With summer a mere glimmer in the distance and the festive season fast approaching, what could be a better time to consider a bit of winter sun. From crisper rays of sunshine in the South of France, to the sizzling sands of the Caribbean and the Emirates, here are our pick of warm and wonderful winter destinations for 2017/2018. 

BARBADOS

Average temperature during winter: 26°C

It is fair to say that whilst Barbados is a prime destination for year round travel the island is at its best for winter sun, with temperatures throughout the azure ocean just as welcoming as the weather. A vast collection of hotel and villa accommodation can be found on the islands dazzling west coast, where waters are calm and pristine stretches of white sand coastline await. From December to April the weather is driest and least humid, making days at the beach long and lazy.

Being part the British Commonwealth, Barbados offers afternoons of high tea and cricket, alongside rum infused polo matches, an eclectic selection of shops, galleries and restaurants, and a wide range of activities, both on and off the water! 

MALDIVES

Average temperature during winter: 29°C

There is no bad time to head to the Maldives, really! Even rainy season is fairly dry compared to similar destinations. Twenty-six coral atolls are made up of hundreds of tropical islands.

A 10 hour flight from the UK is made worth it upon reaching a Maldivian paradise. Accommodation in the Maldives ranges from over water beach huts to 5 star luxury hotels. Explore our full collection via video and  take your pick.

DUBAI

Average temperature during winter: 25 °C

The city where winter lasts approximately six weeks (if you can call 20°C winter), Dubai is a great choice for a luxurious retreat and some winter sun. With temperatures rising to 52°C degrees in the summer, many prefer to visit Dubai during the UK’s winter period, finding temperatures more comfortable. This December sees the City host Dubai Rugby Sevens is taking which for avid sports enthusiasts is another good excuse to visit.

MALTA

Average temperature during winter: 20°C

A little closer to home, Malta is renowned for enjoying more daylight hours than anywhere else in Europe – about 10.3 hours of daylight during December, compared to London’s 7.8.

St. Julians and Sliema are the perfect year-round locations, with plenty of entertainment, restaurants and hotels offering something for everyone.

Malta has a subtropical Mediterranean climate with very mild winters. So even in winter you can take a trip to Gozo, Malta’s quieter sister island, and enjoy its stunning beaches.

THAILAND

Average temperature during winter: 26°C

No matter what time of year you go to Thailand, the country will always be sizzling hot! However, it’s best trying to avoid the rain which can be torrential at certain times of year. Therefore, the best time to visit is from November to February, when the monsoon is blowing dry air, lessening the chance of rain, whilst temperatures can still hit up to 35°C during the day.

Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a luxury traveller, there is a slice of paradise on every island of Thailand.

CAPE VERDE

Average temperature during winter: 24°C

A six hour flight away from the UK, sitting on the Atlantic Ocean, are the islands of Cape Verde, just off the northwest coast of Africa.

The former Portuguese colony is still relatively unknown and therefore is a fairly new destination for UK travellers. However, the number of visitors is increasing every year, due to its gorgeous year-round weather – pleasantly tropical but not too humid and long daylight hours, so get in quick before it becomes to popular!

There are a few different islands to choose from, all offering something different. Santo Antão’s mountainous peaks hide bright green valleys, ideal for beautiful walks. São Vicente is home to the cultural capital of the islands, Mindelo, which is packed with bars and clubs. Boa Vista, Sal and Maio all offer white sandy beaches with indigo-blue seas, all catering for tourists with a host of accommodation options.

We think it’s easy to fall in love with the Portuguese-African culture and the many beautiful beaches that the islands have to offer.

Feeling inspired? Join us on a virtual journey to a host of warm annd wonderful winter sun destintions.