Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica has plenty of sun and style if you're after a relaxing beach escape. Located just 10 minutes from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), this seaside city is an ideal spot for anyone looking to soak up the sun, shop, or just chill by the Pacific.

Here are the top five things to do in Santa Monica:

• Stroll along the Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark with amusement park rides, restaurants, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
• Shop and dine on Montana Avenue, where you can find upscale boutiques, popular restaurants, and a historic movie theatre.
• Head down to Venice Beach, just a short walk away, where you can catch the quirky street performers, skate parks, and local artists.
• Catch a 180-degree view of the sun going down on the Terrazza Lounge at Hotel Casa del Mar.
• Jump on the trampoline and take flying trapeze lessons from professional instructors at The Trapeze School of New York.

Off-peak return Premium Economy seats from London to Los Angeles cost 95,000 Avios plus £355 and Business Class seats are available for 180,000 Avios and £475. This is excellent Avios points value for a trip to the West Coast.

Clearwater, Florida

If you missed out on London to Miami flights, Clearwater is another sunny escape that could just steal the show. Located on Florida's Gulf Coast just 30 minutes from Tampa International Airport, it’s home to sugar-white sand beaches, clear waters, and a more laid-back vibe than Miami.

Here are the top five things to do in Clearwater:

• Soak up the Sun on Clearwater Beach, consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world.
• Learn interesting facts about the region by visiting the Dunedin Historical Museum.
• Enjoy water sports like jet skiing and parasailing, or explore the underwater world with a snorkelling or scuba diving trip.
• Go on a dolphin-watching tour or visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to meet rescued dolphins, sea turtles, and more.
• Head to Pier 60 for one of the most spectacular sunset views. Don't miss the Sunset Festival, where you'll find street performers, local artisans, and breathtaking sky views.

Off-peak return Premium Economy seats from London to Tampa (just 30 minutes from Clearwater) offer excellent Avios points value at 95,000 Avios plus £355, while Business Class seats are available for 180,000 Avios and £475.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Think of New Orleans as Miami’s eccentric sibling, where the parties come with a side of history. Known for its old streets, iconic jazz music, and the famous French Quarter, the city is a blend of various cultures that have shaped its unique atmosphere. 

Here are some activities we recommend:

• Explore the French Quarter and absorb the atmosphere and historic architecture. Walk along its famous Bourbon streets and enjoy the local food scene.
• Collect souvenirs and trinkets. Stroll along the six-mile stretch of Magazine Street and check out the vintage artefacts on display in shops.
• Ride the 145-year-old St. Charles Streetcar for a 45-minute city tour for $1.25 per person.
• Indulge in Cajun and Creole Cuisine. There's more to New Orleans than po' boys. 
• Visit the Historic Cemeteries. Known as the "Cities of the Dead," New Orleans' above-ground cemeteries are famous for their architecture and stories about the city's history.

If you’re looking to spend Avios, reward seats from London to New Orleans cost 95,000 points plus £355 in Premium Economy and 180,000 plus £475 in Business Class.

Portland, Oregon

Portland, Oregon, might just surprise you as a delightful plan B if flights to Miami look challenging to find. Swap those beachy breezes for a breath of fresh mountain air as you chill out with cosy bookshops and some of the best farm-to-table dining that side of the Pacific.

Here are the top things to do in Portland:

• One of the most extensive urban forests in the US, Forest Park features miles of trails for hiking and biking, helping you connect with nature without leaving the city.
• Wander through the Portland Saturday Market to experience Portland's creative spirit in its local arts, crafts, and food.
• Visit the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park to experience over 10,000 rose bushes and stunning city views.
• Tour Powell's City of Books, the world's largest independent bookstore, with shelves full of books waiting to be explored.
• With hundreds of food carts serving global cuisine, Portland's food cart pods are perfect for sampling everything from gourmet sandwiches to authentic international dishes.

Off-peak flights from London to Portland can be booked for 95,000 points plus £355 in Premium Economy and 180,000 plus £475 in Business Class.

San Diego, California

San Diego is ideal for spending sun-soaked days by the ocean. It’s like Miami’s cooler, calmer cousin. Here, sandy shores invite leisurely strolls, and the surf is always up. 

Here are the top things to do in San Diego:

• Relax at La Jolla Cove, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply soaking in the views of the Pacific.
• Visit Balboa Park, home to beautiful gardens, museums, and the famous San Diego Zoo.
• Explore Old Town San Diego where you'll find preserved buildings, museums, and authentic Mexican cuisine.
• Take a Harbor Cruise and see the city differently with views of the downtown skyline, naval ships, and the iconic Coronado Bridge.
• Stroll through the Gaslamp Quarter known for its historic architecture, nightlife, and dining options.

Flying from London to San Diego costs 95,000 Avios plus £355 in Premium Economy and 180,000 plus £475 in Business Class.

Final Thoughts

Every great adventure starts with a "What if?" So, why not take a leap into the unknown with your Avios points? While Miami is an exciting destination, these alternative spots provide just as much excitement, relaxation, and value for your Avios points.

Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica has plenty of sun and style if you're after a relaxing beach escape. Located just 10 minutes from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), this seaside city is an ideal spot for anyone looking to soak up the sun, shop, or just chill by the Pacific.

Here are the top five things to do in Santa Monica:

• Stroll along the Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark with amusement park rides, restaurants, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
• Shop and dine on Montana Avenue, where you can find upscale boutiques, popular restaurants, and a historic movie theatre.
• Head down to Venice Beach, just a short walk away, where you can catch the quirky street performers, skate parks, and local artists.
• Catch a 180-degree view of the sun going down on the Terrazza Lounge at Hotel Casa del Mar.
• Jump on the trampoline and take flying trapeze lessons from professional instructors at The Trapeze School of New York.

Off-peak return Premium Economy seats from London to Los Angeles cost 95,000 Avios plus £355 and Business Class seats are available for 180,000 Avios and £475. This is excellent Avios points value for a trip to the West Coast.

Clearwater, Florida

If you missed out on London to Miami flights, Clearwater is another sunny escape that could just steal the show. Located on Florida's Gulf Coast just 30 minutes from Tampa International Airport, it’s home to sugar-white sand beaches, clear waters, and a more laid-back vibe than Miami.

Here are the top five things to do in Clearwater:

• Soak up the Sun on Clearwater Beach, consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world.
• Learn interesting facts about the region by visiting the Dunedin Historical Museum.
• Enjoy water sports like jet skiing and parasailing, or explore the underwater world with a snorkelling or scuba diving trip.
• Go on a dolphin-watching tour or visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to meet rescued dolphins, sea turtles, and more.
• Head to Pier 60 for one of the most spectacular sunset views. Don't miss the Sunset Festival, where you'll find street performers, local artisans, and breathtaking sky views.

Off-peak return Premium Economy seats from London to Tampa (just 30 minutes from Clearwater) offer excellent Avios points value at 95,000 Avios plus £355, while Business Class seats are available for 180,000 Avios and £475.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Think of New Orleans as Miami’s eccentric sibling, where the parties come with a side of history. Known for its old streets, iconic jazz music, and the famous French Quarter, the city is a blend of various cultures that have shaped its unique atmosphere. 

Here are some activities we recommend:

• Explore the French Quarter and absorb the atmosphere and historic architecture. Walk along its famous Bourbon streets and enjoy the local food scene.
• Collect souvenirs and trinkets. Stroll along the six-mile stretch of Magazine Street and check out the vintage artefacts on display in shops.
• Ride the 145-year-old St. Charles Streetcar for a 45-minute city tour for $1.25 per person.
• Indulge in Cajun and Creole Cuisine. There's more to New Orleans than po' boys. 
• Visit the Historic Cemeteries. Known as the "Cities of the Dead," New Orleans' above-ground cemeteries are famous for their architecture and stories about the city's history.

If you’re looking to spend Avios, reward seats from London to New Orleans cost 95,000 points plus £355 in Premium Economy and 180,000 plus £475 in Business Class.

Portland, Oregon

Portland, Oregon, might just surprise you as a delightful plan B if flights to Miami look challenging to find. Swap those beachy breezes for a breath of fresh mountain air as you chill out with cosy bookshops and some of the best farm-to-table dining that side of the Pacific.

Here are the top things to do in Portland:

• One of the most extensive urban forests in the US, Forest Park features miles of trails for hiking and biking, helping you connect with nature without leaving the city.
• Wander through the Portland Saturday Market to experience Portland's creative spirit in its local arts, crafts, and food.
• Visit the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park to experience over 10,000 rose bushes and stunning city views.
• Tour Powell's City of Books, the world's largest independent bookstore, with shelves full of books waiting to be explored.
• With hundreds of food carts serving global cuisine, Portland's food cart pods are perfect for sampling everything from gourmet sandwiches to authentic international dishes.

Off-peak flights from London to Portland can be booked for 95,000 points plus £355 in Premium Economy and 180,000 plus £475 in Business Class.

San Diego, California

San Diego is ideal for spending sun-soaked days by the ocean. It’s like Miami’s cooler, calmer cousin. Here, sandy shores invite leisurely strolls, and the surf is always up. 

Here are the top things to do in San Diego:

• Relax at La Jolla Cove, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply soaking in the views of the Pacific.
• Visit Balboa Park, home to beautiful gardens, museums, and the famous San Diego Zoo.
• Explore Old Town San Diego where you'll find preserved buildings, museums, and authentic Mexican cuisine.
• Take a Harbor Cruise and see the city differently with views of the downtown skyline, naval ships, and the iconic Coronado Bridge.
• Stroll through the Gaslamp Quarter known for its historic architecture, nightlife, and dining options.

Flying from London to San Diego costs 95,000 Avios plus £355 in Premium Economy and 180,000 plus £475 in Business Class.

Final Thoughts

Every great adventure starts with a "What if?" So, why not take a leap into the unknown with your Avios points? While Miami is an exciting destination, these alternative spots provide just as much excitement, relaxation, and value for your Avios points.