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   ![5 Alternative Winter Sun Destinations To Book Now](https://media.sheerluxe.com/nG8BeswRXAJrqAg_MIZ_ni0QZyc=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F10%2Fsl-ultra-luxe-winter-sun-thumb-new.png?itok=2gAaWWgH)

  

 

 



 

  Image: Oman Six Senses 

 

 

 

[UltraLuxe](/ultraluxe)

 /  14 October 2024  

#  5 Alternative Winter Sun Destinations To Book Now  


There are plenty of places to find some winter sun – Barbados, Dubai, the Maldives – but there’s a host of alternatives too. Whether you're planning a New Year's Eve escape or looking ahead to 2025, these options – from beach retreats to luxurious private yacht charters – promise an unforgettable experience…  


BySherri Andrew

  /  

[ Save To My Favourites ](/user/login?destination=/markdownify/node/28976)

 

  Image: Oman Six Senses 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 ![](https://media.sheerluxe.com/34J0zoc4WR92yHPKUVq0TB3adfA=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F10%2Fsl-ultraluxe-141024-winter-sun-christian-garcia-yatsygmdgzk-unsplash.png?itok=KjIyLV43)

 

 

 UNSPLASH/CHRISTIAN GARCIA 

 



 

 

 

 

 

## FOR NATURE SIGHTINGS: 



### Costa Rica 



  

Bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south, Costa Rica is one of Central America’s smallest countries, but its varied and lush landscape has attracted adventurous travellers for decades. In recent years, the country has ramped up its conservation efforts, and three years ago, Costa Rica was awarded the first ever Earthshot Prize in the ‘Protect and Restore Nature’ category, thanks to efforts in reversing deforestation, funding indigenous communities and for protecting its unique ecosystems. In fact, one of the country’s main draws is its diverse wildlife – across its rainforests you can encounter howler monkeys, jaguars and toucans (at [Corcovado National Park](https://costa-rica-guide.com/nature/national-parks/corcovado/)), while the coastal regions are home to dolphins, whales and sea turtles.

Visitors should also make time to visit [Arenal Volcano National Park](https://www.arenal.net/arenal-volcano-national-park) to hike through lush rainforests, soak in natural hot springs, or embark on canopy tours with breathtaking views of the volcano. Other national parks include Manuel Antonio, home to hundreds of bird species, and Corcovado National Park, one of the most remote and untouched regions in the country, where you can explore vast jungles and spot elusive wildlife. For those who want to lounge on the beach and appreciate the stunning views, the Guanacaste region’s golden beaches are perfect for surfing, swimming and sunbathing, with numerous luxury resorts to choose from.

 

 [ ![Hacienda AltaGracia, Costa Rica](https://media.sheerluxe.com/3RvpISJYbWCTJ3veuc3lzuUX0rE=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F10%2Fsl-ultraluxe-141024-winter-sun-hacienda-altagracia-auberge-resorts-collection-2.png?itok=tLgxnTUA)

 

 ](https://aubergeresorts.com/altagracia/) 

 Hacienda AltaGracia, Costa Rica  
 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

**STAY:** [Auberge Resorts](https://aubergeresorts.com/) has a collection of luxury hotels across the US and Central and Southern America. Resorts are uniquely positioned, from Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains to Los Cabos in Mexico's Baja California Peninsula. [Hacienda AltaGracia](https://aubergeresorts.com/altagracia/) is a 50-casita resort that spans 180 acres of tropical forest. It’s home to a coffee farm, a stable with 40 horses, an organic garden, and Central America’s largest wellness facility, The Well, which provides holistic health treatments. Guests can enjoy five restaurants celebrating Costa Rican indigenous life, along with amenities like hiking trails, horseback riding and natural river baths. All stays include meals, wellness programmes, transfers, fitness centre access and in-room amenities.

*From £1,289 per night*

*Visit* [AUBERGERESORTS.COM](https://aubergeresorts.com/altagracia/)

 

 

 

 [ ![Hacienda AltaGracia, Costa Rica](https://media.sheerluxe.com/Lpayc-Pp1zULFkrV9PmShgFl7rg=/1920x0/smart/filters:no_upscale()/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F10%2Fsl-ultraluxe-141024-winter-sun-hacienda-altagracia-auberge-resorts-collection-new.png?itok=p3ZHFFxe)

 

 ](https://aubergeresorts.com/altagracia/) 

 Hacienda AltaGracia, Costa Rica  
 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

## FOR MULTI-GEN GROUPS: 



### Baja Peninsula, Mexico 



  

According to luxury travel operator [Scott Dunn](https://www.scottdunn.com/), demand for trips to Mexico has surged by more than 50% in the past year. This increase is largely driven by families with teenagers, drawn to the country's blend of adventure, exceptional cuisine, and opportunities for relaxation. Mexico City, the bustling capital, is a metropolis of contrasts and well worth a visit of four to five days to fully experience its rich culture, vibrant food markets and impressive galleries. However, those seeking a more relaxing escape should head to the Baja Peninsula. The country’s Yucatan Peninsula is home to stunning views and a string of high-end hotels, but the equally beautiful Baja Peninsula offers a path less trodden. The region is also expecting an influx of luxury hotel developments, including Amanvari (opening in 2025) and as-yet-unconfirmed Chablé Sea of Cortéz.

The peninsula offers a mix of desert landscapes and pristine beaches. Visitors can explore Cabo San Lucas’s luxury resorts, diving opportunities and the famous El Arco rock formation. If you’re traveling with teens or have a keen interest in wildlife, head to La Paz for whale watching and snorkelling with sea lions, although the most beautiful beaches lie slightly further north. You can also sail to Isla Espíritu Santo, known as the ‘Galapagos of Mexico’, to swim with seals, whale sharks, and enjoy glamping on deserted beaches. Balandra Beach on the eastern side is especially striking with its crescent-shaped bay, white sands, and sparkling turquoise waters. Medano Beach, Playa el Chileno, and Todos Santos, a trendy beach town, are also some of the country’s most beautiful spots.

**BOOK:** Let the experts at Scott Dunn plan the ultimate bucket-list trip in this unique part of the world. Its Epic Baja California itinerary (also available over Christmas and New Year’s) provides travellers with private English-speaking local guides. The ten-day itinerary begins at Posada de las Flores La Paz, followed by three nights at the luxury [Camp Cecil](https://tosea.net/the-camp-cecil-de-la-sierra/) on Isla Espíritu Santo, where you’ll camp under the stars. During your stay, you can swim with sea lions, snorkel with manta rays, spot whales and enjoy activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. The adventure continues through La Paz, Todos Santos and Los Cabos, with guests staying in five-star hotels. Throughout the trip, you'll have 24/7 access to Scott Dunn's team of experts, ensuring a seamless and personalised travel experience.

*10 nights private tour from £6,300pp, including flights*

*Visit* [SCOTTDUNN.COM](https://www.scottdunn.com/mexico/tours/epic-baja-california)

 

 

 

 ![](https://media.sheerluxe.com/xNOpfsA70jUYMg-UIcgLhxRYeRU=/1920x0/smart/filters:no_upscale()/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F10%2Fsl-ultraluxe-141024-winter-sun-josh-withers-dyq0wahrsw-unsplash.png?itok=BzaOq8uQ)

 

 

 UNSPLASH/JOSH WITHERS 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

## FOR A BIT OF EVERYTHING: 



### Musandam Peninsula, Oman 



  

One of the Middle East’s safest countries to visit is Oman. With its rich history, fascinating culture and varied landscape, you can do as much or little as you like – pack an itinerary with trips to the dessert and mountains or relax at a luxury beach resort. Plus, a string of luxury hotel openings has made it even easier to travel and explore the destination – [Mandarin Oriental Muscat](https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/muscat/shatti-al-qurum), [St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort](https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/mctxr-the-st-regis-al-mouj-muscat-resort/) and [Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort &amp; Spa](https://www.ihg.com/hotelindigo/hotels/us/en/nizwa/mctja/hoteldetail) have all opened within the last year. Elsewhere, visitors can explore ancient forts, bustling souks and picturesque wadis filled with crystal-clear water. And the Sultanate is famous for its hospitality, offering a blend of traditional and modern experiences.

The Musandam Peninsula, often referred to as the ‘Norway of Arabia’ is one of the country’s highlights, and if you only have a week to play with, it’s worth spending most of your time here. Home to the world’s only dessert fjords as well as cliffs and hidden coves, the region is accessible from the mainland and offers a unique chance to experience traditional Omani culture. Travellers can embark on cruises to admire the scenery, spot dolphins and swim in the turquoise waters. The peninsula is also home to fishing villages like Khasab, where you can learn about the local way of life. For those seeking some adventure, there are opportunities for hiking, snorkelling, and diving – each year thousands of tourists receive diving qualifications in this part of the world.

 

 

 

 [ ![Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman](https://media.sheerluxe.com/mmSdlvPNw8w5GQRMn_ZqFf58_I8=/1920x0/smart/filters:no_upscale()/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F10%2Fsl-ultraluxe-141024-winter-sun-oman-six-senses-zighy-bay-new.png?itok=1XlvwRf9)

 

 ](https://www.sixsenses.com/en/hotels-resorts/middle-east-africa/oman/zighy-bay/experiences/) 

 Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman  
 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

**STAY:** Oman is famous for its exceptional hospitality, and those after a bucket-list trip should book a stay at the eco-friendly [Six Senses Zighy Bay](https://www.sixsenses.com/en/hotels-resorts/middle-east-africa/oman/zighy-bay/) on the Musandam Peninsula. Guests can arrive in style by paragliding or by travelling via boat or yacht. Upon arrival, the slick team will take care of everything, from personalised in-room amenities to arranging excursions across the region. 82 rooms and suites are designed to look like a traditional Omani village, with natural textures and simple but chic décor that blends into the surrounding landscape. Guests can dine at five restaurants, one of which is set on a cliffside mountain overlooking the resort, book holistic treatments at the spa, and enjoy private excursions. The resort has sustainability at its core too, with numerous features to offset its carbon footprint and schemes that give back to the local community.

*Rooms from £1,260 per night*

*Visit* [SIXSENSES.COM](https://www.sixsenses.com/en/hotels-resorts/middle-east-africa/oman/zighy-bay/experiences/)

 

## FOR ISLAND HOPPERS: 



### Zanzibar, Tanzania 



  

Off the eastern coast of Africa, approximately 20 miles from mainland Tanzania, Zanzibar is one of the most beautiful destinations in the archipelago. Comprising over 40 small islands, Zanzibar is perfect for island hopping, but the largest island, Unguja, is where you'll find luxurious holiday resorts, rich culture, and some of the most stunning beaches in the region. Often referred to as the ‘jewel of the Indian Ocean’, Zanzibar boasts an extraordinary landscape featuring pristine white-sand beaches, lush mangrove swamps, and expansive rainforests all nearby. Visitors can enjoy swimming and snorkelling in vibrant coral reefs, book boat trips to observe wild dolphins, and embark on safaris to witness some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife.

 

 ![](https://media.sheerluxe.com/7iLS0Nhe4iqC-NE8jqcPrb2clGg=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F10%2Fsl-ultraluxe-141024-winter-sun-zanzibar-pexels-eva-purrer-1937326549-28838309.png?itok=vOpXt-Z8)

 

 

 PEXELS/EVA PURRER 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 ![](https://media.sheerluxe.com/BVzYtVqIqe2G_ih9LNPShIHTJs0=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F10%2Fsl-ultraluxe-141024-winter-sun-niklas-weiss-9b1n1d3aw14-unsplash.png?itok=75jG8I4B)

 

 

 UNSPLASH/NIKLAS WEISS 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

**BOOK:** If you have the time, consider combining your trip to Zanzibar with a stay on the mainland in Tanzania to experience a safari. Luxury travel operator [Kuoni](https://www.kuoni.co.uk/) offers the best of both worlds with its 11-day ‘Bush, Beach and Culture’ tour across the country, taking travellers from white-sand beaches to the wild, unspoilt plains of [Nyerere National Park](https://www.nyererenationalpark.net/). Herer, you’ll embark on a game drive to spot big cats and grazing herbivores, followed by a boat tour of the Rufiji River. Here, you can observe buffalo, giraffes, and elephants drinking at the water’s edge while keeping an eye out for crocodiles and hippos. From there, the tour continues to the beautiful Pemba Island known for its quiet and pristine beaches and lush forest.

*From £5,575pp, including international flights*

*Visit* [KUONI.CO.UK](https://www.kuoni.co.uk/alfredand/itineraries/bush-beach-culture/)

 

## FOR THE BUCKET LIST: 



### Indonesian Islands 



  

Bali offers a well-trodden path of discovery, with its historic temples and national parks. But it’s no secret that the island suffers from over tourism. For a trip of a lifetime, island hopping around the country’s archipelago is a far better way to experience the country’s rich culture, visit its indigenous villages and spot unique wildlife. Exploring the eastern islands on a private yacht charter offers an unforgettable adventure. Komodo Island, part of [Komodo National Park](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/609/), is renowned as the natural habitat of the Komodo dragon, the world's largest lizard. Here, you can embark on guided treks to observe these formidable creatures in their natural habitat, particularly on Rinca Island, where there are more than 2,000 of them.

 

 

 

 [ ![Ultimate Indonesian Yachts, Indonesia](https://media.sheerluxe.com/ePidZap5Cneg4hUt9YpqvlPDebY=/1920x0/smart/filters:no_upscale()/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2024%2F10%2Fsl-ultraluxe-141024-winter-sun-ultimate-indonesian-yachts.png?itok=m87PR3_q)

 

 ](https://www.ultimateindonesianyachts.com/) 

 Ultimate Indonesian Yachts, Indonesia  
 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

Further east is Alor Archipelago, home to pristine beaches and world-class snorkelling spots, while the remote Raja Ampat Islands are renowned for their rich marine biodiversity and coral reefs. It’s also worth spending a few days in and around the Spice Islands, known for their production of valuable spices like nutmeg and cloves, with a global trade that dates back to the 16th century. Today, they offer pristine beaches and vibrant marine ecosystems – perfect for divers and adventurous travellers.

**BOOK:** Ultimate Indonesian Yachts offers private yacht charters, allowing guests to explore the archipelago in style. With a fleet of modern yachts equipped with luxury amenities, the company offers bucket-list tours around several of the islands for honeymooners, groups and families. The team creates bespoke itineraries and offers round-the-clock assistance before, during and after your trip. They’ll also take care of all the logistics, and plan activities like surfing, diving and personalised spa treatments aboard the boat. Yachts can be booked for groups of up to 20.

*Tours start from $3,500 per night*

*Visit* [ULTIMATEINDONESIANYACHTS.COM](https://www.ultimateindonesianyachts.com/)

 

 

 

 

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