Winter sun ideas

Instant exotica

With the Atlas mountains dominating the skyline, and a bustling city life bursting with souks and French-style pavement cafes, Marrakech appeals to those seeking something a little bit different.

Flight times are just over three hours from London. Winter weather is mild and sunny by day, but be warned, nights can be very cold.

- Take the kids to Agadir

- Cook up lamb tagine with chickpeas and apricots

Amazing Algarve

Flights from London take just over two hours to Faro, where you'll find mild weather and beautiful beaches stretching along the long Atlantic coast.

The Algarve has mild winters and hot, hot summers. Enjoy some spring-like temperatures even in our darkest winter months.

- Who flies where?
- Flavours of Portugal: Piri-piri chicken

Historic Havana

In just eight hours, you can be stepping out in historic Havana and taking a trip back in time. Stay at a casa particular (a private home with rooms to rent) for a more personal view of the city, before heading off to explore the pristine beaches.

Cuba's dry season runs from November to April, so you can soak up some sunshine while Britain shivers.

- Havana good time

- Make a mojito

Marvellous Malta

Flights take just over three hours from London, giving you time to explore some 7,000 years of history. And when you've had your cultural fix, dive into the azure blue waters to cool off.

A mild Mediterranean winter promises plenty of sunny days, although there is a risk of thunder storms from September to December.

- Spring hotspots

British Virgin Islands, Caribbean

The easiest way to reach the British Virgin Islands is to fly to Antigua (flight times from London are about eight hours, 40 minutes), then catch a connecting flight (to Tortola this will take about an hour).

Relax on a beach or indulge in some great sailing and other water sports. The British Virgin Island enjoy a subtropical climate with little change between winter and summer. Night-time temperatures can drop, but otherwise you should find it hot, hot, hot!

- Cruise the Caribbean

- Frozen mango margarita

Miami's nice!

Mix sand and the city in Miami. After relaxing by day on the sandy beaches, stroll through the bustling city areas and enjoy a vibrant nightlife. Flights from UK take about eight hours.

A veritable paradise for winter sun seekers, Miami (and Florida in general) promise sunny days even in the bleak mid-winter. Expect temperatures around 20C and pack sunscreen!

- Family fun in Miami

- Explore the Florida Keys

Magical Maldives

If you're seeking crystal clear waters and a tropical island paradise, head to the Maldives. Flight times from UK take 10 hours.

From November to April, the Maldives enjoy mostly dry weather with little wind. Perfect for those feeling the winter blues.

- Getting married? Plan your perfect honeymoon

Tempting Thailand

Enchanting culture, beautiful scenery and pristine beaches await in Thailand (flights from London take 11 hours).

Visit between November and March to avoid monsoons or blistering heat.

- Ride elephants in northern Thailand

- Cook up a Thai feast

Costa Blanca

Don't dismiss the Costas in your search for winter sun! Alicante is just over two hours away from London and is the gateway to fantastic beaches and pretty towns. Hire a car and explore the area.

With an average of 325 sunny days each year, you'd be very unlucky not to find sunshine. The skies may be blue and the sun shining, but winter temperatures can vary. Pack a jumper as well as sunscreen!

- Enjoy spa treats at MarMenor

- Throw a tapas and sherry party

Desert delights

If it's sand you're after, head for the Sahara! Flying time is under three hours from London to Tunisia. Head south and you can indulge your greatest sand castle fantasies. Tunisia also has miles of beautiful beaches.

Visit between October and May for long, sunny days and warm temperatures.

- Winter sun in Africa

- Spice things up with this warm potato salad