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May 08, 2012, 1:56 pm -- /EPR NETWORK/ -- With the Met Office forecasting rain for the next few weeks, it’s time to escape to places where the sun does shine.
The UK forecast holds the equivalent of a month’s rain in just one day, winds of up
to 50mph and the coldest May for 100 years. A very different, drizzly picture to the
warm and sunny spring of last year.
To help turn dreary into dreamy, Cheapflights.co.uk, the online leader in travel
deals publishing, has scoured sunny locales near and far to guide travellers out of
the dark and into the light with destinations chosen based on the number of hours of
sunshine they offer.
“Given that the weather’s only going to get wetter, now’s the time to escape being affected by SAD in the springtime and get some Vitamin D in places that have it in abundance,” says Nadine Hallak, Travel Expert at Cheapflights.co.uk.
“The wet weather alone would send us on the hunt for brighter skies, but, combined
with the official (and depressing) announcement of a double dip recession, now is
most definitely the time to cure the gloom with a few rays of much needed sun,” adds
Hallak.
Rhodes – 14 hours of sunshine per day
While Greece may have experienced its share of economic problems this year, the sun
continues to blaze upon its isles and in Rhodes, specifically, it shines on for 14
glorious hours per day. This is a true sun-lovers paradise complete with miles of
sandy beaches that lead nicely into bright turquoise seas. Nightlife is famous here
with many bars, restaurants and clubs to keep the party going all night if that’s
what it takes. Meanwhile, culture vultures can enjoy Rhodes Town, home to many
stunning castles, churches and museums, which are packed with history and set upon
lush, green hills. Flights to Rhodes start from £163 return.
Dubai – 13 hours of sunshine per day
The sun hardly ever sets on the desert, and Dubai is a much loved sunny destination
with many Brits. In fact, its popularity with the celeb set has grown even further
in 2011 and 2012, drawing yet more non-celebs to the destination. Beyond its shiny
lights and sometimes ostentatious extravagances, this emirate actually offers
everything a traveller could dream of on holiday. There are miles of white sandy
beaches flecked with palm trees under which to relax, great barbeque spots,
restaurants and bars by the beach that serve sumptuous cuisine in front of a
stunning view and luxury hotels and spas at budget prices. It’s also a great place
for outdoor enthusiasts and serves up plenty of water and desert sports, among a
world of other adrenaline-inducing activities. Flights to Dubai start from £320
return.
Mauritius – 12 hours of sunshine per day
One would expect nothing short of long sunny days in a place that can truthfully be
described as heaven on earth. Its beaches are powder white and its water is so
crystal clear that it rivals any man-made pool. However, its real charm lies in
culture, which is a blend of the many conquerors that have been and gone over time
including the Portuguese, Dutch, French and British. The beaches to hit include
Belle Mare on the east coast, Flic en Flac (Mauritius’ longest beach) situated on
the west coast and renowned for its sunsets, and Tamarin Bay where mountains pose as
a breath-taking backdrop. Keen divers will want to explore shipwrecks and coral
reefs on the south west of the island. Flights to Mauritius start from £591 return.
Morocco – 12 hours of sunshine per day
With an average of 300 days of sunshine per year and flights of around three hours from the UK to most of its major holiday spots, summer is within easy reach at this exotic destination. A popular destination among Brits for the past few years now, its bustling souks, central squares and coastal riad-filled towns set against bright blue skies never cease to impress. Moreover, the British Pound goes a goes a long way in Morocco, and even budget-conscious adventure seekers will find plenty to get their blood pumping with camel rides across the desert or a sleep under the stars. Flights to Morocco start from £158 return.
Fiji – 11 hours of sunshine per day
It might be a little further to travel, but it’s well worth the trip. Blue lagoons, lush mountains and coconut palm trees make a sight for sore eyes and a rather literal warm welcome to travellers. Fiji’s tropical climate makes it appealing year round and its colourful reefs are a scuba diver’s dream. Comprised of 322 islands, Fiji’s developed economy caters to all manner of budgets and tastes from five-star resorts to hostels and backpackers. Flower lovers can also find attractions such as Garden of the Sleeping Giant, which house a most impressive collection of orchids, located near Nadi, while those who seek the spiritual can head to the Southern hemisphere’s largest Hindu temple, Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple, also in Nadi. Flights to Fiji start from £676 return.
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Contact Details: Maitha Ahmed
Tel: +44(0) 20 7953 8781
email: Maitha.Ahmed@rooster.co.uk
