06 October 2023 , 12:25

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Where’s hot in December? The best short-haul holiday deals

THE majority of Bris haven't had much opportunity to enjoy the sunshine this summer, but there are still plenty of opportunities before the year is up.

Sun-seeking travellers can head to a broad range of locations that keep warm well into winter or are blessed with tropical weather all year round.

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We've rounded up the hottest destinations to visit in December

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The Canary Islands, which have long been a favourite winter sun destination for Brits, are the closest sunny destination to home and almost guarantee a large dosage of vitamin D in December.

However, with interest in the islands reaching a record-breaking high, newcomer Cape Verde may overtake it this year as the most popular winter sun destination.

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While the short-haul sun is limited in winter, there are some amazing options if you’re willing to go further afield.

You could treat yourself to a trip to the idyllic Caribbean islands or Mexico’s Caribbean coast around Cancun, where the tropical sun keeps temperatures balmy all year round.

Here are six of the best hotspots that offer a great antidote to your December's winter blues:

Cancun

Average temperature in December: 30.4C

Cancun has everything you could want for a dreamy family break.

The tourist mecca on Mexico’s Caribbean coast is known for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear blue waters and tasty Mexican food.

Many resorts around the city's "hotel quarter" offer great all-inclusive deals and provide entertainment day and night.

Just two hours drive from Cancun, you’ll find the ancient Mayan temple of Chichen Itza or explore the stone ruins at Tulum overlooking the ocean to the south of Cancun.

7 nights in Cancun with loveholidays - from £688pp
7 nights all-inclusive in Cancun with TUI - from £1,278pp

Jamaica

Average temperature in December: 29.5C

World-famous for its music and culture, Jamaica is also stunningly beautiful, with lush mountains and waterfalls providing a natural backdrop to its golden coves and strips of platinum sand.

If you want to laze on a beach, cocktail in hand, we suggest you head to Jamaica.

The average high on the island in December is 29C, and you’ll stay nice and warm in the evenings, which only cools to 22C.

7 nights in Jamaica with TUI - from £988pp

Tenerife

Average temperature in December: 22C

Canary Island Tenerife is a popular destination for sun seekers throughout the year – and December is no exception.

Just a four-hour flight from the UK, it's the ideal location if you're looking for winter sun closer to home.

In December, the average high temperature in Tenerife is a pleasant 22C, so don’t forget to pack your beach gear.

7 nights in Tenerife with loveholidays - from £321pp
7 nights in Tenerife with Jet2holidays - from £378pp
7 nights in Tenerife with On the Beach - from £212pp

Cape Town

Average temperature in December: 21C

If you are on the lookout for something different this winter, the beautiful South African city of Cape Town offers a break that has everything, plus it’s still amazing value.

The temperature tends to hover around 20 degrees in December.

It's a great destination for couples, with everything from vineyards to natural beauty spots such as Table Mountain to enjoy and explore.

7 nights in Cape Town with loveholidays - from £356pp

Cape Verde

Average temperature in December: 28C

South of the Canary Islands off the west coast of Africa, Cape Verde shares the Canaries’ dry climate. Still, it’s even hotter, with temperatures hovering in the mid-twenties throughout the UK winter months.

Only a five-hour flight from the UK, the islands offer a happy medium between a short flight to the Canaries or a longer trip to the tropics.

Beach hotels abound on the two most popular islands of Sal and Boa Vista. TUI is the only company currently offering direct flights to the island.

7 nights all-inclusive in Cape Verde with TUI - from £635pp

Thailand

Average temperature in December: 29C

Brits in the know have been wintering in tropical Thailand for decades thanks to its amazing climate, stunning palm-tufted beaches and great-value accommodation. You'll be spoiled for choice, from Krabi and Phuket to Ko Samui and Pattaya.