9 Sunny Destinations for Your Winter Vacation

Now that the fun and celebrations of the festive season are over, the remaining days of winter can seem even bleaker and drearier than before.

Need to cheer yourself up a bit?

Here are nine destinations that will not only guarantee you some winter sun, but will also no doubt chase your January blues away.

Marrakech, Morocco

Lying in the north of Africa, Morocco remains quite warm in the winter months, although the temperature can become much chillier in the evenings.

When it comes to Marrakech, this is a city that is eclectic and magical, with everything from sweeping deserts to majestic architecture.

With the winter months being off-season in terms of travel, this is the perfect time of the year to visit the city, as you will not have to deal with hordes of tourists.

Wondering what there is to do in Marrakech?

Here are a few options:

• Haggling and shopping at the city’s many souks
• Sampling delicious foods, from traditional street fare to fusion fine dining
• Learn about the city’s history by visiting Mosques, palaces and tombs
• Relax at a luxurious hammam, which is a local spa
• Take a camel ride at Les Palmeraie, an area measuring 54 square miles that is covered with hundreds of thousands of palm trees 
• Visit Jemaa el-Fnaa, a famous square filled with street stalls, snake charmers and more

Quy Nho’n, Vietnam

Most people have never heard of Quy Nho’n before, and this is hardly surprising…

A quiet, laidback beach town, Quy Nho’n is situated in between Nha Trang and Hoi An, both of which are coastal hot spots, which is perhaps why this quaint town is so overlooked.

The focal point of the town is, of course, its long, broad, sandy beach, which is home to a sprinkling of bars and cafés, perfect for lounging the day away at.

Love watersports?

The snorkelling is great here, and there are many boat excursions available that can take you on snorkelling trips to nearby islands. The water is so much clearer here, with a wide variety of marine life.

If you want to take a day trip…

Hire a motorbike, or a taxi, and visit Bai Xep, just 15 kilometres away. While this may just be a small town, it is home to a vibrant community, a fishing village serving up deliciously fresh seafood, and even more gorgeous beaches.

Praia, Cape Verde

Lying 300 miles off the coast of north-west Africa, Cape Verde is made up of ten different islands, each one with its own distinct character and personality. Thanks to its location, as well as winds that come from the Sahara, the islands enjoy balmy temperatures throughout the year.

You are probably wondering…

With ten islands to choose from, what is so special about Praia?

Well, to begin with, Praia is the capital of Cape Verde, and actually lies on the island of Santiago. The ten Cape Verde islands have a culture that is an eclectic mix of African, Portuguese and Brazilian, but Praia is predominantly African, and traditional African hospitality is huge here.

Laid back and friendly, the locals on Praia are always happy to help ensure that visitors enjoy their stay, whether this means sharing the location of a hidden beach or taking them diving or kite-surfing. There are also plenty of hiking opportunities to be found here, and the vistas that you will come across will really take your breath away.

Want to check out the rest of the islands?

Island hopping is a popular activity, both by sea as well as air. Here are a few of the other Cape Verde islands that you should not miss out on:

• Boa Vista – with a selection of Blue Flag beaches and family-friendly hotels, this island is perfect for those visiting Cape Verde with their family
• Sal – home to the famous salt lakes, where the water is so dense that you will float on the surface without any effort at all 
• Santo Antao – famous for its green valleys and incredible hiking trails
• Sao Vicente – music is a strong part of the culture on this island, as is carnival

Big Island, Hawaii

The largest, but youngest, of all of the Hawaiian islands, Big Island guarantees an unforgettable exotic vacation.

Thanks to its two huge volcanoes, Maunakea and Maunaloa, the island experiences four of the world’s different climate zones, including plenty of sun in the winter months.

Of course, the Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit, but do save some time for a scenic drive through the lush valleys of the Hamakua Coast, as well as a day at Punaluu Beach, with its famous black sands. The historic town of Hilo, with its museums, art galleries and restaurants, is also well worth stopping off at. 

Wondering where to stay?

Give the Four Seasons Hualalai a try. While this resort may be home to 125 low-rise rooms, as well as 50 villas, they are nestled within lush tropical gardens, making them feel so secluded. The resort boasts seven swimming pools, as well as a pond carved from black lava, home to 98 species of fish, and yes, guests are able to snorkel in it. This aquatic theme continues throughout the resort, with everything from plunge pools to a water garden, and will really complete your Hawaiian experience.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Thailand is made up of hundreds of different islands, and each one has something unique to offer.

One of the most famous of the Thai islands, as well as the second largest, is Koh Samui, because it appeals to everyone from backpackers to honeymooners to families.

What makes it so appealing?

Everything from its laidback vibe and tasty food to its paradisical beaches and natural wonders.

Here are just a few of the things that you can get up to in Koh Samui:

• Rent a motorbike or car and explore the island’s hidden beaches and coves
• Visit the Wat Plai Laem, the 18-armed Goddess of Mercy
• Do some snorkelling and kayaking at the Ang Thong Marine Park
• Try as much local street food as you can
• Spend a day waterfall-hopping

Want to make your trip even more special?

Koh Samui happens to be home to Kamalaya, one of the best destination spas in the world. Offering everything from homeopathy and hi-tech diagnostic procedures to pilates and pranayama, the spa blends together Eastern and Westen therapies to create what is truly a tropical haven. 

Dubai, UAE

The largest, and most populated, of cities in the UAE, Dubai is synonymous with luxury and extravagance. With its unbelievable skyline, majestic architecture and thriving contemporary arts scene, Dubai is the place to go for those looking for a city break. 

Plus, thanks to its tropical desert climate, it remains warm even in the winter. In fact, the winter months are actually so much more bearable than the intense heat and humidity of the summer.

For many, a large part of the Dubai experience is the shopping, as there are so many opportunities available to you. The Dubai Mall and the Mall of Emirates are the places to go for luxury goods, while the souks are perfect for those who want a more traditional shopping experience.

Visiting to Dubai with children?

Spend the day at one of the city’s water playgrounds, whether you pick Aquaventure or Wild Wadi. The beaches are also great for swimming, and will help to keep everyone cool. 

Of course, while the city itself is great, do not forget that it is desert that surrounds Dubai, and these areas are definitely worth visiting. From dune bashing to camel riding to an overnight stay at a traditional Bedouin camp, the desert is one of the main highlights of visiting Dubai.

If you want to really indulge while in the city…

Book yourself in to stay at the Palazzo Versace, in which every single thing that you feast your eyes upon has been created by the House of Versace. The term no expense spared is not enough to describe this hotel, with its 700,000 pebbles that were imported from Italy, and the mother of pearl that lines the walls of the spa, which uses everything from gold leaf and caviar to white silk in its treatments.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Tanzania in itself is considered to be quite the up and coming destination, and, for those seeking some true heat, this is a country that can offer up temperatures of around 90 degrees in December and January.

Located about 50 kilometres off the coast of Tanzania is Zanzibar, an archipelago that consists of two large islands and a number of smaller ones. Due to its location, Zanzibar used to be a key point on ancient trade routes, and its history makes it a popular destination for tourists today. 

However, in addition to learning about Zanzibar’s past, which is best done in Stone Town, a visit to the archipelago will reward you with some of the most fantastic natural beauty that you have ever seen in your life.

Here are a few highlights:

• Snorkelling and diving along the Indian Ocean reefs, with turtles and whale sharks around you
• A sunset sail on a dhow, which is a traditional sailing boat
• A visit to the JozaniChwaka Bay National Park, the only national park in Zanzibar
• A tour of a spice plantation
• A tour of the Jambiani Village, where you can climb coconut trees and meet the local medicine man

When packing for your trip, do not forget…

Zanzibar is a Muslim island, so you will need to dress appropriately. Make sure that your clothes are not too revealing, and that your shoulders and upper legs are covered.

Mauritius

Located in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is an island nation that has long since been a popular vacation destination.

While there is plenty to see and do around Mauritius, from national parks to colonial plantations, many people visit for the complete indulgence they can enjoy at one of the luxury resorts on the islands.

Sound appealing?

Then check out the Shangri-La Le Touessrok, which is not only home to a number of different beaches, but also offers a hotel boat for guests to check out two neighboring islands. One boasts an 18-hole golf course, while the other is a tropical paradise solely for the use of hotel guests.

While lounging about on the sand, you can place orders for food and drink from the staff who zip around on Segways, while dinner can be enjoyed at one of five restaurants.

Need even more relaxation?

Check out the hotel’s spa, and make sure that you book yourself in for one of their Mauritian Coconut Massage – true bliss!

Cartagena, Colombia

With Caribbean beaches, a historic old city, and a colorful, eclectic culture, Cartagena is one of the best areas to visit if this is your first time heading to Colombia. 

The city has an innate zest for life that will no doubt spill over on to you, and there is just so much to see and do here, including:

• Exploring the old walled city, in which motor vehicles are prohibited and horse-drawn carriages are the way to get around
• Spend the day sailing, or on a yacht
• Take a mud bath in an active volcano
• Visit Playa Blanca, one of the best beaches in Colombia
• Visit Mercado Bazurto, the biggest fruit and wet market in the city, for a slice of authentic daily life
• Go bird spotting at the National Aviary
• Taste as many delicious Caribbean dishes as you can
• Take an ecotour through the mangroves
• Make the most of the booming cocktail scene in the city by trying some award-winning mixes

As you can see, there is no shortage of things to do in Cartagena, but make sure that you also save some time to visit the Rosario Islands. These are 30 islands located around 20 miles west of Cartagena, with the majority of them being uninhabited and picture-perfect.