So just as it seems the summer is over, the big C is fast approaching. But it doesn’t necessarily mean it HAS to be another nine or so months until the return of the warmth.
While some people love the prospect of traditional family Christmas, battling in-laws, endless turkey, dark chilly evenings and wearing festive jumpers; there are warmer and tastier options available just a short hop away from the UK, should you feel so inclined.
Whilst the highest temperatures are probably a long-haul flight away, the Canary Islands are an excellent choice – you don’t have to break the bank or spend too long on a plane. Morocco or Dubai aren’t too far away either, so why not do things a bit differently this year and plough your hard-earned cash into a winter break.
And if you’re worried about offending family, why not break the tradition of a lifetime and invite them along with you. Rent a villa and hey presto, you’ll start the new year in style.
1. Tenerife…
…or in fact, any of the Canary Islands – Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and La Gomera – are good options for some winter sun. Located just off the west coast of Africa, four and half hours from the UK, the islands offer an average annual temperature of 21ºC with more than 4800 hours of sun. While the peak time is still April-October many hotels offer great deals at this time of year. Cut costs further by hiring a villa. Whether you want to sit on the beach, have a traditional turkey dinner, go for a walk in a forest or visit the spectacular Mount Teide volcano, a Canary Islands Christmas will be truly unique and one to remember.
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Search for flights to Tenerife2. Southern Spain
A favourite with Brits, the Costa del Sol is less than three hours from the UK and makes an ideal destination for a short getaway. Temperatures aren’t as warm as some of the other places on this list, but it’s normally always sunny. Torrelmolinos and Benalmedena are good options that many Brits call home during the winter months. Malaga’s beautiful old town is host to some superb Christmas lights, fiestas and the main road along the seafront, Avenida de Andalucia, is full of traditional stalls – perfect for one final bit of Christmas shopping.
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3. Morocco
While the Atlas Mountain region should be avoided (unless you wish for white Christmas), the beach resort of Agadir offers temperatures in the mid-20 degrees during December with an average of seven hours of sunshine a day. Less than a four-hour flight from the UK, you’ll find an excellent range of hotels on offer, with great spa facilities and amazing food at decent prices. So why not switch turkey for tagine?! Seems like a no-brainer to us!
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Search for cheap flights to Morocco4. Cyprus
Just a short four-hour flight from the UK, the Mediterranean resort of Paphos also offers on average a very pleasant seven hours of sunshine even in December. Blessed with beautiful beaches, lively entertainment and great facilities for children you can enjoy a Christmas with a difference. Flights currently check in at about £100 return. Bargain.
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Search for cheap flights to Cyprus5. Madeira
While this Portuguese island offers slightly less predictable weather than the Canary Islands, temperatures still range between a bikini-ready 19 and 23 degrees. There’s excellent golfing facilities and the capital of Funchal has beautiful Christmas lights and decorations too.
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7. Dubai
It’s a bit further and therefore pricier, but the arid desert temperatures of Dubai guarantee warm conditions all year round. Throw into the pot the almost guaranteed lack of rainfall, excellent restaurants, a vibrant nightlife and hotels and you’re onto a winner. Plus adrenaline junkies can head into the desert to experience dune-buggying should they wish.
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Kenya, Sri Lanka, Goa and Florida are also good destinations to consider if you’re willing to venture further afield.
8. A UK staycation
If cash is a bit tight, head to one of the UK’s thermal spas. In addition to the standard sauna and steam rooms, Ragdale Hall in Leicestershire offers a candle pool and a warm outside waterfall to zone-out in. And if all else fails, wrap up in your toastiest jumper and sit by a log fire at home with a glass of rum! That’ll warm you up!
