Where to get away from winter? Tropical destinations to warm you up on winter days
Winter in Poland can be a real test of patience – gray, cold, wind, rain, and mud and snow on the streets. And while winter has its charms, nothing compares to the warmth of tropical countries, where the sun shines for most of the year. If you’re dreaming of escaping the winter grayness, I have a few suggestions for you – both the more expensive and the more budget-friendly ones. Where should you go to feel the summer climate, regardless of the season?
1. Bali, Indonesia – paradise in the heart of the Pacific Ocean
Bali is one of the most popular destinations in Asia, attracting tourists all year round. In winter, when it’s plague and freezing in Poland, Bali has an average daytime temperature of about 30°C, and the water is about 27°C. Ideal conditions for sunbathing on the beach or snorkeling in the crystal clear waters. It is worth knowing that Bali has two seasons: dry and rainy. The rainy season lasts from November to April, but the rains are usually short-lived and do not interfere with sightseeing.
Bali is not one of the cheapest destinations, but you will still find options for every budget. Prices for a night in a simple hotel start at around £50, and cheaper food and transportation will not strain your budget at all. If you’re looking for a luxury vacation, luxury villas and spas offer unforgettable experiences at a slightly higher price.
2. Vietnam – warm all year round
Vietnam is a country that is increasingly popular with tourists. In winter in Vietnam, average temperatures hover around 25-30°C, and the sea water is warm all year round. It is worth visiting places such as Phu Quoc Island, which is an ideal place to relax in a tropical climate. Vietnam is also relatively cheap – you’ll pay about 100-150 zlotys per night for a modest hotel stay, and food in local restaurants costs only a few zlotys.
The rainy season lasts from May to October, so if you are planning a winter trip, you will avoid heavy rainfall. In winter, the weather is relatively stable in Vietnam and conducive to sightseeing.
3. Thailand – sun, beaches and exotic islands
Thailand is a classic among winter vacation destinations. In January and February on most of Thailand’s islands (e.g. Phuket, Koh Samui), temperatures are around 28-30°C, and the sea water is perfectly warm – 27-28°C. These are ideal conditions for spending time on the beach, snorkeling, or visiting temples. It is also worth mentioning that Thailand is still one of the cheapest places on the map of Asia – daily expenses can be kept at 100-150 zlotys per day, which includes accommodation, food and transportation.
As for the rainy season, in Thailand it lasts from May to October, so in winter the weather is stable and rainy days almost don’t happen.
4. Costa Rica – a hot paradise in Central America
Costa Rica is a true jewel of Central America, with beautiful beaches, tropical forests and active volcanoes. Year-round temperatures are around 25-30°C, and the ocean water is warm. Costa Rica offers a wide range of activities, from surfing to visiting nature reserves. It is worth noting that Costa Rica is relatively expensive compared to other Central American countries, but prices are still more affordable than in popular tourist destinations in Europe or the United States.
The rainy season lasts from May to October, so if you plan to travel in winter, you can count on dry and sunny days.
5. Zanzibar, Tanzania – an island full of sunshine
Zanzibar is an island in the Indian Ocean that delights tourists with its white beaches and crystal clear waters. Zanzibar enjoys tropical temperatures in winter, averaging 30°C during the day and about 25°C at night. The ocean water is around 28°C, making the island a paradise for sea bathers.
Zanzibar is not the cheapest destination, but you’ll still find options to suit a variety of budgets. Accommodation prices start at around £150 per night, and local food is relatively cheap. However, it’s worth remembering that Zanzibar is also home to many exclusive tourist deals, so prices at luxury hotels can be much higher.
6. Sri Lanka – the island that has it all
Sri Lanka is a place that combines everything you would look for in a tropical island: beautiful beaches, historic temples, wildlife and delicious cuisine. In winter, the average temperature is 27-30°C, and the ocean water is warm and pleasant. Sri Lanka has two rainy seasons: from May to August in the southwest and from October to January on the northeast coast. Therefore, you can count on sunshine in winter on most of the island, although it’s worth checking the forecast for a particular region.
Sri Lanka is a relatively inexpensive country, and accommodation and food prices are affordable. A simple hotel can be found for as little as $100 a night, and a meal at a local restaurant costs just a few zlotys.
Each of these destinations has something unique to offer. Choose the destination that best suits your preferences and budget, and make the winter months a pleasant memory in a tropical paradise!