December
One of the best places to get away from the depths of a British winter, Mexico has a delicious combo of top class beach hotels, a smattering of some of the best ancient sites anywhere in Latin America and an excellent climate in December.
Closer to home, and with a climate described as ‘Eternal Spring’, Madeira is one of the best short haul winter sun escapes (with The Canary Islands, Morocco and Egypt). Even if you find yourself in clouds, Madeira’s weather is very localised so one valley down could be glorious. This is also the month to enjoy snowy Christmas markets across northern Europe, and the sophisticated festive funfair at Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen.
Finally, you could make like ‘When Harry Met Sally’ by celebrating New Year in New York. Time Square is the venue for the traditional countdown to midnight but being anywhere on Manhattan is memorable as the city celebrates in its own inimitable style.
Trips
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Yucatán PeninsulaMexicoA holiday in its own right, Mexico's southern tip combines Mayan archaeological sites with Caribbean beaches. |
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WinelandsNew ZealandSample delicious New Zealand wines while staying in the country's finest lodges. |
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Western TanzaniaTanzaniaVisit chimpanzees at Lake Tanganyika, or head for the llittle-known wildlife hotspot Katavi National Park. |
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Western AustraliaAustraliaFamous for its long days of sunshine, spotless blue skies and brilliant beaches, Western Australia is a great place to experience some rather special natural attractions. |
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West Coast Thai BeachesThailandNot only is the west coast of Thailand a diver's paradise, it also boasts miles of white sand beaches and magnificent scenery. |
