Different destinations for holidays

So you want to get away for a while. I've combed the brochures for glamorous getaways at reasonable prices... and not a theme park in sight!

France

You'll feel like royalty in one of these marvellous apartments in the Chateau de Grezan, in the south of France. Surrounded by vineyards, with the beach only a short trip away, this is just the place if you're desperate to escape from city life. The Chateau consists of only four luxury apartments (so hurry before they're all snapped up!), an excellent restaurant and a swimming pool. If you can't resist the urge to go and mix with the extremely rich, St Tropez is just a few hours' drive away. Prices are based on seven nights self-catering with five people sharing an apartment and include return scheduled flights and car hire for the week. Cost is £325 per person departing mid-June with Crystal Holidays.

Egypt

If you're the type of tourist who enjoys a bit of sightseeing, Egypt is fascinating with its vast cultural attractions and the legendary River Nile. Luxor, the ancient city of Thebes, and the centre of Egyptian power for over 1,400 years, is not as busy as the more popular resorts. Luxor itself is extremely relaxing and, from there, you can take some fascinating excursions, which even include a Sound and Light Show. Seven nights at the New Emilio in Luxor cost £279 per person, departing in May and June, including return flights, airport transfers and bed and breakfast (B&B).

Kenya

The magnificent wildlife of Mombasa's famous game reserves undoubtedly attracts most tourists to this more exotic area, but the beaches and coconut trees swaying in the wind are also a welcome addition. With busy street markets, historic monuments and over 20 miles of white sand, Mombasa is a paradise. However, if you're after an alternative to sunbathing and swimming in the clear blue sea, there's lots to do – including a tour of Mombasa or a safari in Tsavo National Park. Seven nights at Mombasa's Jadini Beach Hotel cost from £399 per person. Departures in April. Price includes return flights, airport transfers and B&B.

Mexico

With its tropical scenery, Spanish churches and markets full of Indian delights, Mexico is becoming an increasingly popular place to visit. The West Coast is a diver's paradise, but even if you aren't into water sports, the beaches around Cancun offer silver sands with a taste of the Caribbean. If you're up to it, the nightlife is pretty wild, too. A 14-night stay with half board at the Sona Hotel in Cacun, in early May, costs from £449. Flights are also available on request.

Italy

For real peace and tranquillity, whisk yourself away to Selva in the Italian Gardena Valley, amidst the breathtaking Dolomites and just a short trip away from the pine National Forest. Take a chair-lift up above the tree tops and enjoy the beautiful scenery – pure escapism and the ideal location if you're the type who is keen on keeping fit and into walking. Selva is also the perfect base for excursions to Venice and border-hopping trips to Austria and Switzerland. Go for 10 nights B&B in June, including flights, from £408 per person.