Where is hot in December?

So it’s official. It’s time to crack out those winter woollies, wrap up warm and ramp the heating up to full in order to fight off the biting British cold.

With the chill starting to set in, there has never been a better time to book a last-minute getaway. If you are craving some vitamin D, then why not escape the Christmas shopping crowds and jet off somewhere warm in the month of December?

Sunshine can be as little as a five hour flight away, so throw off your hat and scarf and discover where you can catch some warm and glorious rays…

 

Mexico

Flying time – 10 hours 20 minutes

Average temperature – 24°C

 

Holidays to Mexico are full of surprises with powder white sands dominating the island and jungle backdrops  – your little slice of paradise is never far away.

There’s plenty of adventures to be had,  zip lining your way above the tree’s, hiding away in underground rivers and visiting world wonders.  Chichen Itza dominates the Mayan ruins and has become one of the most fascinating sights around the world.

After a day filled with explorations hit up Cancun’s famous strip, where you’ll find the legendary Coco Bongo club, along with many other bustling bars serving you endless supplies of tequila.

Playacar has all the action and so much more with the added touch of secluded beaches and spots of tranquillity, enjoy the best of both worlds.

Hold onto your sombreros, Mexico is the ultimate escape.

 

Thailand

Flying time –  12-13 hours

Average temperature – 31°C

 

It’s time to tick Thailand off your bucket-list, where island hopping is a must and new cultural experiences are at your fingertips.

Known as the ‘land of smiles’, you’ll be welcomed with open arms, whether it be relaxing in a hammock on Phi Phi Island or learning a thing or two in the temples. It’s a whole new world with a mix of exotic beaches and a capital boasting a 15,000 stall market, exclusive adventures aren’t hard to find.

Consider yourself a party animal? Head to the Full Moon party for a night of dancing. Drink cocktails from the world’s tallest sky bar and head to famous movie spots. Phuket is what dreams are made of with some of the world’s clearest waters  and mountainous scenery.

 

Costa Rica

Flying time – 11 hours

Average temperature – 26°C

 

If Instagram-worthy scenery is a must, Costa Rica has you covered. You won’t be able to get enough of the soaring volcanoes, lush rainforests and toe-sinking beaches.

Deep among the tree’s you’ll find luxurious resorts, where your balcony view puts others to shame. That away-from-it-all vibe is certainly achieved with secluded beaches and hidden coves – Costa Rica makes for the perfect romantic retreat.

That beautiful natural environment leaves you with ample opportunity to discover hidden treasures. Horse riding as the sunsets, scuba diving the shimmering waters and climbing some of the highest peaks. With over 100 national parks and wildlife refuges, this destination is nothing short of exotic.

 

Tenerife

Flying time – 4 hours 30 minutes

Average temperature – 23°C

 

Just a short plane ride away, you’ll find the never-ending sunshine of Tenerife. Known as the largest Canary Island, this Spanish delight is the full package.

It’s no wonder holidaymakers choose to flock here all year-round with Blue Flagged beaches, Spain’s largest mountain and volcanic lunar landscapes. Shopaholics will be in their element in Tenerife’s bustling capital Santa Cruz. It’ll have you suited and booted in all your designer favourites.

The bar crawls here are something to shout about, with resorts like Playa Las Americas and Los Cristianos, you’ll be dancing till sunrise. Not to mention it’s the home to one of the world’s best water parks.

 

Sri Lanka

Flying time – 6 hours 35 minutes

Average temperature – 30°C

 

Spend Christmas heating things up in Sri Lanka, where tropical landscapes take over and tranquil shores call your name. Lying just south of India, its diversity is what makes this destination a holiday hotspot.

It’s a holiday for those who want to be off the beaten path, getting up close and personal with your favourite wildlife and surfing the crystal clear tides. When you’re not beach bar hopping or enjoy a relaxing morning yoga session, you’ll be checking out UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Check out Colombo, the largest city on the island where skyscrapers dot the skyline and historical landmarks dominate the centre. Famous for its ancient Buddhist ruins, you’ll learn a thing or two in Sri Lanka.

 

Senegal

Flying time – 5 hours 15 minutes

Average temperature – 28°C

 

A forgotten treasure in our destination roster, Senegal! TUI has been flying to this diamond in Western Africa since 2022. There’s two beautiful resorts you can head to, Point Sarene boasting a stunning 6-mile beach and peaceful place to unwind. Or turn things up a notch by staying in Saly, with energetic watersports, a variety of French restaurants and its unique African charn, it’s perfect for those looking to try something new.

Excursions in Senegal are fairly spectacular, with guided tours through reserves, with the chance to see lions, giraffes and zebras. Slow the pace down with a trip to the Tortoise Sanctuary and Retba lake, taking in the natural wonders of Senegal!

If you’re looking for a holiday with relaxation, plenty of sunshine and utterly brilliant excursions on the menu then check out our Senegal deals.

 

Egypt

Flying time – 5 hours 25 minutes

Average temperature – 20°C

 

Egypt is a very popular winter sun contender, with many Brits flocking to Northern Africa in the winter for their own slice of sunshine. With steady temperatures throughout a month and a wealth of resorts to choose from there’s truly a variety of holidays to enjoy in Egypt. 

Rest up in Luxor, situated on the Nile, the longest and one of the most iconic rivers in the world. For historical and culture buffs, it’s a great place to stay for access to Cairo and excursions to the pyramids and museums. 

For coral reefs and buggies in the desert, then Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada is the place to go, with plenty of family friendly and adult-orientated hotels to choose from – that all boast impressive amenities. If you’re looking for a winter-sun getaway that has all you’ll need for an affordable price, you can check out our Egypt deals here.

 

As you can see, just because it’s winter in the UK doesn’t mean you can’t catch some rays elsewhere! Have a look at our other deals and smash those winter blues with some well-deserved sunshine.