Three fantastic long-haul destinations for winter
In autumn and winter, many of us long for the return of sunshine and warmth, or simply yearn for a holiday away from home. When winter sets in across the UK and the festive season is in full swing, we often find ourselves drawn to faraway places once more. Not every corner of the globe is experiencing freezing temperatures – many regions entice us with summery weather, helping us forget the cold. Whether it’s a beach holiday, a trekking trip or a tour of the world’s most beautiful countries – our selection of the best long-haul winter destinations has something to suit every taste and budget.
1. MEXICO
Are you looking for pleasant temperatures and a relaxing break on the beach? Yes? Then the Riviera Maya on the Yucatán Peninsula is just the place for you, welcoming you with a paradise-like landscape, stunning white sandy beaches and mysterious cenotes.
Where is Mexico?
Mexico is situated at the crossroads between North and Central America, bordering the USA to the north and Guatemala to the south.
When is the best time to visit?
In autumn and winter, it is the rainy season in the north and temperatures drop. In the worst-case scenario, temperatures can even fall below freezing. In the south, however, it is wonderfully sunny and pleasantly mild at this time of year. In summer, temperatures rise across the entire peninsula. It is then dry and lovely and hot.
What is special about Mexico?
Food: the Mexican elixir of life
Tacos, burritos and tequila are probably the best-known dishes of Mexican cuisine. However, in Mexico they are kept to a minimum. Dishes such as mole, ceviche, quesadillas or tamales are much more famous in Mexican cuisine.
Popocatepetl & other volcanoes
The name says it all: Popocatepetl comes from the Aztec language and roughly translates as ‘heavily smoking mountain’. The volcano, located south-east of Mexico City, is one of Mexico’s highest peaks at over 5,400 metres.
Pyramids: The architectural achievements of the Maya and Aztecs
Probably the largest and best-known pyramid in Mexico is the Maya pyramid of Chichen Itza in the north of the Yucatan Peninsula.
Hiking in the Sierra Norte
Fancy hiking in an environment that is home to several hundred species of birds and butterflies? The Sierra Norte makes it possible. Here, sustainable hiking is the order of the day.
Cenotes: mystical freshwater caves
Beautiful, magical, fairytale-like. That’s how the mysterious freshwater caves on the Yucatan Peninsula can be described in a nutshell.
We’ve put together a small selection of suitcases perfect for your next holiday in Mexico:
2. CUBA
In Cuba, you’ll find a passionate zest for life, a very warm and welcoming culture, stunning landscapes, uncrowded dream beaches and, of course, fantastic cities such as Havana and Trinidad. Our tip: take a ride in a classic car through the mysterious, flamboyant, lively and opulent city of Havana, and relax on beautiful Caribbean beaches.
Where is Cuba?
Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean and lies at the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico.
When is the best time to visit?
In terms of climate, the best time to visit Cuba is during our winter. That is, from mid-November to the end of April. From mid-May to early November, temperatures often rise above 30°C and there are tropical showers.
What is special about Cuba?
The rhythm
Music flows through the veins of the Cuban people. Music can be found everywhere on the island. It is part of their daily lives, and it is impossible to imagine Cuba without its rhythm.
Nature
Cuba is an absolute natural paradise; whether you want to explore the flora and fauna or simply laze about on the beach – anything is possible in Cuba!
The Cubans
One of the best reasons to visit Cuba is simply the Cubans themselves. They are lovely, hospitable and always incredibly optimistic.
The history
Fairytale-like, magical, dreamlike. That’s how the freshwater caves on the Yucatan Peninsula can be described in a few words.
We’ve put together a small selection of suitcases perfect for your next holiday in Cuba:
3. NEW ZEALAND
Is the long journey to New Zealand worth it? Definitely!
New Zealand has plenty to offer: magnificent volcanoes, rugged coastlines, hot springs, jungles, snow-capped Alps, legendary creatures, stunning beaches and spectacular fjords on both the North and South Islands.
Where is New Zealand?
New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, about 1,600 km south-east of Australia. On a standard world map, New Zealand can be found at the very bottom right.
When is the best time to visit?
That definitely depends on your preferences. If you want to enjoy plenty of sunshine, the New Zealand summer is the best time to visit. January and February are the warmest and driest months. For those who love snow and want to go on glacier excursions, the winter months are the best time to visit New Zealand.
What is special about New Zealand?
New Zealand is not Australia!
Australia is characterised by vast sandy deserts, whilst New Zealand is better known for its fjords, glaciers and geysers.
Auckland – the Polynesian hub of the world
Of the roughly 4.8 million people in New Zealand, around 270,000 are Polynesian or have Polynesian roots.
Rugby – definitely more than just a sport
Rugby is to New Zealanders what football is to us. Rugby brings everyone together; we all get excited, hold our breath and get worked up together.
No poisonous animals
Compared to Australia, there is no need for greater caution regarding the local wildlife when hiking in New Zealand or going on nature walks.
Four seasons in one day
The mild climate with plenty of rain often means you can experience four seasons in a single day.
New Zealand holidays and Australia tours from Australia Unlimited
We’ve put together a small selection of suitable suitcases for your next holiday in New Zealand:
