Geneva, Switzerland: 87.98 pounds round trip
Fly Easyjet from London Stansted to Geneva.
Start at Geneva’s most photographed monument, Jet d’Eau, the world’s tallest water fountain. Spouting 459 feet into the air, the fountain symbolizes the city’s leading role in hydraulic power. Another symbol — this one signifying the city’s signature timepiece industry — is the Flower Watch, located in the English Garden. The watch is made of more than 6,000 flowers that are replanted each season.
Not to be missed is a guided tour of the European Headquarters of the United Nations. Here, guests can get an insight into the workings of this international organization at the Palais des Nations, formerly home to the League of Nations. A tour includes visits to the 2,000-seat Assembly Hall and the Council Chamber, which is adorned with gold murals depicting the human struggle for peace. Don’t forget your passport or some other type of identification. According to the U.N. Web site, www.un.org, it is required for entrance.
Across from the United Nations is another popular visitor attraction, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum. The exhibits reveal the organization’s story from its founding in 1863 by Henry Dunant to the present through displays of photographs, film, documents and more.
If time allows, take an excursion to the neighboring town of Carouge, where you can see local artisans and craftsmen practicing their trade, and gifts can be found at unique boutiques.
Three months — Feb. 15-17Jersey, United Kingdom: 59.98 pounds round trip
Fly Flybe from London Gatwick to Jersey.
While winter in the United Kingdom may not be ideal for trekking along Jersey’s beaches, there are plenty of other attractions available for vacationers.
Begin your exploration at the St. Matthew’s Church. The church’s glasswork font, altar rail and cross were made by Rene Lalique, a foremost art nouveau designer in Paris. The glass is unique, since Lalique’s mold was broken after the glass was completed.
For a glimpse of the island’s military history, explore the Gréve De Lecq Barracks, where visitors can also learn about Jersey’s north coast and see exhibits that include a collection of horse-drawn vehicles and farm implements.
The island’s diverse landscape and favorable location make for good year-round fishing. Charter a boat to fish the inshore waters for bass, rays, brill and tope or cast a line from the cliffs and harbors for mullet and conger.
Visit Jersey’s newest attraction, aMaizin Craft Centre, for souvenirs. Inside the 2,000-square-foot barn, visitors can create their own handmade gifts. Children will enjoy the program of changing activities that includes puppet-making, mask-designing and -painting, or creating frames to hold your favorite vacation photograph.
Rather take home jewelry? Visit the Jersey Goldsmiths in Lion Park to design and create your own or watch as jewelry is being made. Visitors also can try to pan for their own gold and gems or visit the collection of jewelry belonging to international screen and stage stars.
— Heather Klinglesmith
Airfare prices include estimated taxes and are courtesy of the Web site www.skyscanner.net. Prices were verified as of Monday afternoon when Stripes UK went to press. Deals are not guaranteed to be available; restrictions may apply.