A winter holiday in the sun is what many people dream of in the UK as the days get shorter and the weather colder.

Fortunately, thanks to the latest redesign of the traffic light system, the world has now opened up dramatically to British holidaymakers.

According to research from ABTA – The Travel Association, nearly half of people have booked or are planning to take a winter vacation this year, which, remarkably, is higher than before the pandemic.

So while we dream of sun, sea and sand, where in the world is the best for a winter vacation? We’ve got seven of the best below – plus all of the latest Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office entry requirements.

the Canary Islands

The Canaries are one of the UK’s favorite destinations for a winter holiday in the sun.

With warm temperatures, sandy beaches and some of the best water parks in the world, they are a great choice for families this October semester or during the Christmas holidays.

READ MORE: P&O Cruises’ Ventura ship to travel to Canary Islands –

Entry requirements

The Spanish government requires all people arriving in Spain and the Canary Islands from the UK to present a pre-travel declaration form and one of the following upon entry: a negative COVID-19 test; or proof of vaccination.

Tourist accommodation providers may also ask you to show proof of a negative test, of being fully vaccinated, or of having had and recovered from COVID-19 in the past six months.

Turkey

Turkey offers the best of East and West, ancient history and delicious local food, we also enjoy the winter sun.

Antalya, on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, has one of the warmest climates, stunning natural scenery, and elegant seaside resorts.

– READ MORE: Best Winter Sun Cruise Destinations –

Entry requirements

All arrivals to Turkey, except Turkish citizens or holders of a residence permit, must complete an online form no later than 72 hours before travel.

All arrivals (ages 12 and over) must have proof of one of the following:

• A full cycle of COVID-19 vaccinations (performed at least 14 days before arrival in Turkey)
• recent recovery from COVID-19
• a negative PCR test (within 72 hours of arrival)
• a rapid antigen test (within 48 hours of arrival).

For children 11 and under, no PCR test or vaccination certificate is required.

Dubai

A little further afield, the best time to visit bustling metropolis Dubai is from October, as the region emerges from the scorching summer heat.

Vacationers can enjoy world-class entertainment, luxury hotels and boutiques galore, all at welcome average temperatures of at least 25 degrees.

– READ MORE: Top five cultural delights to see and experience in Dubai –

Entry requirements

Tourists traveling from or via the UK and arriving in Dubai must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test before departure and present the certificate upon check-in.

These must be taken no later than 72 hours before departure for arrivals in Dubai.

Travelers arriving in Dubai may be required to undergo another COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival and will need to self-isolate while awaiting the result of the COVID-19 PCR test.

Jamaica

The tropical climates and laid back vibe of the Caribbean islands are the perfect choice for a winter break.

Jamaica – the birthplace of reggae – has a rich colonial history, spectacular diving and snorkeling spots, and plenty of all-inclusive resorts.

– READ MORE: Cruise lines to follow for 2022 –

Entry requirements

All travelers aged 12 and over arriving in Jamaica must present a negative COVID-19 (PCR, NAA, RNA) or antigenic molecular test, which was taken within 72 hours of the date of travel.

Anyone arriving in Jamaica will be screened for symptoms of COVID 19 at the airport. You must also obtain entry clearance from the Visit Jamaica website before checking in for a flight.

Barbados

With azure blue waters and white sand beaches fringed by palm trees, each Caribbean island has its own distinctiveness and a rich history to explore.

Barbados vacationers can try their hand at kitesurfing or catamaraning or, if you want to stay ashore, explore the sugar cane fields and rainforests.

– READ MORE: Your go-to post-Covid guide to Caribbean cruising –

Entry requirements

All travelers from the UK must show a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test result on arrival, taken no more than three days before your flight arrives.

All passengers are also required to present an embarkation / disembarkation (ED) card 24 hours before travel, on which they must upload their negative test result via the travel form. The BIMSafe app can also be used.

Upon arrival, all passengers will undergo a health check while unvaccinated travelers will be subject to a five-day quarantine upon entry.

Maldives

For those who want to push the boat for a very special trip this winter, the Maldives is an idyllic island destination.

Tourists can enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches and experience diving, surfing, fishing, kayaking and more.

– READ MORE: Your Complete Guide to Small Ship Cruising –

Entry requirements

All visitors (except children under one year of age) must present a negative PCR test for COVID-19 upon arrival in the Maldives. The test and the negative PCR certificate must be issued no later than 96 hours before departure.

All travelers to the Maldives must complete a traveler’s health declaration form 24 hours prior to departure and return from the Maldives.

Temperature controls and screening procedures will be in place upon arrival. Quarantine facilities have been put in place to isolate any suspected cases of COVID-19.

Mauritius

Mauritius, also located in the Indian Ocean, offers luxury accommodation surrounded by turquoise lagoons, sunny beaches and colorful reefs teeming with marine life.

Vacationers can snorkel or scuba dive among the incredible coral reefs and marine life or enjoy water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding, wakeboarding, flyboarding and kayaking.

– READ MORE: New travel rules – what are they and what impact do they have on cruise vacations? –

Entry requirements

Mauritius has removed restrictions for fully vaccinated tourists. However, travelers must present a negative PCR test performed within 72 hours of the last point of boarding.

Unvaccinated tourists are allowed entry but must self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival at an official quarantine hotel.