Winter Sun Deals

Best winter sun destinations for UK travellers include: Canary Islands (4-hour flight, 20-25°C), Caribbean (9-hour flight, 28-32°C), Dubai (7-hour flight, 25-30°C), Thailand (11-hour flight, 28-34°C), Maldives (10-hour flight, 28-32°C), Cape Verde (6-hour flight, 22-28°C), and Egypt (5-hour flight, 20-28°C).

Book winter sun holidays 2-4 months in advance for the best selection and prices. Peak periods like Christmas, New Year, and February half-term sell out quickly—book 4-6 months ahead for these dates. January (post-New Year) often offers the best value as it's less popular.

Winter sun holiday prices vary by destination and timing. Canary Islands packages start from £300-500 per person for 7 nights. Caribbean holidays range from £1,200-2,500+. Dubai typically costs £700-1,500. Prices are highest during Christmas/New Year and school half-terms.

Yes, the Canary Islands offer year-round swimming with sea temperatures of 18-22°C in winter and air temperatures of 20-26°C. Tenerife and Gran Canaria's southern coasts are warmest. While cooler than summer, most visitors comfortably swim and sunbathe throughout winter.

Pack light summer clothing, swimwear, sunscreen (yes, even in winter!), sunglasses, a light cardigan or jacket for cooler evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and any prescription medications. For long-haul destinations, include insect repellent and appropriate adaptor plugs.

Winter sun holidays are excellent for families during school half-terms and Christmas breaks. Best family destinations include Canary Islands (short flight, family resorts), Dubai (attractions, beaches), Florida (theme parks, if counting late winter), and Cape Verde (similar to Canaries).

Flight times from UK: Canary Islands 4-4.5 hours, Cape Verde 6 hours, Egypt 5 hours, Dubai 7 hours, Caribbean 8-10 hours, Thailand 11-12 hours, Maldives 10-11 hours, Mexico 10-11 hours. Short-haul options minimize jet lag while still guaranteeing sunshine.

Travel insurance is essential for all winter sun holidays. It covers medical emergencies, cancellations, lost luggage, and trip disruptions. For long-haul destinations especially, ensure you have adequate medical cover (minimum £2 million) and check policy exclusions for activities like water sports or excursions.