Dark evenings and cold mornings are upon us, and we’re back dreaming of blue skies and cocktails by the pool.
But it doesn’t have to be a winter of rain when there are so many beautiful destinations you could be jetting off to for some last-minute winter sun! If you’re feeling stuck on where to go, check out some of the top picks for Winter 2021.
Egypt
Temp: Average daily 24°
The perfect dose of sun, sea and sand; Egypt is a popular winter destination. With warm daily temperatures and a cool evening breeze, it’s the perfect place to chase the winter sun.
Whether you’re looking to fly and flop in Sharm el-Sheikh or check out some of the most colourful reefs in the world in Hurghada, Egypt isn’t short on a dose of Vitamin Sea.
It’s not just bucket and spades though, full to the brim with culture and taste-bud tingling flavours, it’s an elite holiday destination.
The Greeks and Romans were one of the first to holiday here from as early as the 4th Century BC, and it’s been going from strength to strength ever since. The iconic Pyramids are a part of the 7000 years of the incredible history that adds to the legacy of Egypt.
- Visit the Pyramids of Giza
- Visit Alexandria
- Shop in the Sharm Old Market
- Hike to the summit of Mount Sinai
Caribbean
Temp: Average daily 31°
Home to a group of islands to the east of North America, the Caribbean is most simply known as a pure paradise. Tourists flock for miles of stunning white sand powder beaches, culinary sensations and daily sunshine.
Culture-fuelled getaways to the Caribbean are becoming increasingly popular since every destination has so much to offer. No matter where you choose to base your holiday, you’ll never be too far from historical marvels, architectural masterpieces or other cultural highlights.
You cant think of the Caribbean and not picture the incredible festivals and carnivals that take place. While some are small, local events have become world-renowned and attract high profile attendees. No matter which you partake in, the locals capacity for music, dance and tradition run deep.
- For nature & wildlife, head to islands such as Puerto Rico, Grenada, Saint Lucia or Antigua
- Close encounters with slots, monkeys and reptiles, you’ll want to visit Belize, Dominica and Guyana
- The Colony Club in Barbados offers the ultimate foodie experience
- Known for its sustainability and organic produce, Belle Mont Farm is the ideal location for those wishing to sample some of the freshest foods in St Kitts & Nevis.
The Canaries
Temp: Average daily 19°
The Canary Islands are 7 islands in the Atlantic Ocean where the sun shines year-round, with temperatures averaging 19°C in the winter.
As one of the most biodiverse geographical locations in the world, you'll find a wide range of different landscapes; dunes, forests, volcanoes, starry skies and beaches, and the islands all have their own micro-climates ranging from very wet to very dry.
Tenerife: In Tenerife, anything is possible every day of the year thanks to its climate, natural attributions and tourist infrastructure designed for fun for all the family. It's the island of a thousand experiences and the most popular of the 7 islands. Spend your days relaxing on the beach, hiking Mount Teide, watching a show, walking around the marina or having fun at a theme park.
Gran Canaria: A small continent where you'll find plenty of experiences to make every day count; golden beaches, incredible landscapes and a city with an infinite number of things to do! Gran Canaria has been honoured with the title of a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO thanks to its volcanic landscapes, extensive pine forests and Macaronesian flora. A perfect family destination with nearly 60km of beaches, the ability to sail out to watch wales, visit its museums or just relax on one of its many beaches.
Lanzarote: A mix of black and reddish rocks along with a tranquil atmosphere, make this island feel like a different world! The Timanfaya National Park delivers spectacular views in the Canary Islands and is well worth a visit. The islands long, sunny days mean people flock from all over Europe for cycling, swimming and most famously, for the watersports. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, there's plenty of places to head out on the water and brush up on your watersports.
Portugal
Temp: Average daily 17°
Not just famed for its incredible golf courses, Portugal is also a perfect year-round destination with over 3000 hours of sunshine per year and around 850km of stunning beaches.
The history here is reflected in a particular culture that is the result of the mixture of the many who settled here and those that the Portuguese encountered on their journeys of discovery. Found in the villages and towns, the monuments and traditions bring together the creative influences of the Portuguese.
With more than 90 courses around the country, it’s hard to find a better golfing destination. The courses are set amongst stunning scenery, topped with a mild climate to make it the perfect day out. You’ll find a wide variety of courses, suitable for all levels of difficulty and budget.
Thanks to the extensive coast, Portugal is a haven for surfers. The diversity of conditions and exceptional climate provide a memorable experience from beginner to pro. It’s even been said that there’s nowhere else in the world with so many spots so close to each other as such in Portugal.
