If the British winter has you dreaming of blue skies and warm rays, it's not too late to plan a restorative escape. We've rounded up the top destinations where you can reliably swap rain for sunshine during the first three months of the year.
January: Caribbean Bliss and Dubai Delights
For those seeking a serious dose of heat in January, look no further than Mexico and the Caribbean islands. Daytime temperatures here hover around a glorious 29C, perfect for beach lounging and sea swimming. An added bonus is avoiding the peak holiday crowds. Consider beautiful spots like Barbados, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic. With the Caribbean's monsoon season ending in November, your chances of perfect weather are high.
For a slightly different vibe, Dubai in the UAE offers a compelling mix of warmth and sophistication. January temperatures range from a pleasant 15C to 24C, making it an ideal time to explore before the intense summer heat of 30-40C sets in.
February Adventure: Cape Verde, Thailand & Costa Rica
February, often coinciding with half-term breaks, opens up a world of adventurous destinations. The islands of Cape Verde boast temperatures of 21-27C and an impressive average of seven to eight hours of sunshine daily, ideal for beaches and watersports.
Over in Thailand, you can expect minimal rainfall, creating perfect conditions for island hopping or exploring cultural hotspots like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Another superb choice is Costa Rica. Visiting in February means you'll miss the peak winter sun crowds and arrive just before the April rainy season begins.
March Escapes: Morocco's Charm and Egypt's Wonders
If your schedule is flexible, March is a fantastic month to catch the last of the prime winter sun. Morocco is just a short flight from the UK and offers sun-drenched city breaks in Agadir and Marrakech. With temperatures around 21C, you can enjoy bustling markets and still take a refreshing dip in your hotel pool.
Egypt remains a perennially popular winter sun spot for Brits thanks to its year-round warmth. By March, temperatures start to reach a very comfortable 27C. This is the perfect time to enjoy the beaches and crystal-clear waters of Sharm-el-Sheikh. In Hurghada, it's still cool enough for a rewarding day trip to Luxor to see iconic sights like the Valley of the Kings and the Karnak Temple.
With these destinations in mind, your escape from the grey British winter is well within reach. Start planning now to secure your spot in the sun.