As summers in Britain go, we had a great one in 2018 weather-wise, didn’t we? Unfortunately, all good things come to an end and the colder mornings and dark clouds are back in our life. That is unless you are on the lookout for a winter holiday!
Check out our essential guide below for this winter’s top destinations for walking through the cities, lounging on the beach, or dashing through the snow!
For winter sun-seekers
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s Hiriketiya Bay was named in The Guardian as one of their top destinations to have some winter sun, and it’s understandable to see why. The bay is a beautiful, secluded spot that sets itself apart from the usual hustle and bustle of tourist destinations. Sri Lanka in general serves up gorgeous sunsets, and no doubt you will want to wander along the sand to take in the sights.
Don’t forget to pack…
You’ll need to be pack something to cover up in – both to protect your skin from the sun’s rays and to respect local customs. Culture Trip advises that bikinis are fine by the pool or on the beach, but elsewhere, it’s better to cover up. Shawls are not only great for this, but also double up as an extra layer of protection from the sun. Don’t skip the sunscreen though!
Dubai
If you don’t particularly need a beach in the sunshine, then Dubai is the city escape for you. With average temperatures in November between 31°C and 21°C, the city won’t let you down for seeking that summery feeling, and there’s so much to do here beyond heading to the beach. Take part in the ultimate shopping experience at Dubai Mall, the biggest shopping mall in the world by area. Or, book in early to take a trip up the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.
Don’t forget to pack…
a cover option similar to Sri Lanka. The Telegraph advises that the shopping malls can actually get a little chilly with their powerful air conditioning, so you will want something to cover up with when you head inside.
Barbados
Check out what Barbados can offer if you’re seeking the traditional sun-and-sand winter escape. This island has a tropical climate throughout the year, so you can spend your winter months lounging on its pristine beaches and soaking in its crystalline seas. You only really need to leave the beach in search of dinner, and Barbados has that covered and then some! The island is renowned for its amazing cuisine, particularly its super-fresh seafood selection. Notable Barbadian food orders include flying fish, fish cakes, and macaroni pie.
Don’t forget to pack…
An umbrella or a raincoat. Yes, that’s right! That’s because the rainy season starts in Barbados in the latter half of the year, so you might find your sunshine broken up by a spell of rain. As an aside, be aware that it is illegal for non-military to wear camouflage or army gear in public in Barbados. So no camo-prints!
For spectacular winter snow
Amsterdam
The Netherlands’ capital city can provide picturesque winter scenes, especially if it snows. If you’re lucky, the temperature will drop far enough for the canals to freeze over into a spectacular ice-rink too! With winter markets galore and the magical Sinterklaas parade, you can’t possibly visit Amsterdam in the winter and not come away ready for all things Christmassy!
Don’t forget to pack…
Something warm! It’s a knocking bet that it’s going to get cold, and you’ll no doubt be doing plenty of walking, be it through the winter markets or strolling through one of Amsterdam’s museums. A good, comfy pair of flat boots will help you to keep up the pace and keep your toes snug and warm.
Vienna
In similar fashion to Amsterdam, the city of Vienna n Austria offers an amazing array of winter markets. Christkindlmarkt held at City Hall a definite must-see. Vienna can get very cold in the winter months, but there’s options to warm up from silky hot chocolates in a quaint café retreat to…butterflies?
Yes, the city is home to the Schmetterlinghaus – translated to the Imperial Butterfly House. This amazing spot is home to approximately 400 live butterflies, which enjoy a year-round summer temperature, perfect to thaw out chilly cheeks and frozen fingers for a while!
Don’t forget to pack…
A good raincoat to go wear with your winter woollies! No matter what time of year you visit Vienna, there’s a chance of rain, but more so over the winter months.
Bruges
Recently, this destination was made a World Heritage site by UNESCO. It is home to the wonderful Choco-Story Museum. This museum will guide you through the history of Belgian chocolate, as well as showing you the process of how chocolate is made. Plus, the museum houses incredible statues made from chocolate! Don’t eat them though — the end of the tour allows for chocolate tasting without destroying works of art.
Don’t forget to pack…
A portable charger because you’ll be snapping plenty of Bruges’ gorgeous sights. Be sure to keep that camera and phone (sometimes one in the same!) topped up with a handy portable charger.