Escape winter: Sunny destinations to recharge your spirit
For many people, the end of January and the beginning of February is the most depressing time of winter. That's why we've prepared a few sunny destinations to help you forget the dreariness and recharge your batteries.
While Europe is engulfed in winter, the southern hemisphere enjoys summer and plenty of sunshine. Fortunately, there are places easily accessible from Canada where you can forget about frost, snow, rain, and long, dark evenings.
For those craving summer in the middle of winter, January is the perfect time to travel to warm regions. This period traditionally offers trips to distant countries. The options are broad - you can fly to the Caribbean, with the Dominican Republic leading the list, and other Latin American countries like Colombia or Venezuela. Destinations in the Far East, such as Thailand, Maldives, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka, are also frequently chosen. African countries are also very popular, notably Zanzibar, Kenya, Mauritius, and Seychelles.
Wild Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a paradise for many, where you can enjoy idyllic, picturesque beaches in a peaceful atmosphere. The local waters are home to dolphins and fish living among colourful coral reefs, making it an ideal place for snorkelling enthusiasts.
The dense, swampy Jozani-Chwaka National Park is also home to many exotic animals, such as red colobus monkeys.
A week in Zanzibar in January can be had for around $1,450 CAD per person.
Middle Eastern countries are recommended
Suppose someone wants to travel to a place with guaranteed weather but located closer to home. In that case, they might consider a trip to the United Arab Emirates, Oman, or Bahrain, one of the new destinations in this year's travel offerings, explains the tourism market expert.
Dubai is the most well-known city in the United Arab Emirates. This desert metropolis is a collection of modern attractions, from the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa, to the enormous Dubai Mall and impressive built-up areas like the Marina.
Extensive heritage districts like Dubai Creek and the historic Al Fahidi district also exist. These stretch next to several beautiful souks, which tourists love for their variety of spices and souvenirs.
A seven-day stay in Bahrain in mid-January can be purchased for about CAD 725 per person. Meanwhile, around CAD 850 is what you'll pay for a week-long stay in Dubai.
Best somewhere nearby
Mid-range destinations, those reachable by a 4-5 hour flight, are always a good choice.
Of course, Egypt leads among mid-range destinations, but Canadians gladly spend their winter vacations in the Canary Islands, Morocco, or Madeira. However, you must expect slightly lower temperatures, around 24°C, and occasional winds in these countries and regions. It is certainly a great time to explore these places.
A week of relaxation in Egypt at this time of year will cost around CAD 360. Seven days in Marrakech or Agadir in Morocco, on the other hand, costs around $445 CAD.
Sunny Tenerife
The Spanish island is one of the warmest places in Europe at this time of year. On the island's northern coast are famous black beaches and the stunning artificial beach in Teresitas. Mount Teide National Park has rugged red terrain and picturesque hiking trails. It is also home to the highest peak in the country, Pico del Teide.
A week on the Spanish island can be spent for around $600 CAD per person.
If you want to save money, choose the low season, after the Epiphany holiday (January 6), but before the winter school break begins. This is when it's easier to find attractive offers.
