If you keep a keen eye on the weather, there are rumblings this winter in the UK is milder than usual...
But, alas, we all know that the British weather is as unpredictable. Sure, this winter could be welcomingly mild, but it could also rain, snow, sleet, freeze…you get the idea. Anything could happen, although it’s probably best to save your pennies and not put money on a record-breaking warm British winter.
If you’re the kind of person that craves extra shots of sunshine to boost vitamin D and happiness levels, there are alternatives to staying at home with crossed fingers. And those alternatives come in the form of travelling abroad.
This upbeat blog will give you the trendiest destinations for international travel this winter. We’ve tried to highlight destinations that most travellers can easily negotiate, as longer flights might not appeal to some. Whether beach-based or ticking the culture boxes, these gems won’t disappoint this winter.
Before we list our top recommendations, we should note that international travel restrictions are determined not just by Mr B. Johnson and co – your destination of choice may or may not welcome tourists (“Covid!”), so it’s sensible to check and double check on that country’s policy to holidaymakers before booking. On that note, it might be advisable to book using a credit card, as refunds are usually easier to obtain from your travel agent.
Ok, here we go…time to start dreaming!
Canary Islands
A perennial favourite, the Canaries have much to offer. With white and black sand beaches, this Spanish archipelago attracts sun seekers with an average 18-20oC from January-March. Tenerife, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are the most well-known although La Palma, Gran Canaria and La Gomera shouldn’t be overlooked. Minus waiting time, UK travellers can be there in 4.5 hours.
Valencia
Spain’s third largest city enjoys a popular Mediterranean location. Valencia benefits from 5-6 hours’ sunshine throughout December and January, making this lively city a nailed-on destination for winter sunshine.
Alanya
This beach city resort is perhaps lesser known than other Turkish destinations (Marmaris, anyone?), but that just makes it an ultra cool winter location. Average temperatures are a pleasant 17oC, with a whopping high of 25oC recorded in February.
Albufeira
You don’t have to enjoy a round of golf to love this small Portuguese city. Situated on the south coast, Albufeira is pretty well known amongst the British holidaying contingent, and remains a gorgeous getaway for those longing for sun, sand and the sea.
Zante (Zakynthos)
The third largest of the Ionian Islands, Zante is an idyllic Greek hotspot boasting crystal waters and white beach coves.
Sharm El-Sheikh
Often described as “Egypt’s jewel”, this resort on the Red Sea coast regularly hits the early-mid 20oCs, making it one of the most sizzling of winter destinations. Flight times are about 8 hours, but you’ll soon forget all about your flight when you’re met with glorious amber rays and some of the best snorkelling seas found anywhere in the world.
As the UK’s premier commercial modelling agency, we’ve placed our models in some of Europe’s finest destinations – often when it’s been sunny! We encourage perspective models to apply with us today and to wait and see where this will take you. Home or away, the UK or abroad, it could be the best decision you’ll ever make.
If you’re thinking about packing your luggage this winter, please double check on travel restrictions and remember what holidays are all about – relaxing and having fun.
Bon voyage, and don’t forget to write!
