As anyone planning holidays in 2013 will probably be well aware from previous years’ experience, going away in the summer months is the peak time for Brits heading abroad from the UK.
As a result, prices are higher, accommodation gets full up and airports become much busier. At Heathrow, for example, traffic peaks at around 6.5 million during the summer months, compared to just 4.7 million during February, the quietest month.
All of this can certainly be a bit off putting, not to mention that if you haven’t booked up yet, you may feel like you have missed the boat for this year.
However, perhaps this is the ideal time to start looking forward to the winter when the cold and grey weather will no doubt have you craving a bit of sunshine. If you’ve never before experienced the delights of heading off on a winter sun break and returning home with a tan that will be the envy of all your friends, here’s a guide to three of the top destinations, as well as a handy little link to help you book your winter escape.
Canary Islands
A timeless winter sun favourite for good reason. After a flight of just four hours, you’ll be amazed by the transformation from freezing temperatures and leaden skies to perfect beach weather.
Even in January, the mercury in this all year round destination hovers around the 20 C mark on average, with roughly eight hours of sunshine per day – compared to just 5 C and two hours of sun for London.
But Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote aren’t just popular with Brits for their good weather as they’ve got plenty more besides. Laze on the beach, play golf, climb volcanoes, cycle on the quiet roads or make a splash in the waterparks.
Florida
Like the Canary Islands, Florida is a popular destination all year round. Although it’s a longer flight (around nine hours), the Sunshine State’s theme parks are a big reason to make the journey.
Climate-wise, average highs are in the low 20s during the winter, with around seven hours of sun per day. November to February is also the driest period of the year.
As well as Disney and the rest, Florida has some stunning beaches on the Gulf Coast and the fascinating Everglades to explore in the south.
Mexico
If it’s an exotic winter sun break your after, then Mexico is another long-haul destination that you should really check out.
With its beautiful azure seas and white-sand beaches, the coastal resort of Cancun on the Yucatan Peninsula is a big draw. The water is lovely and warm all year round so its ideal for snorkelling and watersports, and with air temperatures well into the 20s you can happily laze on the sand in your bikini or boardies.
The city is also within a short drive of the wonderful Maya ruins of Chichen Itza, which is famous for its stepped pyramid, El Castillo.
As you can see, there’s a wealth of locations out there you can turn to when the weather goes south (quite literally) in the winter, so this year why not save up your holiday days for a sunshine break when everyone else is shivering back home? You’ll probably save some money too.
Image by universoac,Melissa Hillier Under Creative common License.
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