Where to enjoy the sun in winter: the best vacation destinations

What we definitely lack in winter is sunlight, because you can find warmth under a blanket or in the arms of a loved one, but you can't do that with ultraviolet radiation. However, you can always find it in your travels if you go on vacation in the right direction.

If you don't want to take the easy way out, like thousands of other tourists, you should explore more exotic routes. For this purpose, Express has collected five real gems that surprisingly few people know about. And where a winter vacation will be a real paradise.

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE

• Average temperature in December: 26 °C, minimum precipitation

Ras Al Khaimah is considered a hidden gem of the UAE. This city offers a great combination of exciting entertainment, comfortable beaches, and picturesque mountains. It is called an ideal choice for families looking for an interesting vacation together. Adventure seekers can go zip-lining and hiking in Jebel Jais, ride camels in the desert, or learn to scuba dive at the Marine Sports and Diving Center.

Madhya Pradesh, India

• Average temperature in December: 27 °C, low to moderate precipitation

For an unforgettable wildlife experience, there is the stunning Satpura National Park in Madhya Pradesh, India. This place is known for its dense forests, picturesque landscapes, and a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and sloth bears, as well as more than 300 species of birds. Guided jeep safaris and boat trips will make your trip exciting and informative.

Cape Town, South Africa

• Average temperature in December: 27 °C, light showers

Cape Town is a versatile destination for families who want to balance fun in the city with outdoor adventures. From the famous cable car to Table Mountain to the penguins of Boulders Beach, the city offers an incredible combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage. For shopping enthusiasts, the Victoria and Albert Waterfront will be a magnet, and local museums will definitely delight fans of high culture. Thanks to the warm spring weather, December is the perfect time to explore the city's rich history, stunning coastline, and outdoor activities. You can also go on a safari tour from here to enjoy the wildlife.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

• Average temperature in December: 30 °C, moderate rainfall

Siem Reap is best known as the gateway to the Angkor Wat temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the world's most prominent cultural monuments of antiquity. December and the rest of the winter months are the perfect time to visit this area, as the heat subsides and exploring the ancient temple becomes especially pleasant. In addition to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap offers lively markets, family bike tours through the countryside, and cultural events suitable for all ages.

Alula, Saudi Arabia

• Average temperature in December: 20 °C, almost no precipitation

Alula is a hidden archaeological treasure in Saudi Arabia. This ancient city is home to the UNESCO-listed Hegra, a complex of archaeological sites with rock-cut tombs. You can also admire the stunning desert landscapes and learn about the history that dates back 200,000 years. The heat in the winter months is replaced by comfortable warmth, and this makes outdoor activities such as stargazing, hiking, and hot air ballooning available. Be sure to take a tour of the ancient tombs of Hegra or go on a desert hike through the picturesque landscapes of the Ashar Valley.

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