As the countdown to Christmas begins, more Brits are saying goodbye to cold mornings and rainy skies — and hello to sunshine and sandy beaches.
New research from Thomas Cook has revealed that a record number of people are heading overseas this festive season, with a 20% rise in Christmas week bookings compared to last year.
Sunshine Over Snow
This year, it seems fewer people will be spending Christmas at home by the tree.
Instead, they’re trading in wrapping paper and woolly jumpers for swimsuits and sunglasses.
The Canary Islands have officially taken the top spot as the most popular destination among UK travellers, while Egypt has seen the biggest surge in demand — an incredible 136% year-on-year jump.
Where Everyone’s Jetting Off To
Alongside the Canaries and Egypt, Spain and the USA remain firm favourites for Brits seeking a mix of culture, sunshine, and festive cheer.
Meanwhile, bookings to Malta and Morocco are also rising steadily, up 25% and 20% respectively.
Even city breaks are proving popular this time of year, with trips to the Republic of Ireland, the Czech Republic, Turkey, and Portugal rounding out the top 10 destinations.
“A Magical Time to Travel,” Says Thomas Cook
Nicholas Smith, Holidays Digital Director at Thomas Cook, says the trend reflects a growing appetite for meaningful experiences over material gifts.
“Christmas is such a magical time for so many, and what better way to experience that magic than on holiday?” he said.
“We’re intrigued to see more Brits swapping presents under the tree for memories abroad — and the Canaries continue to be a festive favourite for winter sun.”
Why the Canary Islands Keep Winning Hearts
It’s no surprise that the Canary Islands top the list.
The region has long been a go-to destination for British travellers.
In 2024 alone, nearly 6.3 million Brits visited the Canaries, drawn by their warm weather, beautiful beaches, and friendly locals.
Experts even recently highlighted which of the islands are the most underrated, which to avoid, and where to find the most welcoming atmosphere.
Egypt’s Rising Star in Winter Travel
Egypt, especially the resort town of Sharm El Sheikh, is also rapidly becoming a major player in winter travel.
Known for its diving spots, golden sands, and luxury resorts, it’s no wonder more British tourists are heading there to escape the chill of December.
Budget-Friendly Winter Escapes
For travellers worried about costs, there’s good news — plenty of sunshine spots are still affordable.
Tunisia, Malta, Morocco, and the Canary Islands all offer great weather without breaking the bank.
Meanwhile, for those seeking something more traditional, European Christmas markets in places like Poland and Romania are offering incredible deals — think £35 hotel rooms and mulled wine for under £1.
A Festive Shift in Tradition
It’s clear that this Christmas, more Brits are choosing experiences over excess.
Instead of staying home to battle grey skies and endless rain, thousands will wake up to blue horizons, palm trees, and maybe even a Christmas Day swim.
In 2025, it seems the spirit of the season is no longer confined to the living room — it’s stretching all the way to the beaches of Tenerife, the bazaars of Cairo, and the cozy corners of Prague.