What could be better than adding a little mystery to the dark winter nights – and, let’s face it, mornings – of Britain?
Who doesn’t need a pick me up during our oh so long winters? And what could be better then a few days away from our grey skies and windswept streets?
You won’t know where you’re headed until you’ve hit book. But anywhere is better than the British winter blues, right?
So why not check out some of the places you could be jetting off to when you pick one of our bronze, silver or gold holidays in winter?
Paradise regained in Montego Bay
Long after Santa’s lost his ho, ho, ho, Jamaica’s Montego Bay maintains its cheer.
One of the Caribbean island’s top beach destinations, it gives you the chance to swap your duffel coat from your swimwear and balaclavas for snorkels.
By day, lie on the sand in temperatures that won’t been seen in the UK for months. And by night hit the clubs of the strip.
In between, there’s plenty else to entertain. Stop by local artisan workshops. Tuck into the freshest of seafood dishes. And yes, singing along to Bob Marley hits after a rum or two.
Say Phuk It in Phuket
Now is not the time to be shy. The tropical sun of Thailand’s premier beach destination is all about seizing the day.
That could mean getting up late and staying up till dawn. Or it might mean ticking off the long list of attractions Phuket offers…
Swim through gin-clear waters before making new mates among the bars and clubs.
Hire a slow boat to drift between the islands.
Or do your very best Bear Grylls impression by heading into the jungle in search of monkeys.
Whether you’re searching for inner zen in Buddhist monasteries or to let your hair down, Phuket is always a good idea!
Embrace the Mother City
South Africa’s Cape Town is a great year-round option. This means it’s difficult to miss from our pick of the best holidays in winter.
This multicultural everyone is welcome city has its fair share of beaches. And they’re warming up as the southern hemisphere summer comes around.
But Cape Town is also able to boast a cultural calendar of equally impressive proportions.
Wildlife as diverse as humpbacks and zebra roam nearby. Plus, those looking to party the night away won’t be disappointed by the bars and clubs around Long Street.
Soak up the sun in Sharm-El-Sheikh
Egypt holidays in winter have lashings of sun. Plus no end of sand and sea too.
Head to the country’s Red Sea Riviera – comprising Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada – for luxury winter sun that doesn’t break the bank.
Make your mates turn green with envy as you upload image after image of the Red Sea’s incredible sands.
Have David Attenborough chocking on his cornflakes as you share your shots of snorkelling and dive expeditions.
And have those back home shake with anger rather than cold as you swan around in a T-shirt and shorts.
Hit up the original love island
Cyprus makes the perfect destination for holidays in winter. One of the warmest countries in the EU, it’s too hot to hit the sands of Paphos, Limassol or Ayia Napa in summer.
But winter. Boy what a time to be in Cyprus! The days are shorter for sure, but there’s still plenty of opportunity to show some skin.
The waters of Limassol remain warm, while even the smallest village seems to have a historic relic lying in plain sight.
Whatever else you do, don’t miss the chance to experience a true meze. That way you’ll discover the incredible hospitality of this friendly Mediterranean island.
Avoid the crowds on Sardinia
For a more secluded escape, Sardinia promises a lot.
Often overlooked by UK travellers, it nonetheless delivers in bucket loads.
As you might expect from the Med’s second-biggest island, there’s plenty of coast to choose from. Sand, cliffs, tiny coves – Sardinia has them all.
Roam more widely, and you’ll also head into forested mountains dotted with ancient ruins.
The island’s cities are a rich array of sights. The link with Italy means the churches are astounding – but also that the food and drink is guaranteed to be good. And if all else fails, you’ll have the bragging rights of being one of the only Brits anywhere on the island!
Oh Vienna!
If it’s a winter wonderland you’re seeking, the Austrian capital of Vienna is an ideal pick.
Like something out of an episode of Bridgerton, Vienna is peak winter romance.
Take a horse and carriage around its park. Slip dreamily along the River Danube as the lights flicker on at dusk. Wander the halls of grand palaces and castles.
Combine this with a coffee culture that sees the entire population pause for coffee and cake mid-morning, and you’ve got a winery escape ripe for royalty.
Rock the Casbah in Marrakech
When are winter holidays not holidays in winter? When you’re lucky enough to pluck Marrakech out of the Mystery Holidays bag, that’s when.
The Moroccan city is unlike anywhere you’ll experience in Europe. And we’re not just talking about the mild winter climate.
Marrakech marries together the sublime designs of Yves Saint Laurent with ancient citadels.
It’s souks are the perfect place to nab a winter bargain, whether you’re after souvenirs or looking to float high above the city in a hot air balloon.
By night, the clubbing scene continues to grow. But be sure to start at Jamaa El-Fnaa Square. It’s beeen the heartbeat of the city for centuries.
Ne-Valletta me go
Where can you catch the filming of a Hollywood epic – and then go fat biking. Where can you gaze on celebrated artistic works – then laugh your head off in a comedy club?
Offering a little of everything you fancy, the Maltese islands are packed with festivals. Its people are ever welcoming.
And the streets of Valletta are some of the safest in the western hemisphere.
Take it easy, or pack your days with activities.
Either way, you’ll only wish your trip to Malta didn’t mean the end of your holidays in winter.
