Every day of the year, it's summer somewhere. So, next winter, instead of scraping ice from windscreens or gritting the drive, you could be snorkelling in the Maldives or sipping cocktails in the Caribbean. We've given a brief overview of the six most popular winter holiday 2022 destinations so that you can learn a little more about each before making your decision. 

Dubai

Dubai takes on a new face during the winter season, which makes the entire city one of the best to visit in the Middle East for some Christmas sun. During a Dubai winter holiday, take advantage of the epic sunsets that paint the Dubai skies all shades of orange and pink or indulge in rooftop dining, where you can appreciate the spectacularly clear skyline. The cooler months of winter make it ideal for longer strolls outside. Spend a full day exploring the museums around Al Fahidi Historical District, then take a traditional abra over to the Deira side of Dubai Creek to experience the many souks of Dubai. Spend time at popular outdoor spaces during your winter trip to Dubai; visit the vibrant instagrammable beach huts at La Mer, slide along the treetop ropes at Mushrif Park or catch a boat tour at Al Seef.

Maldives

The Maldives is an awe-inspiring destination with white sand beaches, turquoise waters, majestic islands, and an incredible marine life. The month of December makes for a rain-free and care-free Maldives winter holiday. If you love a watersports adventure, Manta Point is the best destination in the Maldives for scuba diving, while Biyadhoo Island is a natural bounty with its clear waters and colourful corals. Witness the spellbinding activity of phytoplanktons on the island of Vaadhoo or visit Banana Reef, which is popular for its bright marine life, thrilling cliffs and mysterious caves. The Maldivian atolls are known for their jewel-like islands and bursting underwater wildlife, creating an excellent winter 2022 holiday for all ages and groups, offering both relaxing beach escapes and action packed activities to undergo.

Tenerife 

Tenerife is a popular destination year-round, but it comes into its own during the winter season. A Tenerife winter holiday has a lot to offer, from diverse landscapes and towering mountains to black-sand beaches and vibrant towns. Make sure to visit Siam Park, one of the world’s finest waterparks, with water rides, a mile-long lazy river and an enormous wave pool. Taking advantage of a Tenerife winter sun holiday means getting ready for an ultimate star-gazing experience. This beautiful destination was officially declared a Starlight Tourist Destination and the elegant Ritz-Carlton, Abama hotel hosts private parties, which include an exclusive tour of the observatory. If you’re an avid foodie, Tenerife has plenty to serve, from four Michelin Starred restaurants to beautiful family-run establishments. El Rincon de Juan Carlos caters some spectacular interpretations of classic Spanish cooking, with two of the most popular dishes being the sriracha-drenched crayfish and the apple-tainted oysters.

Barbados

When you head to Barbados for a winter holiday, expect incredible restaurants and bars lining the coast, snorkelling adventures and a very comfortable climate. The island that is all about food and rum, is home to one of the oldest distilleries in the world, Mount Gay Rum, well-known for its classic hand-crafted rum cocktails. If you want to try all the island’s best cuisine, you can sign up for the Barbados Food and Rum Festival, which is taking place in winter 2022. The island's platinum coast is dotted with indulgent all-inclusive resorts as well as huge stretches of soft sandy beaches and glistening clear waters. If you’re a water sport enthusiast, you’ll find numerous snorkelling spots dotted along the beaches. You can swim with the beautiful giant sea turtles and the vibrant tropical fish of all sizes and colours. 

Antigua 

Antigua maintains tropical weather all year round, making it an extremely good choice for a winter holiday. Stunning beaches line the island and a reef handily protects the gorgeous strip of sand in Half Moon Bay, which is an ideal spot for snorkelling. The island draws in plenty of couples in the winter months, with 365 beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s no surprise that Antigua has been voted the Most Romantic Destination in the Caribbean by the World Travel Awards 4 years in a row. Whether you’re looking for a destination for a wedding, honeymoon, or just a couples getaway, Antigua has all the options for you.

Saint Lucia 

Its consistently warm temperatures and temperate winters means there’s never really a bad time to visit Saint Lucia. A winter holiday here would be a great opportunity for amateur hikers. The Pitons (Petit and Gros) are probably the most iconic landmarks here. Reach the peak of Petit Piton and appreciate the infinitely beautiful view from the small summit or climb to the highest point of Gros Piton where you can see the magnificent views of Saint Lucia. Although, the real highlight of a Gros Piton hike is the locally made ice cream and ice-lollies at a tiny shop tucked away near the foot of the peak.