2020 will forever be the Year of Lockdown, the year our holiday plans were cancelled or put on hold, and nothing got ticked off our travel bucket lists. Nevertheless, we must look forward to a time when travel restrictions will be lifted, and travel to all the amazing places the world has to offer will once again be possible.
Here at Holidaysafe HQ we understand that after months of staring at the same four walls, most of us are now daydreaming about exotic beaches, beautiful cities – or simply going somewhere different for a change in scenery. However, with ever-changing advice from the Government, it can be difficult to know where we can actually go.
As the New Year approaches, we know a lot of you will be starting to make your new year travel resolutions. With research being the hardest part of picking a holiday (and with so many destinations to choose from) we thought we’d give you a heads up on the most popular holiday destinations predicated in 2019.
Around now, as it’s getting colder, all the skiers and boarders break out their kit and get ready for a new season. If our latest weather is anything to go by, there will soon be snow falling in Europe so many will be booking holidays up now to get ahead of the crowd, as well as pre-booking for the festivals in the snow.
However, if you are not a fan of the snow, or the cold weather in general, and just want to get away somewhere warm to have a nice chilled holiday lying on a sunbed, exploring new cities and sipping a cocktail at sunset, these are the places for you.
Here’s our Top 5 Winter Sun Destinations:
Dubai
The land of luxury shopping, with malls filled with aquariums and a 76,00 sq ft indoor theme park, it is a world far different to most of the UK. Another plus point? The flight is just under 7 hours, which is great.
At 830m tall, the Burj Khalifa dominates the skyline, with the Dubai Fountain just outside showing spectacular shows with jets of water choreographed to music, it’s definitely not to be missed.
Whether you are travelling alone for business, as a couple or a family, there is so much to do and so many amazing adventures to be had. With theme parks and water parks a plenty, as well as desert safaris, sightseeing and more, what are you waiting for?
As one of the closest European destinations that has sun most of the year, it is one of the easiest places to get to.
Although you may need something a little warmer in the evenings, the average temperature here is around 20 degrees which is a lot warmer than our current 7.
With Day trips, water sports and outdoor activities in spades, you won’t be stuck for things to do.
A good day out is Teide National Park which is centered on Mount Teide, the highest mountain in Spain with its summit being 3,718 metres above sea level, making it the highest point in the islands of the Atlantic. The park is the also the third oldest national park in Spain.
Or you could just chill out, sangria in hand, paella on order of course.
Mauritius
A little further afield, with flights taking approximately 12 hours, but just look how beautiful it is.
You can split the journey if that is too long for you, stopping off in Dubai.
From Dolphin Encounters, scuba diving, stunning beaches and gardens, you will be immersed into picture perfect scenery during your trip which will make up for the long flight I’m sure!
One of the most famous touristic spots is the Seven Coloured Earths that can be found in Charamel.
It is a geological formation of seven distinct colours of sand, hence the name, what makes this even more special is that in spite of the tropical weather that can occur here, the dunes have not eroded.
One of our team here in HQ was lucky enough to travel here on her Honeymoon, take a look here to see what she got up to.
Off the northwest coast of Africa, with a population of just under 540,000, Cape Verde is a great winter sun destination.
Known for its amazing beaches, it also has a wealth of historical culture to explore such as Pico do Fogo. This is the highest point rising to 2,829 metres above sea level and is an active stratovolcano.
Don’t worry! The main cone last erupted in 1675 so it isn’t a regular occurrence!
Last but by no means least; it is definitely the furthest away taking 15 hours due to it being on the southernmost tip of Africa.
Table Mountain is a favourite for the stunning views from the top, which you can get to either by hiking (if you’re feeling energetic) or using the cableway.
Most of the cities have ‘hop on’ buses if you enjoy sightseeing and they start from £11 which is a great budget way of exploring.
Obviously, there are many safaris and national parks that are home to an amazing selection of wildlife.
Another favourite is Boulders Beach located in the Cape Peninsula. Living here is a protected colony of African Penguins which you are able to view via wooden walkways.
It is great to be able to see them in their natural habitat, and there is a beach nearby that you can swim in also.
There are placards along the walkway giving you information about the penguins whilst walking around.
As this is a popular place, maybe find out from the tour operators when the quiet periods are so you can see them and take your instaworthy pictures.
When booking up your Winter Sun holidays, ensure that you also book your travel insurance at the same time to guarantee cover for cancellation, just in case!
With all these different activities on offer, also take a look at our activity packs and you can confirm that you have purchased the right pack.
Any questions about any of our products, please feel free to contact us @Holidaysafe
If your idea of the perfect holiday is lounging on a warm and beautiful beach, then you might want to check Trip Advisor’s Traveller Choice Awards 2016. Each year Trip Advisor asks its users to vote for their favourite destinations in a number of categories, and this year’s Best Beach awards revealed some fantastic locations.
When the long summer days draw to a close and the nights become longer, we all must accept that autumn is just around the corner. However, far from mourning the end of summer we should be celebrating autumn in all its multi coloured glory! After all, there are so many destinations around the world which look their best during the fall months, and which are therefore perfect for a post-summer, pre-winter, getaway.
Did you take the time to research the local laws and customs of your destination before your most recent trip abroad? The Foreign and Commonwealth & Development Office (or FCDO) are assuming you probably didn’t, judging from the results of their recent research.
Taking a holiday abroad should be about disconnecting from everyday life and experiencing something new, however many travellers have a range of home comforts they pine for or cannot live without during their trip.
We all have our own individual bucket lists depending on our passions, for example a foodie may plan to eat at Michelin Star restaurants, or a sports fan may aim to see their club win a major title. However, bucket list dreams seem to be the most strong among travellers, who aim to visit places and capture new experiences before they ‘kick the bucket’.
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To get a quote please choose one of the following policy types:
If you only take one or two trips a year then this is the most cost effective way to get covered. Choose from a selection of cover options to suit you. (Add cover for Cruising on the Options page.)
If you take more than two trips per year then this may be the cheapest way to get insured. The policy covers all trips made in a 12 month period. (Add cover for Cruising on the Options page.)
If you are the intrepid and adventurous type looking to see the world, our Backpacker & Longstay range of policy are ideal for students on a gap year, backpackers and adventure seekers.
If your idea of the perfect holiday is snow-capped mountains and winter sports, we have a specially designed range of policies to protect you, your trip and your equipment.
If you are the intrepid and adventurous type looking to see the world, our Backpacker & Longstay range of policy are ideal for students on a gap year, backpackers and adventure seekers.