Chasing The Winter Sun

There’s something about the start of November, when the evenings draw in and the temperatures begin to tumble, that can leave you longing for a little warmth. Al fresco dinners and sunny seaside strolls might feel a long way off at home, but elsewhere, winter looks rather different. 

You could take a shorter escape to somewhere closer to home for milder temperatures and a welcome dose of sunshine, or venture further afield in search of tropical warmth. From southern Spain and Morocco to the Canary Islands, Caribbean and Hawaii, The Bridge explores five places where you can swap the UK winter for warmer climes. 

If the thought of feeling the sun on your face in the depths of a UK winter sounds appealing, the Canary Islands could be just the tonic. With their subtropical climate and winter daytime temperatures typically hovering around 20°C, they offer a welcome dose of warmth without travelling too far afield. 

Born from volcanic origins, these Atlantic islands off the coast of north-west Africa have some extraordinary landscapes. From the volcanic surroundings of Mount Teide in Tenerife and Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote to the rolling dunes of Maspalomas in Gran Canaria and the dense pine forests in La Palma, there’s much more here than winter sunshine alone. 

Then again, sometimes it’s the simple pleasures that tempt us away: strolling along palm-lined promenades, relaxing on golden or black-sand beaches, or sipping locally produced wine with the warmth of the winter sun on your face. 

Pristine white-sand beaches, a refreshing rum punch, the infectious beat of calypso and a famously laid-back way of life make the Caribbean a tempting winter indulgence. With islands including Barbados, Grenada, St Lucia and Antigua enjoying average daytime highs of around 29°C in December, there’s plenty of opportunity to leave the layers behind and soak up the warmth. 

They may be part of the same region, but each island has a character all of its own. There are the fragrant spices and lush landscapes of Grenada, the rich heritage of Barbados, the dramatic green interior of St Lucia, and Antigua’s celebrated 365 beaches. 

And while the beaches are undoubtedly a big part of the appeal, there’s plenty to tempt you away from lounging on the sand. You might spot rays and sea turtles in the crystal-clear waters, discover how Caribbean rum is made at a local distillery, sample the islands’ distinctive flavours, or head inland to explore lush tropical landscapes. 

• Spend Christmas island-hopping in the Caribbean

You don’t have to travel too far to leave some of the UK’s winter chill behind. While January temperatures in southern Spain typically sit in the mid-teens rather than soaring into the 20s, there’s a much better chance of enjoying milder days and brighter skies. In Cádiz, getting a taste of authentic Andalusian culture is all part of the experience. Settle in for the passion and rhythm of a flamenco performance before seeking out a traditional tapas bar serving small plates of local specialities. 

Elsewhere, Málaga mixes centuries of history with an easy-going Mediterranean feel. Moorish landmarks including the hilltop Alcazaba overlook a city of lively plazas, waterfront promenades and museums celebrating its most famous son, Pablo Picasso. And when the winter sunshine does make an appearance, there are plenty of pavement cafés from which to enjoy it. 

Winter Sun Cruises to Southern Spain and Portugal

• Unwind in the sunshine of Southern Spain
• Escape the cold in Southern Spain & Portugal

If you’re going to travel halfway around the world in search of winter warmth, why not make it a real bucket-list adventure? With daytime temperatures reaching around 26°C in February, Hawaii certainly delivers on the warmth, but there’s much more to these islands than sunshine alone. 

Each island has a personality of its own, with extraordinary natural wonders and deep-rooted Hawaiian culture adding to the sense of discovery. On the Big Island, dramatic volcanic landscapes give way to lush rainforests and coffee-growing country, while on Oahu you can combine the famous sands of Waikiki with Honolulu and the history of Pearl Harbor. February also falls within Hawaii's peak humpback whale season, adding another reason to keep your eyes on the ocean. 

Then there’s Kauai, aptly nicknamed the Garden Island. From Nawiliwili, discover an island of tropical scenery and natural wonders, including the colourful cliffs and deep valleys of Waimea Canyon. It’s another side to Hawaii altogether, and proof that a visit here can be as much about adventure and discovery as simply soaking up the winter sun. 

• Explore Hawaii, Japan & the wonders of Asia over 58 unforgettable nights

The exotic scents, sights and sounds of Morocco make it an enticing place to escape to in winter. From colourful souks piled high with spices and handcrafted wares to intricate architecture and tempting local flavours, there’s culture and character around every corner, with milder winter temperatures than you’re likely to find back home. 

Tangier, where Mediterranean and Moroccan influences meet, is a fascinating place to explore, with its winding medina, bustling markets and cafés. It also opens the door to discovering more of Morocco, from the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen and historic Rabat to the colour and energy of Marrakech. 

Food is all part of the experience, too. Take a break from browsing the souks over a glass of refreshing mint tea, before tucking into a traditional tagine, slowly cooked with combinations of fragrant spices, vegetables, meat and dried fruits. It’s a delicious way to experience another side of Moroccan culture.

Winter Sun Cruises to Southern Spain and Portugal

• Uncover the history of North Africa & Malta
• Explore the colours & cultures of Morocco