GLM TEAM 
Most of us have seen that genius plan someone with the heart of an angel put together for the holiday loving masses of South Africa. The chart that shows you how, in 2023, you can turn 15 leave days into 44!
With all this holiday time on your hands the only thing to do is take a holiday and April is the perfect month to do it. To make your life easier we have listed our top destinations to consider for your last-minute April getaway.
Asia
Asia has some of the best sun destinations for a cultural, relaxing and spiritual holiday and we have two favourites.
A budget-friendly, visa-free destination, it is no surprise that Thailand is a much-loved destination for South Africans. The ultimate family holiday destination, Thailand has plenty to offer couples, friends and families. From picturesque beaches, laid-back and friendly locals, fascinating street food, local fauna and exhilarating theme parks, it is a feast for the senses and an amazing adventure.
Coming in a close second, Bali is an authentic destination with so much to see and explore. For the active holidaymakers, Bali is renowned for its golf offering and is an idyllic place to practice your swing. Those willing to venture out can sail across the waters to Gili Trawangan and explore the island by bicycle. Travellers who appreciate culture will be wowed by the intricate spiritual temples and rice terraces while nature lovers can easily explore the country’s UNESCO World Heritage sites from the all-inclusive Club Med Bali resort on the Sunda archipelago.
Treat the family to a Balinese shadow theatre performance, which make the use of cut out, wood carved or leather puppets backlit on a screen.
Maldives
We are not sure why it took so long, but we are stoked that it has finally happened. Maldives has grown in popularity as an Indian Ocean holiday and honeymoon destination. One of the most beautiful places in the world with its dazzling powder white beaches, fascinating and colourful marine life, overwater accommodation and superb cuisine, it offers an abundance of natural beauty and a tourist-friendly climate. Surfing and diving are a big part of life in the Maldives and many visitors look forward to grabbing a board and hitting the waves and exploring the stunning and varied coral and marine life.
Treat the family to a once in a lifetime magical guided swim alongside tame sea turtles or make memories on a sunset cruise from Club Med Kani where you’ll find schools of dolphins flipping and frolicking alongside your boat.
Turkey
We have an extensive list of reasons why you should visit Turkey and with its capital being a major world city, the destination has plenty to offer everyone in the way of shopping, cuisine, parks, museums and culture – but here are some of our favourite ones. Turkey is a cultural heaven that is teeming with historical and archaeological delights. From the ancient city of Ephesus which was a vibrant economic and trade centre to the Roman ruins of Xanthos, Turkey is full of towns, historical sites and attractions perfect for day trips. Turkey also boasts being home to some of the top beaches in Europe and the perfect place to enjoy a beach holiday is Club Med Palmiye. With a plethora of watersports ranging from sailing, waterskiing, paragliding, scuba and wreck diving, snorkelling and paddle boarding, an all-inclusive stay will be fun for the whole family!
Foodies, we have not forgotten you! Turkey has delicious cuisine that is infused with Mediterranean and Middle East influences. Must-try dishes to sample are authentic mezze, börek (a savoury pastry) and the delicious creamy cheeses which from part of the country’s rich culinary culture. Must try experiences include a Turkish steam hammam (bath), hunting for keepsakes at the Grand Bazaar or an unforgettable hot air balloon ride over the otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia.
Treat the family to fun outings at Legoland, and the Istanbul Aquarium. Further out Göynük’s Dinopark is one of the few places around where your kids will be able to ride a T-Rex.
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