The Middle East is an exotic blend of sandy vistas, spicy food and tidy beards that makes for wonderful Instagram holiday snaps.
 
And now, you can reach Iran and Oman for super-cheap thanks to Thai AirAsia X’s (www.airasia.com) latest direct routes from Bangkok. Don Muang-Tehran will start operating from Jun 22, 2016, to May 22, 2017, while Don Muang-Muscat will start from Jun 28-Dec 31.
 
Their promotion is claiming rates that start from B2,990, but with 20 kilograms luggage at an extra B700, the return ticket comes in at B7,340 total. Still cheap, though.
 
If you want more comfort, you can book the premium flatbed class, which starts from B9,990 for one-way ticket plus luggage fees.