Winter doesn’t have to be dark and dreaded. It’s time to flee the chill and warm up abroad with our top picks of sun-drenched destinations.
We’ve hand-selected some of the hottest winter destinations. And we don’t just mean they’re trending on Instagram; these are the places with year-round sun. So, if you’re looking to top up your tan and go on an adventure, we have the ideal choices for you.
Mexico
Fly to Mexico in winter and you’ll beat the rainy season while also dodging the humid summer. If you’re there at the start of November, take part in Day of the Dead festival, which invites the dead to commune with the living in a three-day extravaganza of dancing, ritual and food.
While you’re there, you won’t want to miss out on visiting some of world-famous beaches. The beaches of Cancun are some of the most popular, widely recognised for their clear blue waters and white sands. The area is lively with tourists looking for a good time.
Morocco
Beaches might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of Morocco. Sitting at the northern point of Africa, it’s a destination better known for its souks and traditional cuisine, like tajines and pastillas.
However, coastal towns like Essaouira have beautiful golden beaches next to an 18th century harbour and pretty white and blue-shuttered buildings. It’s a place to try your hand at new sports like kite surfing, thanks to consistent winds, and you’ll also beat the crowds at some of the larger resorts.
If that wasn’t enough, it’s also a more budget-friendly option, so you can treat the whole family.
Barbados
It’s easy to understand why Barbados’ extraordinary natural beauty has made the island a celebrity destination of choice. (Rihanna is from there, in case you didn’t know.)
Famous for long stretches of white sand beaches that caress crystal-clear waters, this Caribbean island is a long-haul flight away, so it’ll truly feel like an escape. In fact, it was the only place in the world with a scheduled Concorde service.
Rum fans will be spoiled for choice as this is where the story of rum begins. Try Mount Gay, the world’s oldest.
Costa Rica
For the truly adventurous, Costa Rica is the perfect natural playground, with rainforests, wildlife and diverse beaches.
From white beaches lined with palm trees to rugged coves surrounded by tropical rainforests, there’s miles of coastline to explore. Or head in land to visit a coffee plantation or hike through the jungle where you may even spot a White Headed Capuchin Monkey.
If you suffer from the winter blues, then a flight to Costa Rica where the summer season is just beginning could be just the thing you need.
Cape Verde
If you haven’t already heard of it through love island, Cape Verde is an island off the coast of northwest Africa, where you’re guaranteed a chance to wear that summer bikini once again.
Despite being an island, Cape Verde is more accessible than you think. There are plenty of direct flights from London, taking around five hours, so you can maximise your time in the sun.
For a spot of adventure, then the winds on the clear sea waters make Cape Verde one of the best places to try windsurfing and kite surfing.
Did you enjoy this article? Then feel free to read the next blog Top 5 Holiday Destinations.