Winter is a great time to visit many further-flung destinations, perhaps even crowds and better prices.
Book your winter holiday, get your New Year off to a positive start, and give yourself something to look forward to!
The southeasternmost US state with its Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico beaches lures holidaymakers with its year-round sunshine but is cooler at this time of year and also has fewer crowds for much of the winter. There’s nowhere quite like Orlando for families –and 2022 is extra-special due to the 50th birthday celebrations in store at Walt Disney World Resort, where new rides and performances include Remy's Ratatouille Adventure and Disney Kitetails. Universal Orlando Resort also has the new Jurassic World VelociCoaster, The Bourne Stuntacular and the new Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites. But of course there’s much more to the state than theme parks, from the Kennedy Space Center to the Everglades National Park with its hiking, canoeing and alligator-farm airboat rides and the iconic Florida Keys.
The Caribbean coastline of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula brings together all the fun of large, often all-inclusive resorts with amazing natural attractions ranging from dazzling white-sand beaches to cenotes (underwater sinkholes and caves perfect for a refreshing dip) and no less than the world’s second-largest barrier reef with its fabulous snorkelling and diving opportunities. And then there’s the culture – those world-famous Mayan ruins – to marvel at. Those with a penchant for a less busy holiday can bliss out in Tulum with its many yoga retreats, its beautifully preserved ancient Mayan port city and its proximity to the Parque Nacional Tulum with its mangroves and more cenotes to discover.
With only a two-hour time difference from the UK, this port city on South Africa’s southwest coast is ideal for some winter warmth without jet-lag. Time your visit to include New Year’s Eve and you’ll be privy to one of the country’s best celebrations, including spectacular fireworks either against the iconic background of Table Mountain or viewed from the top of it. The UK winter is the perfect time to visit South Africa, with hot, sunny days (mid 20°Cs to 30°C or sometimes more) with clear skies and long hours of daylight. Highlights of any visit are riding the slowly rotating cable cars up to Table Mountain, the living museum of Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was once imprisoned, and Boulders Beach with its colony of African penguins.
This island-paradise of pink- and white-sand beaches has just celebrated its 40th anniversary of independence and now offers even more luxurious resorts than ever before, whether your taste is boutique or something larger and splashier. With 150 blissful kilometres of coastline, Antigua is rich in aquatic adventures – think deep-sea and reef fishing, scuba-diving, snorkelling, learning to sail, kayaking through mangroves, water- skiing, kite-surfing, boat cruises and even swimming near stingrays. But there’s also plenty of fun away from the water: zip-lining through the rainforest, hiking and walking tours, cycling, horse-riding, taking island safaris or helicopter rides, bird-watching, and learning to paint or cook regional dishes with island experts.
Island hopping in Croatia is a captivating and unforgettable experience. With over a thousand islands scattered along its stunning coastline, Croatia offers a unique opportunity to explore a diverse range of landscapes, cultures, and historical sites.
Embarking on a journey through Croatia's highlights is a captivating experience that showcases the country's rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.
The Balkans, encompassing Croatia, Bosnia, Herzegovina, and Slovenia, offer a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.
