Winter Sun Destinations

The winter months are an alluring time for travel in search of warmth and sunshine. There is something in the air of luxurious to the idea of being abroad for Christmas. Swapping big woolly jumpers for a bikini and shunning turkey bones and dirty plates for Santa hats on the beach – this is indeed what many people dream of.

Here are the top 5 Winter Sun Destination:

1. The Canary Islands

Best for: something for everyone

There are many reasons for why so many travellers flock to the Canary Islands at this time of the year. Firstly, there’s the sub-tropical climate – the islands stay a balmy 20 degrees Celsius when most of Europe is freezing. Secondly, there are 7 islands to choose from depending on your holiday style. There is the something-for-everyone Tenerife, the glamorous Gran Canaria, rugged Lanzarote or the surfer’s paradise Fuerteventura. Lanzarote and Fuerteventura tend to be slightly cooler but also drier. 

2. The Gambia

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Best for: Nature lovers

It may be the smallest country in Africa, but there is no shortage of post-card worthy beaches to be discovered in The Gambia. Winter is the dry season there and temperatures tend is stay in the high 20s and even tipping over into 30s. There are many lovely coastal resorts where you will be spoiled for choice with cheap and cheerful hotels. You can even head inland to discover the namesake river at the heart of the country. 

3. Dubai

Best for: Glitz and glamour

Even in the winter you can expect temperatures of around 25 degrees. That’s the perfect weather for lounging on the beach in Palm Jumeirah or heading out on a desert safari for a camel’s-eye-view of the city. Dubai is known for its glitz and glamour but skyscrapers and malls aside, there is plenty of places to enjoy the sun outdoors.

4. Morocco

Best for: sunny city break

Morocco may feel like a world away despite its relatively short flight from Cyprus. For a city break in the sun you can head to the exciting city of Marrakech and sip delicious mint tea while wandering around the labyrinth of souks followed by a relaxing afternoon in a traditional Moroccan house known as riad. Morocco is perched on the edge of the Sahara Desert and remains warm for the whole winter season. 

5. Thai Islands

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Best for: beautiful beaches

White sands and rustic chic beach shacks, the islands of Thailand are the stuff of castaway fantasies. There are dozens of islands to choose from and each offers something unique and different, from the barefoot beach lounging in Koh Lipe to the super spas of Koh Samui. While you’ve also got islands like Koh Lanta which remain quietly chilled out with nice places to stay on the beach.

Author: Anna Popova