• When to fly: any winter month.
• Ticket price from Moscow for one in both directions: from 35,000, on New Year - from 80,000 rubles.
• from 1199 RUR/night for two.
• You can vacation without a visa: up to 30 days.

Ao Nang Beach, Krabi Province

Thailand is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about where to holiday abroad in the winter. Winter is the height of the season: no rain, the sun is shining, +30 in the air, and +28–29 in the water. Mango and papaya are singing. Nightclubs on Bangla Road are in full swing. Along with good weather, tourists fly to Thailand - prices for flights and accommodation become more expensive.

New Year in Thailand is a holiday exclusively for tourists. With fireworks, a Christmas tree and festivities. Locals celebrate Chinese and Thai New Year on a larger scale.

Phuket is an excellent choice if you want to scuba dive, lie in comfort on the beach, and have a blast at crazy parties in the evening. There are excellent conditions for diving and snorkeling, full of beach cafes, massage parlors and hangouts for every taste. Family tourists with children will also have something to do: the island has aquarium (about 3-5 $), amusement park FantaSea with theatrical elephant show (about $55), water park Splash Jungle ($18-30). Stay in Nai Harn or Karon - these are the most calm and cozy areas.

What to do in winter in Phuket

• Swim, sunbathe or snorkel on the tranquil coastlineNai Harn or (entrance to the beaches is free) and feel like a hero from the movie “The Beach”.
• Look at the temple and take the obligatory photo from the observation deck Big Buddha View Point (all locations are free).
• Take a walk in the evening along the party street Bangla Road and go to a ladyboy show Simon Cabaret (~ 18-30 $ / 1220-2035 rub.).
• Rent a motorbike (~ $6-10 / 405-675 rubles) and drive around the entire island, counting Buddha statues along the way.
• Order a real Thai massage session in a street salon (from $9 / 610 rubles per hour).
• Watch the sunset in the south of the island at the most beautiful observation deck Promthep Cape (Prom Thep Cape).
• Become a fruitarian for a week and try all possible exotics - jackfruit, mango, rambutan and durian - for the price of a kilogram of potatoes in Russia.

Vietnam, Nha Trang

• When to fly: February.
• Ticket price from Moscow in both directions for one: from 56,000 rubles.
• from 1299 RUR/night for two.
• You can vacation without a visa: 15 days.

Ha Long Bay

A hospitable country with tropical nature, delicious food, cheap diving and surfing. Compared to Thailand, the climate here is cooler, the beaches are less crowded, and the resorts are quieter. Vietnam is good for independent travel as a couple, family or group. Therefore, choose a hotel that is cheaper, but with a convenient location - you won’t want to sit by the pool.

On New Year's Day, all festive events are held for tourists in hotels. Maximum - banquet and countdown to midnight. Fireworks displays are rare in the country.

Nha Trang is the most developed, interesting and fairly budget resort in Vietnam. Winter is the low season and good beach weather starts towards February. In December-January it is still cool and windy, but tickets are the cheapest. Don’t be afraid of bad weather: even in the off-season you can sunbathe (+25-28 in the air), in February you can swim (in the water it’s already +24-26), and on cloudy days you can go on excursions. It rains at least three to four times a month, but more often at night.

What to do in winter in Nha Trang

• Spend the whole day lying on the white sand of Paradise Beach.
• Go on an excursion to Dalat, see Cao Dai Temple and Linh Phuoc (entrance to the temples is free), Ba Ho Waterfall and Yang Bay Park.
• Visit rice and coffee plantations, see how Luwak and Kuli coffee are made.
• Try Vietnamese cuisine: Pho soup (~ 1-3 $ / 70-204 rub.), marinated pork Bun Cha (~ 1.5-2 $ / 100-140 rub.), street spring rolls and egg coffee with condensed milk ( ~ 0.5-2 $ / 34-140 rub.);
• Travel with children to Winpearl Island (~ 28-38 $ / 1900-2580 rubles) and have a blast yourself, riding slides, electric sleds and carousels in the water park. You can get to the park by cable car (~ $0.3 / 20 rubles) or by ferry.

Brazil, Rio de Janeiro

• When to fly: December-early January.
• Ticket price from Moscow in both directions for one: for the New Year - from 120,000 rubles. In January, February - from 70,000 rubles.
• from 1099 RUR/night for two.

View of Rio de Janeiro

The famous Copacabana beach, carnival, legendary football - all this is Brazil. Winter is the ideal time to travel to Rio. You can sunbathe, swim, look at the famous statue of Christ and Sugarloaf Mountain. The air temperature throughout almost the entire country is +28–29, the same in the water.

New Year's Eve in Rio is big: all residents dress in white, come to the Copacabana coast, throw flowers into the ocean and watch fireworks. You will celebrate the holiday without chimes and Olivier, but right on the beach and to the sound of the waves.

Holidays in Rio de Janeiro in winter are a dream come true: ocean, tropical nature, authentic culture and countless attractions. The only negative is the peak season, hence the high cost of the flight. You can fly here alone, as a couple, or in a group. But it’s not worth it with small children: the flight lasts from 17 hours, plus acclimatization and jet lag - it will be difficult for the little ones.

Ipanema Beach

What to do in winter in Rio

• Dance on New Year's Eve to the rhythms of salsa on Copacabana beach.
• Take a mini-train ride to see with your own eyes the famous statue of Christ on Mount Corcovado (from $48 / RUR 3,255 round trip from the station on Rua Cosme Velho).
• Walk through the largest "inner city" rainforest in the world - Tijuca forest (the entrance is free).
• Jump in the ocean waves at Ipanema Beach (free entry).
• Take a tour (from $10) or at least look at the famousMaracanã Stadium , where the World Championships were held twice (1950 and 2014) and the 2016 Olympics opened.
• See the world's largest floating Christmas tree, 85 meters high, in Laguna Rodrigo de Freitas.
• Choose what tastes better: Brazilian coffee from the oldest confectionery Confeitaria Colombo or a glass of Brahma from the brewery"Lapa".

Azerbaijan, Baku

• When to fly: New Year's Eve.
• Ticket price in both directions for one: from 17,000 rubles.
• from 949 rub./night for two.
• You can vacation without a visa: up to 90 days.

Flame towers in Baku

If you don’t want to spend a lot on a flight, but want to get away from the desk and TV, go to Baku. There is a lot to see in the city: ancient fortresses and palaces, the Flame Towers skyscraper, the Caspian Sea and the snow-capped Caucasus. There are rarely frosts in the capital of Azerbaijan; the temperature on the coast is around +10, but it can be rainy.

In Azerbaijan, as in Russia, the New Year is celebrated on a grand scale. Restaurants offer a special New Year's program with a Caucasian flavor, and reservations must be made early.

The capital of Azerbaijan is an excellent choice for a family holiday. On holidays it is interesting to walk around the center of Baku. The city is decorated with colorful garlands and installations, the main Christmas tree is being erected in the National Seaside Park, and there will also be fireworks at night.

When walking around the city, dress warmly and often go to a cafe to warm up. There are many authentic tea houses serving nut jam, restaurants with national dishes - kutabs, dolma with lamb and cognac (only if you are very cold).

Heydar Aliyev Center, Baku

What to do in Baku in winter

• Walk through the fabulous town of “Little Venice” in the seaside park and ride a gondola there (free admission, gondola ~ 3.5-5 AZN / 140-200 rubles per person).
• Take a photo atFountain Square with the Azerbaijani Father Frost Shakhta Baba and his Snow Maiden Karkyz.
• Take a walk through Old Baku and remember scenes from the film “The Diamond Arm”;
• Try traditional Azerbaijani pilaf with lamb, pumpkin, nuts, which is always prepared on New Year’s Eve (for example, in a restaurant"Nargiz" , ~ 8.5 AZN / 340 rub. a portion).
• Leave the city for more than a couple of days to experience a special spa procedure - treatment with special oil at the resort Naftalan (from 157 AZN / 6250 rubles per night for two).

In order not to miss the best places in the capital, read ours.

Indonesia, Bali

• Ticket price per person from Moscow in both directions: on New Year from 80,000 rubles, in January-February - from 55,000 rubles.
• from 899 RUR/night for two.
• You can vacation without a visa: up to 30 days.

Balangan Beach, Kuta

In terms of natural beauty and level of comfort, nothing compares to a holiday on the islands of Indonesia. The easiest (and cheaper!) way to get to Bali is by direct flight: you can fly directly to Denpasar (the capital of the island). There is a developed infrastructure, excellent hotels and magnificent beaches. If you are flying with children, choose the Sanur resort, if you want a noisy nightlife - the city of Kuta or Seminyak, if you like peace and quiet - the Canggu area.

If you are going to celebrate the New Year in Indonesia, don’t be surprised that the locals won’t even remember about the holiday. The night from December 31 to January 1 is celebrated exclusively for tourists in hotels and noisy areas, while the Balinese themselves celebrate their New Year Nyeppi in the spring.

Winter is considered the low season in Bali, but Russian tourists really like to come here at this time. Rains occur, but, as a rule, in the mornings or at night they do not interfere with beach holidays. But if you plan to scuba dive, keep in mind: visibility in the water may be worse than in clear weather. Choose the calm beaches of Nusa Dua, Seminyak, Sanur for relaxation - there is usually less rainfall and calm water.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

What to do in winter in Bali

• Visit a popular beach Jimbaran , in the mecca for surfers Canggu , deserted and quiet Nikko Beach and Balangan with constant waves to create your own top of the best.
• See real tropical forests, ancient temples and powerful volcanoes of Kintamani and Gunung Batur.
• Spend the whole day at the water park Waterboom (from 22 $ / 1490 rubles per person) and get a powerful adrenaline rush from an almost vertical fall on the CLIMAX slide.
• Go on an excursion to Ubud (on average ~ $30 / 2035 rubles per person): visit the monkey forest, see the Hanging Gardens and find that same old Balinese healer from the film “Eat, Pray, Love”.
• Take a surfing course (from $30/2035 rubles per lesson) and catch a wave in Kuta or Uluwatu;
• Buy branded items at a price three times lower than in Moscow in Kuta shopping centers (for example, in Beachwalk Shopping Center).
• Try Balinese seafood skewers and gorge yourself on fruit.

Russia: Crimea (Yalta) or Krasnodar region (Gelendzhik)

• When to fly: New Year.
• Ticket price per one from Moscow in both directions: to Simferopol - from 14,000 rubles. To Krasnodar (there are no flights to Gelendzhik in winter) - from 10,000 rubles.
• Hotels in from 1099 RUR/night for two and from 1199 RUR/night for two.
• You can vacation without a visa as long as you want.

In Yalta or Gelendzhik, even in winter there is a resort atmosphere. Of course, you won’t be able to swim and sunbathe on the beach. But you will breathe in the fresh sea air, buy honey and churchkhela, walk along mountain paths and pine forests, feed the seagulls and local cats. From December to February, these regions have humid, cloudy weather, but there are sunny days and +15. You won’t see snow: only on the tops of the mountains, and even then not always.

Celebrating the New Year is the same as everywhere else in Russia: people walk the streets, buy cheap trinkets at Christmas markets, and visit cafes and shopping centers. Only the main tree stands on the square near the sea, where mass celebrations and the countdown to the New Year usually take place.

Fly alone, as a couple, with children. For entertainment, you can take a boat ride, go on an excursion to the mountains, go to the zoo, or have a beach picnic.

What to do at sea in winter

• Sitting on the beach with a thermos of hot tea, watching the sunset and listening to the seagulls.
• Rent equipment and try your hand at windsurfing or kite surfing - windy weather makes for cool fun.
• Go to Safari Park (from 1500 rub.) in Gelendzhik or Yalta Zoo (from 250 rubles) and feed all the animals with crackers (we didn’t advise you to do this).
• Get out for the whole day from Gelendzhik to Abrau-Durso to taste champagne (900 rubles per person), and then admire the magnificent views of the lake.
• Take a walk along the resort alleys, parks, sanatoriums and be amazed at the silence around.
• Take a ride on a pleasure boat (~ 400 rubles per person), taking with you bread for the seagulls - they will catch food right on the fly.
• Celebrate New Year's Eve on the main square near the Christmas tree, drink champagne and dance on the beach until the morning.

South Korea, Seoul

• When to fly: any winter month.
• Ticket price per person from Moscow in both directions: on New Year - from 50,000 rubles, in January-February - from 35,000 rubles.
• from 1199 RUR/night for two.
• You can vacation without a visa: up to 60 days.

A country of tall skyscrapers, modern technology and the cult of anime. In winter, the South Korean Alps are covered with snow caps, national parks become even more beautiful, there is an excellent ski complex built for the 2018 Olympics. Korea has a real winter, with snow and an average temperature from +5 to -5.

On the night of December 31 to January 1, no special festivities are expected in Seoul: Koreans celebrate their Seollal New Year at the end of winter or beginning of spring. The best option for celebrating is to book a table in a restaurant, then walk around the city or look for a continuation in one of the nightclubs, always with karaoke.

In one trip you can visit several cities. Stay in Seoul and travel from there. From the capital to the farthest city of Busan, it is only a four-hour bus ride. Come here alone, with a group or with your family - the country has entertainment for everyone. Seoul is an interesting city to walk around. Ancient palaces of the rulers of Korea, antique shops, art galleries, thousands of cosmetic shops and nightclubs. Busan has excellent beaches, Jeju has romantic views, and Yeonpyeong and Hyundai Seonggu have ski activities. Take a day trip to choigozip Hongdae ,~ 6-20 $ / 410-1360 rub. for dinner), where the food is prepared right in front of you, try traditional Korean alcohol - soju.

Ice skating with your kids at a Seoul indoor amusement park Lotte World "(~ 14-55 $ / 950-3730 rubles) and get caught in artificial snowfall.

Buy Korean masks and patches in the Myeongdong shopping district for yourself, your friends and all your relatives with a supply for the next five years.

Belarus, Minsk and Belovezhskaya Pushcha

• When to fly: New Year's Eve.
• Ticket price per person from Moscow in both directions: from 10,000 rubles.
• Hotels in from 2199 RUR/night for two
• You can vacation without a visa: 90 days with an internal passport.

You will be surprised how interesting it can be in a neighboring country in winter: snow-covered fairytale castles, Belovezhskaya Pushcha with another residence of Father Frost, ski resorts. The climate of Belarus is similar to Russia, but winters are milder, without strong winds and frosts. This is an ideal option for a holiday trip with children.

If you celebrate the New Year in Belovezhskaya Pushcha, you will feel like the hero of the fairy tale “The Twelve Months”: there is silence and a dense snow-covered forest all around. To keep you from getting bored, the hotel staff will hold a night disco, a banquet, and a meeting with the real Santa Claus and fairy-tale characters.

Stay in Minsk and go on excursions from there. A whole entertainment complex has been opened in Belovezhskaya Pushcha: fabulous forests with snow-covered edges and thousand-year-old oaks, the hut of Father Frost and the Snow Maiden, the Museum of Nature with bison and other wild animals. You can stay directly in a hotel on site reserve - There are hotels of different levels of comfort here. Prices for two people for accommodation with breakfast in December - from 108 BYN / 3385 rubles. per night. Book your hotel in advance, there is a rush here in winter. If you vacation from December 28 to January 14, you can buy a tour package that includes food and accommodation along with New Year's entertainment.

Take a minibus (from the Central Station ~ 6.5 BYN / 205 rubles) on an excursion to Nesvizh (~ 6.5-13 BYN / 205-410 rubles entrance) and admire the ancient castles, which look even more majestic in winter;

Ride a sleigh through the fairytale forest of Belovezhskaya Pushcha and take photos in Estate with Father Frost and Snow Maiden (entrance to the hut ~ 6.5-9 BYN / 205-285 rubles).

Find Nastenka from the fairy tale “12 Months” in Belovezhskaya Pushcha, warm up with her by the fire and dance around the tallest spruce tree in Europe.

Celebrating the New Year is a repetitive activity, and why not celebrate it in a new way every time. Last year you stayed at the festive table at home, but this year you will celebrate the first of January on the beach hugging a Balinese palm tree, or devouring Azerbaijani kutabs, or raising a glass of Korean alcohol. Just plan as soon as possible. If you want to celebrate at home, that's fine too. From mid-January there is a lull and you can go on vacation quite inexpensively. Dream. Book. Rest. (And don't freeze!).

When deciding where it is better to go to the sea in winter, you can consider options for countries, hotels and levels of service.

Before going on vacation, you need to analyze the country's weather

It is advisable to carefully analyze the weather in the selected country. It is important how safe it is for the child if you are planning a family vacation.

For example, in European Mediterranean resorts it is still cold at this time of year. In Egypt or Israel the sea is not completely warmed up. For a beach holiday in winter, only Asian resorts remain, which are much more expensive.

1. Winter holidays are as beneficial as possible for the human body.
2. You can enjoy exotic fruits and vegetables.
3. Prevention of various diseases, so-called climatotherapy.
4. Many tours are cheaper in winter than in summer.

Disadvantages of a winter holiday at sea

1. In many resorts, winter is the rainy season.
2. After immersing yourself in warm summers, returning home to a cold climate can cause depression.
3. When the climate changes dramatically, one must take into account the possibility of exacerbation of chronic diseases.

When choosing a place where you can go abroad by sea in the winter of 2019, you need to take into account the average water and air temperature at various resorts, the price of the tour and the need for a visa.

Where do you want to go (survey)

Which country do you think is better for vacation?

20 countries with warm climates where you can fly in winter without a visa

You can go to almost all resorts without a visa. The exception is Hainan, where people are allowed to enter without a visa only as part of a tourist group. There are several other countries where you need to obtain a permit via the Internet to enter (table). You can obtain such a visa in 1-2 days online.

A country	Air temperature	Water temperature	Visa requirement	Average cost of a tour for two for a week
India, Goa	30	27	online visa	from 40 thousand rubles
Thailand, central part	18–32	24–27	need not	from 52 thousand rubles
Cambodia	25–32	28	need not	from 60 thousand rubles
Malaysia	30	27	need not	from 107 thousand rubles
Seychelles	24–29	28	need not	from 140 thousand rubles
Singapore	20–26	28	needed	from 180 thousand rubles
Sri Lanka	28–30	26	e-visa	from 66 thousand rubles.
Bali, Indonesia	23–30	28	need not	from 160 thousand rubles
Cuba	27–28	25–27	need not	from 102 thousand rubles
Vietnam	30–33	24–27	need not	from 130 thousand rubles
Dominican Republic	27–30	26	need not	from 111 thousand rubles
Mexico	23–31	28	online visa	from 130 thousand rubles
Brazil	25–34	28	need not	from 130 thousand rubles
Philippines	29–30	27	need not	from 80 thousand rubles
Eilat, Israel	21–24	22–26	need not	from 67 thousand rubles
Maldives	30	28	need not	from 140 thousand rubles
China, Hainan Island
UAE	14–25	20	needed in case of independent travel	from 120 thousand rubles
Jordan	24–26	23–25	need not	from 46 thousand rubles
Egypt	7–17	22	need not	from 45 thousand rubles

Countries with warm seas in winter

Egypt

When thinking about where to go for a seaside vacation, many often choose. This country has the most comfortable conditions for spending time on the beach in winter. The water temperature is almost equal to the air temperature.

True, at night it can drop to 13 degrees, so you always need to have something warm with you.

You can watch a video about holidays in Egypt:

This is a fairly low-budget option with an average level of service. There are all conditions for an active holiday, from diving in Hurghada to excursions to Luxor or Cairo. You can also take a safari or go on a Nile cruise.

Goa, India

In winter, the air humidity at this resort is lower than in summer, so the heat is easier to bear. To save your budget, it is better to go to Goa in the second half of winter, because it is quite expensive here for the New Year.

The largest number of entertainment facilities are concentrated. The south is quieter and calmer, which is especially suitable for families with children. For vacationers, the minus here is that shops and restaurants are far from the hotels.

Goa has a large selection of accommodation: you can rent a private house, stay in a bungalow or a two-star hotel. Taking into account the prices of food and entertainment, some last-minute tours will be cheaper in price than if the vacationer goes on his own.

The cost of renting housing in North Goa is about this in the next video.

Sri Lanka

Spending a winter holiday in Ceylon means getting a little closer to wild nature. Bentota, Wadduwa, Negombo and Hikkaduwa are considered the most suitable for recreation. There is beautiful nature here, cheap transport, but expensive accommodation and excursions.

The entertainment infrastructure is not very developed. But, besides the standard swimming and lying on the beach, here you can have a good dive, walk to the cliff called “The End of the World” or cook a barbecue on the beach.

It is better to choose a hotel in the south or west of the island, since the monsoon period begins in the east in winter.

Main attractions of the capital Colombo:

1. Presidential Palace.
2. Temples and mosques.
3. Old lighthouse.
4. Clock tower.
5. National Museum.
6. Art gallery, etc.

Sights of Sri Lanka

Thailand

In winter, it is better to relax on the beach in the central part of the country, because it is relatively cold in the north at this time. Swimming can be combined with excursions to Pattaya, visiting various temples and museums, as well as a tropical garden. While vacationing in, you can visit Monkey Mountain or the sweets fair.

Beach in Thailand

At this time of year the country is in high season, so prices for tours are quite high.

Dominican Republic

This is a resort for those who do not like civilization. There is a very clean sea, white sand beaches, and places to dive to see the rich aquatic world. in January, February, because at the beginning of winter it still rains.

The most comfortable vacation spot in the Dominican Republic is Boca Chica Bay, which is fenced off from the rest of the world by reefs and is very suitable for families with children.

Combining a stay on the beach with travel, you can visit:

• The historical center of the capital.
• Alcazar Castle.
• Palace of Casa del Almirante.
• Chapel of Rosario, etc.

Dominican Republic Map

One of the disadvantages of the trip is that the local Spaniards speak English poorly. And the country has a high crime rate.

Mexico

Winter is great for a beach holiday in Mexico, and the Acapulco area is ideal for this. If you plan to surf, then it is better to choose Cancun. In addition to swimming and beach relaxation, you can go to such interesting places:

• The ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza.
• Location of the pyramids.
• Museum of underwater sculptures.
• Into the jungle, where you can excellently dive in the wells located there.
• A cave with giant stalactites and stalagmites.
• Entertainment park for children.

Brazil

December in Brazil is the hottest month. People often come here to celebrate the New Year. In the Amazon there is almost no rain from December to April. Beach holidays are possible here all year round.

In winter, it is better to travel to the center and south of the country, when the temperature here is above 32 degrees. Prices are especially high at this time. In order to swim and sunbathe, it is better to go to small towns on the ocean, where there are clean sandy beaches and silence.

There will be no relaxing holiday in Rio, and the beaches are not always clean. In addition to beach holidays, there are quite a lot of excursion sites, which, unfortunately, are located at a distance from one another:

1. Iguaza Falls on the border with Argentina.
2. "Brazilian Venice" in Recife.
3. Museum objects of Sao Paulo, etc.

Iguazu Falls in Brazil on the border with Argentina

In order to go surfing, it is better to go to Florianópolis, Fortaleza or Rio. Yachting, ecotourism, horse riding and mountaineering are also very developed here. The local cuisine is very specific: you can try both lobster and stewed alligator meat. And also real Brazilian coffee!

Few people travel to Brazil with children, primarily because of the high cost of tours. But if you are still planning a family vacation, then it is better to go to Fortaleza, Paraty or Angra dos Reis. The crime rate in the country is quite high, so independent tourists should be careful.

Vietnam

In winter, it is better to spend your holidays in the south of the country, primarily Phu Quoc, Con Dao, Mui Ne and Phan Thiet. It is better not to visit the most popular resort at this time of year, Nha Trang. The price of tours gradually increases from the beginning to the end of winter.

Diving in Vietnam is relatively inexpensive.

Malaysia

In winter, Malaysia is a tropical paradise for beach lovers. The best beaches are Penang, Pangkor, Langkawi, etc. Services here are more expensive than in Vietnam, as is alcohol.

Malaysian ringgit is the national currency of Malaysia

When choosing a tour to Malaysia, you need to take into account that this is a Muslim country, but the locals speak English well and are very friendly towards tourists.

Philippines

This time of year is high season in the Philippines. Both lovers of active recreation and people who prefer peace and quiet will like it here. Excellent vacation spots are Cebu, Panay, Palawan, Boracay.

Detailed map of the Philippines

Prices for food and housing here are low, but in some areas the infrastructure is poorly developed. You need to be prepared for the fact that the Internet in the Philippines is quite slow, however, for a normal holiday this is more of a plus than a minus.

Maldives

In the Maldives you can relax on the beach in peace and quiet, which is why they are often chosen to spend a honeymoon. In winter it has the best weather of the year. The best atolls of the Maldives are South Male, Ari, Addu and Raa.

The Maldives offers excellent diving. Prices on islands where locals live are lower than where they are almost entirely occupied by hotel grounds. During the New Year holidays prices skyrocket.

Maldives on the world map

The islands are very clean and the locals speak English. Despite the fact that the flight to the Maldives is long, the beauty and environmentally friendly recreation area completely compensate for this.

Cuba

Payments to tourists occur in local currency called cookies, which makes services and goods cheaper. There is very little rain here at this time of year. The best place for those who buy a tour is Varadero.

There are a large number of holidays and festivals held in Cuba. The locals, although annoying (especially taxi drivers), are very friendly. Service for tourists is at an average level.

Cambodia

You can take an inexpensive independent trip to Cambodia and enjoy nature, unaffected by anthropogenic influence. True, the tourism infrastructure is poorly developed, but the country is excellent for a beach holiday.

The most popular place among tourists is Sihanoukville. Most of the hotels are located here, and you can try various types of water activities. In addition to swimming in the sea, visitors visit interesting places:

• The Angkor Wat temple complex.
• Ta Phrum Temple, completely covered with trees and vines.
• Silver Pagoda.
• Palace of the Royal Family.
• National park and museum.

Tha Phrum Temple - a landmark of Cambodia

The weather in the Canaries is formed by the tropical trade wind climate, so in winter it is hot here, which allows you to both relax on the beach and go on excursions. The Canary Islands have a very big advantage over other resort areas; there is no rainy season.

The most popular holiday islands are Tenerife, Gran Canaria and La Palma. Their territories are protected from cold winds and heat by mountains. The north of these islands has very lush vegetation and waves suitable for surfing enthusiasts.

The eastern part of the islands is the driest.

Hotels of various star ratings offer a fairly high level of service. There are air connections between the islands and sea vessels. This makes traveling very convenient.

You can rent a car. If you want to enjoy the beauty of nature, then you should visit the island of La Gomera or the island of Lanzarote, where there are volcanoes and “lunar landscapes”.

Names of the Canary Islands

In the Canaries you can also visit a casino, a water park, observation decks, a national park, a museum in the crater of a volcano and other attractions.

Beach holidays in winter on the “Subtleties of Tourism”

As the famous proverb says, in winter the sun shines, but does not warm, and before the first snow has time to fall, the chilled inhabitants of the middle zone plunge into romantic dreams of the sea. The calendar winter in Russia lasts three months, but you and I know that we have to wait almost twice as long for warmth. For those who feel depressed due to the endless winter months, there is nothing better than going to warm countries. Fortunately, gone are the days when a beach holiday in winter was something out of fantasy. Traveling to hot countries has become more accessible, and you can search for destinations for a beach holiday all over the globe.

Previous photo 1/ 1 Next photo

Most popular resorts

Our compatriots love holidays in Egypt so much that many go there as if it were home. Optimal price-quality ratio, convenient all-inclusive system, long-awaited hot sun and warm sea - for a simple beach holiday you don’t need anything else, and if the serene beach life suddenly gets boring, you can go diving or go on an excursion: the cultural heritage of Egypt is very rich.

Due to the lack of piercing winds, the resorts of Sharm el-Sheikh are perfect for a winter trip, but it is better to reschedule a visit to Hurghada to another time.

To add a little color to the colorless winter landscapes, many go on vacation to Thailand. In November, the rainy season ends in Southeast Asia, and until April, resorts in Thailand delight tourists with pleasant sunny weather. A pleasant addition to a luxurious holiday on pearl beaches will be the famous Thai massage, exploring numerous Buddhist shrines and visiting ancient temples, elephant rides and exotic cuisine.

Previous photo 1/ 1 Next photo

The resorts of the United Arab Emirates invite you to spend an unforgettable vacation in the atmosphere of an Arabian fairy tale. This is an amazing country where conservative traditions and progressive trends coexist harmoniously, no one is surprised by camels peacefully walking between Mercedes, fashion shows where Arab fashion designers present Muslim abayas and sheilas, the proximity of record-high skyscrapers and traditional oriental bazaars. UAE resorts offer excellent conditions for a quality beach holiday in winter. The highest level of hotel service, landscaped sandy beaches, hot sunny weather, ample opportunities for active recreation - the advantages of a holiday in the United Arab Emirates can hardly be overestimated.

Previous photo 1/ 1 Next photo

The Indian state of Goa is no longer among the exotic ones; beach holidays at local resorts have long become incredibly popular, which is not surprising. Goa is a unique combination of marvelous beaches, dense jungles, colorful bazaars, stunning sunsets and gastronomic discoveries.

In winter, the resorts of Goa have wonderful weather: the air temperature is not lower than +30 °C, the water in the ocean is warmed up to +25 °C.

“Subtleties” tell: 5 beach destinations that can easily replace Egypt in winter

Other beach holiday destinations in winter

The Dominican Republic is a perfect place for a beach holiday in winter; in addition to wonderful weather, excellent beaches and warm seas, it will delight tourists with picturesque tropical forests, majestic mountains and mirror-like waterfalls. A trip to the tropical island of Hainan, whose resorts welcome tourists almost all year round, will be exciting. A winter holiday in Malaysia, Vietnamese Phan Thiet and Chilean Vigne del Mar will give you a lot of pleasant impressions. Are you already packing your bags?

When it becomes unbearably damp, cold and unpleasant outside, we all wonder where to go on vacation in winter. Due to the fact that this problem worries a significant part of Russian society, travel agencies make good money from this, of course, providing the population with the opportunity to visit warm countries at any convenient time. Therefore, now we will consider in detail the question of where you can go on vacation in winter, so that it is inexpensive and at the same time high-quality.

Egyptian deserts

Where to go for a winter vacation at sea? The most popular country chosen by domestic tourists has been and remains Egypt. Indeed, traveling to the North Coast of Africa from Moscow or St. Petersburg is very convenient. After all, the flight takes only 4-5 hours. You board an airplane in a cold and dank native capital, and when you get out, you find yourself in real summer, where the sun is hot and you can smell the sea breeze. However, it is worth noting that if you want a real summer vacation, with very high temperatures and a sea that is as warm as fresh milk, then this country is unlikely to suit you. In the middle of winter, the air here cools down to +20-23 degrees, and the sea pleases with cool waves of +18-20 degrees. However, if you want to see the sights of this historically important country for the whole world, then winter is the best time to travel. The heat and scorching sun will not tire you on the way to Giza and Luxor; you will be able to see long caravans in the deserts and learn a lot about the history of the local people and country. In accordance with the reviews of tourists, it can be argued that this period is the most favorable time for visiting all historical attractions.

Non-standard solution - a trip to India

Are you looking for a place where you can go on a winter holiday at sea for a reason, but, as they say, with a twist? Be sure to visit India - the birthplace of Buddhism. The most popular resort in the country is Goa, a state that literally bathes in the Indian Ocean. In this region, each of the domestic tourists will be able to relax, as they say, to their own taste. The northern part of the state has a very developed club industry. Bars, restaurants, cafes catering to different income levels, and pubs are scattered throughout the villages and resorts. Along with them, various nightclubs are constantly opening and closing. Many of them are thematic, and those in which you can “light up” cheaply have a very diverse contingent of vacationers. If you are looking for a warm place where you can go on holiday in winter, and you are only interested in a beach holiday, then South Goa will be the ideal place. This part of the state is literally bathed in the greenery of local gardens and jungles. Luxurious hotel complexes, spa salons, elite restaurants, and cafes have been built here. The coastal strip is also very popular. The sandy beaches here are considered the most environmentally friendly, and the water in the ocean is striking in its transparency and diversity of flora and fauna. According to tourists who have had the opportunity to visit India, this country has an incomparable charm. The people here are friendly and kind and always welcome tourists.

In ancient Muslim traditions...

You can get a lot of pleasure from a passively spent vacation in the United Arab Emirates. If you are looking for a place to go on vacation in winter and do nothing at the same time, then this country will be a real find for you. The beaches that stretch along the bays of the Persian Gulf are covered with golden sand. Hotels have been built along them, the windows of which can go straight to the clouds - they are so high. In winter, however, prices in this country rise slightly compared to the summer months. This is due to the fact that European tourists who do not tolerate the summer heat come here to relax during this time. The nights are, of course, cool, so you will have to bring sweaters and jackets with you. During the day it is very hot, the thermometer rises to +30-32. The water in the bay is always warm, its temperature is +22-23 degrees.

It is at this time of year that you can go shopping in one of the cities of the UAE without sweating too much under the local scorching sun (unlike in summer). There are plenty of places to shop here, from stock stores, where everything is sold at extremely low prices, to expensive boutiques. Let's also not forget that Dubai is a city of the latest standard. Therefore, you should definitely climb to the roof of one of the skyscrapers and see everything and everyone from a bird's eye view. Also, the UAE is the very place where you can go on vacation in winter and still feel more than relaxed. European laws apply on hotel premises, which prohibit practically nothing. Full service, all inclusive and complete freedom for your fantasies. By the way, the city of Dubai offers ample opportunities for starting your own business. According to many businessmen who have been here, you can easily combine very profitable acquaintances with a vacation.

Canary Islands - summer coolness and pleasure

For those who do not like the heat, but prefer the mild summer coolness, the Canary Islands are a good place to go on vacation in winter. They are located in the waters of the Atlantic, between Africa and America. This is a Spanish province, therefore the mentality here is the same, the language, and the laws. Among Russian tourists in winter, the most popular resorts are Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria. It is these islands, thanks to their natural landscape, that are most protected from external winds and storms, so holidays on them will always be comfortable and enjoyable for every tourist. Of all the lands, perhaps the island of Gran Canaria, which is divided into two parts by mountains, is worth highlighting. Closer to the north there are winds and the sea is sometimes stormy. The southern part, which is located behind the mountains, is always quiet, calm and very warm. We can say that this is an ideal place where going on a winter vacation with children would be the best solution.

Speaking about the Canaries in general terms, we can distinguish two main resorts. Las Americas is a very popular tourist and vibrant holiday area. Residents of Europe come here both in winter and summer, go surfing, and lead an active night and day life. But Puerto de la Cruz is the quietest place in the entire archipelago (except for secluded bays and harbors). Here you can spend your honeymoon, relax with your kids or in the company of your closest friends. Anyone who has visited the Canaries in winter claims that the islands delight with warm, but at the same time cool weather and calm seas. This is ideal for holidays with children.

Thai traditions

When you are looking for the very place where to go on an inexpensive winter vacation abroad, then Thailand, despite the fact that it is so far from us, turns out to be almost the leader in this ranking. This country is so diverse that even the most discerning traveler can choose the right resort for themselves. For lovers of active recreation, regular excursions and trips, Pattaya is suitable. This is a very large Far Eastern metropolis, which is filled with people from different parts of the planet. Some come here for work, some just for pleasure, and some with the goal of finding something fundamentally new for themselves. Those who prefer to lie on the beach, sunbathe and swim in the turquoise sea can go to Samui or Phuket. These are first-class fashionable resorts, which are literally built up with five-star and three-star hotels, with all the necessary services and services. The beaches are clean, there are not too many people, and there is enough entertainment to spend your vacation passively and at the same time not boring.

A beach holiday in winter in this country is possible at any resort. Phuket, Phi Phi, Samui are islands that are characterized by quiet and calm weather. The sea is calm, there is not a cloud in the sky. If you want to go surfing, go to the Krabi Islands - this archipelago is located in the Andaman Sea, and in January-February there are very high waves. Therefore, all you have to do is catch them and stay afloat. Travelers who visited Thailand in winter claim that it is during the winter months that the country's big cities offer huge discounts on various goods - both clothing and household items.

Expensive... but worth it!

It’s really hot and at the same time extreme during the cold season, you can relax in Africa, namely in Kenya. If you are a lover of adrenaline and new experiences, then you can solve the problem of where is the best place to go on vacation in winter for just fifteen hundred dollars. For this money you can get to the central part of the African continent, one might say, to its heart - to Kenya. A standard but very exciting entertainment here is a safari tour, which includes a ride in an SUV through the desert.

Along the way you can see zebras, giraffes, buffalos, leopards, African lions and even real pink flamingos. You shouldn’t get close to animals, because you are still in the wild. But it’s quite possible to take a more or less successful photo. By the way, a beach holiday in winter in Kenya will not be a problem at all. Between trips to the deserts, you can swim in the Indian Ocean and sunbathe on the golden beaches of the coast. We also note that if you are traveling with children, then this African country will be able to bring them the most vivid impressions.

Summer, which is incredibly inviting

Sometimes the craving for warm weather and a mild climate forces residents of Russia to go to any expense. Therefore, in search of the very place where to go on vacation in winter, where it is warm, people do not limit themselves. Central America is considered one of the distant but incredibly beautiful destinations of eternal summer. In principle, the mentality, traditions and characteristics in all countries that are washed by the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico are similar. The same applies to beaches, resort areas and hotels that are built here. Therefore, we can talk about them in general, without going into details. Well, the sea, coastlines and nature here are simply stunning. A riot of greenery, snow-white sand, and clear turquoise water constantly delight all vacationers.

Note that in the summer in Central America it begins to rain and wind, but winter is simply the ideal time for a full-fledged beach holiday. The air warms up to +30-33 degrees, the sea - up to +28, so swimming will be pleasant, and most importantly - safe for children, who are so susceptible to colds. The downside of the Caribbean countries is that winter holidays here are not so cheap. Due to the opening of the official beach season in the region, prices are rising not only for accommodation and food, but also for round-trip tickets. So you will have to book everything in advance, up to six months in advance.

Hotter, hotter, even hotter!

Those very unique and very beautiful places where going on a winter holiday abroad can be expensive, but in style - these are the Maldives. In fact, the cost of the tour is not too high and is approximately $800 per week. But for this money you get a real paradise as a gift, so, if possible, do not lose sight of this small archipelago. It is located in the Indian Ocean and is surrounded on all sides by stormy waters. On the coast of the islands, storms are extremely rare, because the waters here are always calm and quiet. The Maldives is famous for its penthouses, which are built on huge stilts driven into the ocean floor. Some of these houses have a transparent glass floor, looking at which you can watch the inhabitants of the ocean. There are almost no historical sights on the islands, but a beach holiday is the main trump card here. It's funny that room prices in the most expensive hotels are not so high - they most often do not exceed $120 per night.

Moving to cooler latitudes

Now let's look at colder countries. Where to go on vacation in winter? Not so many tourists from our country travel to Europe during this period, so prices for accommodation, food and flights drop significantly. During one of the winter months, you can book a tour of the most famous cities in this part of the world. By bus you will visit Prague, Vienna, Berlin, Paris, Milan and other cities that may be additionally included in the trip. It’s much more interesting, of course, to travel to all these places on your own. For example, in France it is especially magical in winter. It's not too cold here, but the snow lingers on the sidewalks. Spain is basking in the sun, although its rays are not yet warm enough to open the beach season. At this time, many cities in this country offer huge discounts. Therefore, you can shop profitably while on vacation. Another place where you can go on an inexpensive holiday in winter is Italy. There is also a lot of sun here, in some places even the sea warms up. Due to the fact that there is no heat, you will be able to freely walk around the cities and explore significant historical architectural monuments.

Without changing snow traditions

Speaking about sunny places on our planet, we completely forgot about where to go on vacation in winter so as to remain faithful to this beautiful snowy season and at the same time have great fun. Numerous ski resorts were created especially for this purpose, among which there are both expensive and very affordable for everyone. So, among the places for winter holidays that are reasonable in terms of prices, we can name the Ukrainian Carpathians. This mountain range is famous for its extraordinary beauty and grandeur. The people here are friendly and simple and are ready to help every tourist who comes here to discover new heights. The Tatra Mountains are located next to the Carpathians, only on the territory of Slovakia. These mountains will be steeper, so lovers of extreme sports and drive can safely go here. The prices are reasonable, hotels of any level have everything necessary to make a tourist feel comfortable and confident.

We are going to the North, to the far North...

Well, tell me, who among us in our lives has not at least once dreamed of meeting the real Santa Claus and visiting his home, in Lapland? This is exactly what, from a geographical point of view, is the name of the cultural region, which is located in the north of the Scandinavian Peninsula. If you are racking your brains about where to go in winter so that something exciting will definitely happen to you, then this is where you should go. The most important thing is that all the fabulousness, mystery and beauty of this region is interesting not only to children.

The local small towns have such a unique atmosphere that every adult, even a complete skeptic, begins to believe in miracles. The villages here are small, quiet and cozy. There are many cafes and restaurants that always serve warm drinks and delicious food. The prices, however, are a bit high, but if you came here just to celebrate the New Year, then it will fit within your usual budget.

A short afterword

You can spend your winter holidays however you like. Some people like to leave their home country during this chilly period, heading towards the summer sea breeze. Other people prefer to spend their New Year's holiday without changing their native traditions - surrounded by snow, sleighs and warm tea. In any case, it is within your power to make your winter holidays chic. All you have to do is listen to your own desires and buy a ticket in the direction to which your heart lies.

Long gone are the days when everyone associated vacation only with the summer months. Winter is also a great season for a fun trip abroad. The whole world is open to tourists from Russia, but many countries require a visa. A selection of destinations where to go on vacation without a visa in winter in 2019 - for those who have no desire to ruin the anticipation of their long-awaited vacation by studying bureaucratic procedures.

Choosing the right country for a winter holiday

The choice of holiday destination in winter will depend on the preferences of the tourist. There are several categories of vacationers:

• thrill seekers;
• families with children;
• connoisseurs of beauty;
• people who want to soak up the sea;
• the youth.

Therefore, first you need to decide which group of tourists you belong to. It is unlikely that a married couple with children should go to a place where, apart from conquering snow-capped peaks, there is nothing to do.

Young people will certainly prefer a noisy metropolis, where there are many entertainment venues and events, to a quiet hotel in the mountains.

The most popular beach holiday somewhere on the islands is definitely not suitable for those who want to enjoy architectural monuments and visit famous museums and galleries. Accordingly, lovers of the warm sun and gentle sea will not enjoy huge cities, even with attractions.

It follows that your choice should be based on what you expect specifically from this vacation.

Visa-free countries for winter holidays: rating

January: where to go

It is in January that Russian tourists begin to fill hotels in Egypt. The Red Sea is already quite cold, in addition, strong winds can blow, so nothing will work out with a beach holiday. But you can go on educational trips, for example, to the Sinai desert. The Pyramid of Giza is also in great demand.

The main thing that attracts tourists here is reasonable prices and all-inclusive hotels.

At this time, the United Arab Emirates opens the doors of stores to its guests with various promotions. It’s worth coming here just to enjoy the service, beauty and luxury.

January is the ideal time to relax in the exotic resorts of Goa. Tours to these regions are affordable, and the New Year can be celebrated in a fun and colorful way.

You can diversify your stay on the beach by riding an aqua motorcycle or scuba diving. The weather in January is comfortable, with daytime temperatures hovering around 30 °C. But at night you cannot do without warm clothes, because the thermometer already shows only 20 °C.

February: where to relax

February is a special month. By this time, everyone who wanted to relax in the winter had already done so during the New Year holidays. In February, only real gourmets go on vacation who just want to enjoy the sights alone.

If you still want warmth, then you can go to Thailand, just choose the right region: tourists prefer Pattaya or Chang.

The beaches of Cuba are ready to welcome guests in February. During this period, the air warms up to 25 °C. But this exotic country is ready to offer you not only clean beaches, excellent infrastructure and warm sea. Interesting excursions, carnival processions and much more will leave a lasting impression.

Conclusion

Choosing where to relax abroad in winter: on the beach or in a bustling metropolis is not at all easy. Obtaining a visa is a troublesome process, so it is better to choose a country that does not require special permission to enter, and there are plenty of such resorts.

There are countries, for example, Vietnam, where a visa is required for a stay of more than 15 days, but you can apply for it right at the airport.

The best months for an away holiday are December and January. February is more suitable for tourists who want to relax without too much fuss.

The beach season is already over: if the days are still warm, the nights are already cold, and the sea is not comfortable for swimming. But the lack of heat won’t hurt to enjoy the sights and beautiful scenery.

Where to go on vacation? The best visa-free countries for Russians: Video