If you have reached the end of the year and are desperate for a break to get away from everyday stresses of work, why not book up for a last-minute winter holiday? Escape the cold weather on a winter sun holiday or thrive in the snow during a ski trip in the Alps or a Christmas city break. Whatever your weather preference, below you will find our top five recommended winter getaways that will most definitely brighten up your mood during the cold winter months.
Top Up Your Tan During a Winter Sun Holiday to Dubai
Cure those winter blues with a trip to Dubai, the largest and most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. With daytime temperatures reaching around 27 degrees, it is the perfect weather for unwinding by the pool or basking in the sun along the water’s edge on the beach.
Why not add some excitement to your winter holiday in Dubai by taking part in a range of exciting outdoor activities like swimming with Dolphins at Dolphin Adventure or sunset camel trekking in the desert? This is the ideal way to keep groups of friends or family entertained during your trip.
As temperatures drop to a comfortable 15 degrees in the evenings, this is the best time to do a spot of retail therapy. As Dubai is home to some of the world’s largest shopping malls, it offers a vast range of high street and designer stores for visitors to shop in.
If you happen to be visiting Dubai over Christmas, be sure to head down to the infamous Dubai Shopping Festival which runs from 26th December to 28th January. If you consider yourself to be a bit of a shopaholics, this will be your idea of paradise as you can snap up endless bargains, discounts and deals on a range of amazing products.
Get into The Festive Spirit During a Winter City Break to Prague
Looking for a cheap city break during the winter months? Prague is the place to go. With flights often costing less than £100 per person, it is a wonderful winter destination fitting for couples looking to escape the daily pressures of working life.
Be sure to wrap up warm as you wander through the festive outdoor Christmas markets dotted around the city as maximum daytime temperatures reach a cold three degrees. There is no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than sipping on a hot cup of mulled wine as you browse the many market stalls lining the cobbled streets in search of the ideal Christmas gift for your partner.
As you shop around, watch as merry stall vendors whip up traditional foods like barbequed sausage, cakes and pastries right in front of you. Make sure you try some of the local produce on offer – the smell will be enough to draw you in.
Enjoy A Thrilling Ski Holiday in Italy During a Winter Getaway
If you are looking to add a dash of excitement to a winter getaway, book up for a Mark Warner ski or snowboarding Holiday . With three different ski destinations on offer, you can choose whether to stay in Austria, France or Italy. Skiing upon the pristine white Alps is a fantastic fun-filled holiday ideal for groups of friends.
Surprisingly, a winter ski holiday can be pretty stress free for families with young children. With an array of excellent ski schools available, parents can let their little ones explore the slopes with an experienced ski instructor throughout the day as they take to the slopes on their own with their partner.
If you appreciate good food with strong memorable flavours, it is recommended that you also explore the local cuisine when off the slopes. Delve into some divine cheese fondue or raclette during a trip to France or traditional Wiener Schnitzel during a stay in Austria.
Lounge by The Poolside During a Winter Holiday to Gran Canaria
Leave your hectic life behind and top up your vitamin C levels during the bleak and dreary winter months as you jet off to Gran Canaria. During the cooler months, visitors can expect average maximum daytime temperatures in December of around 22°C and average minimum night-time temperatures of around 16°C.
Whether you are looking to chill out at the poolside or explore your surroundings, Grand Canaria has something for everyone. With a selection of musical performances, sporting events and Christmas craft markets available on the island throughout the festive season, you will not struggle to find things to do to keep you entertained throughout your holiday.
Experience a Winter Wonderland in New York During the Festive Period
The month of December has to be one of the most wonderful times of year to visit the thriving city of New York. Admire magical Christmas window displays in Macey’s and get in about the hustle and bustle of the lively streets as you do a spot of shopping in the Big Apple.
Pile on the layers before you jump on the Hop On Hop Off bus and tour the cities greatest tourist hotspots. Make sure you wrap up as it can be extremely chilly throughout the day. Whether you are visiting with a loved one or family, it is worthwhile booking up to experience the best show in NYC, The Radio City Christmas Spectacular. No matter your age, this is a heart-warming show sure to get you in the festive spirits.
Once you have shopped until you’ve dropped and have toured all of the best areas of the city, grab a slice of pizza for dinner and spend the evening skating around the stunning ice rink at the Rockefeller Centre. Make sure you get a photograph in front of the twinkling Christmas tree next to the rink as a memorable keepsake. If you are luck you may even witness a romantic proposal!