Flying to Australia or New Zealand? These are the layover cities worth leaving the airport for

Layovers worth the stop while flying to Australia or New Zealand as recommended by seasoned circumnavigator, Sarah Rodrigues 

The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai; Bukcheon Hanok village, Seoul; The Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi; 

Whether you’re seeking an escape from the chill of an Irish winter or heading to the Southern Hemisphere to visit friends and family over the festive season, there’s no getting away from the fact that it takes an entire day to fly from Ireland to Australia or New Zealand. Sure, it’s worth it when you get there, but it’s a long and exhausting slog — not to mention the time difference and resulting jet lag.

By making the most of a necessary stopover, however, you’ll not only reduce the fatigue, but also experience a destination beyond its airport (yes, Singapore Changi is amazing, but there’s a great deal to see beyond it!) As someone born in Sydney, living in London, and still calling Australia home, I’ve done the trip countless times — with my partner, with kids, with the whole family, and on my own — and in aiming for the best fares each time, I’ve spent time in just about every layover city en route.