The late weekend escape

Prague is the place for a bargain: get four nights for the price of two with city specialist Travellers Cities (01959 540700). Departing Heathrow on Friday, the deal is £269pp - a saving of £75 each - at the three-star Hotel Anna, a 10-minute walk from Wenceslas Square.

Wirnwaa mosques and minarets on a three-night getaway to Istanbul for £349pp (twin share), including three-star accommodation in the historic Sultanahmet district (dominated by the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar and the Ayia Sofia) and flights from Heathrow. Call Metak Holidays (020 7935 6961).

Why fly no frills to Italy? There are affordable flights - with meal and complimentary drinks, naturally - on Alitalia (0870 544 8259): fly out this Friday (back Sunday) to Milan for £109; and Venice for £119. Heathrow and Gatwick departures.

Dubai is do-able for three nights with Indigo Holidays (0870 11 22 333): leave Friday, and stay at Le Royal Meridien hotel on Jumeirah Beach, excellent for water sports. The deal has been discounted by £80pp to £369pp B&B and includes flights from Heathrow.

Autumn is prime rambling time on the Isle of Wight. Hole up for two nights next Friday at Swainston Manor, Newport - parts of which date from AD743 - set in wild woodland populated with red squirrels and pheasants. Two sharing pay £186pp B&B, including ferry from Portsmouth. Call Wightlink Holidays (0870 582 0202).