EASYJET HOLIDAY HOTLIST REVEALS THE HOTTEST WINTER SUN ESCAPES | News
With no sun in sight and freezing temperatures set to sweep across Britain this week, families are looking for affordable sunshine abroad for much-needed vitamin D this winter.
A new ‘Holiday Hotlist’ index has been published which takes into account criteria such as typical winter temperature, hours of sunshine per day, time difference with Britain and the average price of a meal for four people to determine the best places for winter sun.
Topping the list is a Red Sea resort known for its crystal clear waters, pristine sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs ready for diving. Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt is perfectly situated between the Sinai Desert and the Red Sea coast and offers a peaceful spot to sunbathe this half year. With reliably warm temperatures averaging between 24°C and 26°C and less than 1mm of rainfall during the off-season months, this resort is an ideal choice for a stopover.
With 10 hours of sunlight, travelers can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of St. Catherine’s Monastery or book a guided camel trek through the Sinai Desert.
Directly accessible from nine UK airports via easyJet routes. Egypt could double as an unlikely WFH (Work from Holiday) destination, just two hours ahead of Britain – perfect for those who feel tied to the school holiday schedule but want to get away from it all this winter.
A close runner-up, also known for its Red Sea coastline and crystal clear waters, is Hurghada. Located on the east coast of Egypt, this resort destination has earned a well-deserved second place on the hot list, thanks to its year-round sunshine, vibrant coral reefs and Saharan landscapes that are ready for family-friendly excursions such as quad biking or jeep safari.
With typical winter temperatures ranging between 21°C and 25°C, this gilded haven offers everything you’d expect when desert meets sea. A necessary break from the modest grays of Britain at this time of year.
The Canary Islands remain steadfast in their reliability in providing winter warmth, taking third and fourth place ahead of Gran Canaria and Lanzarote. Both places offer volcanic vistas and vibrant resort activities – the former packed with golden beaches, the latter etched with unique black sand – as well as incredible hospitality, where you can find a pint for just £3.
Located just off Tunisia’s southern coast, Djerba is also on the list for a winter getaway thanks to its white-sand beaches and towering palm trees. The island combines Mediterranean coastline and Saharan influences, a rich cultural heritage and a maze of craft market stalls. With temperatures between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius in winter, this island is perfect for those looking for both culture and a warm climate.
For those looking for more city and less sea in February, Seville – the warmest city in continental Europe all year round – also scores high. Known for its elegant Moorish architecture, this charming southern Spanish city will amaze you and offer the chance to explore its royal quarters and flamenco recitals. With generous temperatures of 22 degrees Celsius, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll be followed around the squares by the golden glow of the sun, ultimately settling for a family meal for four for £45.
Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK country manager, said:
“With many of us needing a break from gray skies, damp days and cold temperatures, now is the perfect time to book an escape to warmer climates. easyJet’s unrivaled flight and package holiday network offers a fantastic range of family-friendly winter sun destinations across Europe and beyond, from sub-Saharan islands to cities on the Spanish Peninsula, all easily accessible and affordable, for those looking to soak up the sun during the long winter months on a budget and with ease.”
As the UK’s largest airline flying 50 million passengers to and from Britain every year on more than 640 routes to more than 140 destinations in 35 countries, easyJet is making it even easier for travelers to discover some of the best winter sun resorts this year.
easyJet Holidays has a huge range of beach packages to Europe’s best-loved destinations, with packages including flights, hotel, 23kg luggage and beach holiday transfers, all backed by the ultimate flexibility, offering the freedom to change a booking, a refund guarantee and the best price guarantee.
