Not everyone is a fan of Winter weather. Whilst it means you can wrap up warm in your favourite cable-knit jumper and coat, and maybe even enjoy some snowfall, nothing beats the warmer temperatures and longer days of Summer. Whilst Northern Europe has to deal with dropping temperatures and darker days, there are plenty of brighter places you can visit for some Winter sun instead.
If the Irish rain, wind and shorter days aren’t your cup of tea, we’ve got some ideal destinations where you can bring back the Summer fun, with some only a short flight away. It’s the ideal way to break up the long Winter stretch and return home feeling restored, and according to recent data from Travel Counsellors Ireland, many Irish holidaymakers are willing to head further afield for Winter sun, with long-haul destinations like Mexico and the UAE some of the most in-demand.
So, if you’re ready to get back to enjoying warm outdoor living, here are some of the top Winter sun destinations to consider.
Top Winter Sun Destinations
The Canary Islands, Spain
Winter sun and the Canary Islands almost go hand in hand, with its location providing some of the most reliable sunshine during the Winter months. With lots of different islands to choose from, even if you’ve been to Tenerife before, you can always try Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, or Lanzarote instead. Each will provide a beautiful mix of beaches, volcanic landscapes and lively resorts that can be ideal for families with young children, as well as couples or solo travellers looking for excitement.
There are also quieter corners to discover away from the tourist hotspots if you’re looking for relaxation and a slower pace instead. With direct flights available from Dublin, Cork and Shannon, this keeps travel times short, bringing you sunshine and fun in just a few hours. Look for all-inclusive deals that are available at some of the bigger resorts, as this can help you save money as a family.
Madeira, Portugal
If something a little more peaceful sounds perfect, Madeira should be high on your list. The natural wonders of this island have to be experienced at least once in anyone’s lifetime, with its sub-tropical micro-climate providing comfortable temperatures even in January. Slightly further North of the Canary Islands in the Atlantic, it’s the place to go for scenic walks, lush green gardens and stunning coastal views.
Winter temperatures are pleasant without being too hot, which makes it a comfortable destination for being active outdoors. The island is known for its food, wine and laid-back pace of life, offering a refreshing contrast to the busy festive season and other destinations on this list. If you plan to travel in February, you can enjoy the island’s carnival atmosphere, but book early to avoid disappointment as it is a popular time to visit.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Heading further away, Dubai continues to draw many holidaymakers to its sunshine and glamour during the Winter months. The weather isn’t as scorching hot as it is in the Summer, so it is an ideal time to go when looking for a long-haul adventure, averaging between 20C to 30C. After all, you don’t want to overheat when lounging by a pool or exploring the desert landscape on a dune safari.
As well as the many restaurants and high-end shopping catering for adults, it’s also a great destination for families, with plenty for children to enjoy from Aquaventure World waterpark and even Legoland. Look for family-friendly resorts early, as the most popular will book up quickly. You can also fly direct from Dublin, which makes things much more convenient, and choose from a wealth of different accommodation to suit your comfort and budget.
Mexico, Cancun and the Riviera Maya
Another long-haul destination that is definitely worth the longer journey is Mexico, and in particular, Cancun and the Riviera Maya. Both promise soft white sand, turquoise water and plenty of different resorts for both families and couples. As you’d expect from a tropical location, the sun is almost constantly shining and the temperature is pleasant, meaning long beach days and drinks by the pool are a must. As mentioned before, if you can go all-inclusive when looking at resorts, this will help your budget go further, especially as a family.
Beyond the beautiful beaches, there are opportunities to explore ancient Mayan ruins such as Tulum near Cancun, wildlife reserves, local markets, and theme parks like Xcaret Eco Park. Warm temperatures, colourful nightlife and friendly hospitality can all be expected in Mexico, making you holiday ready from the moment you arrive.
Practical Planning Tips Before You Go
It’s definitely exciting when looking to book a Winter sun getaway, but before you and your family get too carried away, it’s best to plan certain aspects before doing so.
Staying Prepared When Travelling Overseas
An important part of planning any holiday is travel insurance, especially if you are seeking to travel long distances or visiting destinations where healthcare costs can be high. Whilst some of us often focus on lost baggage or cancellations, medical cover can be the most valuable protection if something unexpected happens. Even for otherwise healthy travellers, a sudden illness, accident or need for emergency treatment abroad can lead to bills that are difficult to manage without proper cover.
If you have an existing health condition, it is worthwhile looking for providers like Staysure that offer travel insurance covering many pre-existing medical conditions, as it can provide you with tailored support rather than relying on a basic policy. It’s better to have peace of mind when it comes to your health whilst away, so research suitable policies before booking your trip.
Book Early for Increased Availability
This will depend on where you’re planning to go, but you’ll need to consider how popular the dates you’re looking at will be. For most families, travelling during school holidays is necessary, and this means some of the best deals may go quickly, especially for short-haul destinations. If you are wanting to head long-haul, such as Mexico or Dubai, booking early will help to keep the costs of flights low as well as ensure you don’t miss popular times. If you’re able to travel in late January or early February, demand may be lower, giving you much more flexibility.
Budget Your Expenses
Budgeting for everyday costs is always a good idea. Whilst many destinations will be able to take card transactions, some may rely more so on cash, so it is always wise to check before you travel and take some holiday cash with you. Local public transport can offer an affordable way to explore, but taxis and private transfers are more convenient if you are travelling with family or carrying lots of luggage, so keep this in mind for your budget.
Plan your itinerary in advance too, as that way you can check the costs of certain excursions and trips you want to do. This will also mean you can book them in ahead of time so that you don’t miss out at the last minute. Having cash is also best for tipping purposes, so check what is expected for your destination.
A Warm End to a Cold Season
Once you begin looking at suitable destinations, you can easily see why so many of us look forward to Winter sun holidays. They can boost your mood and quickly help you forget about the grey skies and chilly temperatures back home. If the above has given you inspiration, what’s stopping you from planning your trip right away?
Start looking for your passport to check it’s in date, research hotels and accommodation options, and if travelling as a family, look for activities you can all enjoy for a memorable break. We all could do with more sun and a relaxed holiday to look forward to, so good luck on your search, and remember to book as early as possible to avoid missing out on the best deals available.
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