An island within a 10-island cluster has surpassed all the Canary Islands to claim the top position in easyJet’s Winter Sun Index. This location, dubbed ‘the new Canaries’ and ‘the Caribbean without the jet lag’, boasts beautiful white sandy beaches and easy accessibility from the UK. With temperatures reaching 25C in January, it has become a popular winter sun getaway. Additionally, being only one hour behind the UK eliminates jet lag concerns.
easyJet’s ranking criteria included factors like proximity to the UK, winter climate, sunshine hours, precipitation, time difference, and on-site expenses such as the average cost of a pint and a meal for two.
Leading the list is Sal, a member of the Cape Verde islands, serviced by easyJet from London Gatwick, Manchester, and Bristol. Situated in the central Atlantic, west of Africa, Sal offers January temperatures averaging around 24-25C, a significant contrast to the UK’s average of 8C.
The sea temperature remains a comfortable 22-24C, ideal for swimming and water activities. With approximately 10 hours of daily sunshine, compared to Tenerife’s six to seven hours, visitors can enjoy ample vitamin D exposure. Cape Verde experiences minimal rainfall during the winter months, ranging from 1-3mm, making it one of the driest winter sun destinations. In comparison, Gran Canaria averages 15-20mm and Agadir 28-40mm, indicating a higher likelihood of brief showers.
One-way flights to Sal start at £91.99, with easyJet Holidays offering various package deals. For example, a week-long trip departing from Manchester on January 13, staying at the four-star Sol Dunas Family Fun, is priced at £737 per person. This all-inclusive package includes meals, drinks, 23kg of checked luggage, and transfers, along with a current £100 discount using the code BIGSALE.
For those preferring self-catering options, several choices are available, particularly around Santa Maria in southern Sal. A mix of international and local dining options can be found, with an estimated average cost of £30-31 for a meal for two.
If you fancy a cold pint to cool off, the average price is a budget-friendly £2.25, considerably cheaper than in the UK.
Southern Sal in Cape Verde is a popular tourist destination known for its pristine white sand beaches and numerous major hotels. However, vast undeveloped areas across the islands offer opportunities for exploration off the beaten path.
Murdeira, located on the west side of the island, is a hidden gem with serene beaches and soft sands.
Travelers can also take a ferry to explore neighboring islands, with Boa Vista just a three-hour journey away. Boa Vista features a charming town, Sal Rei, and a few hotels, surrounded by white beaches and clear waters. Lucky visitors may even encounter turtle nesting sites during leisurely beach walks.