Urban Escape or Tropical Getaway? Choosing the Perfect Vacation for Your Style

Holidays are the best, obviously. Yet, choosing where exactly to go can be a bit tricky, especially when you’re not going alone. With most people saving up for this special occasion, it’s important to choose a destination that everyone can enjoy. So, when it comes down to city vs island holidays, who win? 

Two of the most common vacation destinations are cities and beaches. You’ll have fun regardless, but depending on what you’re hoping to get out of your vacation and how much you’re willing to spend, one may be better than the other.

Whether you already know what kind of vacation style is for you and just need some planning inspiration or you’re still deciding, read on for some tips on how to choose and what makes each break so good


Island vs. City Holiday: Which Is Better?

Like all holiday debates, this one hinges on what you’re after and who you’re travelling with. A tropical island escape is better suited to families or couples wanting to keep the cost of their trip down. However, you can dial up the romance and witness incredible sights on a city escape. 

With that in mind, why don’t we examine each side of the argument in more detail? We’ll also analyse key elements like cost and which holiday genre is more activity-rich. 


Why Choose a City Break?

Urban escapes, at their core, are incredibly exciting. There’s so much to learn by simply sightseeing in a new city. Many popular destinations are also easier (and often cheaper) to get to than a tropical getaway, with many flights in and out every day. Once you’re in the city, even if you don’t have a car, public transportation can get you where you need to go. Also, cities are often pretty walkable.

One of the biggest benefits to slipping into an urban wonderland is the number of things to do. In a dazzling metropolis, you can count on numerous restaurants, activities, museums, galleries, tours, landmarks and shopping. For example, there are a host of incredible and unique things to do in Dubai

A cool way to spend your day exploring is to take advantage of various city tours, whether by bus, segway, or otherwise!

However, while it is possible to travel to a city on a budget, it may limit the number of things you can do. Typically, the cost of living in cities is much higher than that of coastal areas. Having said that, population sizes, hotel rooms and flights to cities may be significantly cheaper than a tropical getaway. So what do beachy escape have going for them?

Abu Dhabi is another incredible example of a city escape. Image by batavia60510 from Pixabay

Why Choose an Island Escape?

There’s nothing quite like crystal clear water, palm trees, fresh seafood, and exotic animals. On a top island escape, you’ll experience no shortage of cool aquatic activities, beautiful hikes, and bright sunshine. Whether you love to be active or restful, a tropical getaway has it all. 

Although all-inclusive tropical destinations may come with a higher travel cost, once you’re there, many activities are included in the price. If you’re happy to spend all day at the beach, a journey to the tropics may be much more in-budget than an urban adventure. Furthermore, beach vacations tend to be more laid back.

No need for fancy suits or high heels. Your uniform will consist of flip-flops and some bathing suits – unless, of course, you fancy dressing up for that evening meal. 

Beachy holidays even come with health benefits. The sea air helps you both sleep and feel better, meanwhile, activities like swimming in the ocean or setting off on an exploratory sunny stroll can help reduce stress and improve your immune system! Moreover, you’re much more likely to drink in the vitamin D on a tropical getaway.

Aerial view of an island resort in the Maldives
An island escape is one of the most enchanting holidays you can have. Photo by Shifaaz shamoon on Unsplash

Counting The Cost

So far, we’ve talked a lot about what you can get upto on your trip. But, let’s get down to brass tacks. In a city vs island battle, which one comes out on top in terms of cost? 

The truth is, there are budget considerations for both tropical and urban destinations. A weekend trip to a city can see big spenders drain their wallets while the upfront cost of a beach break is no small commitment.

However, we would have to say that beach holidays are more affordable in the long run. With flexible payment plans and all-inclusive offerings a lot of that during-trip-spend is taken care of before you take off.

Drone shot looking back at Acapulco, Mexico from the sea.
Island holidays generally end up being more cost-effective than city breaks. Photo by Alberto Bazan on Unsplash

Which Is Better For Things To Do?

If you’re someone who likes to be active, a tropical getaway may be the better option. There, you’ll have no shortage of sports to try, from the (often) free options like ocean swimming or hiking to pricier activities like parasailing and jet skiing. The point is, you can do it all. Plus, depending on the resort you book, you could have access to soothing spa area. 

Whereas in a city, yes, you do have landmarks, sights, restaurants, bars, and shops to explore. But walking and public transport hopping is where the activity selection ends. You could mix up your movements in the hotel fitness centre, but most high-end island resorts feature gyms too. 

Woman kayaking in the sea
Add ocean kayaking to the list of unique adventures you can have on an island holiday. Photo by LOGAN WEAVER | @LGNWVR on Unsplash

City or Island: Make Your Choice

Whichever vacation you choose, you’ll have a great time regardless. An island escape is perfect for building memories and experiencing new things. There’s also that all-inclusive budget win too. However, there is something undeniably exciting about exploring a new city and soaking up the culture. 

If you still can’t decide, why don’t we call it a draw and think about how you could achieve the best of both worlds? Did somebody say Twin-Centre? Click the button below and we’ll reveal more about our ace-in-the-hole escape for quarreling couples. 

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