Winter Sun: Top Destinations To Escape The Cold
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When the UK winter sets in and the skies turn grey, there’s nothing more tempting than booking a holiday somewhere warm and sun-soaked. But where should you go to swap frosty mornings for golden sands and blue skies? We’ve rounded up six of the best winter sun destinations that are just a flight away, along with handy travel tips and luggage recommendations to make your journey smoother
What Makes A Great Winter Sun Holiday
Before you start browsing flights, let's take a moment to think about what makes a winter sun break special:
- Consistent Sunshine: No one wants to gamble on the weather.
- Flight Time vs Sunshine Payoff: Sometimes shorter-haul destinations beat long-haul journeys.
- Culture & Food: Warm weather is great, but experiences make it unforgettable.
- Practical Prep: From visas to luggage, good planning keeps the trip stress-free.
Top 6 Destinations To Chase The Sun
So where should you head for guaranteed sunshine? Here are six destinations that promise warm weather, unforgettable experiences, and plenty of reasons to pack your Tripp case.
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1. Canary Islands, Spain
Best For: Short-haul winter sun with a mix of beaches and adventure.
The Canary Islands are a winter classic, and for good reason. With golden beaches, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and reliable 20 - 25°C winter weather, they offer the perfect escape without a long-haul flight. Each island has its own personality: Tenerife is buzzing with resorts and nightlife, Lanzarote is known for its striking lava fields, and Fuerteventura boasts some of Europe’s best beaches.
Things To Do:
- Take a cable car up Mount Teide in Tenerife.
- Explore Lanzarote’s Timanfaya National Park.
- Relax on Fuerteventura’s endless stretches of sand.
Flight Time: 4.5 hours from London
Average Winter Temperature: 20-25°C
2. Dubai, UAE
Best For: Luxury seekers, families, and city explorers.
Dubai is bold, futuristic, and sun-drenched throughout the year. With glittering skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls, sandy beaches, and desert dunes just outside the city, there’s something for everyone. Winter temperatures sit comfortably at around 25°C, warm enough to swim but cool enough to explore.
Things To Do:
- Take in the view from the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.
- Browse traditional souks and modern shopping malls.
- Book a desert safari complete with camel rides and dune bashing.
Flight Time: 7 hours from London
Average Winter Temperature: 24-27°C
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3. Cape Verde, West Africa
Best For: Relaxed island vibes and water sports.
Sitting in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of West Africa, Cape Verde is an up-and-coming destination for winter sun. It blends African, Brazilian, and Portuguese influences, offering a rich culture alongside its beautiful beaches. Resorts on Sal and Boa Vista are perfect for all-inclusive relaxation, while the islands’ steady trade winds make them a hotspot for surfing and kitesurfing.
Things To Do:
- Spend the day at Santa Maria Beach on Sal.
- Try windsurfing or kitesurfing.
- Enjoy live Creole music and sample local cuisine.
Flight Time: 6 hours from London
Average Winter Temperature: 24-27°
4. The Maldives, South Asia
Best For: Romance, luxury, and unforgettable snorkelling.
When it comes to dreamy escapes, the Maldives is hard to beat. Think powdery white sand, turquoise lagoons, and overwater villas perfect for couples or anyone seeking pure relaxation. With crystal-clear waters and incredible marine life, it’s also a diver’s paradise.
Things To Do:
- Snorkel with manta rays and colourful reef fish.
- Enjoy a private dinner on a sandbank.
- Indulge in spa treatments over the water.
Flight Time: 10.5 hours from London
Average Winter Temperature: 27-30°C
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5. Madeira, Portugal
Best For: Hikers, foodies, and those seeking gentle winter warmth.
Madeira, known as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” offers mild year-round temperatures and lush landscapes. It’s a fantastic option if you want winter sun without the long-haul journey. Expect coastal cliffs, scenic trails, and a capital city full of charm.
Things To Do:
- Walk the island’s famous levada trails.
- Visit Funchal’s Mercado dos Lavradores.
- Taste local Madeira wine overlooking the ocean.
Flight Time: 4 hours from London
Average Winter Temperature: 18-22°C
6. Thailand, Asia
Best For: Adventure seekers, culture lovers, and foodies.
Thailand has it all: paradise beaches, buzzing cities, ancient temples, and world-famous cuisine. Winter is the perfect time to visit, with dry weather and pleasant temperatures across the country.
Things To Do:
- Explore the temples and street food of Bangkok.
- Go island-hopping in Krabi or Phuket.
- Head north to Chiang Mai for cooler nights and cultural experiences.
Flight Time: 11 hours from London
Average Winter Temperature: 28-32°C
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Our Top Travel Tips For Your Winter Sun Holiday
To make sure your getaway is as smooth as possible:
- Book Early: Especially around Christmas and New Year, flights and hotels fill up fast.
- Check Entry Requirements: Some destinations require visas or health documents.
- Stay Sun-Safe: Even in winter, the sun's rays are still strong; bring suncream, hats and sunglasses.
- Money Matters: Carry both cards and cash, as smaller markets may not accept cards.
- Health Essentials: Travel insurance is a must, and check if you need vaccinations for long-haul trips.
- Connectivity: A portable charger and a local SIM/eSIM help you stay connected.
- Local Customs: Be mindful of the dress codes in temples, souks, and other cultural sites.
- Pack Smart: Lightweight clothing for the day, plus a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Which Tripp Luggage Works Best
A sunny break is always smoother with the right luggage. Here’s a quick guide:
- Weekend Or Short-Haul Breaks: A cabin case fits most airline carry-on limits perfectly (make sure to check https://www.tripp.co.uk/news/airline-guidesairline requirements).
- Two-Week Holidays: A medium suitcase provides space without being too heavy.
- Island-Hopping Or Multi-Stop Trips: A travel bag is versatile and easy to carry.
Tripp Retro Pewter Cabin Case 55x37x21cm (Dual Wheel)4 Wheel Carry On Suitcase€55.00 €105.00 Save 47%
(21) Tripp Horizon Forest Cabin Suitcase 55x37x20cm4 Wheel Carry On Suitcase€59.50 €105.00 Save 43% (48) Tripp Holiday 8 Dark Sea Blue Cabin Suitcase 55x40x21cm4 Wheel Carry On Suitcase€57.50 €110.00 Save 47% (36) Time To Plan Your Winter Sun Escape
Whether you’re dreaming of sipping wine in Madeira, island-hopping in Thailand, or waking up in an overwater villa in the Maldives, these destinations prove you don’t have to wait until summer to enjoy sunshine. With smart planning, a few travel tips, and the right luggage, your winter sun holiday will be smooth, stylish, and stress-free.
- 10th November 2025
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