If you’re looking for a place to escape the cold, rain or perpetual gray skies, there are some reliable sunny destinations to tempt you. Best of all, some of them are quite affordable, particularly if you can take advantage of a last-minute deal or discounted holiday package. From city breaks to beach vacations, the following are some top destination picks where you’re likely to be embraced by warm weather and sunny skies at almost any time of year.
1. Barbados
The former British colony of Barbados is a popular destination for honeymooners, holidaymakers and sun seekers from all over the world. Located on the eastern edge of the Caribbean, the small and friendly island is known for its stunning beaches, fine cuisine, vibrant culture and spectacular caves. Visitors from Europe and North America can easily travel there visa-free, with many direct flights offering a convenient escape to paradise. Barbados has over 3,000 hours of sunshine each year, with year round temperatures of 30°C/86°F.
2. Cyprus
One of the Mediterranean’s most popular holiday hotspots, Cyprus is also home to a multitude of fascinating historic sites. It has been inhabited for at least 12,000 years, and in addition to its many famous ruins and archaeological sites, it also boasts many idyllic beaches. You can count on warm weather and blue skies throughout much of the year. In fact, the city of Limassol, in the Greek half of Cyprus, has one of the warmest winters in Europe.
3. Tenerife
Spain’s Canary Islands consist of seven main islands, the largest and most populous of which is Tenerife. Being located off the coast of Morocco, Tenerife has a subtropical climate and is reliably sunny throughout most of the year. Known for its many beaches, including some unusual ones with black volcanic sand, Tenerife is also home to Mount Teide, a dormant volcano with a summit reaching over 12,000 feet. It’s a popular getaway spot for European vacationers needing to feel the rays.
