yourself and venture to the Thai capital, just one stop away.

Once you're there are plenty ways to see the city, whether it be from the passenger seat of a Tuk Tuk, by cruising down the famous Chao Phraya, or from a rooftop bar with a cold drink in hand. Just don't forget to try the street food - nowhere does it better.

Cape Town

Now this is what you call an adventure. South Africa's Cape Town is surrounded by some of the most magnificent scenery you'll encounter.

We'd wager Table Mountain National Park is already on your bucket list - if it's not it should be. The view from the top is something you won't forget, while Cape Point must be seen to be believed.

There's much more too. Add Robben Island, Boulders Penguin Colony and the V&A Waterfront to your list and you're in for a treat.

Plan your journey

Check-in desk opening times

Different airlines open their check-in desks at different times, so it's always best to check this before the day of your flight.

While some open their desks up to four hours before flight times, others do so two hours ahead of departure.

Desks and times can vary, and are subject to change by the airline.

Check-in desk times

Browse the shops

If you're looking to pick up a pre-flight bargain or a holiday essential once you arrive at the airport then you're in luck.

We have an extensive selection of retail options on offer to passengers, selling everything from designer clothes and electronics to sunglasses and suitcases.

Airport shops

Find out what we've got on offer before and after security here.