Wish you were here…
We’re a nation that does not take enough annual leave1. So, we asked journalist Sally Shore to pick the best places to soak up some much-needed sunshine this winter
For many of us, the end of a year can be a whirlwind of planning and social commitments. All this can leave us feeling like we could use a break in the new year, at a time when most of us just want to hibernate.
“Once the festive season has ended, we may feel tired from overextending ourselves to meet expectations,” say Yetunde Bankole, Vitality’s Lead Mental Health and Wellbeing Coach.
This, compounded by the dark winter months can leave us feeling like we need a(nother) holiday.
“Everyone is affected differently, but winter can impact our mental wellbeing and how we look after ourselves – cold weather can limit time outdoors, exercise routines or maintaining social connections,” explains Bankole.
“Fewer sunlight hours can also affect our mood and there may be other pressures that affect our stress levels after the festive season”
Adding to this, we’re a nation that’s not taking enough holidays, at a time when burnout at work is rife, rising 15% over the course of 10 years, according to Vitality’s latest Britain’s Healthiest Workplace research.
More than half of UK employees don’t take all their annual leave, with the most common reason being because they get paid for any unused time, according to additional research.
According to Bankole, taking annual leave offers us a crucial chance to rest physically, emotionally and mentally. Especially at this time of year, allowing us to reflect, reset and set goals for the year ahead.
“This can have a positive effect on our energy levels and motivation helping us to be more productive,” she adds.
Here, we explore five sunny winter destinations to tick off your bucket list, where you can unwind and welcome in what’s next for the year ahead feeling well.
Ready for some sunshine? Check out these destinations for feel-good days
Morocco – for foodies
If the January blues strike, mood-boosting sunny days in Marrakesh are only a 3hr 40 min flight away. Vitality partner Expedia has seen an uptick in demand for riads, traditional houses with indoor garden courtyards, and says global travellers are seeking out acclaimed hotel restaurants and grocery stores to find regional delicacies. The good news is, many of the city’s hotels organise cooking classes and food market tours. Feeling adventurous? Add on a stargazing experience in the Sahara or a road trip to the surfer’s paradise of Taghazout.
Mallorca – for cycling enthusiasts
Sun worshippers adore this Balearic Island but pro cyclists use its empty roads in winter as a training ground. With demanding routes that snake through the Tramuntana mountains and around glistening coastlines, and an easy cycle path that runs from Palma’s seafront, cycling is great for exploring the island whatever your fitness level. Mild temperatures, 15°C in February and 17°C in March, are ideal for cycling or ambling around the island’s pretty towns. And from late January, spring comes early and the island bursts into bloom.
Philippines – for scuba lovers
With more than 7,000 islands and crystal-clear waters, the Philippines is one of the best places in the world for scuba diving. According to PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors), beginners should head to the Luzon region near Manila, where there are plentiful calm shallow waters for underwater photography and PADI certified training centres to take your first breaths underwater and learn new skills. And with travellers “becoming increasingly conscious of their impact, looking for hotels that have eco-friendly practices in place without sacrificing comfort or style,” according to Vitality partner Mr & Mrs Smith. Why not visit PADI’s website and select the ‘Eco Center’ filter?
Malta – for set jetters
Planning trips inspired by TV shows and movies is a big trend, with more than half of travellers saying they’ve researched or booked a destination after seeing them says Vitality partner Expedia2 – big hits are Emily in Paris, And Just Like That… and The White Lotus. So, could 2025 be the year Malta steps into the spotlight? Scenes for Gladiator II were filmed here. Capital city Valletta, with its Baroque architecture, offers city breaks with Instagram-worthy shots and stress-busting walking tours where you can try the island’s tastiest street food.
2 The Trends in Travel, Unpack 2025, Expedia
Tenerife – for classical music fans
It’s known for cheap and cheerful summer holidays, but in January and February, Tenerife plays host to the Canary Islands International Music Festival. World renowned orchestras, soloists and leading conductors descend on Santa Cruz, the island’s capital, for over five weeks of classical music. Not a big fan? Balmy 20°C temperatures in January will be music to your ears. So, get ready for lazy beach days, eating alfresco, dolphin watching, or enjoying the calm and silence of hiking through pine forests, sand dunes and volcanic landscapes.
Did you know that Vitality members can get up to 20% discount on hotel bookings with Expedia* and up to £125 off luxury stays with Mr & Mrs Smith**?
*The discount applies to the first £750 of each booking. Up to a maximum of four bookings each plan year based on your Vitality plan and Vitality status. Further terms and conditions apply.
**Qualifying plans only. Maximum of two bookings each plan year. Further terms and conditions apply.
