Short Flight, Hot Sun: Where to Escape the UK Chill in December
By the time December rolls around in the UK, the dark 4pm evenings and freezing weather have most of us desperate for blue skies and a pool lounger. Well, have I got news for you! You don’t need to drag yourself through a 12-hour long-haul flight to find proper mid-winter warmth. If you’re craving a good dose of sunshine with a short flight time and zero jet lag, here are four of my favourite warm-weather spots that make escaping the UK winter ridiculously easy!
1. The Canary Islands (Tenerife & Lanzarote)
Flight time: ~4 hours
December temp: ~21°C–23°C 🌡️
The Canaries are the absolute classic for a reason. Four short hours south, and you step off the plane into golden sand beaches, warm volcanic landscapes, and effortless year-round spring weather. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a completely low-stress, reliable dose of warmth close to home.
My top tip: stick to the southern coasts of Tenerife or Lanzarote, as those are where you’ll catch the clearest skies and warmest beach days in December!
2. Madeira, Portugal
Flight time: ~3.5 hours
December temp: ~19°C–21°C 🌿
This is one of my faves! They call Madeira the "Island of Eternal Spring", and it really lives up to the name. It’s less about scorching heat and more about crisp blue skies, lush mountains, and ocean breezes. Plus, Funchal puts on some of the most stunning Christmas light displays in Europe during December! It’s my top pick for clients seeking boutique hotels, gorgeous walks, and relaxed luxury.
I highly recommend treating yourself to a hotel with a heated ocean-facing infinity pool. Trust me, soaking in warm water while looking out at the Atlantic in December hits different!
3. Morocco (Marrakech & Agadir)
Flight time: ~3.5 to 4 hours
December temp: ~20°C–22°C 🕌
If you want a complete change of scenery without the long-haul fatigue, this is it. Marrakech offers sunny, warm days that are perfect for exploring colourful markets and having lunch on sunny rooftops, while coastal Agadir is your go-to for beach resort downtime. It’s quite literally what you see on your Insta feed!
Definitely best for culture lovers, rooftop dining, and amazing spa days. I can even book you a traditional luxury Riad with a heated rooftop plunge pool for your very own private oasis after a day in the city.
4. Egypt
Flight time: ~5 hours
December temp: ~23°C–25°C 🐠
If you’re willing to sit on the plane for just one extra hour, Egypt delivers genuine, proper bikini-and-sunbed weather in December. Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh give you crystal-clear waters, world-class diving, and luxury all-inclusive resorts that are incredible value - an excellent choice for guaranteed heat, swimming in the sea, and total all-inclusive relaxation.
Always make sure your resort has a heated main pool so you can comfortably float around all day long!
Secure Your Winter Sun
Get that winter sun secured with a deposit today. It’s your route to a quick pre-Christmas reset or way to enjoy the festive season under a palm tree. Getting away doesn’t have to be complicated. Get in touch to see what my latest offers are
