The autumn and winter months bring a lot to look forward to such as Halloween festivities, Christmas with the family, and the possibility of snow.
However, for some, it can be a tricky period as the shortened days, reduced sunlight, and frosty nights put a strain on their physical and mental health.
So, as the last days of summer come to a close, could planning a well-timed tropical escape for the backend of this year help you stave off any seasonal blues and stay energised going into these months?
Here’s how it might help, as well as a few sunny destinations to consider.
Sunny weather can help prevent fatigue and reduce the effects of seasonal depression
Healthline reports on the relationship between sunlight and health. They cite several issues arising from reduced exposure, such as:
- Decreased serotonin, which can have a negative effect on your mood and ability to focus
- Increased melatonin, which is responsible for helping you sleep
- A greater chance of developing seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
- Weaker bones
- Increased fatigue.
According to the Met Office, colder weather can lead to surges in flu and coronavirus cases, and for older individuals can lead to increased risk of:
- Heart attacks
- Strokes
- Worsening arthritis
So, escaping to a warmer, sunnier climate later this year could help you boost your mood, improve your health, and leave you ready to tackle future challenges.
5 tropical destinations to consider for an autumn or winter holiday
- Gran Canaria
Popular among British tourists, Gran Canaria – part of the greater Canary Island archipelago – is home to year-round temperatures that sit above 20 degrees.
The island is part of Spain but situated off the coast of north-west Africa. It is home to vibrant coastal towns with lively harbours and a vast range of seafood and Spanish dining options.
The settlements on Gran Canaria are a mesh of beautiful colonial-era architecture set against diverse jungles and white sandy beaches.
There’s plenty to do on the island, especially for those looking to stay active and go for walks, including:
- Two natural parks
- Six nature reserves
- Seven protected landscapes
- 10 natural monuments.
One of the main selling points of the Spanish island is that it’s only a short four-hour flight away from the UK, so you won’t have to venture across the globe in search of sunshine.
- Egypt
Egypt isn’t all desert dunes and pyramids. It also has plenty of sunny coastal destinations to enjoy.
A trip to either Hurghada or Sharm El-Sheikh will allow you to relax by the sea, while enjoying rainbow-hued coral reefs, warm waters, and soft sandy beaches.
Hurghada is a family-friendly destination with a lively marina full of local shops and restaurants. Meanwhile, Sharm El-Sheikh offers up exciting nightlife with cocktails and karaoke on the menu.
After you’ve taken the time to relax and soak up the sun, you could always plan a day trip to one of Egypt’s many landmark sites to take in the history and culture.
- Panama
Panama is nicely situated between North and South America and the Caribbean islands, with access to both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans across its opposing coastlines.
This equatorial nation has year-round warm weather and an exciting mix of big city life, historical colonial-era communities, and dense natural jungles.
A trip to Panama City could allow you to enjoy five-star hotel amenities, late-night venues, casinos, and world-renowned restaurants. It is also a stone’s throw away from Panama’s coastal resorts and landmark attractions, such as the Panama Canal.
- The UAE
The UAE and Dubai in the summertime can be unbearable, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40 degrees. But in the winter, it can be a lovely destination to visit.
Winter in Dubai ebbs and flows between temperatures in the mid-20s and low 30s. The city is a bustling metropolis with a vast range of options for dining, late-night entertainment, and shopping.
Unlike stricter Arab nations, the UAE’s more relaxed stance on dress codes and alcohol makes it a friendlier destination for western visitors. Although, you should take steps to abide by local customs.
The city’s hotels and resorts have access to world-class swimming pools and beaches overlooking the Red Sea.
- Australia
Australia might be a lengthy journey to undertake with flights often requiring a layover before reaching the land down under. But, the country offers the benefit of being located in the southern hemisphere.
This means the seasons are effectively reversed in Australia and our winter is their summer. So, expect warm weather, plenty of sunshine, and lots of outdoor activities to enjoy during your winter escape.
You could opt to stay in a major city with plenty to do, such as Melbourne or Sydney, or venture a bit further afield to one of the country’s more relaxed coastal destinations.
Australia is famous for its natural landscapes and vibrant wildlife, and could offer you and your family a chance to enjoy a vacation surrounded by koalas, kangaroos, coral reefs, and bright blue waters while the temperature drops at home.
Whatever you decide, keep in mind that getting the right amount of sunshine in the colder, darker months of the year could leave you happier and more energised going into next spring.
Production