Simon Calder's Travel Week
͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏
This week's scattering of snow is indication enough that we are firmly in the depths of winter. Thankfully, those craving a rejuvenating dose of vitamin D need not rely on long-haul flights to see the sun this season – there are plenty of inviting climates in Europe and North Africa that promise to trade winter blues for sapphire seas. For global travel editor Annabel Grossman, a change of climate in the Canaries was a welcome winter break. She said: "Falling for Lanzarote came as something of a surprise for me. I expected crowds and package holidays, but instead I found long windswept beaches, pretty towns and wild volcanic landscapes." |
|
|
Global travel editor Annabel Grossman found almost empty volcanic black sand beaches and fresh seafood in Playa Quemada |
Her top tip? Head to the sleepy fishing village of Playa Quemada, where "the volcanic black sand beaches are almost empty, the restaurants serve the freshest seafood, and you're unlikely to bump into another tourist". And if you don't fancy sweating through summer in Greece, travel writer Amelia Neath says the hotspot is "best visited in winter to explore its ancient history and natural landscapes without the unbearable heat and the crowds". "While it may not be the blazing heat you find in the summer months, these pleasant temperatures allow you to explore some of the island's best sites without worrying about getting overwhelmed in the heat. Why not visit Unesco World Heritage Rhodes Town for the Palace of the Grand Master or head to Athens for a walk around the Parthenon?" To brighten up the gloomiest months of the year, our travel writers have explored everything from the Moroccan mountains to tried-and-tested Spanish islands in search of some sun. Below are some of the balmiest destinations to find some mid-haul winter sun, as well as other holiday inspiration. Read our article on the best winter sun destinations less than six hours from the UK. |
|
|
Don't forget to complete your registration |
You haven't completed your registration with The Independent. It's free, quick, and helps support our journalism while tailoring your experience.
Register now to enjoy benefits including access to limited Premium articles, The Independent app, more than 20 newsletters and commenting on independent.co.uk.
Complete your registration today to unlock access.
|
|
|
| Luxor is just within six hours flying time from the UK. This small, calm and friendly city offers access to arguably the world's highest concentration of antiquity – plus near-guaranteed winter sunshine. |
|
|
| Just before Christmas, Larnaca was selected as one of three European capitals of culture for 2030. The city is the main arrival point for Cyprus, with good beaches, hotels and restaurants, as well as a rich history. | |
|
| Riviera Travel's biggest sale is here! Save on all 2026 holidays – whether it's a relaxing river cruise, a scenic European tour, or a far-flung adventure. Various dates and departures available. Book by 16 February. Learn more. |
|
|
| Treat yourself and someone special to a short break or weekend getaway for less, courtesy of Virgin Experience Days. Choose from a luxury spa escape, a boutique stay in Cumbria, a London stay with theatre tickets, and more. T&Cs apply. Learn more. |
| |
| Grab a deal on this incredible Japan tour – now just £1,599 per person in Exoticca's flash sale. Discover Tokyo, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Osaka, and more, with flights, accommodation and activities included. Lead price based on selected dates in June 2026 from London. Learn more. | |
|
| Craving some sunshine? Don't miss big savings in the Loveholidays sale! From the scenic Greek islands to winter sun in the Canaries and beyond, there are plenty of deals to be had. Various dates and departures available. Learn more. |
|
| | 7 best power banks to charge devices on your travels |
|
|
| As Machu Picchu struggles with overcrowding, our writer found tranquillity at a different ancient site. |
|
|
| Cruise companies are preparing for this year's total solar eclipse – these are the best packages for stargazers. |
|
|
Tucked into a tranquil fold of the Vilcabamba mountains, Choquequirao might feel infinitely more remote, but it's just 31 miles away from Machu Picchu |
|
|
| St Lucia's carnival takes place in the off-season, meaning its colour-drenched celebrations feel particularly joyful. |
|
|
| Notorious for saving up her annual leave, Zoë Beaty checked into one of Turkey's most opulent resorts to break the habit. |
|
|
Our Pick: Today's Top Deals |
|
|
| Discover the road less travelled with The Dark Tourist by Dom Joly – a compelling travelogue that's under £12 at Amazon. |
|
|
Choosing The Independent as one of your preferred sources ensures that you'll see our coverage more prominently displayed in your searches. That way, you can be sure you're accessing the latest headlines from a trusted source. |
|
|
Join the conversation and follow us |
| |
Download the free Independent app |
|
|
Please do not reply directly to this email You are currently registered to receive The Independent's Travel newsletter. To unsubscribe from The Independent's Travel newsletter, or to manage your email preferences please click here. This e-mail was sent by Independent Digital News and Media Ltd, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH. Registered in England and Wales with company number 07320345
Read our privacy policy and cookie policy
|
|
|
|
No comments:
Post a Comment
Keep a civil tongue.