|
 With temperatures falling, days getting shorter and those chilly winter nights getting longer, many of us find our thoughts turn to escaping the British winter and heading for somewhere that promises either sunny skies or crisp white snow - anything other than the sleet, rain and slush that is so often a part of the great British winter.
For those with an aversion to cold weather, a spot of winter sun may well seem like an appealing option. When it's mid-winter in the UK, it is of course the height of summer on the other side of the equator, making Australia and South America two very popular destinations among travellers looking for a bit of winter sun. Tropical destinations such as the Caribbean, are bathed in sunshine year-round and island hopping cruises in this beautiful part of the world are a firm favourite with sun worshippers looking for a break from the grey skies back home. Winter sun breaks can be a fantastic opportunity for a major party, too - how about spending New Year's Eve in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for example? A winter sun break can be an ideal opportunity to raise the spirits when the winter blues set in - lying on a beach in Barbados or Jamaica, the grey skies of Britain will seem a long, long way away. And when you return from your break, your deep natural tan will be the envy of those who have spent the winter shivering in cold temperatures.
At the other end of the scale, of course, are those destinations that are transformed for the better once winter sets in. Eastern European cities such as Prague and Budapest are simply stunning when their many peaks and spires are shrouded in a blanket of snow, while Germany's Christmas markets are a real winter wonderland - with warming mugs of mulled wine helping to take the edge of the freezing temperatures. Wrap up warm for a stroll around these beautiful destinations during the winter and you will be seeing them at their very best.
Of course, for skiers and snowboarders, the fun only gets started once winter sets in and the slopes open. The Alpine regions of France, Austria and Switzerland are among the most enduringly popular destinations for fans of winter sports, with many resorts offering first-rate piste conditions and lively apres-ski as well as good family facilities. Closer to home, the Highlands of Scotland are increasingly attractive as winter ski destinations, with solid snowfall, some challenging cross-country skiing and a refreshingly unpretentious atmosphere.
Whether you dream of escaping the cold and relaxing on a beach or embracing the snow and taking to the pistes, First Choice vouchers can make your dreams of a winter getaway come to life.
|