Where’s hot in December? Warm destinations for winter sun holidays including Europe
WHEN the nights grow darker and the days get colder, the temptation of some winter sun is all too real.
but there are plenty of locations in Europe and the rest of the world where the weather is hot, hot, hot.
The Canary Islands, which have long been a favourite winter sun destination for Brits, are the closest sunny destination to home and almost guarantee a large dosage of vitamin D in December.
However, Cape Verde is another popular winter sun destination if you want somewhere other than Spain
While the short-haul sun is limited in winter, there are some amazing options if you’re willing to go further afield.
You could treat yourself to a trip to the idyllic Caribbean islands or Mexico, where the tropical sun keeps temperatures balmy all year round.
Here are six of the best hotspots that offer a great antidote to your December's winter blues:
Cancun
- Average temperature in December: 30.4C
Cancun has everything you could want for a dreamy family break.
The tourist mecca on Mexico’s Caribbean coast is known for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear blue waters and tasty cuisine.
Many resorts around the city's "hotel quarter" offer great all-inclusive deals and provide entertainment day and night.
Just two hours drive from Cancun, you’ll find the ancient Mayan temple of Chichen Itza.
You can also explore the stone ruins at Tulum overlooking the ocean to the south of Cancun.
Jamaica
- Average temperature in December: 29.5C
World-famous for its music and culture, Jamaica is a dream location to visit.
Its lush mountains and waterfalls provide a natural backdrop to its golden coves and strips of platinum sand.
If you want to laze on a beach, cocktail in hand, we suggest you head to the Caribbean island.
The average high on the island in December is 29C, and you’ll stay nice and warm in the evenings, which only cools to 22C.
Tenerife
- Average temperature in December: 22C
Canary Island Tenerife is a popular destination for sun seekers throughout the year – and December is no exception.
Just a four-hour flight from the UK, it's the ideal location if you're looking for winter sun closer to home.
In December, the average high temperature in Tenerife is a pleasant 22C, so don’t forget to pack your beach gear.
Cape Town
- Average temperature in December: 21C
If you are on the lookout for something different this winter, the beautiful South African city of Cape Town offers a break that has everything, plus it’s still amazing value.
The temperature tends to hover around 20 degrees in December.
It's a great destination for couples, with everything from vineyards to natural beauty spots such as Table Mountain to enjoy and explore.
Cape Verde
- Average temperature in December: 28C
South of the Canary Islands off the west coast of Africa, Cape Verde shares the Canaries’ dry climate.
Still, it’s even hotter, with temperatures hovering in the mid-twenties throughout the UK winter months.
Only a five-hour flight from the UK, the islands offer a happy medium between a short flight to the Canaries or a longer trip to the tropics.
You can find beautiful beachfront hotels on the two most popular islands of Sal and Boa Vista with TUI the only company currently offering direct flights.
Thailand
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- Average temperature in December: 29C
The tropical Thailand has been popular with Brits decades.
It’s an ideal holiday destination thanks to its amazing climate, stunning palm-tufted beaches and great-value accommodation.
You'll be spoiled for choice on where to stay with Krabi, Phuket and Ko Samui being some of the favourites.