It’s that time of year when the cold nights may have left you feeling a little deflated – and you might be in need of some winter sun to brighten your mood.
While most people jet away in summer or later in the year, it could be smart to get away earlier in the year and potentially save money in the process. Many enjoy city breaks or ski trips at this time of year, but if you’re craving a bit of vitamin D then booking a holiday in one of these six destinations could be the perfect fix for the winter blues.
There are several destinations which see warm weather in February, so whether it’s a romantic break for Valentine’s Day, a half-term family trip, or a solo adventure, you’re bound to see blue skies and warm temperatures.
Travel agent and holiday content creator, Max, who is better known as @itsmax.travel online, has advised the best destinations to travel too which see up to 10 hours of sun per day.
Check out Max’s list to discover your new favourite holiday destination.
Barbados
First up is Barbados. February is considered one of the best times to travel to the Carribbean country.
Not only does the stunning spot see up to nine hours of sunshine per day, temperatures reach highs of 28C in the day time, and temperatures of around 22C at night. Plus rainfall is minimal, so it is the perfect time to enjoy water sports, sunbathing, swimming and beach walks.
A flight to Barbados is approximately eight hours and 54 minutes from the UK. TUI, Scandinavian Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Kenya Airways, Saudia, British Airways, Qatar Airways and Aer Lingus all fly direct to Barbados. The cheapest town to fly to is Bridgetown, states Popular price comparison site Skyscanner.
The popular price comparison site states that the cheapest date to fly is Sunday, January 26. The cheapest flight there and back will cost you around £280.
Marbella
If you want to soak up the sun while watching fancy cars drive by, enjoy luxury dining and a great night out, play golf, or admire superyatchs on the sea, Marbella is for you.
The popular party spot in Spain’s Costa del Sol, which is popular with Brits, sees seven hours of sun per day. During February, the spot sees highs of 19C. Whether you fancy sipping Sangria and tucking into some seafood or exploring 30km of beaches in the sunshine, this spot has everything
Marbella is renowned for being expensive for shopping, food and drink, but flights won’t take a huge toll on your wallet. Currently prices to Marbella in February range from £30 to £76 for a return flight depending on which airport you fly from.
Tenerife
Another popular destination for a winter sun break is Tenerife in Spain. You can experience much higher temperatures than the UK, with averages of about 20C and plenty of sunshine.
You can also enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, including the Roques de García Circuit Trail and Mirador de la Ruleta. Alternatively, visit Punta de Teno for a sunset light show. You’ll find the warmest weather in the south around the Playa de La Americas area, Los Cristianos, Los Gigantes and Playa Santiago.
Tenerife also boasts affordable flights; holiday-goers can get cheap journeys to the holiday destination. Ryanair is currently listing flights to Tenerife from Birmingham, Stansted, Manchester and Bristol from £28, according to Skyscanner.
Cape Town
Cape Town in South Africa sees temperatures reach highs of 27C in February. The city gets nearly 11 hours of sunlight per day.
Plus, there are many events and cultural celebrations which take place at this time. As well as admiring the beautiful scenery, wine tours are popular in Cape Town, as well as watersports, shopping, enjoying the night life or going on a safari.
Prices to fly to Cape Town range from between £395 and £510 for flights there and back.
Dubai
It takes just under seven hours to travel to Dubai and currently the cheapest round-trip flight will set you back overe £500, plus Dubai is an expensive place to visit – so this is an option for those looking for a sunshine-filled, luxurious break.
There are many attractions to see in Dubai from the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa, to the Dubai Fountain, Dubai Frame, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. You certainly won’t be bored in the popular spot as there is plenty of fun for all the family.
Plus, Dubai has stunning beaches and you can enjoy activites like kayaking at Hatta Dam, skydiving over Palm Jumeriah, or experience quad biking in the desert. Max said that temperatures reach average highs of 26C.
Phucket
Max also suggests visiting Phucket in Thailand as temperatures reach around 33C in February.
The stunning destination is home to breathtaking beaches and turqoise waters. You can sunbathe on the white sand of Kata Beach and Patong Beach, or take a boat ride to idyllic Phi Phi Islands or Phang Nga Bay, which are both perfect snorkelling spots.
If history is your thing, you can explore the rich culture and history in Phuket Old Town. There are also busy markets and street food to enjoy.
Booking.com states: “There are 45 airlines that fly from the United Kingdom to Phuket Town. The most popular route is from London Heathrow Airport in London to Phuket International Airport in Phuket Town. On average this flight takes 17 hours 16 minutes one way and costs £1,687 for the round trip.”
Which spot would you visit? Comment below.