The 13 best destinations to spend winter in the sun

Ah, France and its grey winter skies! Tired of shivering in our latitudes? Here are 13 destinations where you can spend winter in the sun.

It’s winter. It’s cold, the sky is low and the sun has a hard time breaking through the thick clouds. By six o’clock in the evening, it’s already pitch black. It’s not good for your health or your mood! In Western countries, it’s estimated that nearly one in five people suffer from winter depression, characterized mainly by a lack of energy and a fragile mood. But there is a solution: pack your bags and fly off to a sunny destination! In the middle of December, the beach, coconut palms and idleness are yours. There’s no better way to recharge your batteries.

To guide you, here are 13 destinations to spend winter in the sun. We’re off!

1. Cuba

Welcome to the Caribbean! Cuba is undoubtedly one of the must-see destinations for spending winter in the sun. With its wild landscapes, lush jungle, dreamy beaches, Spanish culture and unusual discoveries, you’ll leave Cuba energized and ready to face winter. Don’t forget to pack a few cigars and some rum in your luggage.

When to visit Cuba

The best time to visit Cuba is between November and January. In addition, there are fewer tourists during this period. The weather is likely to be dry and temperatures mild, around 25 degrees.

2. Kenya

Tempted by a sunny safari in the middle of winter? Don’t hesitate to opt for Kenya! After visiting the cities of Mombasa and Nairobi, plunge into the calm, warm waters of the Indian Ocean and set off on a safari to discover remarkable flora and fauna.

When to go to Kenya?

The risk of rain is highest from March to May and from October to November. The rest of the time, you shouldn’t be too bothered by humidity. Temperatures can be very high in Kenya. This is particularly true from January to March, when they regularly approach forty degrees.

3. The Canary Islands

You love the sun, but you’re not a fan of the heat? Why not head for the Canaries. Once the summer tourists have left, these volcanic islands reveal all their charms. Cultural visits, lounging on immense sandy beaches, discovering volcanoes – you shouldn’t be bored on the Canary Islands. And don’t forget to sample the delicious local cuisine. And the icing on the cake: the destination is quite inexpensive, especially in low season.

When to go to the Canaries?

With a Mediterranean climate, the Canary Islands offer hot, dry summers and mild, low-rainfall winters. In winter, temperatures hover around twenty degrees. The Canaries are therefore the ideal destination for spending the winter in the sun, without feeling hot.

4. Miami

Miami, a mythical destination! Favored by wealthy American retirees, Miami is an eccentric city where people like to party and show off. With white sandy beaches, palm trees and water at 25 degrees in January, the city is the ideal destination for winter sunbathing and partying.

When to go to Miami?

The weather in Miami is fine almost year-round. However, the months of June to September should be avoided, as the risk of hurricanes is quite high in the region. These are also the hottest months. From December to February, you’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures of around 27 degrees and generally dry weather.

5. Belize

If you have the time and the budget, don’t hesitate to visit Belize. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea and discover the world’s second largest barrier reef. Admire the view of lush jungle and discover breathtaking flora and fauna. And don’t miss the Mayan temples and local gastronomy! Belize is undoubtedly an ideal destination for spending winter in the sun and enjoying unusual adventures.

When to travel to Belize

Between January and April, the heat is bearable and the weather remains generally dry. This is the ideal time to fly to Belize and soak up the sun. It’s the perfect place to spend winter in the sun. It can even get a little chilly, so don’t forget your jacket. From June to August, tropical rains are often very frequent and thunderstorms can be violent.

6. Mexico

Mexico is undoubtedly an ideal destination for spending winter in the sun. With its exceptional cultural heritage, heavenly beaches and warm, welcoming people, a stay in Mexico is ideal for recharging your batteries. Discover the tumultuous Mexican capital and head for the Yucatán and its Xcaret natural park. You won’t regret your thirteen-hour flight.

When to go to Mexico?

Plan to recharge your batteries in Mexico in March/April or September/October. Temperatures oscillate between 24 and 35°C and the weather is mostly dry. In July and August, thunderstorms can be impressive and frequent.

7. Guadeloupe

If you’ve had enough of the cold and gloom, head for Guadeloupe! Enjoy the local atmosphere and immaculate beaches. Farniente, sunbathing and cocktails – the perfect way to recharge your batteries.

When to visit Guadeloupe

December to April, May, June and November are rather pleasant months in which to visit Guadeloupe and appreciate its rich flora and fauna. The weather is not too hot (around 28 degrees), the island is not very crowded and prices are reasonable.

8. South Africa

Looking for an exotic destination in the sun, but afraid of jet lag? Opt for South Africa. The country is in the same time zone as France. It’s the ideal destination to spend winter in the sun without jetlag! Visit Cape Town, go on safari in the Addo Elephant Park, discover Johannesburg – you’ll enjoy a vacation full of adventure and a change of scenery.

When should you travel to South Africa?

South Africa lies in the southern hemisphere. Its seasons are therefore inverted in relation to Europe.

From September to April, temperatures are pleasant. They hover around 28 degrees. The country is a little busier with tourists than the rest of the year, but the climate is perfect. Around Cape Town, the weather will be dry. In Johannesburg and Pretoria, rain may be a little more frequent, but it won’t interfere with your discovery.

9. Costa Rica

If you love nature, Costa Rica is the destination to spend winter in the sun. This country, voted the happiest in the world several times, is a symbol of the good life. The diversity of its flora and fauna is quite incredible: white sand beaches, virgin forest, volcanoes, mysterious bays. More than a quarter of its territory is classified as a national park or nature reserve.

When to go to Costa Rica?

The best time to pack for Costa Rica is between December and April. You’ll enjoy dry weather and temperatures around 28 degrees.

10. Cape Verde

These small West African islands are characterized by a remarkable cultural mix and scenic beauty. Still untouched by mass tourism, Cape Verde is an ideal winter destination, just a few hours from Paris.

When to go to Cape Verde

The dry season is between November and June. If you can, plan to recharge your batteries in Cape Verde outside the period of high winds that sweep the island between December and March. Temperatures average between 20 and 25 degrees, rising to 30 degrees from May to August.

11. Sri Lanka

Here’s a destination to spend winter in the sun and immerse yourself in an exotic, exotic environment. Tea and spice plantations, temples and hanging gardens await you for a relaxing and cultural vacation.

When to go to Sri Lanka

The best time to visit Sri Lanka is from January to April. Rains are rare and temperatures during this period hover around 27 degrees wherever you are on the island.

12. Morocco

With temperatures ranging from 15 to 28 degrees all year round, Morocco is one of the leading destinations for spending the winter in the sun, without having to travel too far. Just a few hours from Paris, Casablanca, Agadir and Fez await you with open arms.

When to go to Morocco?

In winter! 20 degrees and seven hours of sunshine a day. Much better than Marseille at the same time of year.

13. Senegal

To get away from it all without getting too tired, head for Senegal! Relaxation, discovery and dream beaches: you’re sure to appreciate this colorful destination.

When should you travel to Senegal?

In winter, temperatures fluctuate between 25 and 30 degrees and the sun never hides. Don’t forget your sun cream!

Do you like to go sunbathing in winter too? Share your favorite destinations in the comments.