Where To Go For Winter Sun – Part 1

Is there anything more depressing than waking up on the first day back to work after the Christmas holiday, when it’s still dark outside, it’s blowing a gale and the temperature gage on the car has no numbers low enough to describe how cold it is?

Who could blame all those people who decide to head off to hotter climates at this time of year for a holiday or even to stay for a few weeks or months (for those lucky individuals who are retired)? It’s been shown that UV light restricts the spread of the chickenpox virus and more research is underway to see if that applies to other viruses too, because it makes sense, doesn’t it? Who gets colds when they’re somewhere sunny?

So if you want a relaxing, warm way of fighting a cold this season, or just fancy getting away from the dreary months ahead, where should you go? Here are some of our picks of the best destinations for winter sun.

1. Cuba.
A fantastic destination if you want to combine beautiful, white sandy beaches with a bit of culture and interest. Spanish architecture from colonial times, music that can’t fail to move you and very, very cheap food and drink. Avoid the resorts, since they don’t offer much to write home about, and choose a renovated mansion in Havana, rent a car and explore.

2. Dubai
For a combination of sunny, pristine beaches and shopping to die for, Dubai is the place to be. There are more than 40 shopping malls, hard-to-beat nightlife and fine dining. The temperatures are around 25-29C, with lots of sun and very few showers. You can even ski here if you want (yes, in Dubai, in the desert…) at the Mall of the Emirates which has its own ski-slope with real snow.

3. Anguilla.
This is one of the most understated, hidden gems of the Caribbean islands, offering miles of white, sandy beaches which are generally very quiet. There are lots of places to enjoy gourmet food and plenty of up-market places to stay too. If you want to relax on the beach, eat well, drink well and maybe enjoy a bit of snorkelling, then Anguilla is for you.

4. Miami
If you’re after some fun with your sun, or nightlife after the sun has gone down then head to South Beach, Miami for art deco hotels, and bars and nightclubs to be seen in. Despite the name, don’t bother with the beach, since there are better places in the world to go if you want a decent laze on the sand, but do enjoy the café culture and take in as much street theatre, and as many concerts and live music events as you can.
5. Egypt
Warm, but not too warm at this time of year, and utterly fascinating to visit, Egypt is a must if you want to get away from it all this Winter. Visit Tutenkhamun’s tomb (one of the few actual mummies in situe in a pyramid – the rest are in the museum at Cairo), and don’t miss the Valley of the Kings at Luxor. If you want to chill out, take a trip down the Nile, or head to the Red Sea for some snorkelling or diving.

More next week!