+25 in February and incredible beaches: where to go for a winter vacation to bask in the sun

To enjoy a high-quality winter sun vacation with all-inclusive amenities, endless cocktails, and a hidden gem of a destination, look no further than the fabulous Cape Verde.

For those residing in the North East, access to this paradise group of 10 islands off the west coast of Africa has become even easier, with TUI launching direct flights from Newcastle to complement other UK routes, as reported by the Daily Star.

One of the vacation options is the island of Sal, which is only about 18 miles long. Not only does it boast 350 days of sunshine per year, but it also features stunning hotels owned by the well-known RIU group, renowned for its properties worldwide.

About a 15-20 minute drive from Sal Airport, three hotels are situated very close to each other: the family-friendly RIU Funana, the adults-only option RIU Cabo Verde, and the jewel in the crown, the five-star RIU Palace Santa Maria. This expansive hotel, with over 700 employees catering to approximately 2000 guests, opened its doors in 2021 and still boasts a new and fresh appearance.

The magnificent reception area of the RIU Palace sets the standard for the entire resort. There are two splendid buffet restaurants, one conveniently located by the pool for those needing to refuel during sunbathing or swimming. Additionally, there are four themed restaurants offering steak, Italian, Asian, and fusion cuisine. Naturally, no sun-filled vacation would be complete without a selection of drinks and entertainment, and RIU Palace delivers on both fronts.

In addition to a 24-hour sports bar, the hotel features a luxurious piano bar, a show bar, and two pool bars, ensuring you can satisfy your thirst around the clock.

You can also unwind in the hotel's spa, complete with a luxurious indoor pool, or work up an even bigger sweat in the gym. When it comes to entertainment, there's plenty to enjoy around the hotel long before the sun sets.