Chase The Sun: Top Destinations For A Warm Escape
With the arrival of cooler climes and winter weather in the northern hemisphere, these months leave many of us seeking out sun-drenched shores. Thankfully, this time of year presents perfect opportunities to continue to experience summer year-round.
From secluded island paradises to vibrant cosmopolitan hubs, we have created a list of the top destinations for a luxury vacation this winter. Whether you are looking for a beachside retreat, an urban adventure or to immerse yourself in nature, these destinations offer the ultimate winter escape:
Seychelles
This stunning archipelago scattered within the Indian Ocean is an ideal destination for this time of year with average temperatures in the Seychelles hitting around 30°C. The brilliant white beaches are bordered by dramatic granite boulders and lush tropical foliage.
For the ultimate in exclusive luxury, consider North Island, a favorite among royalty and discerning celebrities. Or indulge in the eco-chic villas of Six Senses Zil Pasyon on Félicité Island, where pristine nature meets world-class amenities.
Baja California, Mexico
Baja California is a sun-seeker's paradise, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore the burgeoning wine region of Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico's answer to Napa Valley, where organic and biodynamic wines are served against a backdrop of stunning desert landscapes.
For coastal indulgence, the One&Only Palmilla in Los Cabos offers an oasis of luxury, its stone floors and intricate fabrics paying homage to Mexico's rich cultural heritage.
Singapore
Average temperatures in Singapore from November to January reach around 31.3°C, therefore an ideal break for some tropical warmth and urban sophistication. The city-state's legendary efficiency is matched by its lush greenery and cutting-edge architecture. Indulge in the epitome of contemporary luxury at The Singapore EDITION, where sleek design meets unparalleled service in the heart of the city's most vibrant district.
Between dips in the rooftop pool, explore Singapore's world-renowned culinary scene, from Michelin-starred restaurants to local, bustling markets.
Botswana
For those seeking adventure without compromising on comfort this winter, Botswana offers an unparalleled safari experience and weather to match. The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a labyrinth of lagoons and islands teeming with wildlife.
Stay at the &Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge, where contemporary design meets untamed wilderness. Watch elephants bathe in crystal-clear shallows from the privacy of your own plunge pool, a glass of South African wine in hand.
Crete, Greece
The Greek islands offer cooler temperatures than in the Mediterranean summer months and are still pleasant to explore at the moment, with average temperatures around 20°C. Crete provides a perfect blend of cultural richness and natural beauty without the summer heat and crowds.
The largest of the Greek islands, it is ideal for exploring ancient ruins, hiking the dramatic Samaria Gorge, or discovering secluded beaches. Stay at the Domes Zeen Chania, where minimalist concrete villas cascade down to the sea, offering a contemporary take on Cretan hospitality.
Palm Springs, USA
This chic desert location offers a perfect escape from the cooler autumn and winter chill. Book a stay and lounge by the pool at the iconic Ace Hotel & Swim Club, or venture into the surrounding desert for hikes in Joshua Tree National Park. For a truly unique experience, book a stay at the Pioneertown Motel, a stylishly renovated Wild West set that's hosted impromptu gigs by music legends.
Goa, India
Goa presents a blend of golden beaches, colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. Beyond the famous beaches and nightlife, discover a more refined side of this Indian paradise. Stay at The Leela, where luxury meets lush tropical gardens, or seek out boutique properties tucked away in restored Portuguese villas. The winter months provide the perfect weather for lazy days by the Arabian Sea and explorations of Goa's rich history and burgeoning culinary scene.
Madeira, Portugal
Madeira, a lush archipelago off the coast of Africa, offers a blend of mild temperatures and subtropical beauty in these autumn and winter months. An ideal time to explore the islands' dramatic landscapes, from verdant hills to rocky cliffs plunging into the azure Atlantic.
Indulge in the old-world charm of Reid's Palace, a hotel set amidst 10 acres of tropical gardens. Spend your days hiking the levadas, Madeira's unique network of irrigation channels turned walking trails, and your evenings savoring the island's iconic fortified wine as the sun sets over the ocean.
Dominican Republic, Caribbean
The start of the Caribbean season begins, with The Dominican Republic a perfect sun-seeker's paradise, with pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a vibrant culture waiting to be explored. Escape the pre-winter chill at the luxurious Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, where infinity pools merge seamlessly with the Caribbean horizon.
Venture beyond the resort to discover colonial architecture in Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, or seek out the perfect wave in laid-back surf towns. The balmy temperatures and low humidity within November and December create the ideal conditions for both relaxation and adventure.
Lanzarote, Spain
The easternmost of the Canary Islands, offers a unique landscape of volcanic peaks and golden beaches bathed in year-round sunshine. The mild autumn temperatures, a 23°C average, make it the perfect time to explore the island's otherworldly terrain, from the Fire Mountains of Timanfaya National Park to the black sand beaches of El Golfo.
Stay at the pioneering Hotel Fariones, where mid-century design meets Canarian hospitality. Don't miss the chance to visit the César Manrique Foundation, a testament to the island's most famous artist and architect.
Seville, Spain
Seville in the summer is scorching, so the autumn and winter months give way to pleasantly warm days perfect for exploring this beautiful city. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets of the Santa Cruz quarter, or marvel at the grandeur of the Alcázar palace.
As night falls, join locals in the tapas bars of Triana, where the art of small-plate dining reaches its peak. For a truly regal experience, book a room at the Hotel Alfonso XIII, a neo-Moorish masterpiece that has been the city's premier address since 1929.
Adelaide and South Australia
South Australia is welcoming the arrival of spring at the moment, with mild temperatures perfect for exploring Adelaide's vibrant food scene and the surrounding wine regions. Indulge in a long, leisurely lunch at Restaurant Orana, where native ingredients shine in innovative tasting menus.
Then, retreat to the tranquility of the Barossa Valley, where you can stay in charming cottages nestled among world-class vineyards. For a coastal escape, head to the Limestone Coast, where pristine beaches and luxurious eco-retreats await.
Cambodia
Average November temperatures for Cambodia sit around 30°C, making it much better for exploring ancient temples and untouched beaches without the intense heat of the dry season. After marveling at the majesty of Angkor Wat, retreat to the country's emerging coastal destinations.
The Six Senses Krabey Island provides an ultra-luxurious base for exploring Cambodia's pristine southern islands, while Knai Bang Chatt in Kep offers a more understated elegance, perfect for those seeking to experience the country's famed seafood in a serene setting.
Barbados, Caribbean
The island's west coast, often referred to as the 'Platinum Coast', is lined with luxury resorts and villas. For a truly refined experience, book a stay at Cobblers Cove, a coral-pink plantation house turned boutique hotel where English country house style meets Caribbean charm.
Spend your days exploring the UNESCO-listed Bridgetown, surfing the breaks of the rugged east coast, or simply lounging on pristine beaches, rum punch in hand.
