Top 5 winter sun destinations

Thoughts turn to a winter sun escape as soon as the days start becoming shorter – and colder. But where are the best places to go for guaranteed sunshine? Let’s face it: it’s not the UK. Whether a short-haul jaunt or a long-haul getaway, here are Travelbite.co.uk’s pick of the best locations for winter sun:

Short-haul:
Tenerife, Canary Islands 
If you’re planning to stay in Europe and hoping to catch some rays this winter, the Canary Islands are your best bet. Tenerife’s perpetual summer is perfect for sun-worshippers, with annual winter temperature averages at a whopping 18-20 degrees Celsius (OK...well, at least in comparison to the UK!). Sea temperatures remain warm too so you needn’t fear hitting the water for a splash around. Costa Adeje, Playa de las Americas, Los Cristianos or Los Gigantes are popular winter sun hotspots.

Agadir, Morocco 
A mere three-hour flight from the UK lies the beautiful sun-drenched beaches of Agadir. Here, the sun shines for 300 days of the year and average January temperatures hover around the balmy 20 degrees Celsius mark. Agadir is an increasingly popular destination for holidaymakers, looking for luxurious hotels, great golf, watersports and, of course, beaches. Agadir may not have the heady atmosphere and bustling bazaars of Marrakech, as it is much more modern, but you’ll still find plenty to whet your cultural appetite, including the sprawling grounds of King Mohammed's Royal Palace. 

Mid-haul:
The Caribbean 
Even the thought of visiting the Caribbean is enough to make you feel warm and toasty inside. With tropical beaches, lapping waves and glorious heat – what more could you want for a winter sun break? (Are you getting the feeling that we want to jet off right now?). From the reggae beats and chilled-out vibe of Jamaica to the luxury indulgence-on-tap resorts in Aruba and the Bahamas, there’s a Caribbean island for everyone’s tastes – and one thing’s for certain: you can leave your woolly hats and gloves behind!

Long-haul:
Goa, India 
With an average temperature of 30 degrees Celsius, it’s no wonder sun-seeking holidaymakers flock to the tropical haven of Goa for some winter sun. Enjoying the stunning beaches is the order of the day here, of which Anjuna Beach, on the west coast, is probably the most famous (it’s also where you’ll find the Wednesday flea market). But, if you want to tear yourself away from the sun, sea and sand – make sure to explore the colourful Portuguese colonial architecture, take a walk in vanilla plantations and splash around in refreshing waterfalls.

Miami, Florida 
Welcome to Miami. (Whenever ‘Miami’ is uttered, it’s hard not to break into song with Will Smith’s 90s classic). With sun and sea in spades, Miami is the sun trap of the east coast. Winter is actually the peak season here, as the summer months can prove to be sweltering (and unbearable) – due to the fact that Miami, Florida, is the one of the most southern of all US resorts. After a day spent lounging on the beach, you’ll find no lack of entertainment and things to do, from bar-hopping to shopping.

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