As we head into the winter months, many travellers will be wanting to swap the ski slopes with sunny beaches for their next holiday escape.
Emirates has compiled a selection of must-visit winter sun destinations; illustrating numerous ways to benefit from its famous double-daily flight schedule from Dublin to Dubai, which connects with another 140 global destinations.
Dubai
Emirates takes you to Dubai, a bustling cosmopolitan hub and one of the most desirable year-round vacation spots.
Thanks to its sunny days, warm water beaches, fun-filled water parks and desert safari’s, the popular UAE destination is also a major drawcard for those wanting to experience some winter sun.
Winter is also a time where Dubai is bustling with events. Sport enthusiasts can head to the Sevens Stadium and soak up the atmosphere at the Emirates Dubai 7s, others can shop to they drop at the Dubai Shopping Festival, see the floral wonderland of 150 million flowers at the Dubai Miracle Garden, and gaze up at the skies to watch the city’s famous fireworks display on New Year’s Eve.
Meanwhile, for those wanting more outdoor adventures, they can also visit the historic mountain town of Hatta, Dubai’s scenic exclave. From kayaking on Hatta Dam, mountain biking the Al-Hajar mountains or visiting the historic forts, it is a must-visit.
With so much to see and do, why not choose Dubai for your next winter sun holiday?
Emirates currently operate two flights daily weekly flights from Dublin to Dubai.
Thailand
Beyond its famous cities and beaches, Thailand offers travellers a chance to discover some hidden gems.
Take a trip to the Red Lotus Sea and witness an extraordinary sight where Udon Thani transforms into a sea of pink lotus flowers between November and February each year.
Alternatively, you can head to Koh Kood, an unexplored island paradise boasting untouched white sand shores and clear turquoise waters. Ao Klong Chao beach is ideal for snorkelling and visitors can leisurely explore by foot or bike through the lush forests.
Holiday goers can also experience a journey aboard the floating train, making its return this year from November 2023 until January 2024. Starting in Bangkok, passengers will be transported over Thailand’s biggest reservoir, Lop Buri’s Pasak Jolasid Dam, allowing travellers to capture the breathtaking views and take in lasting memories.
With 35 weekly flights to Bangkok and 14 weekly flights to Phuket, Emirates offers travellers flexible and enhanced connections between Thailand and Dubai, as well as onwards to 140 destinations across 6 continents.
Bali
With its pristine beaches, dense jungles, and a rich cultural heritage, Bali is true paradise.
Whilst many will be familiar with Seminyak for its beaches and shopping, and the lively Kuta Beach for entertainment and water sports, some of the lesser-known destinations to visit include Balian. Situated north of Seminyak, Balian offers travellers surfing and yoga, both on a volcanic beach set on serene river estuary. Another is Menjangan island, which features West Bali National Park and is renowned for its snorkelling.
For the more adventurous, they can climb Mount Batur, Bali’s third highest volcano. As you reach the summit, you can enjoy boiled eggs and tea made using the geothermal heated soil for breakfast. Whilst others might be keen to scuba and explore the USAT Liberty shipwreck.
Emirates currently serves Indonesia with 28 weekly flights to both Bali and Jakarta and offers increased connectivity to 29 more domestic cities via the two gateways through its partnership agreements with both Garuda Indonesia and Batik Air.
Maldives
If staying in a luxurious overwater villa has been on your bucket list, then look no further than North Malé Atoll – the gateway to the Maldives. Here, people can unwind on white sand beaches, explore vibrant coral reefs, and enjoy incredible cuisine.
For diving and snorkelling enthusiasts, they can visit Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve which becomes a sanctuary for manta rays and whale sharks in December. Whilst Ari Atoll is famous for its beautiful coral and marine life including reef sharks and sea turtles.
For those wanting to celebrate the festive season and ring in the new year can do so in tropical style. From Christmas meals to celebratory fireworks, many of the resorts have special activities lined up for guests.
The award-winning global airline now operates 28 flights a week between Dubai and the Maldives. Recently the airline and Maldivian announced an interline partnership, enabling Emirates customers to access 16 popular holiday destinations in the Maldives beyond Malé.
Mauritius
It’s said that sunshine provides 90% of our vitamin D and with this destination known for providing year-round sunshine, why not consider Mauritius for your winter sun break?
Culture vultures can learn more about the island’s history, visit museums and experience local markets in the lively city of Port Louis. While, for a slower pace, they can also unwind on the multicoloured sands and take in the breath-taking views from around the Chamarel region.
For those wanting to get their blood pumping, they can hike the Black River Gorges National Park or see the world from under the sea via scuba diving.
So, whether you’re a family wanting a beach holiday this winter, a couple looking for a romantic escape or an avid-adventurer, Mauritius offers this and more!
Emirates currently provides two direct daily flights from Dubai to Mauritius, both operated by its flagship A380 aircraft.
Travelling with Emirates
Emirates’ extensive network spans to 140 destinations, across six continents.
The airline offers its customers an unmatched culinary experience in the skies with regionally inspired multi-course menus developed by a team of award-winning chefs complemented by a wide selection of premium beverages.
Customers can sit back and relax with more than 6,500 channels of carefully curated global entertainment content featuring movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, games, audiobooks and more with ice, Emirates’ award-winning inflight entertainment system.