As the UK’s temperatures continue to plummet and weather patterns become unpredictable, many Brits may be contemplating a winter getaway in search of some much-needed sunshine.
To assist in your decision-making process, consumer advice experts at Which? have compiled a list of the top short haul and long haul destinations for December.
European city breaks are a popular choice during the colder months, with countless tourists drawn to the festive charm of Christmas markets scattered across the continent.
However, for those yearning for warmer climes, Which?’s travel gurus have highlighted Cape Verde as an ideal long haul destination for December.
Situated less than six hours from the UK, this archipelago off Africa’s west coast boasts year-round sun.
Comprising ten islands, including Sal and Boa Vista, Cape Verde offers a unique blend of island life and volcanic landscapes, reports the Mirror.
Which? commented: “Sal’s lively resort town, Santa Maria, has plenty of beach bars and restaurants, plus watersports galore. Boa Vista also has miles of unspoilt beaches where you can learn to surf, windsurf, kiteboard or wreck dive. Inland, there are dramatic lunar landscapes to explore.”
Despite experiencing ‘cooler’ conditions during the winter months, Cape Verde maintains consistently high temperatures throughout the year.
Coupled with minimal rainfall, as noted by the Met Office, it’s an excellent choice for sun-seekers regardless of the season.
For those looking to dodge the downpour, the optimal period to explore is between August and October when rainfall is at its lowest.
Come December, holidaymakers can bask in balmy average temperatures of 26.4C.
Adding to the allure for travellers, beginning March 2023, easyJet is inaugurating a fresh flight path from London Gatwick direct to Sal island.
They stated: “So if you don’t make it this year, put it on your travel wish list for 2025.”
One of Cape Verde’s prime attractions are its idyllic white sand beaches, several of which have clinched Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award for 2024.
Among these are Santa Monica Beach in Boa Vista; Praia de Chaves, also in Boa Vista; and Shark Bay on Ilha do Sal.
Yet, the creme de la creme of coastlines is located on Ilha do Sal, at Praia de Santa Maria.
With its breathtaking turquoise waters, this beach not only charms visitors but has also secured Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best accolade for 2024.
Additionally, the Pedra Lume Salt Crater, another recipient of Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best Award, is an unmissable spectacle.
You’ll encounter starkly contrasting salt lakes that shimmer in hues of white and pink against the backdrop of rugged mountains and azure skies.
The water in the crater contains a salinity 27 times greater than that of the ocean, guaranteeing floatation for any who take a dip.
Nature enthusiasts should make a beeline for the Project Biodiversity’s Turtle Conservation Hatchery.
Between August and December, visitors can witness Loggerhead sea turtle nests and may even get the chance to spot baby turtles making their way across the sands.
Another must-visit on Ilha do Sal is the Viveiro Botanical Garden and Zoo, a verdant oasis amidst the desert landscape.
Cape Verde presents tourists with a unique blend of diverse landscapes – lush greenery, sprawling deserts, pristine beaches and towering mountains, all in one trip.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, scaling Pico Do Fogo, a volcano, is a thrilling option.
Which’s best places to visit in December
- Best short haul – Vienna
- Best short haul – Lanzarote
- Best long haul – Cape Verde
- Best long haul – Thailand
- Best long haul – Florida
