New York

The Big Apple has long been one of the most popular US destinations for British travellers, boasting a relatively short flight time compared to many other stateside cities. Discount shopping opportunities attract many people taking short breaks, with Manhattan stores, including Century 21, TJ Maxx, Filene’s Basement and Loehmann’s , and out-of-town discount centres such as Woodbury Common, offering high-fashion at lower prices. New York’s legendary Broadway shows, iconic Central Park and a plethora of fine dining establishments also attract those looking to enjoy the hustle and bustle of one of the world’s most famous cities.

Frank Gehry’s Stata Center, Boston; by See-ming Lee

Boston

Now considered by many to be on a par with New York as a top US shopping destination, Boston has enjoyed increased popularity with huge numbers of British tourists taking short breaks there over recent years. Flight time is similar to that of New York trips, and the city offers similar discount shopping opportunities to that of Manhattan, with its own Filene’s Basement, as well as designer-packed consignment stores and out-of-town outlets such as Wrentham Village and Kittery. One of the oldest cities in the US, Boston also has a wealth of museums and cultural attractions, from the John F Kennedy Museum to the Museum of Fine Arts, and many parks and sports grounds for those who enjoy an active break.

Burj Khalifa, Dubai; by Guido Merkelbach

Dubai

Dubai’s climate, as well as its ultra-modern infrastructure and facilities, make it a popular short-break destination all year round. Many of the emirate’s hotels and tourist hubs have been built, or at least significantly upgraded, over the past ten years, and man-made pleasure islands, luxury spas and sports arenas are among the high-spec attractions. Tax-free shopping, dune buggy rides and horse racing are also enjoyed by those taking short breaks, and state-of-the-art business facilities make it a popular destination for work as well as pleasure.

Alsop Architects’ Sharp Centre for Design at Ontario College of Art and Design; by Dominic Bugatto

Toronto

The US isn’t the only country in the Americas to attract impressive numbers of long-haul tourists from the UK. Close to the US border, Toronto is Canada’s financial and cultural capital, and a realistic short-break proposition. As well as discount shopping in out-of-town centres such as Canada One Factory Outlets and Dixie Outlet Mall, Toronto boasts a thriving retail and cultural centre. The 550m CN Tower offers spectacular views, a glass-bottomed viewing pod and fine dining in the revolving restaurant. And those looking to get out and about can take day trips to Niagara Falls, or take the ferry to one of the city’s eight islands – offering up 568 acres of parkland which can be explored by bike or by foot. Kayaking and canoeing are also popular pastimes for tourists.

However short your trip, taking out travel insurance is an essential part of any holiday planning, particularly when entering countries with different health care arrangements. Search for travel insurance online to get a quote that meets your specific requirements. If you take several short breaks a year, it may work out cheaper to invest in multi-trip travel insurance. Researching your foreign currency online and purchasing in advance can also get you the best travel money deals available.