Where to take a winter holiday

With winter on the horizon, it’s time to start planning a holiday or short break so you have something to look forward to in the dark bleakness that is approaching.  Here are a few ideas for a fun and unique getaway…

Brazil

 
Get a well-needed dose of the sun while you enjoy gorgeous beaches and vibrant nightlife.  With temperatures in Rio between 24 – 28 degrees you will completely forget about winter.  There are many impressive sights, the well-known Christ the Redeemer statue that sits on top of a mountain is one of them.  You can take a cable car up to Sugaloaf Mountain for insane views across Rio de Janerio.  If you want to go further afield you could take a trip to the Amazon – or for almost guaranteed wildlife visit Pantanal, the world’s largest wetland.  See animals like Capybara and the Yacare Caiman, maybe even Jaguars.  Add a Brazil data bundle up to 1GB to save money as staying connected there can cost a lot with your regular SIM card.

 

 Mexico

 

Cancun and Playa Del Carmen are popular with tourists over the winter season and if you are a package holiday lover that wants a 5-star resort-style holiday, this may well be for you.  It’s very built up with lots of shopping centers, restaurants, and theme parks. If you prefer to get away from the crowds but still like a bit of bustle, Isla Mujeres is stunning and you can hire a golf buggy to explore the island on.  There are many quaint restaurants and still plenty of activities including snorkeling with Whale Sharks, visiting the underwater museum and boat trips. Nature lovers and those seeking utter relaxation might prefer Holbox Island, it’s an island of natural beauty, rich in birdlife and plenty of exploring to do.

 

United Arab Emirates

Experience the excitement of Dubai, it’s it extravagant luxury and extensive opportunities for entertainment.  From exhilarating theme parks, water worlds and views from the top of Burj Al Arab (the world’s only 7-star hotel) to swimming with dolphins and admiring the superb architecture.  Head out of Dubai to Hatta for sand dune surfing and captivating landscapes.  During the winter months, Dubai is around 20 degrees and using your WorldSIM International SIM card you can receive calls for free in Dubai.

 

Sweden

Embrace the cold by experiencing the plus side of winter.  Head to the Swedish Lapland to see the enchanting northern lights as they dance across the night sky.  There are loads of winter activities to try including sledging, skiing, and snowmobiling.  When you’re tired of the adrenaline you could go on a Moose safari or enjoy a cocktail in the Ice Bar.  You can expect temperatures to be between minus 3 and minus 10 degrees so wrap up warm. Our EU data bundles will keep you connected for less!

 

Ecuador

 

Ecuador is an excellent place for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers; with the Amazon rainforest on one side of the country, mountains in the middle and beaches on the other it’s incredibly diverse so very interesting to travel.  You can see lava erupting out of Tungurahua volcano in Banos, where there are also lots of adventure sports like bridge swinging, rafting or cannoning (make sure you take an action camera!). If you have the option the Galapagos Islands are a must-see – just walking to the shop you can see pelicans, seals, and Iguanas, it’s a dream destination and if you are already over that side of the world it isn’t as expensive as you think.  If its beaches you are after Montañita is beautiful and also great for surfing, then when it gets dark the streets light up with music and fun.

 

Malaysia

 

Malaysia is abundant with jaw-dropping islands; impressive beaches, friendly people and rich with wildlife.  You can laze in the sun while monitor lizards (lizards the size of crocodiles) walk past or take a swim.  Enjoy relaxing boat trips, take a safari into the jungle or snorkel with sharks and string rays.  The Perhentian Islands are amongst the top 10 islands in the world, Redang, Langkawi and Tioman islands are also very impressive.  If you are looking for a bit more action then Penang is much bigger and more built up.  Read more about Malaysia.

 

 

Travelling long haul doesn't have to be expensive, read this blog post to see how you can travel long haul for the same price as Europe.