Dreaming of globetrotting with your family, but the thought of long flights with layovers is keeping you stateside? Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of amazing international destinations that are a nonstop flight away from San Diego. Which means an epic intercontinental vacay is directly in sight––and there’s no hassle of multiple flights. Read on for 7 faraway places you can fly nonstop to, as well as what to do when you land!
Tokyo, Japan on Japan Airlines
All eyes will be on Tokyo this summer as the host of the XXXII Olympic Summer Games. Whether you book a trip to cheer on Team USA, say hello to Hello Kitty or savor some epic sushi, Tokyo is a flight away. To get there, board Japan Airlines' nonstop service from San Diego to Tokyo's Narita International Airport. In-flight, you'll enjoy comforts no matter what class seat you select, like special meals for babies and children and chef-designed meals for you. Once you've landed, check out the beautiful Ueno Park for museums, Japan's first zoological garden and the famed cherry blossoms. And for a souvenir your Pokemon-fan will flip for, head to the Pokemon Mega Center in Sunshine City.
Online: jal.co.jp
London, England on British Airways
For an international adventure without language barriers, take a hop over the pond to London, England. Board British Airways' direct flight from San Diego to London's Heathrow Airport. Once there, you'll explore world-class museums (many of which are free!), get a birds eye view of the city on the London Eye and give your little princes and princesses a glimpse into royal life at Buckingham Palace. Don't forget to schedule your visit to watch the changing of the guards. Online: britishairways.com
Zurich, Switzerland on Swiss Airlines
Discover a love for all things Swiss with a visit to Zurich, Switzerland. Your adventure begins with a nonstop flight from San Diego to Zurich aboard Swiss Airlines. While you're in the sky, premium class guests will cozy into seats that convert into beds and economy guests will have meal choices and other complimentary services to make flying with little ones more comfortable. Once you've landed, a train ride from the Zurich Main Station to the top of the Uetilberg will thrill little engineers and their parents. While you're at the top, take in the stunning views of the city and Lake Zurich. Before you leave this alpine paradise, don't forget to sample the country's famed fondue and chocolate.
Online: swiss.com
Montreal, Canada on Air Transat
Discover European vibes with half the flight time with a visit to the cosmopolitan Canadian city of Montreal. To get there, hop on Air Transat's new nonstop flight from San Diego to Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport. Make sure to sign up for Air Transat's Kids' Club for extra's like cool travel goodies, family check-in counter and on-board surprises to make travel fun. Once you've landed in Montreal, get an overhead view of the city via the largest observation wheel in Canada, La Grande roue de Montreal. Back on solid ground, explore the historic cobblestone streets of Old Montreal and the Montreal Science Centre, with its Journey to Space exhibit and seven story IMAX. When the kids need to run off some extra energy, hit one of the many beloved parks, like Parc du Mont-Royal and Parc la Fontaine.
Online: airtransat.com
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico On Alaska Airlines
When you need a vacay ASAP, say hola to a family getaway to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Whether you have a week or a weekend, in under three hours you and the crew can have your toes in the sand with a direct flight on Alaska Airlines. After you've arrived, check in to the all-inclusive family beach resort, Velas Vallarta. Once you're in R&R mode, stroll the Malecon Boardwalk for a picturesque spot to check out sand sculptures, art, boutiques and restaurants.
Online: alaskaair.com
Frankfurt, Germany on Lufthansa
A visit to the 2,000 year-old city of Frankfurt, Germany will be a trip families will never forget. Start your journey aboard Lufthansa's direct flight from San Diego to Frankfurt am Main International Airport and enjoy complimentary inflight food and beverages (including a special children's menu). Once you're ready to explore, let the kids engage with thousands of exhibits from dinosaur fossils to Egyptian mummies at the Senckenberg Museum. Ready for a break? Let tired kiddos relax while the colorful and quirky Ebbelwei Express tram takes you to the historic sights while adults enjoy a glass of Ebbelwei (Frankfurt's alcoholic cider) and kids munch on pretzels.
Online: lufthansa.com
Vancouver, Canada on Air Canada
Get a change of scenery with a family vacation to Vancouver, Canada. With Air Canada's direct flight from San Diego to Vancouver International Airport, you'll be in this exciting and picturesque British Columbia city in about three hours. While you're there, discover Vancouver's largest urban oasis, Stanley Park. Rent family bikes and explore this coveted green space, which boasts playgrounds, beaches and gorgeous scenic vistas. Then, take a boat ride over to Granville Island, where a public market, shops and fun-for-the-whole-family events await. Have a curious mind? Young and old will love the thought-provoking exhibits at the giant dome-shaped science center, Science World.Â
Online: aircanada.com
––Kerry Cushman
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