As the UK shivers through December, a sun-drenched haven offering 25-degree winter heat and incredibly affordable pints is just over five hours away by plane. The destination? The Egyptian resort town of Hurghada on the Red Sea coast.
EasyJet's Winter Sun Index Reveals Top Spots
In a bid to help travellers find the best winter getaways, airline easyJet has compiled a 'Winter Sun Index'. The study compared crucial factors for holidaymakers, including flight and package costs, average temperatures, daily sunshine, and the price of essentials like a meal and a beer.
Topping the charts was the island of Sal in Cape Verde, but Hurghada in Egypt emerged as a standout and highly accessible choice for British tourists seeking reliable warmth without a long-haul flight.
Why Hurghada is a Winter Winner
Located on Egypt's eastern coast, Hurghada is famed for its luxury resorts lining golden sands and the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of the Red Sea. During the UK's coldest months, the town enjoys a balmy 21C to 25C, a world away from the typical 6C highs back home.
The area basks in 9 to 10 hours of sunshine daily, and with only a two-hour time difference, jet lag is minimal. The Red Sea is a magnet for scuba divers and snorkellers, thanks to its thriving marine life. For those preferring dry land, nearby desert landscapes offer quad biking and jeep safaris.
Incredible Value for Money
Beyond the climate, easyJet's research highlights Hurghada's remarkable affordability. The average cost of a pint is just £1.75, while a meal for two comes in at around £26. Direct return flights from London airports start from £154, with the journey taking just over five hours.
Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK country manager, said: "As temperatures at home begin to drop and the days get darker, now is the perfect time to book an escape to warmer climes." He added that the airline's network offers a broad range of accessible and affordable winter sun destinations.
EasyJet's Top 10 Winter Sun Destinations
The full list from the easyJet Winter Sun Index is:
- Sal – Cape Verde
- Hurghada – Egypt
- Gran Canaria – Canary Islands, Spain
- Lanzarote – Canary Islands, Spain
- Agadir – Morocco
- Fuerteventura – Canary Islands, Spain
- Tenerife South – Canary Islands, Spain
- Djerba – Tunisia
- Seville – Spain
- Paphos – Cyprus
The Red Sea remains a premier winter sun corridor, with Egypt's Sharm El-Sheikh also continuing to draw crowds with its pristine beaches. With numerous package deals available, a spontaneous escape to soak up some vital vitamin D has never been easier or better value.
