Affordable Comfort

Foodies take note: September is the perfect time to discover Lyon’s famous gastronomic traditions. Mushrooms appear on market stalls, and the grape harvest heralds the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau. Staying at ibis Lyon Part Dieu Les Halles is perfect for discovering the city’s culinary heritage as it’s opposite the legendary Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse – nicknamed the “belly of Lyon”. At this iconic gastronomic hub, you can sample regional specialities like cured pork sausages, savoury pike dumplings and cervelle de canut, a vegetarian dish made with herb-seasoned fromage blanc.

Your first day focuses on Kuala Lumpur’s modern core, covering its most recognisable landmarks and nearby neighbourhoods.

Planning your trip in advance is one of the easiest ways to reduce travel costs. When you book early, you’ll often find lower rates, more choices, and flexible options that let you adjust your travel plans.

Some of the Kuala Lumpur's most iconic sights come at no cost. These are ideal anchors for a budget-friendly day of sightseeing.

From quick snacks to filling meals, experiencing the street food scene is among the best things to do in Mumbai. It offers some of the best cheap eats in the city, with local favourites found on almost every corner.

Day one focuses on Bangkok's most iconic temples and gives you your first feel for the Chao Phraya River. Before you head out, keep in mind that all three temples enforce a strict dress code: cover your shoulders and knees, and avoid see-through fabrics or tight athletic wear.   Sarongs and shirts are available to rent near the entrance, but queues can be long, so it's easier to dress appropriately from the start.

Discover the essence of Chiang Mai as you explore its historic temples and everyday life in the Old City.

Northwest of Marseille and well away from tourist crowds, the Med coastline is home to a necklace of charming, peaceful seaside villages backing calanques (coves) and azure seas. Base yourself at affordable ibis Martigues in magical Martigues – the “little Venice” of Provence – to stroll the enchanting Île district, the Miroir aux Oiseaux fishing port and quays lined with colourful houses. With waves gently lapping against traditional fishing boats, this tranquil setting inspired many early 20th-century artists.   In the afternoon, head to Plage de Ferrières for a refreshing dip in the sea and a glass of chilled rosé wine in one of its guinguette beach bars. While you’re in the area, you can also go snorkelling in the Calanque de Niolon or follow the Sentier du Lézard (Lizard Trail) shoreline walk between the laidback resorts of Carry-le-Rouet and Sausset-les-Pins – and if you’re happy to travel a little further afield, why not visit Nice for a day soaking up the sun on the city’s public beaches?

Your first day covers the history of Old Delhi and the landmarks of central New Delhi.