Top Destinations: Vacation Rentals

Morocco

With almost unlimited sunshine all the year round and even winter temperatures that exceed those of the average British summer, you will find plenty of opportunities to soak up some winter sun in Morocco. Marrakesh in winter is usually warm and sunny, with average day-time temperatures in the low 20s °C. However, nights can be cold, especially between November and February. With its miles of wonderful sandy beaches, both on its the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts, you will not be short of places to relax and enjoy the winter sunshine. Temperatures on the coast are similar but are moderated by coastal breezes. What little rain there is generally falls in winter, but can occur at any time of year. Travelling to Morocco during the winter months can be economical and less crowded too, as the peak tourist season is during July and August. The exception to this, of course, is over the Christmas and New Year period. Overall, Morocco is a good destination for a winter sun holiday.

Turkey

A winter holiday in Turkey takes tourists to the picturesque mountains of the country. Popular winter holiday activities in Turkey include snow boarding and snow skiing. There are several resorts that cater to tourists on a winter holiday in Turkey. A winter holiday in Turkey also attracts tourists to the country’s beaches. Sightseeing, hiking, trekking and camping are activities taken up by a number of tourists on a winter holiday in Turkey. The country’s archaeological ruins attract a number of tourists during the winter months as well. It’s not hot at all and exploring endlessly doesn’t tire you out! Turkey scores 6 on 10 as a winter holiday destination.

Lanzarote

Many visitors to the island have said that the best time of the year to go to Lanzarote is in September and October. Although not quite winter time, the weather during this period is glorious and the scenery and landscape is quite breathtaking. It does quieten down considerably, but if you are the type to prefer a more tranquil break in Lanzarote then the later in the year that you book, the better. Most of the bars and eateries are still open, as are the crazy golf courses and other places of interest. You just won’t be jostled by the crowds of the manic summer season! So, why not enjoy some winter sun in Lanzarote?

Greek Islands

The Greek Islands are still a great destination in winter and the winter is sometimes one of the best times to take a holiday in the Greek Islands. There is not a crowd to be seen anywhere, the landscape remains green and lush and the sea is still easily warm enough to swim in. The winter is when you can really experience the Greek Islands at their traditional best, with Taverna’s once again catering for local tastes, archeological sites deserted and sprinkled with wild flowers and the finest privately owned villas in the Greek Islands available for rent at off-season prices.

Sharm el Sheikh

The sun shines pretty much all year round in Sharm el Sheikh, making it a good destination for a spot of winter sun. Don’t expect it to be baking hot in the winter months, but you can expect average winter temperatures of around 20c. The sea around Sharm is also a pleasant temperature all year round making it possible to swim, dive, and snorkel at any time of the year. Bear in mind that it can get chilly during the winter evenings in Sharm el Sheikh so pack some warm clothes.

Cyprus

With 333 days of sunshine and an all year round warm climate, holidaying in Cyprus during the winter is as pleasant as any other time of the year. The temperature in Cyprus rarely drops below 15 degrees Celsius so even in the winter you will only need light clothing. December to February is generally the rainy season, but even during these times they only have 7 or 8 days of rainfall a month. The winter months are a lot quieter than the rest of the year so you will have no problem finding a suitable winter sun holiday in Cyprus though Christmas and New Year is a popular time and you are advised to book early over this period. The bars and clubs have wound down slightly after the tumultuous highs of the summer months, but the major attractions are still open throughout the winter months so you will not be stuck for things to do. It is still hot enough to sunbathe and the beaches are less full and more relaxing making holidays in Cyprus a most welcome getaway.

Dubai

Dubai is the perfect destination for winter sun holidays or for visitors who just want to escape from the cold and rain back home and treat themselves to a holiday in the sun. Dubai’s winter months from October through to end April are warm and mostly sunny with only short periods of rain. You can relax on your beach lounger and work on your tan in the middle of January. Perhaps also indulge in a cold beer or cocktail as the red sun castes its shadows over the day as you make plans for the night’s entertainment. Dubai has much to offer day and night but one thing’s for sure, the sun will be ready to greet you the next day. Winter sun holidays in Dubai offer not only sun but also magnificent hotels, international restaurants, golf, water sports, plenty of activities and great entertainment.

Barbados

Barbados has always been a popular winter sun destination. Peak season in Barbados is between December and February when visitors mainly from North America and Europe come to escpae their cold winter months. Most of the events in Barbados are held during the summer months so expect the winter to be a little quieter. However, the sun shines all year round in Barbados so there are still plenty of people around. At this time of year expect to pay anywhere between £950 if you’re trying to keep to a budget and £2300 if you are looking for absolute luxury. The term ‘budget’ in Barbados however does not by any means mean low quality as you will still get your money's worth.

Masai Mara

If you long to escape from a cold winter, the Masai Mara will certainly offer to warm you up during the months of November through to March. However, November and March are the rainy seasons in the Masai Mara, so don’t expect to escape precipitation at these times of the year. December and January are particularly hot and dry, and very good for spotting wildlife – and taking the chance to soak up a few rays by the side of the pool at your safari lodge.

With long days starting early morning to head out and see all that the Masai Mara has to offer, and warm evenings spent enjoying dinner while regaling fellow guests, if you fancy winter sun, with the added bonus of fantastic wildlife viewing, a stunning landscape and the chance of a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, book a trip to the Masai Mara. If you really want a winter sun holiday on the beach, book a holiday in Mombasa, then book a short safari trip to the Masai Mara, for the ideal combination.

Dominican Republic

For the winter sun seeker, a winter sun holiday in the Dominican Republic is perhaps the ideal choice. Thousands of tourists now flock to the Dominican Republic over the winter months, all of them keen to soak up the perfectly balanced winter climate, with temperatures hovering around a satisfying 25 degrees centigrade. You can relax on the beach of trek out into the gorgeous countryside, the choice is yours with such perfect conditions in which to holiday. Be warned, however, that owing to the popularity of the nation during the winter months, a winter sun holiday in the Dominican Republic requires a considerable amount of forethought and planning. Prices can be steep, so prepare so do your research and seek out the best bargains available. A winter sun holiday in the Dominican Republic will cater for every sun worshipper’s tastes, but make sure to plan your holiday well in advance, taking extra care to book your accommodation some 3-4 months in advance.

Florida

Instead of enduring the bleak British weather, this year you could be sitting on a beach basking in glorious sunshine on a fantastic winter sun holiday. The Sunshine State of Florida is a perfect winter sun destination with endless activities to keep the whole family entertained, from the excitement of Disneyland or a day at a waterpark to the more natural wonders of hiking and canoeing though the Everglades Truly indulgent and hugely enjoyable, winter sun breaks are the perfect way to beat the winter blues. As the peak season comes to a close towards the end of September, the crowds disperse and prices go down which means that there are some fantastic bargain winter sun holidays to be found. With cheaper flights and great rates for holiday accommodation, the winter months are the best time to enjoy a great value holiday in the sun. Traditional holiday destinations can be far more pleasant to visit outside of peak season, as without the usual hordes of tourists you can truly enjoy the local attractions, allowing you and your family or friends the chance to truly relax and enjoy your holiday.

Miami

Miami is a top spot for a winter sun holiday, with thousands of holidaymakers flocking to Miami between November and April to enjoy its warmer winter climate.

Locals even have a name for all the people who come on a winter sun holiday to Miami they call the people running south to escape the cold weather “snowbirds”. Weather conditions are ideal during the winter months in Miami, with temperatures averaging between 16°C and 30°C, and low average rainfall. One thing to bear in mind though is that temperatures during the night can sometimes feel a little chilly, so make sure you pack a few jumpers along with your swimwear if your holiday suitcase is bound for some winter sun in Miami.
 

Maldives

With an average temperature of 30 degrees Celsius all year round, the Maldives are the ultimate winter sun holiday destination. The Maldives do have a monsoon season, the main one being between May and November, but even when it rains, it’s never cold. So for a winter sun holiday destination visit the Maldives in their driest period between November and April and you’ll be sure of almost uninterrupted sunshine. The warm Indian Ocean averages above 25 degrees Celsius all year round, making the Maldives a perfect winter sun destination.

Mexico

Mexico’s peak tourist season is over the winter months, from October to May, with most tourists visiting the country between December and February owing to the pleasant climate. Most parts of Mexico do not experience an extreme winter so if you are looking to holiday in minus degree temperature then Mexico isn’t for you. The beaches are packed over the winter months as are most of the archaeological sites, cities and monuments. The winter months are especially popular for mountain biking, cycling and hiking trips.

The sun is not too intense and the weather is close to perfect! A winter holiday in Mexico will give you the chance to witness two popular festivals in the country, the feast of Our lady of Guadalupe and Christmas, celebrated with much fanfare in the country. Skiing is another popular winter holiday activity in Mexico in the mountainous regions of the country. If you ideal winter sun holiday in Mexico is centered around relaxation, check into a beach resort in any of the coastal cities of Mexico and relax!

Take note that June to October are the hottest and wettest months across most of Mexico.

Phuket

In Thailand the sun shines all year round. A winter sun holiday in Phuket is a great way to leave the cold, wet days behind in the winter months and soak up the glorious sun rays in Phuket. It is a beautiful sandy island full of life and activity in the day and even more at night. A whole range of things to do and see and a wonderful culture to enjoy, a winter sun holiday in Phuket is one to remember especially when everyone else is freezing cold back home.

South Africa

Winter Sun in South Africa

There really is no particularly bad time to take a holiday in South Africa and it is one place on the world map that offers winter sun. The climate is pleasant all year round albeit reasonably hot in the summer (December, January and February) and cooler in the winter (June, July and August). The winter is definitely the best time for safari holidays to South Africa as it is generally more comfortable for outdoor pursuits not involving the beach and the heat also brings the animals to the watering hole. In contrast summer is a great time to grab a beach holiday although it's certainly not the time of year to find cheap holidays in South Africa. Summer sees the local population flock to the holiday resorts and prices can increase by as much as 100%. A great time to travel is from the end of November to the middle of December as most places won’t be crowded until school breaks start before Christmas. Generally speaking though, whatever time of year you choose to take your holiday, South Africa has plenty to offer.
 

Tanzania

Tanzania is an ideal winter sun holiday destination. With typically high temperatures the country's temperature rarely is cool even in the winter months. In fact many prefer to visit Tanzania during the winter when there are pleasant breezes, plenty of sunshine and more comfortable walking and safari spotting temperatures. Visitors to Tanzania can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing and windsurfing all year round. Overall, Tanzania makes an excellent winter sun holiday.

Goa

Goa is the perfect destination for a winter sun holiday. The sun in Goa shines throughout the winter season, from October through until the end of March. Monsoon season is in the summer so if it is a winter sun holiday you are looking for, then you will definitely find the winter sun in Goa, which is as close to guaranteed as possible.

Gold Coast

The Gold Coast enjoys a temperate climate year-round and is a perfect destination for holidaymakers who fancy a spot of winter sun. Australian summer runs from December to February while their winter extends from June into August. The Gold Coast’s sun-drenched climate gives an average temperature of roughly 20°C during December, meaning plenty of winter sun so you won’t have to bring scarves and sweaters if you are looking to spend a Christmas in the Gold Coast. Also be sure to stick out the winter sun and enjoy the spectacular new year’s eve celebrations, a giant street party in the heart of the city and along several of the main beaches.

Sydney

Sydney enjoys a temperate climate year-round and is a perfect destination for holidaymakers who fancy a spot of winter sun. Australian summer runs from December to February while their winter extends from June into August. Sydney’s sub-tropical climate gives an average temperature of 20°C during December, meaning plenty of winter sun so you won’t have to bring scarves and sweaters if you are looking to spend a Christmas in Sydney. Also be sure to stick out the winter sun and enjoy the spectacular New Year ’s Eve celebrations and fireworks around Sydney Harbour.

Zanzibar

A winter sun holiday on Zanzibar Island is an unbeatable choice. In fact, Shiri beach, Fumba, Zanzibar has been rated by the “Times Online” as the top location in the world for a winter sun holiday. That’s pretty impressive when you consider the competition in the marketplace of locations for winter sun holidays. The mangrove-fringed beaches of Zanzibar’s southwest coast are less popular than those on the north and east, but if you’re gong for a winter sun holiday on Zanzibar Island between December and February, when the northeast monsoon is blowing, this is where you want to be. The water is the same ludicrous shade of blue, the sand slightly more golden and, as Shiri beach faces west, it offers awesome sunsets. Short-trippers and other tourists are rare, making Shiri beach all yours. The signposts to Shiri beach built from driftwood are seemingly purposely difficult to find! You may find yourself having to ask the proprietor to show you the way!