The top winter sun destinations to have on your radar

04 September 2026

Winter sun doesn't have to mean the same destinations year after year. Whether you're dreaming of tropical islands, unforgettable wildlife encounters, bustling cities, or beaches that stretch for miles, there are plenty of destinations that come into their own during winter. If you're already thinking about your next escape, here are five winter sun destinations worth adding to your travel wish list.

The top winter sun destinations to have on your radar

The Maldives: more than just overwater villas

Winter is one of the best times to visit the Maldives, with warm temperatures, low rainfall, and excellent conditions for snorkelling, diving, and island hopping. While the iconic overwater villas remain a dream for many visitors, the Maldives offers so much more. Spend your days exploring colourful coral reefs, spotting manta rays and sea turtles, enjoying world-class wellness experiences, or dining beneath the stars on a private stretch of beach. Whether you're planning a honeymoon, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking to completely switch off, the Maldives offers the kind of tranquillity that's difficult to find anywhere else.

Mexico: sunshine, culture, and coastline

Mexico has become one of the most exciting winter sun destinations, combining beautiful beaches with fascinating history and exceptional food. Along the Riviera Maya, you'll find powder-soft beaches and turquoise Caribbean waters, but it's worth venturing beyond the coastline too. Discover ancient Mayan sites such as Chichén Itzá, swim in natural cenotes, explore colourful colonial towns, or enjoy some of the country's outstanding culinary experiences. The winter months also bring warm, dry weather, making it an ideal time to explore both the coast and the country's cultural highlights.

South Africa: one holiday, countless experiences

Very few destinations offer as much variety as South Africa. The Southern Hemisphere's summer makes our winter one of the best times to visit, with long sunny days perfect for exploring Cape Town, driving the Garden Route, visiting the Winelands, or relaxing on the beaches around Camps Bay. It's also an ideal time to combine city life with a safari. Just a short flight from Cape Town, you'll find some of Africa's most celebrated wildlife reserves, where unforgettable game drives bring you face-to-face with elephants, lions, giraffes, and much more.

New Zealand: sunshine at the edge of the world

When it's winter in the UAE, New Zealand is enjoying the height of summer. It's a destination made for exploring, whether by self-drive, rail journey, or escorted tour. From the dramatic landscapes of the South Island to the beaches, vineyards, and geothermal wonders of the North Island, every region offers something different. Spend your days hiking through national parks, cruising beneath towering fjords, tasting local wines, or discovering the film locations that have become famous around the world. For those with a little more time available, New Zealand rewards every extra day you can give it.

To book your winter sun escape, speak to your Travel Counsellor today.

Discover a nature lover's paradise beyond the beaches of the Seychelles

Discover a nature lover's paradise beyond the beaches of the Seychelles

28 September 2026

The Seychelles is one of the world's most breathtaking tropical island paradises, consisting of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of Kenya. This enchanting archipelago features a stunning blend of inner granite islands, such as Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, alongside the unique outer islands, including Aldabra, which represent the tips of ancient coral reefs. While the beaches here are nothing short of sensational, this remarkable destination offers far more than sun and sand; it is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Find your perfect Maldives escape with Sun Siyam

Find your perfect Maldives escape with Sun Siyam

25 September 2026

No two Maldives holidays need to look the same. Some people picture days spent almost entirely in the water; others want a private pool and plenty of space to switch off, while families may be looking for a resort where there is always something new to do. Across Sun Siyam’s Maldives resorts, that variety is part of the appeal. From intimate island retreats and private sandbank picnics to water sports, cultural experiences, marine conservation, and an enormous choice of dining, each resort has its own personality.

3 reasons to visit Atmosphere Kanifushi this autumn and winter

3 reasons to visit Atmosphere Kanifushi this autumn and winter

22 September 2026

There’s always something to look forward to at Atmosphere Kanifushi, but the months ahead are bringing an especially tempting line-up to this laid-back Maldivian island. From a celebration of inventive plant-forward cooking in October to Italian wine and dining in November, followed by a festive season filled with surprises, there are plenty of reasons to put Kanifushi on your travel radar. And while each experience has its own personality, they all share the relaxed island hospitality that makes a stay here feel so special.

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