Chasing Summer: Where to Vacation If You Hate Winter

Some run toward the fire, others toward the sun.

If winter’s grey skies and biting winds aren’t your thing, you’re not alone. While some people romanticise rainy days and hot chocolate, others are already mentally packing their bags. And why not? South Africa’s mid-year chill is the perfect excuse to book a flight, swap scarves for swimsuits, and chase the sun instead.

Whether you're after a quick local fix or an international adventure, here are the best destinations to thaw out and recharge.

Local Getaways That Still Feel Like Summer

You don’t have to cross continents to find sunshine. South Africa is vast enough to offer its own pockets of warmth, even in the depths of winter.

Durban is the obvious choice, where winter feels more like an extended autumn. Expect sunny beach days, warm Indian Ocean currents, and that unmistakable laidback coastal energy. Pack your flip-flops, not your puffer jacket.

Northern KwaZulu-Natal is another gem. Places like St Lucia, Sodwana Bay, and Kosi Bay are lush, sunny, and packed with wildlife. It’s where bush meets beach, and the temperatures rarely dip low enough to justify sleeves.

For those who prefer the bush to the beach, Limpopo and Mpumalanga offer dry winters with crisp mornings and warm afternoons. Game viewing is excellent this time of year, with animals gathering at waterholes and the skies a cloudless blue.

Quick Island Hops

When a quick dose of vitamin D is all you need, the Indian Ocean delivers. These tropical escapes are just a few hours away and don’t ask much from your passport.

Mauritius is the golden child: visa-free for South Africans, with crystal waters, sugarcane fields, and luxury stays that range from budget-friendly to full-blown opulence. Even in its “cooler” season, temperatures hover around the mid-20s.

Seychelles offers postcard perfection with granite boulders, turquoise lagoons, and fewer crowds in winter. Whether you're kayaking through mangroves or hiking lush forest trails, it’s an eco-lover’s paradise wrapped in warmth.

Zanzibar brings spice, history, and barefoot luxury. Wander Stone Town’s winding alleys or laze on white-sand beaches where winter is just a rumour. Flights are direct, the vibe is easy, and the food? Fresh and unforgettable.

Affordable International Escapes

You don’t need a black card to find sunshine abroad. These destinations deliver warmth, culture, and adventure, all without burning through your budget.

Bali in winter? Yes, please. South Africa’s chilly season aligns with Bali’s dry season, making it perfect for beach days, temple tours, and jungle swings. Accommodation ranges from stylish hostels to affordable villas with infinity pools. It's also a hotspot for solo travellers, surf lovers, and yoga fans.

Thailand is just as tempting. From the buzzing streets of Bangkok to the lazy shores of Phuket and Krabi, you’ll find endless summer. It’s budget-travel heaven, with cheap eats, island-hopping, and night markets that stretch into the warm evening air.

Egypt surprises many as a winter escape. While the pyramids and Nile cruises are year-round attractions, winter brings milder temps; perfect for exploring ancient history without the scorching sun. Cairo, Luxor, and even Red Sea resorts like Sharm El-Sheikh offer a unique blend of culture and coast.

Not Everyone’s Built for the Cold

For some, winter is a season of hot chocolate and hibernation. For others, it’s a countdown to their next flight out. If you’re the kind who dreams of sunscreen over scarves, use your winter leave as a well-earned reset. Soak up the sun, slow down, and come back bronzed, relaxed, and smugly ahead of the seasonal blues. After all, why suffer through the cold when summer is just a plane ticket away?