Top ten winter sun breaks: Medium to Long Haul

Tuesday 17 November 2009

Summer tans are fading and lounging around in the sunshine seems a dim and distant memory.  It’s time to think about your next holiday, so Skyscanner brings you some ideas to dispel the gloom of winter.

 

Cape Town, South Africa

Average January temperature: 26°C
Arguably one of the most stunning cities in the world, Cape Town offers the visitor a multitude of attractions.  Table Mountain stands over beautiful beaches which bring surfers from all over the world, and the oceans (Indian and Atlantic) are a mecca for whale watchers.  The surrounding area boasts famous vineyards and as an area of natural beauty, it’s hard to beat. Find cheap flights to Cape Town

 

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Average January temperature: 30°C
The capital of Argentina is now back to its former glory having suffered under military rule.  The city is a European style metropolis made up of areas with a distinct style.  Browse through chic boutiques in Palermo Viejo before heading to the cobbled stone streets of San Telmo and then the best steak dinner in the world. Find cheap flights to Buenos Aires

 

Marrakech, Morocco

Average January temperature: 19°C
In the heart of the old city is Djemaa el-Fna - a busy square with a carnival-style atmosphere which draws tourists to witness the entertainers and performers and to sample delicious Moroccan food from local stalls. The city also affords the visitor the opportunity to explore a maze of alleyways full of bazaars and shopkeepers selling local products. Find cheap flights to Marrakech

 

Runaway Bay, Jamaica

Average January temperature: 30°C
Nothing beats the Caribbean in the winter time, and Jamaica has the beaches, the relaxing atmosphere and the cocktails to make all your winter blues disappear.  There are hotels to suit all tastes and “interests”, but one of the best is the Breezes Runaway Bay Resort and Golf Club so you can have a round on the course before enjoying a round at the bar. Find cheap flights to Jamaica

 

Key West, Florida, USA

Average January temperature: 23°C
As the final destination in a chain of small islands in Florida, Key West is the most southerly point of the US.  With its balmy climate, it is perfect for all kinds of watersports and one of its most famous former residents, a certain Ernest Hemmingway, would have enjoyed the big game fishing.  The town comes alive at night with numerous bars, clubs and restaurants so there’s always something to do. Find cheap flights to Florida

 

Perth, Western Australia

Average January temperature: 29°C
Everyone always heads to the east coast of Australia but far fewer visitors go to Perth.  The city is bustling and cosmopolitan and offers the tourist an extensive range of shops, and then if you want to relax, the Sunset Coast is just a short drive away where you can enjoy miles of beautiful beaches. If you’re done with the sea, head inland to the Yanchep National Park to see indigenous wildlife like koalas, kangaroos and cockatoos. Find cheap flights to Perth

 

Zighy Bay, Oman

Average January temperature: 25°C
This beautiful mile long stretch of sand is home to the luxury Six Senses Hideaway.  You travel there by boat, or if you’re feeling brave, a tandem paraglider.  Oman is a country of mysticism and beauty, and whilst having a rich history, it is very much becoming a twenty first century holiday destination as luxurious hotels and resorts are developed to rival those of neighbouring Dubai. Find cheap flights to Oman

 

Denis Island, Seychelles

Average January temperature: 28°C
If you’re not feeling the effects of the credit crunch, then why not head for the Seychelles and stay on one of the most exclusive resorts in the archipelago.  Denis Island has just twenty five elegant cottages on an island of picture postcard beauty.  The island offers some of the best diving and snorkelling in the area or if the sea is not your thing, then perhaps enjoy nature walks to see the island’s abundant flora and fauna. Find cheap flights to Seychelles

 

Bali, Indonesia

Average January temperature: 29°C
The island of Bali combines a tropical paradise with a rich cultural history.  Beach lovers can find water and waves to suit all tastes whilst if you prefer exploring, then head inland to visit temples, soaring volcanoes and dense tropical jungle.  There are local crafts galore to choose your souvenirs from, and sample the delights of Balinese cuisine in restaurants whose standards would rival those of any in the world. Find cheap flights to Bali

 

Madeira, Portugal

Average January temperature: 19°C
The island of Madeira is in fact the top of a volcano which rises 6km from the Atlantic seabed.  For a small place, there is plenty to do and see, and visitors can enjoy the fascinating volcanic landscape, visit picturesque villages, explore the squares and streets of the capital Funchal and take part in a wide variety of water-based activities including dolphin and whale spotting. Find cheap flights to Madeira

Read about European Winter sun ideas