We have been very busy this month, putting together some amazing winter itineraries. Here are some ideas, but be warned availability is diminishing by the minute.
South Africa
Sometimes I feel like a broken record extolling the virtues of South Africa over British winter, but as they also say “if it ain’t broke then don’t fix it”. It’s now 11 years since my first research trip to South Africa, it is fair to say a huge amount has changed over this time, of course politically and economically the country has had it’s ups and downs, however, whist many are not, I am extremely optimistic for the future, I also believe the country is as safe for tourists as it has ever been.
Certainly over the past 11 years the quality of the hotels, game lodges, guesthouse, cafe’s and restaurants have improved almost exponentially. The Western Cape, can now lay claim to be one of the hospitality and culinary capitals of the world, and there is something beautiful to suit every taste whether it be bo-ho chic, classic luxury, rustic family and family friendly or modern minimalist.
Something’s haven’t changed, it’s still an easy overnight flights from the UK with no Jet Lag, November to April is still a glorious time to visit, meaning you can escape the doom and gloom of the UK and wake up to the glorious South African mid-summer. It is still a huge country with great variety, so you can see and do a lot in 1, 2 or 3 weeks or you can just fly and flop in some of the beautiful hotels.
Without going into too much detail in this short post, it’s a great destination for families, friends and couples – young and old! We have great knowledge of the country and excellent partners on the ground, so please do call if you would like to discuss further.
The Canaries or Caribbean?
I’ve come across this quandary a few times recently. Generally, people are looking for a winter fly and flop beach escape. They don’t want to fly too far, but want warmth, a nice hotel, good food and sea views.
Firstly, I’m pleased to say both the Canaries and Caribbean both have this.
For the Canaries, if you are looking for a winter escape, I would recommend the Tenerife South Coast, it is the most sheltered, meaning it can escape some of the winds which can be a little chilly. Temperatures still will by no means be scorching, evenings will be cool and will get into the low to mid 20’s during the day, however the sea will still be warm enough for swimming and most of the pools will be heated. It is also home to some of the best hotels, which generally are very large resort style hotels, but excellent if you are looking to relax and do nothing, with a great choice of swimming pools, restaurants, and children’s clubs. This part of Tenerife is pretty built up so certainly will not be for everybody, though there are fun days out for families as well as interesting excursions into the mountains and the volcanic desert, if you are prepared to venture out of the resorts there is plenty of interest. The real plus for Tenerife though is the short flight, at just 4 ½ hours it’s quick and easy to get to, meaning you can spend more of your budget on a nice hotel and more of your time enjoying it.
The Caribbean on the other hand is an 8 to 9 hour flight, depending on where you go. Normally these are daytime flights out and overnight back. For this longer flight, you are rewarded with much warmer climes, there will not be any need for your winter jumpers. You will also be reworded with superior beaches, The Bahamas, Antigua, The Grenadines and Barbados are renowned for having some of the best beaches in the world and there some wonderful beach hotels that take advantage.
Both destinations make superb winter getaways. We can help find the perfect match for your requirements at no extra cost, so please do let us know if you need any help.
Skiing
There is nothing like crisp mountain air, clear blue skies and fluffy powder to quickly clear the mind and revitalise the body. Being a totally independent ski agents we can search the whole of the market and find the best deal, whether it’s a cheap and cheerful Inhams package, a luxury chalet or a boutique hotel, it won’t cost you any more using our service.
We are also experts at Ski-Weekends – enjoy 3 full days on the slopes with only 1 or 2 days out of the office. We can advise on the best resorts and hotels for weekends and pri-organise everything to maximise your time on the slopes. 3 nights accommodation with flights and transfers from £500 per person.
We also have availability for the school holidays! It is difficult to think of a more fulfilling family holiday, long days spend out in the clean mountain air, great of exercise and of course the adrenalin.