Where would you get some winter sun? What are some of the best places to take a winter break?
We’ve rounded up some of our favorite spots on the globe. We hope they inspire you to get away from the cold and have a fun time on beautiful beaches.
Thailand – Long sandy beaches glistening in the sun, frolicking palm fronds whispering carelessly, long tail boats bobbing over the gentle waves, hammocks in the lulling shade: think Thailand, and these are the obvious images you conjure up. There are dozens of islands to choose from and turn into a barefoot beach bum. Koh Samui, once a backpacker’s haunt, is home to some of the world’s best luxury beach resorts and spas. Whether you are holidaying with family, on a honeymoon or want to indulge in yoga, Koh Samui is the go-to island. Koh Lipe, a much smaller island, one that you can explore on foot if you’re up for long walks. Koh Phi Phi is popular with the stylish, energetic young folks going on holiday with friends or on their own. It’s quite an effort to get to Koh Lanta and is suited for intrepid travellers not the luxury seekers. November to March is great for travel.
www.tourismthailand.org
Mexico – Sample Mexican shoreline to discover your favorite sun-meets-sand spots. Sail around a lagoon or in a traditional fishing boat, or indulge in the great Mexican cuisine, which is an eternal lure for travellers. Freshly caught seafood and alluring vistas are an ideal setting to relax and sunbathe. Playa del Carmen, Cancun, Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, and Acapulco are hugely popular with beachcombers. If you are holidaying with family, luxury resorts would be a great way to spend quality time. November-March is great for a trip to the Atlantic Coast, while December-April is ideal to fly to the Pacific Coast.
Cyprus – Windsurfing, hiking, snorkeling and scuba diving are great draws in Cyprus amidst its striking landscape. Great seafood is another reason to soak up sun on the peninsula’s many beaches. The island, steeped in monuments and history, gets sunshine all year round, though eastern parts could get a tad cold in winter. Interesting rock formations will keep shutterbugs busy, while impressive natural scenery will prompt you to enjoy a picnic under your own fancy beach umbrella. Coral Bay with its shallow shoreline is great for families on beach holidays with kids. Nissi Beach, Lara Beach, Pissouri Beach, Mackenzie Beach and Latchi Beach, among others, offer lovely sandy stretches. During winter, some of the very touristy places could be shut down. March to May and October to November are good for travel.
www.visitcyprus.com
Smitha Sadanandan
