Winter is now here. Typically (unofficially) lasting anywhere between four and six months in the UK, the idea of breaking up the long stretch of dark nights and cold, wet, windy weather will appeal to many. Whether it’s a short break, an alternative Christmas getaway, or a two-week holiday, some winter sun can work wonders in helping us make it through the long slog to spring.
Based on booking data and customer demand, escorted tour specialist, Jules Verne, provides some winter sun inspo, revealing the most popular destinations for travel between November and February.
Whether you’re looking to explore a new destination alongside like-minded individuals, or have a relaxing adventure in sunnier climes, Jules Verne tours are perfect for those seeking a dose of sunshine and connection this winter.
“Whilst the desire to jet off for some winter sun is nothing new,” says Debbie O’Neill, Managing Director of Jules Verne, “over the last 45 years we have seen constant shifts in Brits’ top winter sun destination wish list.
“India remains an ever-popular destination for Brits during the winter months – unsurprising given its warm climes, rich culture, and incredible history. Next year, we are thrilled to be offering a tour which ventures into the wonderful cities and wildlife safaris of the north and crosses right down to the remarkable tea terraces and stunning shores in the south.
“Sri Lanka is an increasingly popular destination for our customers. In fact, we’re currently looking at adding additional departures for next year – with 84% of the spaces on our current 2024 Sri Lanka tours already filled. From colourful coasts, impressive temples, rich rainforests, and bustling cities, the country promises an incredible escape from the British winter.
“It has also been heartening to see the popularity of Vietnam bounce back following the pandemic, where strict COVID restrictions greatly limited travel to the country and its surrounding regions.”
“With a host of new tours on offer, special price reductions and no single supplement options available, Jules Verne promises to have something for everyone with its 2024 tours.”
Read on for Jules Verne’s top winter sun adventures…
India’s Golden Triangle | 9 nights from £2,095
- Prices from £2,095, with departures in January & February 2024
- Return flights with Virgin Atlantic from Heathrow
- Price includes air travel and taxes, transfers, 8 nights’ accommodation, breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 6 dinners, services of guides and local representatives
This 9-night tour gives guests a classic introduction to the treasures of India’s famous ‘Golden Triangle’ – Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Guests will immerse themselves in India’s rich history, with the itinerary including visits to Fatehpur Sikri city (eerily deserted for 400 years), Old Delhi’s colonial buildings, Jaipur’s mesmerising pink palaces, and a rooftop drink at sunset overlooking the iconic Taj Mahal, whilst simultaneously exploring some of its newer attractions, such as the film set for the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. Other highlights include travelling by train through India’s tranquil, rural landscapes, enjoying dinner with a local family, and tea at a colonial house.
Grand Tour of Sri Lanka | 11 nights from £2,875
- Prices from £2,875, with departures in January and February 2024
- Return flights with SriLankan Airlines from Heathrow
- Price includes air travel, UK departure taxes, transfers, 10 nights’ accommodation, breakfast daily, 2 lunches and 2 dinners, services of guides and local representatives
This incredible 11-night tour takes guests on a journey to explore Sri Lanka’s amazingly varied landscapes, from spice gardens and astounding temples to colourful coasts and bustling cities. Highlights include a jeep safari of Yala National Park where guests can spot leopards, elephants, and crocodiles, seeing the thousand-year-old remote rock temple of Buduruwagala, visiting 6 UNESCO heritage sites, exploring the ‘sacred city’ of Anuradhapura, once hidden in the depths of the jungle, and following tea leaves from the plantation to the factory.
Highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia | 8 nights from £1,875 | Save up to £180 on all 2024 departures
- Prices from £1,875, with departures in January & February 2024
- Return flights with Vietnam Airlines from Heathrow
- Price includes air travel and taxes, transfers, 6 nights’ accommodation, breakfast daily, 1 dinner, services of guides and local representatives
Perfect for those looking to explore Vietnam and Cambodia’s most famous monuments at a more leisurely pace, this tour allows ample time for guests to absorb and appreciate the unique offerings of key cities in the region. Tour highlights include seeing 11th Century temples in Hanoi, exploring Siem Reap’s breathtaking Angkor Wat temple complex, and visiting the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace in Ho Chi Minh City.
Classical Tour of Vietnam | 15 nights from £2,895 | Save up to £230 on January and February 2024 departures
- Prices from £2,895, with departures in January & February 2024
- Return flights with Vietnam Airlines from Heathrow
- Price includes air travel and taxes, transfers, 13 nights’ accommodation, breakfast daily, 4 lunches and 5 dinners, services of guides and local representatives
This classic tour takes guests to visit the highlights of Vietnam including its most-famous and lesser-known landmarks, from buzzing cities, ancient temples, and glorious palaces to magnificent mountains, jungle scenery, and local villages. Other tour highlights include visiting Vinh Trang Pagoda’s smiling Buddha, watching a water puppet show in Hanoi, and enjoying breathtaking cruises along the Mekong River and in Ha Long Bay.
