Where to get some winter sun
Driving to work in the dark and arriving home in the dark soon will be upon us with winter drawing in. So where can you go to get some winter sun?
Malta
With only a 3 hour flight time from the UK, Malta is a very popular choice when it comes to some winter sun. With beautiful sandy beaches, the peak season ends in October which means that sea bathing is possible well into the ‘winter months’. The majority of Maltese speak English which makes things a lot easier, although learning thank you (Grazzi) and hello (Merhba) is polite.
There are many activities you can participate in when in Malta, whether you are happy sitting by the pool or at the beach, looking to go on a day cruise round the islands of Gozo and Comino, or fancy a bit of diving in the lovely blue waters, there is plenty to do.
Malta is a strong Catholic country and there are plenty of festivals happening all year round to celebrate holy days (where some are seen as national holidays) and individual villages holding their own festas, honouring their parish patron saint. There are colourful flags and decorations hung up along the roads and food and drink aplenty. There is a massive firework factory on this small island and you can watch some of the most fantastic firework displays you have ever seen during the festivals.
Cyprus
Just slightly further than Malta, Cyprus offers warm days and cool evenings during the winter. Paphos is the liveliest resort on the western end of the island and also the most attractive with plenty to do.
There are loads of activities to take part in when in Paphos, from bowling to boat Safari’s. A major attraction which is fun for all the family is the Aphrodite Water Park which has 26 different rides and leisure activities and a range of restaurants with a wide selection of food.
Filled with bars and clubs you won’t be bored in the evening with live entertainment, local beer and European football to watch. Plenty of restaurants offering local, international and fast food means you won’t be stuck for things to do.
Tenerife
Less than five hours flights away you can enjoy sun, sea and sand on the largest and most populous island of the seven Canary Islands, Tenerife. The island of Tenerife can offer swimming and sunbathing on its beautiful beaches (such as Troya and Las Vistas), but also offers snow a few miles away on the crest of Mount Teide.
Teide National Park is the volcano mountain that occupies central Tenerife. It has been protected since 1954 and is the most popular tourist attraction in Tenerife. You can get to the summit by cable car or hiking. There are some fabulous views over the Island and plenty of different species of lizards and birds can be discovered.
Cruising is a popular activity on the island, with a variety of trips available around the island on a sailing boat. As one of the main migration routes for Whales and dolphins, there is a good chance of seeing these amazing marine mammals.
The Loro Parque (Parrot Park) is a must see. Originally dedicated to Parrots, there are now over 300 different species of parrot and many other animals from Tigers to Sharks can be seen. The Parrot park is home to the worlds largest Penguinarium where 12 tons of snow falls every day to reproduce the Antarctic climate.
Maldives
With a 12 hour flight and beautiful resorts, the Maldives can be pricey but worth it. During January, the small islands average 8 hours of sun a day and offer pleasant warm seas – the perfect idyllic place for some winter sun.
Gorgeous clear blue seas allow for some brilliant diving waters and the views of the sea life can be incredible. There are many water sports available on the Maldives and your hotel can arrange these for you, so choose wisely when picking where to stay.
If you are looking for some relaxation time, then a world-class treatment in a Maldivian spa may be just what you are after.
Honeymooning on these islands is also a popular choice with it’s magically surroundings and secluded setting. Dinner under the stars and a peaceful swim is just what you need for a romantic backdrop.
Don’t forget
If you plan on setting off for some last minute winter sun, don’t forget your instant travel insurance, up-to-date passports, any visa requirements and most importantly your sun protection!