Even though we’re currently heading into another heatwave and there is no shortage of sun to enjoy here in the UK, it won’t be long until the nights start to draw in and the temperatures start to drop.

With that in mind, we thought we’d pull together a few quick ideas for a winter break where you’ll have no shortage of sun and will be able to grab a little extra time topping up your tan.

The Canary Islands:

Perhaps the 'go to' option for British travellers who want to hit the beach, the Canary Islands is a great place to take a trip throughout the year. Favourable weather conditions throughout the winter period are a major draw, as is a wide range of accommodation that includes everything from five star, all inclusive luxury to budget bed and breakfasts.

The fact that there are frequent flights from all of the major airports and plenty of deals to be had only heightens the appeal, so if you are looking to head off on an out-of-season adventure, the likes of Tenerife, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura should be near the top of your list.

Morocco:

It’s a similar story to the Canary Islands when it comes to Morocco, which once again benefits from winter sun that will be way more appealing than the drizzle that you’re likely to encounter back at home - although temperatures will be best described as mild rather than hot.

Flights to Morocco are relatively short as well as being cost effective - and there are plenty of them. That means the many impressive beach resorts that have sprung up on Moroccan soil are easily accessible for those who fancy visiting a nation that has been very much influenced by Europe, but which still offers a flavour of Africa.

Dubai:

The winter months in Dubai are cooler than some options on this list, but that is part of the reason why it’s a great time to visit the Emirate. In the height of summer, there are times when it might feel too hot (think how it felt when the temperatures hit 40C over here), so outside 'peak' season is actually a great time to visit.

You can still expect to get temperatures that run into the 20s and there will be no shortage of sun as you head out to sample everything that Dubai has to offer - from its huge shopping malls and towering skyscrapers to busy theme parks and impressive sandy beaches.

The Maldives:

There is never really a bad time to visit the Maldives - with plenty of people still taking the chance to visit during the rainy season that falls during our summer months.

Visit in the winter and you can expect to be greeted by temperatures in the high 20s and plenty of sunshine - which is just what you need when you’re greeted by stunning white sandy beaches and clear blue waters.

If relaxation is the order of the day and you’re in the market for a little bit of luxury at the same time, then the Maldives is certainly worth considering for a winter trip.

Madeira:

The Portuguese island of Madeira benefits from a subtropical climate that means year round sun, whilst the winter months fall outside the wettest part of the year.

That means anyone visiting out of season will benefit from favourable weather - with temperatures in December running into the mid-to-high teens.

Madeira is also easily accessed from the UK and, like the Canaries, has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets.

Australia:

Winter in the UK is summer in Australia - so it follows that it’s a great time to make the long trip Down Under for a holiday in the sun. Given that it will be warm, you might want to consider exactly where you head, with areas like the Gold Coast - which benefit from a little bit of a breeze - being way more appealing than heading into the heart of the Outback to pay a visit to Alice Springs.

Visit Australia for the festive period and you could even have a Christmas BBQ on the beach in shorts and t-shirt. That’s certainly not something you’ll experience back home…