A destination within a 10-island group has surpassed the Canary Islands to claim the top spot in easyJet’s Winter Sun Index, just a six-hour flight away from the UK. Referred to as ‘the new Canaries’ and ‘the Caribbean without the jet lag,’ this location offers magnificent white sandy beaches and easy accessibility from the UK. With temperatures reaching 25C in January, it is quickly becoming a popular winter getaway, made even better by being only an hour behind the UK, eliminating jet lag concerns.
EasyJet’s ranking methodology considered various factors like UK accessibility, winter temperatures, sunshine hours, rainfall, time zone difference, and on-site expenses such as the average cost of a pint and a meal for two.
At the top of the rankings sits Sal, part of the Cape Verde islands, with easyJet operating services from London Gatwick, Manchester, and Bristol. Situated in the central Atlantic, west of Africa, Sal boasts January temperatures ranging from 24-25C, a stark contrast to the UK’s 8C, as reported by the Express.
The sea temperature remains a pleasant 22-24C, slightly cooler than summer but ideal for swimming and water activities. With approximately 10 hours of daily sunshine, compared to Tenerife’s six to seven hours, visitors can soak up ample vitamin D. Cape Verde experiences minimal rainfall of 1-3mm during the winter, making it one of the driest winter sun destinations, while Gran Canaria and Agadir see higher precipitation levels, indicating a higher chance of brief showers.
Flights to Sal start at £91.99 one-way, with easyJet Holidays offering various package deals. For example, a seven-day trip departing from Manchester on January 13, staying at the four-star Sol Dunas Family Fun, is priced at £737 per person, inclusive of meals, drinks, 23kg checked luggage, transfers, and a £100 discount with the code BIGSALE.
For those preferring self-catering, numerous options are available, especially around Santa Maria in southern Sal, offering a mix of international and local dining choices. An average meal for two is estimated at £30-31 by easyJet.
If you fancy a cold pint to beat the heat, the average cost is a budget-friendly £2.25, much cheaper than in the UK.
Southern Sal in Cape Verde is a popular tourist spot known for its pristine beaches and major hotels. However, vast undeveloped areas on the islands are perfect for those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Murdeira, located on the western side of the island, is a hidden gem with peaceful beaches and soft sands.
Visitors can also take a ferry to explore neighboring islands, with Boa Vista just a three-hour journey away. Boa Vista features the charming town of Sal Rei and a few hotels, surrounded by white beaches and clear waters, with the possibility of encountering turtle nesting sites during beach walks.