Nonstop Exploring: Travel the World from Raleigh-Durham International Airport

Spend your summer doing what you know or elevate your routine with one of Raleigh-Durham International Airport’s nonstop, international flights. Spin the map, roll the dice, wherever you decide to go, your summer will be one to remember.

Panama City, Panama

One of Raleigh-Durham’s newest nonstop offerings, Copa Airlines flies to Panama City, Panama in just four and a half hours. At the crossroads of North and South America, Panama City is a dynamic modern hub, with the perfect touch of nature. Its sleek financial district skyscrapers, luxurious boutiques and rooftop bars blend into the city skyline.

For travelers of all interests, there’s history, culture, natural beauty and modern amenities. Its climate is warm year-round, welcoming tourists to experience all that is Panama City.

Paris, France

Wake up in Raleigh, fall asleep in Paris. In just under eight hours, Air France delivers you to the land of iconic architecture, unrivaled wine offerings, upscale fashion and renowned art. Tourists from across the world travel to the City of Love to visit the Louvre Museum, home to Mona Lisa herself. Then stroll the Seine, stopping in art galleries to see a Monet, Van Gogh or Renoir in person.

Bite into a freshly baked croissant, taste specialty cheeses and wines at a traditional bistro or sit down for a Michelin-starred dinner. And then, there is the Eiffel Tower in all her glory. At its core, Paris is timeless beauty, it is romance and it’s less than a day away.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Why spend your summer in arctic paradise? We’ll tell you why. Direct on Icelandair, find yourself in the beautiful backdrop of Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik. With average highs of 57 degrees and lows of 48 degrees in the summer months, you can comfortably tour this quirky, small city. Reykjavik is known for its museums and galleries, home to Viking relics and modern art exhibitions.

Clubs, cafes and bars are located on the main shopping street of Laugavegur, so one doesn’t have to search far for activity. Though Icelanders encourage visitors to try their national dish Hákarl, or fermented shark, you may opt for lobster, cod, salmon or haddock. The only Western European capital without a Starbucks or a McDonald’s, experience true Icelandic traditions and culture.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Take your pick, fly JetBlue or Frontier direct to the tropics of San Juan. This Caribbean gem is like no other, a city bustling with history, culture and tropical charm. Tourists plan to embrace its rich colonial past, the vibrant nightlife and the breathtaking beaches. Walking along the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, you take a step back in time. The colorful Spanish colonial architecture leads you to the historic fort of El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal.

Relax on the sands of Condado Beach or Isla Verde Beach, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, trendy hotels and energetic nightlife. Taste a traditional dish like mofongo, mashed plantains, or sip on a piña colada. This is vacation.

Mexico City, Mexico

¡Viva México! A short flight on Aeromexico, this cultural destination is unrivaled in the Americas. With more museums than any city in the world, other than London, the people of Mexico City enjoy good food, good culture. Where dinner is street tacos and tamales, and dinner is in the upscale neighborhood of Polanco, this city is full of flavor.

For art, stop by the Frida Kahlo Museum or explore contemporary art at the Museo Soumaya and Museo Jumex. There’s beauty in its modernity, found in the skyline districts of Paseo de la Reforma and Santa Fe. Add the lively markets, mariachi music and local festivals to your bucket list.

London, United Kingdom

It’s teatime! On American Airlines, British Airways, Iberia or Finnair, immerse yourself in the royal history of London on a quick, nonstop flight. You know the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and the London Eye. Maybe you catch a show in London’s West End, like “The Phantom of the Opera” or “Mamma Mia!” For those Harry Potter fans, take a Warner Bro. Studio Tour for a glance at cinematic history.

Escape the city with a trip to one of London’s many expansive parks and gardens, like Hyde Park or Regent Park. End the day at a cozy pub, savoring traditional fish and chips with a fresh pint. Foodies, reserve time to try the artisanal treats and gourmet delights of Borough Market. London is iconic, London is unforgettable, London is calling!

Frankfurt, Germany

Land of Oktoberfest, currywurst and castles galore, travel to Frankfurt on a nonstop Lufthansa flight. Along the scenic banks of the Main River, Frankfurt is a modern destination for finance, culture and history. Learn the city’s history in charming Altstadt, the city’s old town, taking in the views of half-timbered houses and the historic Römer City Hall.

Visit the Goethe House, where Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was born, or the Palmengarten, one of Europe’s largest botanical gardens. Take a boat cruise to see the skyline from a new perspective or hike the nearby Taunus Mountains. But before you can leave, make sure you’ve ordered a classic frankfurter. Prost!

For more nonstop, domestic flight offerings, learn more through Raleigh-Durham International Airport. The world is out there, go see it this summer!