There are a few golden weeks every UK winter when everything just feels right. Sure the days might be so painfully short that the only time you see the sun is on weekends, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be full of the joys of the season. There are the lights that turn high streets up and down the length of the nation into winter wonderlands, the time with family and friends, and all the delicious food.
After a while, though, the cold days and long nights start to wear a little thin. And if the weather’s truly miserable, even the comforts of home can start to feel a little claustrophobic. It’s enough to make you want to get on a plane somewhere warmer, sunnier, and with longer days (a sense only heightened if you happen to switch past a channel showing Australians or South Africans enjoying sporting events in the baking sun).
You might think that such a winter break is unattainable right now, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Pick the right destination, combine it with the right tools and technology and that much-needed winter holiday should be well within your reach.
And if you need a little inspiration, we’ve picked out some wallet-friendly destinations which have a lot to offer visitors, especially in the way of sunshine. We’ll start with the ones closest to home and which only require relatively short-haul flights.
Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Why not take a trip to the beautiful Sharm El Sheikh? Known for its sheltered sandy beaches and crystal clear water, it is a surefire way to get the sunny relaxation holiday you’re after this winter. Think cocktails by the beach and sand between your toes, all while soaking up the sun. The waters off the coast of the resort city also offer some incredible dive sites if that piques your interest. You could also take a day trip into the desert to view Saint Catherine’s Monastery, which dates back to 565AD and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Marrakech, Morocco
The ancient Moroccan city of Marrakech (founded as far back as 1070) is a great place to experience new cultures, incredible food, and some well-deserved sun all at once! The best thing is, it’s also the nearest option to the winter sun, with the flight taking only three and a half hours from London! However, as it’s the closest, it is also the mildest of the destinations on this list. That said, travellers can still expect temperatures in the mid-20s! It has plenty of stunning hotels, but why not take a trip into the medina where you’ll find souks (marketplaces) full of fabrics, jewellery, and more? Oh, and if for some reason you find yourself missing the cold, The Atlas Mountains are only about 60km away from the city and are frequently blanketed in snow.
Cape Verde
Just off the west coast of Africa lies Cape Verde, a beautiful island country consisting of stunning scenery and rich history. With the flight taking just under six hours, it’s a slightly longer journey than the others, but the average temperature this time of year of 27 degrees, makes it well worth the effort. And unlike other long-haul flights, it won’t blow the budget! This means you’ll have more to spend on the activities the island has to offer including snorkelling, kite surfing, and more! But if that isn’t your thing, their beaches await!
Tenerife, Spain
The second closest option for a sunny getaway this winter, Tenerife is the biggest of the Canary Islands. Situated off Northern Africa’s Atlantic coast, the Spanish island’s sub-tropical climate offers sunshine throughout the year and winter months are equally popular with visitors. If you’re looking for adventure, why not hike the island’s stunning volcanic scenery dominated by the volcano Mount Teide? Alternatively, sit back and relax on one of the numerous yellow and black sand beaches on offer.
If you’ve got a little more time, there are some incredible options a little further afield too.
Cape Town, South Africa
Now, this is a bit further than the other destinations, but you’ll be sure to get the warmth and sun you so desire. After all, it is the height of summer in our winter months, making it perfect for a getaway! While you may have to splash a bit more cash on the flights, it is well worth it. Boasting beautiful landscapes, with the iconic Table Mountain as its backdrop, this city offers a multitude of options to visitors. Plenty of bars and internationally acclaimed, award-winning restaurants can be found across the city, surrounded by stunning beaches (including the glamorous Clifton Beaches) and national parks that are just a stone’s throw away. That’s to say nothing of the internationally acclaimed wines that can be sampled within the city and its surrounds. You can also take in one of the city’s many markets, including The Old Biscuit Mill Food Market, which also features some stunning coffee and art. Additional bonuses include the fact that your hard-earned pounds will go a long way and the people are surfer-folk-coastal-living friendly. Whoever you are, and whatever your tastes, there is plenty on offer for everyone.
Bali, Indonesia
Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali is on many travellers’ bucket list. That’s hardly surprising. The Indonesian island is a paradise for everyone from adventurers to foodies. Oh, and it also happens to be warm year-round. That said, December through February is the rainy season on the island (it doesn’t get that lush without a fair amount of precipitation). The rain has usually eased off by February (right around the time that Winter starts to feel endless), meaning that you can spend some time in the sun or surf its legendary waves. You may also feel a little more comfortable renting a scooter to explore an island rich in heritage, natural beauty, and fun activities. And if a rainstorm does interrupt your holiday, you can still do things like visit the Besakih Temple – the oldest and holiest on the island or eat at Mama San, a Bali dining institution which features classic Vietnamese, Thai, and Cantonese fare.
Know your options
Whichever sunny option you pick for your next winter break, remember that you have the power as a consumer to find the best possible deals, especially when it comes to flights. Exercise it properly and you could get away from the cold and dark without putting unnecessary stress on your bank account.
