We may be in midst of the summer holidays but it’s never a bad idea to plan ahead! When the school term starts in September and the back-to-school feeling creeps in, it’s comforting to know that there are plenty of sun-soaked spots scattered across the globe to jet off to. Original Travel’s experts have compiled a list of wonderful winter sun destinations ideal for a sunny Christmas getaway or a February half term retreat…

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Egypt

Travelling offers an excellent education and Egypt is probably the best history lesson you could ask for. Swap the classroom for the iconic Pyramids of Giza, the temple complexes of Aswan and the tombs in the Valleys of the Kings and Queens. October to April are the best months to visit this ancient nation, as temperatures are cooler but you’re still guaranteed sunshine, perfect for the Christmas holidays or February half term. Embarking on a Nile cruise aboard the Belle Époque Steam Ship Sudan is an extra special way to experience Egypt’s historical treasures and archaeological gems.

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Cambodia

Cambodia is a treasure trove of cultural wonders, idyllic beaches and culinary discovery. November to April are the optimum months to visit, with sunny skies and a cooler, drier climate. Explore the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor, hike through the jungles of the Cardamom Mountains and discover the floating villages on the Tonle Sap Lake. Then head to Cambodia’s coastal region for snorkelling, secluded islands and soft-sand beaches to perfectly round-off the trip.

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Australia

With seasons that are the opposite of ours, the Southern Hemisphere starts to warm up as our winter encroaches so it’s worth making the journey to the ‘land down under’. Roughly the size of Europe, there’s no shortage of things to discover in Australia as a family: explore the trendy cities of Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide, traverse the Great Ocean Road from Lorne to Apollo Bay, or strap on your scuba gear to admire the underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef.

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Chile

The best time to visit Chile can vary as it encompasses a wide range of landscapes; however, in general, November to February boast the best weather, while September and October are good for avoiding peak tourist season. Santiago, the energetic capital, is the natural starting point and will entice you with its trendy neighbourhoods and eclectic cuisine. Further afield, you can explore Chilean Patagonia and Torres del Paine National Park, where the star-studded night skies are bound to delight any budding astronomers or space enthusiasts.

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Portugal

Slightly closer to home, but still an excellent choice for a winter escape, Portugal is blessed with an average of 300 sunny days per year and temperatures seldom drop below 10°C along the coast. The expansive beaches of the Algarve, the lush landscape of Alentejo and the cobbled streets of Lisbon and Porto all offer a welcome refuge from the UK’s gloomy weather and would make for a lovely February half term break.

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Tanzania & Zanzibar

Tanzania’s highest temperatures occur in December, January and February, making it ideal for a Christmas or February half term safari adventure. Home to the famed Serengeti National Park and Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania is the perfect place for introducing youngsters to the real life cast of The Lion King. February and March are also the best times to see wildebeest calving, which precedes the iconic annual migration – now recognised as one of the ‘Seven Natural Wonders of the World’. Then head to the Spice Islands of the Zanzibar Archipelago, where you can enjoy some well-earned sun-soaked relaxation.

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If you’re inspired to start planning your Winter sun getaway, get in touch with the team at Original Travel (and don’t wait too long because everywhere is booking up quickly!).