With winter fast approaching and the British weather taking a definite chilly turn, you may be thinking where can you find that much-needed sunshine escape. We’re totally on the same page.
To help you swap grey clouds for sunny skies, we’ve rounded up the best holiday destinations for a dose of winter sun in November. And some may not be as far away as you think… win!
Average temperature: 19°C
Flight time: 4.5 hours
Just over a four-hour flight away, the Canaries are the crème de la crème of spots for a cheap, quick dose of winter sun. With balmy temps hovering around 20°C and very little rainfall, beach breaks are still on the cards (tick), plus it's a great time of year to pick up a shoulder season deal (double tick!).
Even more of a bonus, you can also get stuck into outdoor activities without worrying about the scorching heat that comes with the summer months. Gran Canaria, Tenerife and Lanzarote all offer endless awesome including hiking, biking, wine tours and shopping – perfect for picking up some original Christmas prezzies!
Average temperature: 26°C
Flight time: 6 hours
Also a short hop away is Cape Verde, a cluster of islands where light sea breezes keep the climate slightly cooler than nearby West Africa. November is the prime time for winter sun holidays here as the end of the wet season brings a drop in both humidity and temperature, which blissfully averages in the mid-twenties.
You’ll find bucketloads of all-inclusive resorts and package deals on the archipelago’s two main islands, Boa Vista and Sal. After topping up your tan on one of the islands’ seriously gorgeous beaches, make sure to take to the waves for watersports – November provides fantastic conditions for windsurfing and scuba diving!
Average temperature: 24°C
Flight time: 5 hours
This desert destination is at its cheapest in the winter months, but the price in no way compromises the quality! The heat and humidity that can make Egyptian summers too hot to handle has subsided, meaning you can enjoy the warm weather without having to rely on your hotel’s air conditioning to cool down (we’ve all been there, right?).
Egypt holidays are actually at their best in November; you can while away the hours relaxing on a sunbed by day, plus still dine al fresco in the evening with just a light jacket. Look to the Red Sea resorts of Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh for the biggest and best selection of holiday deals.
Average temperature: 25°C
Flight time: 7 hours
Seeking some serious heat this winter? The modern metropolis of Dubai was practically designed for sunseekers! You’ll want to pack your suncream for a winter sun getaway here as, even in November, the temperature sizzles around 30°C.
With stunning beaches to bask on, designer boutiques to shop at and a rich culture to discover, there’s plenty to entertain all ages in this stylish emirate. And for the thrill-seekers among you, there’s heaps of adventurous activities, too. Head into the dunes for a desert safari, float among the clouds on a hot air balloon ride or take your pick of epic waterparks for splash-filled fun!
Average temperature: 24°C
Flight time: 10 hours
With the rainy season over, temperatures peaking in the high twenties and prices significantly lower than average, you can’t beat a Cuba holiday in November! Expect all the charms of a Caribbean island escape: tropical sunshine, palm-fringed beaches and sunsets worthy of the gram.
Fly to the vibrant capital city of Havana to discover the craft of Cuban cigar rolling and to sip rum cocktails in luxury all-inclusive resorts (yes please), or hit the crystal-clear waters on the coast for incredible snorkelling and scuba-diving.
Do you have a favourite November hotspot? Drop us a tweet @icelollyholiday and let us know!
Published on 11th October 2011
Published on 29th June 2012
Published on 7th November 2013