THE LAST CHANCE SALOON: THIS WEEK'S BEST LAST-MINUTE HOLIDAY BUYS

Today: New York

Hurry as soon as you finish breakfast along to Trailfinders (0171- 937 5400) for a last-minute flight offer to the Big Apple (pounds 353 return on Virgin). The flight leaves at 2pm from Heathrow. The only condition is that you must stay until at least next Sunday.

Tomorrow: South Africa

If a trip to South Africa in mid-winter grabs your fancy, then Flightbookers (0171-757 2444) has flights available for pounds 435 to Johannesburg, with South African Airways and departing from Heathrow at 7.30pm or 9.30pm.

Monday: Scotland

For something a little bit closer to home, MacKays (0131-226 4364) has two- bedroomed cottageS near Fort William available for three nights at pounds 195.

Tuesday: Salisbury

A cheap day return from London, Waterloo to this picturesque cathedral town costs pounds 21 after 9.30am. For a further pounds 4.80, you can hop on a bus at Salisbury station and take a wander around Stonehenge.

Wednesday: Egypt

If you're feeling energetic, then Travelbag Adventures (01420 541007) has a "Desert Explorer" trekking package available for pounds 610. The flight to Egypt (which leaves Heathrow at 4.45pm so you can still catch the eclipse) and accommodation are included. But be warned, you will need a visa. You really should obtain one before you travel, which can be done through through the Egyptian embassy in 48 hours, and will cost you pounds 15. But Travelbag says you can get one on arrival at Cairo airport, possibly even at a cheaper price.

Thursday: Crete

Thomson (0990 502580) is offering seven nights in Crete for pounds 344 per person. This includes flights - from Newcastle - and transfers from the airport to your accommodation. This is based on two people sharing. Accommodation, which is room only, will be allocated on arrival.

Friday: Delhi

For pounds 435, booking through Dial-a-flight (0870 333 2266) you can fly return on Lufthansa to Delhi, with a changeover in Frankfurt. This price includes airport taxes and the flight departs from London Stanstead (flights from Heathrow are slightly dearer).

All flights available at time of going to press