So, what comes to mind when you think of December? Christmas probably! And maybe crowded shopping centres and dark evenings. It’s not surprising then, that many of us crave some warmth and relaxation at this time of year. Whether you’d like to skip Christmas entirely or just fancy a little sun before the festivities kick off, we’ve got the perfect selection of destinations for you. A word of warning though – if you are planning on celebrating Christmas abroad this year then please book quickly as availability is already extremely limited. Call our travel consultants on +44 1993 899 430 and they will be happy to help you plan the perfect December getaway.
Famed for its cobalt blue waters, sugar-sand beaches and luxury resorts, it’s no wonder Mauritius is such a popular year-round destination. Temperatures hover around 25C throughout December allowing you to enjoy a whole host of activities out in the sun. Choose to lie on the beach all day, or jump in the sea for superb diving and snorkelling opportunities, thanks to the mixture of shallow waters, coral reef and amazing ocean drop-off. Back on land there are plenty of hiking and cycling trails. Horse riding is available - nothing quite like a fast canter across a beach at sunset! Golfers are also well catered for with 10 courses to choose from. A real must is a visit to the famous gardens at Pamplemousses – you can easily spend an entire day wandering through the peaceful grounds. Private guided tours are available and are a great way to enhance your visit to the oldest botanical gardens in the southern hemisphere.
Where to stay:
Constance le Prince - Set in 60 hectares of unspoiled landscape, this is a beautiful resort offering guests a luxurious stay in a range of suites or villas, many of which have their own private plunge pools. Heading on your Honeymoon? Ask about us about their Honeymoon offers with up to 40% discounts available.
Maldives
Comprising nearly 1200 islands, this picture-perfect destination is a holiday paradise set out in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Softer than soft sand can be found almost wherever you go and you are never far from those crystal blue waters shimmering under the year-round sun. A top destination for those looking for island luxury, there are several five and six star resorts to choose from. With some of the best diving in the world, you’ll want to spend some time swimming among the 700 species of tropical fish that live in the waters surrounding the Maldives. Out of the water and back onto those stunning sandy beaches and it’s time for relaxation; the Maldives are the perfect destination for those who want to get away from it all and provide the perfect opportunity to indulge in some well-earned ‘me’ time.
Where to stay:
Niyama - This is a visionary resort with a chilled out, upmarket vibe. Choose from 86 luxury rooms and suites with views of the sparkling Indian Ocean and make the most of this superbly relaxing environment. For a very limited time they are offering up to 35% off bookings.
The famed gateway between the east and west, this vibrant and dynamic city offers a wealth and experiences, sights and sounds. Home to the world’s only 7 star hotel, this is definitely a destination for those looking for the best. A visit to Dubai can be thoroughly luxurious and packed with adventure and activities. In fact, clients are often surprised at the sheer number of things to do. Find almost anything to buy in the world’s largest shopping mall with 1,000-plus retailers (oh, and if for some reason you can’t then there are a dozen more mind boggling shopping malls to explore!). Enjoy some superb cuisine in Michelin starred restaurants, or sample authentic Arabic mezze… as the region’s gastronomy capital there is something for everyone. There is plenty of year-round sun to enjoy – make the most of it at one of the beach clubs or head out for a desert safari for a quintessentially Arabian experience. One thing is for sure… no-one ever leaves Dubai without thinking ‘wow’!
Where to stay:
Madinat Jumeirah - This family friendly resort is set amongst its own private beach and is one of the largest resorts in the Emirates.
This coral fringed island is a mecca for those looking for a winter escape. A heady mix of palm fringed beaches, tropical landscape and warm waters make it a hugely desirable destination. There is something for everyone in Barbados. Great beaches, luxurious hotels, superb water activities and world class sporting facilities. This Caribbean paradise cleverly blends a charming, welcoming atmosphere with a sophisticated twist. Renting a car is an ideal way of exploring the island. Head to Harrisons Cave, often described as the ‘greatest wonder’ of Barbados. Limestone crystallised into towering columns, crystal clear water pools and natural passageways combine to make a cave system that is at least 2.3km long, at the heart of which is the incredible 15m high Great Hall. If you’re into surfing then hop back in the car and drive to Bathsheba on the east side of the island. Breathtakingly beautiful, it’s an ideal spot to walk the beach and stop for a picnic. Or watch the surfer in your life tackle the famous ‘Soup Bowl’ which is the site of many local and international surfing championships.
Where to stay:
Cobblers Cove, Saint Peter Parish - This is a beautiful 5 star colonial house set right in the heart of the Platinum coast, one of the most desirable areas of Barbados.
Champagne sunsets, stunning scenery, magical mountains and palmed fringed beaches… welcome to St Lucia. This sensational Caribbean island is a superb winter destination where nature is at its most spectacular. A balmy 27C greets you and offers the perfect climate for exploring. Plunging valleys and rising peaks covered with lush rainforest culminate with the UNESCO World Heritage Piton Mountains rising from the blue Caribbean seas. This really is an island that is just waiting to be explored. Set out on foot through local markets stopping to sample some of the fresh tropical fruit. Take a bike ride through a banana or sugar plantation and for the really adventurous why not try a zip line ride through the jungle! With luxury accommodation, your energetic stay doesn’t have to be an uncomfortable one. And if you’d really rather just enjoy some time soaking up the sun then the cove lined shore is home to some incredible beaches that are lapped with warm blue waters. Swimming is safe and the ocean life rich sea offers divers and snorkelers an underwater experience that won’t be forgotten.
Where to stay:
Sugar Beach by Viceroy - Superbly located between the twin Peton Mountains, Sugar Beach offers a truly luxurious getaway which combines a colonial Caribbean style, with New-England beach living. There are some great family villas available.
Cape Town and Garden Route, South Africa
Crowned by the magnificent table top mountain, this sometimes overlooked city offers winter sun seekers a vibrant destination. Additionally it is the gateway to South Africa’s answer to Route 66, The Garden Route. Begin your trip with some luxury at one of Cape Town’s superb hotels. Take a stroll along the waterfront breathing in the spray from the Atlantic Ocean. Plenty of restaurants jostle for your attention – just make sure to order a glass or two of legendary South African red from the world famous Stellenbosch vineyards with your meal. Having made the most of your stay in Cape Town, a four hour drive (or 50 minute flight) will take you to the start of the Garden Route at Mossel Bay. From here you’ll spend your time working your way along some truly spectacular coastline. Variety is the watchword here, with an incredible array of landscapes, beaches, lagoons and mountains to explore. On route keep an eye out for whales appearing out of the ocean depths and make sure you find time to stop at the Knysna Elephant Park where visitors can enjoy a personal encounter with these gentle giants. This, without doubt, will be the road trip of a lifetime.
Where to stay:
One and Only, V & A Waterfront - With table mountain in full view along with the city harbour nearby, this has to be one of the best locations in Cape Town. Some excellent offers are currently available for a limited time only.
Wherever your perfect December getaway destination is, our expert travel consultants are here to help you plan an amazing trip. To find out more about any of these featured destinations and time-limited special offers call us on +44 1993 899 430 or click here for more contact details.
Looking for some Springtime inspiration? We have listed some of our favourite destinations for a February or March holiday.