Escape the Winter Cold with a Radiant Resort Retreat
For travellers in the Northern Hemisphere who are looking to swap their cold climate for warmer temperatures this winter, Booking.com, the digital travel leader connecting travellers with the widest choice of unique places to stay, a range of must-do travel experiences and seamless transport options, has delved into its more than 28 million listings in more than 154,000 destinations around the world to share five must-visit resorts that are a perfect winter sun retreat. A resort is a great accommodation choice for travellers looking for ultimate relaxation that caters to guests of all ages, and more than a quarter 29%1 of global travellers say they plan to stay, or would like to stay, at an all-inclusive resort for a vacation in 2020.
Canary Islands, Spain
The Canary Islands has it all; beautiful beaches, rugged volcanic landscapes, charming towns, lively nightlife and great vineyard tours – thanks to its endless sunshine! This is a great destination for travellers seeking winter sun, as the estimated temperature for November is a warm 23 degrees celsius (73 degrees fahrenheit), and the vacation is set to be a dry one - with only four days of rainfall predicted for the whole month. Even though you can expect almost year-round sun, travellers will be pleasantly surprised to learn that the beaches are quiet during off-peak season.
Where to stay: Perched on a cliff in Tenerife, the Barceló Santiago resort features impressive panoramic views of La Gomera Island and the Los Gigantes Cliffs. After basking in the glorious winter sun, cool off with a dip in one of the three outdoor swimming pools and take in the beautiful sea views at the same time, as the nearest beach is only 200 yards away.
Marrakech, Morocco
Experience the magic of Morocco but avoid the scorching summer temperatures, by taking a trip to Marrakech this winter. Travellers can expect a temperature of around 23 degrees celsius (73 degrees fahrenheit) in November, with only three days of rainfall expected across the whole month. Swap colder climates for warm but festive shopping in the souks, whilst visiting the bustling market place in Jemaa el-Fna square, and experience a sensory overload of fantastic sights, sounds, smells and tastes.
Where to stay: In the heart of an oasis, Residence Dar Lamia Marrakech boasts an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by idyllic gardens. The resort has a restaurant that serves delicious Moroccan cuisine, a bar and a spa (with traditional hammam treatments), a fitness room and indoor pool.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Venture to the majestic Riviera Maya and soak up the ancient Mayan culture, cool off in the crystal-clear cenotes, experience laid-back Bohemian-chic vibes at Tulum, or head to Cancun for lively nightlife. Riviera Maya is the perfect spot for travellers seeking winter sun, as estimated temperatures in November are a warm and wonderful 29 degrees celsius (84 degrees fahrenheit). The palm-fringed white sandy beaches of the Riviera Maya are dotted with luxurious five-star resorts -the perfect winter sun paradise for any traveller.
Where to stay: The TRS Yucatan Hotel is an adults-only resort, located a short walk from sandy white beaches and the warm Caribbean Sea and features an onsite spa, pool and aquatic gym. Guests have access to a butler service 24 hours a day and a VIP beach with glamorous beach beds; ideal for soaking up the glorious winter sun.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is the ideal vacation for travellers looking to swap cold weather for endless sunshine, as the estimated temperature in November is a sizzling 31 degrees celsius (88 degrees fahrenheit), with no rainfall predicted for the whole month. Whatever type of trip you’re planning, Dubai can accommodate; lively nightlife, traditional Gold Souks in Old Dubai, skiing in the desert, world-class theme parks, the biggest fountain display in the world, as well as futuristic skylines and golden sandy beaches.
Where to stay: Experience world-class service at the W Dubai - The Palm, which boasts a private beach area and an outdoor swimming pool. Guests can dine at the on-site restaurant, which serves a variety of Italian and Latin American dishes. Palm Jumeirah is a great choice for travellers interested in relaxation, beaches and family friendly trips.
Koh Samui, Thailand
The beautiful island of Koh Samui is the perfect destination for travellers on the hunt for winter sunshine, as the estimated temperature in November is 28 degrees celsius (82 degrees fahrenheit). Koh Samui is home to the Ang Thong Marine National Park, Na Muang Waterfalls and the Fisherman’s Village, where travellers can browse the outdoor market and purchase local food and souvenirs. Enjoy the warm sunshine as you relax on the pearl-dust beaches, or sail on the emerald green waters on a traditional Thai longtail boat. Pay homage to the huge golden statue of Buddha at Wat Phra Yai, or, if you’re looking for great nightlife, head to the popular Chaweng Beach.
Where to stay: Situated on a secluded beachfront, the luxurious Melati Beach Resort & Spa offers rooms with private pools or outdoor bathtubs and the resort boasts two swimming pools, two restaurants and three bars. Seafood and barbeque dishes can be sampled at The View Restaurant’s open-air kitchen and Kan Sak Thong offers local specialties.
1Research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who have taken a trip in the last 12 months/plan to take a trip in the next 12 months. In total 22,000 respondents were polled (including 1,000 each from Australia, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Japan, China, Brazil, India, US, UK, Russia, Indonesia, Colombia and South Korea; and 500 each from New Zealand, Thailand, Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Hong Kong, Croatia, Taiwan, Mexico, Netherlands, Sweden, Singapore and Israel). Respondents completed an online survey between 9th August to 28th August 2019.