Five winter sun favourites for less

So long summer. As we roll into the latter months of the year, and shorter days and cool nights start to settle in, why not replenish diminishing vitamin D stocks by booking a mood-boosting winter holiday in the sunshine?

From St Lucia to Cancun, Dubai to Miami, British Airways is an expert in the art of the winter sun getaway. And if you’re seeking sea and sun alongside some savvy savings, keep your eyes peeled for the upcoming British Airways Black Friday sale and you could be jetting off to sunnier climes for less this winter. 

St Lucia

Palm-fringed beaches, lush rainforests and the ever-dramatic twin peaks of the Pitons, St Lucia encapsulates the Caribbean idyll. The destination may be dreamy, but a St Lucia holiday needn’t cost big bucks. There are experiences that can be had for nothing, from parrot-spotting in the rainforest and snorkelling off Anse Chastanet beach to splashing in the waterfalls of Anse La Raye. Don’t miss the Gros Islet Jump Up, St Lucia’s Friday night street party where you can feast on fish fry, drink rum punch and dance to reggae for mere dollars.

Where to stay
Marigot Beach Club is a boutique resort that’s accessible by a free boat service.

Take off to St Lucia

Dubai

The crowned king of winter sun escapes, Dubai may be one of the richest places on the planet, but there’s plenty to do for a dirham. Sail across Dubai Creek in a traditional abra, spot powder pink flamingos at the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary or go for a night swim at Umm Suqeim Beach. And the dancing flumes of the Dubai Fountain are free for all. Weekend brunch is a Dubai institution and one of the best value deals can be found at Cuisines at the Crowne Plaza Dubai Jumeirah.

Where to stay
Rove La Mer Beach on Jumeirah has a hip beachy vibe at a bargain price. And all rooms have sofa beds for extra heads.

Take off to Dubai

Cancun

Sweeping down Mexico’s Yucatán coast, Cancun’s floury beaches are balm for the soul after a British winter. Zona Hotelera is a 13-mile stretch of glitzy hotels, bars and nightclubs, but Playa Delfines is one of the few free beaches on the strip. Margaritas and tacos are the diet de jour — pay in Mexican pesos to get more bang for your buck. Buses are the cheapest way to get around. Avoid pricey hotel excursions and take the ferry over to Isla Mujeres or visit the Mayan ruins under your own steam.

Where to stay
The all-inclusive Dream Sands Cancun offers an Unlimited Luxury all-inclusive deal. and golf-loving guests can bag discounted green fees.

Take off to Cancun

Miami

With South Beach bringing the heat, nothing cures the winter blues like Miami. And while influencers driving gold-plated Benz might suggest it’s a playground for the rich, there are plenty of free kicks to be had, from yoga classes on Miami Beach to outdoor movies and concerts at the New World Center. Get around for gratis on the Miami Trolley and the Metromover or hop on a free walking tour of the Wynwood Art District or South Beach’s Art Deco architecture. And to save dollars on dining, Miami famously has the best food trucks in Florida.

Where to stay
South Beach Hotel offers free beach shuttles and chair reservations for guests.

Take off to Miami

Orlando

Orlando is like a huge sun-drenched playground, and a holiday here is the ultimate antidote to a grizzly winter. Aside from the theme parks, there are plenty of cheap thrills to be had. Forget hiring a car, as most theme park hotels offer complimentary shuttles. Or use the I-Ride trolley for a couple of dollars a day. Go shopping at Disney Springs, watch the street performers at Disney’s Boardwalk or dine out at Universal CityWalk. For a slice of Old Florida, visit Old Town Entertainment District and see the Friday Night muscle car cruise for free.

Where to stay
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach is a retro base where guests get Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ (though you still have to buy tickets!).

Take off to Orlando