Stopovers are a fantastic way to see more places and make the most of your time. By taking advantage of a stopover, you can turn a simple trip into an extended adventure visiting multiple locations.
What Is a Stopover?
A stopover is a period of time between two flights. Airlines differ in their definition, but generally a stopover lasts a minimum of 24 hours. Whereas a layover is typically defined as less than a day. I build in stopovers whenever possible. Deidra and I stopped over in London on our way to India. We also stopped in Madrid on our way to Morocco. And let’s not forget my recent stop in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on my way to Kenya!
Stopovers are a fabulous way to stretch your vacation dollar. Here are a few tips on how to make the most of stopovers when traveling.
Research Flights & Destinations
First, research your options. Many airlines offer free or low-cost stopovers as part of their flight packages. I generally find the best (i.e., free or cheap) stopovers by first checking flights to my ultimate destination. I find where the built-in layovers occur and pick my favorite. Then, I simply book my ticket as a multi-stop itinerary with a night or more in the city I want to explore.
It is totally worth checking to see the stopover options for any trip. Even if there aren’t some obvious choices, you can sometimes create a stopover. Try booking a multi-stop ticket somewhere in the general direction of your destination. This method might cost a bit more, but is generally more affordable than taking two separate trips.
Plan Your Time
Once you’ve determined your options, plan ahead. Consider the length of your stopover, the city you’ll be in, and what you want to see and do. Be sure to check the visa requirements for the country you’ll be visiting. Make sure you have enough time to obtain any required documents.
If you’re looking to explore the city as quickly as possible, consider taking a guided tour. Guided tours are an excellent way to learn about the city’s history, culture, and attractions. Even if you have time to explore in depth, tours are a great way to get an overview of what the city has to offer. If you prefer to explore on your own, be sure to do your research and make a plan.
Connect With Culture Through Food
A great way to make the most of your stopover is to enjoy the local cuisine. Whether it’s street food, a local restaurant, or a food market, try to sample as much of the local cuisine as possible. Food is a great way to experience the culture of a place. It is also a wonderful way to meet locals and make new friends.
A Stopover Is A Great Way To Recharge
For those who are looking to relax and recharge, stopovers are an excellent opportunity to do just that. Find a park, or a quiet coffee shop, and take time to read a book, meditate, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet. Stopovers are also great opportunities to treat yourself to a mid-trip massage!
Stopover Hotels
Be sure to book a hotel that is close to public transportation and the attractions you want to see. This will give you the best opportunity to experience the city at night. Or, if you are only staying a night or two you may find it more convenient to stay near the airport. It really all depends on the city and style of touring you plan to do.
Pack Smart
Finally, be sure to pack smart. Sometimes the weather in your stopover city is vastly different than your ultimate destination. Don’t forget to pack for both places! Consider packing a lightweight, versatile wardrobe that can be layered as needed.
Next time you’re planning a trip, consider a stopover and see where your travels can take you.
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