Winter is coming…but it’s not all doom and gloom. It’s easy to escape the colder months for blue skies and long days in the sun. Whether it’s exploring colourful cultures, deep-sea diving, or just kicking back and relaxing that floats your boat, here’s our pick of 10 winter getaways to guarantee you an endless summer.
South Africa
Take a safari through the wilderness, catch some rays on the white sand of Camps Bay or hike up Table Mountain. Enjoy the warm weather and the opportunity to come face-to-face with some of the world’s most spectacular wildlife.
Where to stay: Stay in Cape Town at the AHA Inn on the Square, starting from A$82*
Mexico
Colourful and incredibly diverse, Mexico offers everything from health retreats overlooking pristine beaches, to jungle exploration and soaking up the rich heritage of the Mayan culture. Daylight savings runs from April through to October, perfect for even longer days in the warm sun.
Where to stay: Stay in Tulum at the Papaya Playa Project, starting from A$264*
Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are famous for their incredibly diverse natural wildlife. If you’re looking to experience the islands’ world-class diving, aim to book during the dry season between July and December, when the El Niño current brings warmer waters.
Where to stay: Stay in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno at the Hotel Miconia, starting from A$458*
Sri Lanka
Home to some of the world’s best beaches and Arugambay – the surfing capital of the world – Sri Lanka is a top destination to beat the winter blues. Visit The Hill region to sample Sri Lanka’s famous and unique tea varieties, and spot majestic Sri Lankan Asian elephants or leopards in one of the country’s many National Parks.
Where to stay: Stay in Wattala at the Pegasus Reef, starting from A$61*
Vietnam
There’s no right or wrong time to visit Vietnam, which basks in warm, tropical weather all year round. Chase the sun and sand to Nha Trang, enticing travellers with its lively atmosphere and top sites including the Po Nagar, Po Nagar Cham Towers and Hon Chong Promontory.
Where to stay: Stay in Nha Trang at the Galliot Hotel, starting from A$51*
United Arab Emirates
With its unique mix of beaches, nightlife and desert terrain, Dubai is a fascinating place. Opt for the city’s iconic attractions and modern shopping malls, or pick an out-of-the box experience with a camel ride, or “dune bashing” (an off-roading tour) through the desert.
Where to stay: Stay in Dubai at the Grand Midwest Reve, starting from A$88*
Arizona
The Grand Canyon is on most traveller’s bucket lists and for a good reason, but the whole state of Arizona offers an array of outdoor activities under endless blue skies and warm sun. Hike and raft through the national parks on Arizona’s doorstep, and for the icing on the cake, book a helicopter ride to experience the Grand Canyon from a bird’s-eye perspective.
Where to stay: Stay in Phoenix at the Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort, starting from A$152*
Italy
For a European escape, there’s no better place than Italy. Explore the Amalfi Coast and Positano, stroll the cobbled streets of Florence and Rome, and indulge in the mouthwatering cuisine and world-class wines from this Southern European country.
Where to stay: Stay in Lazio at the Aris Garden, starting from A$59
Brazil
The climate along Brazil’s huge coastline varies a lot depending on distance from the equator, but Rio de Janeiro is a safe bet for warm weather throughout the year, ranging from 18 to 26 degrees celsius. Whether relaxing on the beach, hiking through the Tijuca National Park or taking in the breath-taking panoramic view from the Sugar Loaf Mountain – Rio de Janeiro won’t disappoint.
Where to stay: Stay in Rio de Janeiro at the Vila Gale Rio de Janeiro, starting from A$106
Florida
It’s all in a name: the “Sunshine State” of Florida is exactly that, and ideal if you’re looking to boost your vitamin D levels this winter. Miami is one of the state’s – and world’s – most popular holiday destinations, offering vibrant nightlife on South Beach, a great cafe and shopping scene and of course picture-perfect beaches with white sand, clear water and blue skies.
Where to stay: Stay in Miami at the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay, starting from A$174
**The hotel prices (including taxes and fees) for the above were collated on April 22nd 2016 for travel in September 2016, for the respective hotels mentioned in the release with a minimum 4 star rating. Prices may be subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
