As the festive season draws to a close, you might find yourself longing for a sunny getaway to escape the impending cold and dreary January weather.
Kicking off 2025 with some winter sun could be just the ticket to start your year on a high note, and there’s no shortage of destinations to consider.
While it’s true that many European countries can be a bit nippy in January, venturing a little further afield can lead you to warmer climates, sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
One such holiday hotspot, just over five hours’ flight from Manchester, offers all this and more, boasting beautiful beach resorts, vibrant nightlife and stunning scenery.
Beach with parasols and blooming bougainvillea near Sharm el-Sheikh, Red Sea, Egypt.
(Image: Veronica Bogaerts/ Getty)
Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt is a destination well worth considering, particularly if you’re in search of winter sun, reports the Express.
The holiday experts at On The Beach, have proclaimed Sharm El Sheikh an ideal haven for those seeking relaxation and fun this winter.
This Egyptian resort, located on the Red Sea coast, is just over five hours away but offers a January climate vastly different from the UK’s.
While us Brits are burrowing into our coats and leaning into the icy wind, temperatures out in Egypt can reach highs of 22C – which is actually the coldest month of the year for that region. And some may say that 22C is the perfect holiday weather – not too hot to be uncomfortable but warm enough for summer clothes.
This part of Egypt truly offers something for everyone, making it an ideal holiday destination. From vast deserts filled with dunes to impressive mountain ranges, the natural landscape is simply breathtaking.
The city is also located right on the coast, so if you’re a lover of sun, sand and sea, you’re in for a treat. Sharm El Sheikh is known for its crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkelling enthusiasts.
Diving in the Red Sea is incredibly popular thanks to its crystal clear waters and sealife
(Image: Andrey Narchuk/ Getty)
Indeed, one of the region’s highlights – Ras Mohammed National Park – has been dubbed a ‘snorkeler’s paradise’, due to the sheer variety of tropical fish in the water. Lucky divers may even spy some sea turtles.
Want to head out after a gorgeous day soaking up the sun? Sharm El Sheikh truly comes to life after dark, with the city centre offering fantastic venues like Pacha and the Hard Rock Cafe, where you can enjoy live music, DJ sets, and much more.
For those seeking a more laid-back evening, there are numerous laid-back cocktail bars scattered around, many of which are situated right on the waterfront – providing a space for a relaxed sundowner (or two).
When planning your holiday to Sharm El Sheikh, you’ll find a wide range of resorts and hotels to choose from, catering to various budgets.
From the Sea Beach Aqua Park resort priced at £364pp to the Cleopatra Luxury Resort at £544pp, there’s a wealth of options to explore – each boasting their own unique features.
So, if you’re considering a holiday treat this New Year, this Egyptian gem might be worth exploring.