With the end of summer in sight and the credit crunch still upon us, Janine Kelso finds some bargain winter sun holidays
Under £300
Where? The Algarve
Why? Portugal’s sunny coastline enjoys mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below 15C. While accommodation can be pricey during the summer months, there are plenty of bargains to be had when travelling out of season.
Although the sea may be chilly in winter, the Algarve has fishing villages, ancient sites andMoorish-style buildings that are worth exploring. Alternatively, hike along the Algarve Way, try out water sports such as diving or surfing, or engage in the egion’s most famous sporting pursuit, golf.
Sample product:Grand UK Holidays offers seven nights’ half-board at the Casablanca Hotel in Monte Gordo for £279 per person, including flights, transfers and a mystery coach tour.
Under £500
Where? The Gambia
Why? This tiny African country is reliably hot during the winter months, offers great value for money, with plenty to see and do, and is only six hours from the UK.
Situated on the west coast, this English-speaking former British colony has plenty of sandy beaches and, thanks to government restrictions on development, it has avoided over-commercialisation.
There’s no big game here, but wildlife is in abundance, with 560 species of birds, monkeys and lizards, which can be seen by taking an excursion in a dugout canoe or a trek through the forest.
If you want a beach holiday with plenty of culture, the Gambia is for you.
Sample product:The Gambia Experience offers seven nights’ bed and breakfast at the two-star African Village Hotel in Bakau, for £495 per person, departing December 16, including flights and transfers.
Under £600
Where? Goa
Why? The winter months are the best time to hit Goa’s exotic beaches as the climate is mild and pleasant from November to March.
The small state has 50 miles of coconut-lined sandy beaches and is separated from the rest of India by mountains, rivers and estuaries. If you get bored of sunbathing, there are plenty of local excursions on offer. Discover Goa’s wild side with a tiger and elephant safari – a three-day tour to lion and tiger reserves and an elephant training camp in Karnataka.
Sample product:Jewel in the Crown offers 14 nights’ bed and breakfast at the two-star Resort Village Royale, on the outskirts of Calangute, north Goa, for £594 per person, including flights and transfers departing November 29.
Under £700
Where? The Dominican Republic
Why? The Hispanic country of the Dominican Republic represents the best bargain in the Caribbean. A stay on its stunning unspoilt beaches comes at a fraction of the cost of a holiday on neighbouring islands.
Active types should make a beeline for the jungle region of El Encuentro for its white-water rafting, rock climbing and mountain biking or spend three days climbing to the peak of Pico Duarte, the Caribbean’s highest mountain. There are also great water sports on offer.
Golfers have 21 courses to choose from, while those with a passion for history should head to the centuries-old capital Santo Domingo.
Sample product:Cosmos offers seven nights’ all-inclusive at the four-star Hotel Gran Ventana for £665 per person departing early December, including flights and transfers.
Under £1,000
Where? Sri Lanka
Why? In the heart of the Indian Ocean, the island of Sri Lanka is home to beautiful beaches and a rich culture, but lacks the big price tag of its upmarket neighbours, Mauritius and the Maldives.
From January to March, temperatures range from the low to mid-30s. Across the country, it’s possible to visit tea plantations and temples with ancient Buddha statues. Must-see sights include the elephant orphanage at Pinnawela and Sigiriya Rock, a fortress of a 5th century king, which affords great views.
Sample product:Premier Holidays offers seven nights’ half board at the four-star Serendib Hotel in Bentota for £999 per person including flights and transfers for travel between January 11 and March 31 2009.
