As we enjoy (??) highs of 34 degrees in the UK this week, it's hard to imagine how we will feel come December. But chances are, we will be tucked up on the sofa in multiple layers, wishing we had booked somewhere sunny to escape the winter blues and chills.
If you're smart, you'll get ahead of the curve and book your winter sun holiday now (or soonish), to beat price hikes and, ultimately, disappointment. And if you're stuck for inspiration, we've selected seven dreamy worldwide destinations to explore this year – that are actually hot in December.
Where's hot in December?
With average temperatures of 25-30°C, the Thai island of Koh Samui is the ideal location for winter sun-seekers – plus the torrential rains of the monsoon season will have cleared up by then.
Positioned just off the east coast of the mainland, Koh Samui is the country's second-largest island and boasts glorious sandy beaches, exquisite hotels and private accommodation (for a fraction of the price), not to mention unforgettable sunsets.
Whether you lounge by the pool of your resort or explore the unspoilt beauty of the Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park, there's plenty to do for all ages and all visitors. Our personal favourites include the Wat Phra Yai temple and the treetop dining experience, nestled within the canopy of a 120-year-old tree.
If you're on a budget, this probably isn't for you. But if you're feeling extra boujee and want to splash the cash on a once-in-a-lifetime trip, why not visit the Maldives?
Temperatures on the islands range from 27°C-30°C that time of year, and the surrounding crystal-clear waters so synonymous with the region are still a delightful 28°C come December.
Of course, the main draw of the Maldives is its laid-back vibe and luxury five-star resorts, but it also has an array of water sports and nature-based activities to enjoy – all of which are on offer in the month of December.
Although the temperature in Tangier in December might not be sun-bathing levels, the mercury still hits a nice 17°C in the winter – a marked improvement to the dark, gloomy, chilly days we experience here in the UK. Plus the mild climes allow visitors to wander and explore without feeling overwhelmed by the heat.
Among the must-see sites of Tangier is the historic kasbah and medina. With its Moorish architecture and the odd Art Deco building, guests can spot the influence of Islamic and European colonial rule within the walls of the old fortress, as well as its labyrinth of passageways and spice markets.
Once you're done sight-seeing, enjoy a sugary mint tea and a vibrant meal of fresh seafood, grilled vegetables and couscous. Yum!
If you like cigars and classic cars, Cuba is for you – but, of course, the city offers much more than that. This sun-drenched metropolis combines colourful Spanish-style villas, impressive Baroque buildings and hints of the Art Deco and Art Nouveau movements.
It's also chock-full of trendy cafés, vibrant nightlife – aside from Hemingway's former haunt, El Floridita – and traditional eateries, serving everything from rice and beans to slow-cooked, hearty meat dishes and fresh seafood. What's more, the Cuban city enjoys highs of 27°C in December.
If India's Golden Triangle (New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur) are too fast-paced for you, why not visit the state of Kerala on the Malabar Coast? With an expanse of nearly 600 kilometres of coastline, not only is there an abundance of beautiful, palm-lined beaches to visit, there's also its backwaters, which you can tour via houseboat.
Most importantly (for winter sun-seekers, at any rate), in December, Kerala sees average temperatures of 23°C-31°C.
When visiting Cape Town in South Africa, you are surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, including the jagged mountainscape, scenic shoreline and abundant marine life (some of which you can see at the famed Two Oceans Aquarium).
But another draw for travellers is its sensational food scene. Known for its world-class seafood and steak, the city has a host of prestigious restaurants. Then there's the wineries of the region, such as the Vergelegen wine estate and the Oldenburg vineyards, offering tours and wine pairings aplenty.
If you have time, the Garden Route, which runs between the town of Mossel Bay and Storms River, is also well worth it.
In terms of weather in December, Cape Town has highs of 25°C in the daytime.
The start of the region's peak dry season, December is the ideal time to visit the Caribbean island of Barbados, with average temperatures of 24°C-29°C.
Great for families, couples and solo travellers, Barbados has a range of dreamy resorts to choose from, and of all the Caribbean islands, is probably the best all-rounder. Whether you get boozy on Bajan rum, swim in the warm waters of the Platinum Coast or take up kite-surfing or body-boarding, there's plenty to keep you occupied.
When on the island, it's worth a visit to the St Nicholas Abbey plantation house, which is now a museum and distillery, as well as the UNESCO-protected capital of Bridgetown, with its colourful boardwalk and foodie tours.
