Battling to decide whether to make your first post lockdown international trip a summer beach getaway or a winter holiday on the slopes? It all comes down to knowing whether you’re a beach bum or an adrenaline junkie. Lucky for you, Club Med’s stunning resorts and unbeatable all-inclusive packages give you the best of both worlds, whichever climate you choose for your next trip:
Want to escape the chilly winter weather and gain a sun-kissed glow? We reckon you should hit the sand, and here are 5 reasons why:
Forgo packing bulky sweaters, boots and snow gear into oversized luggage – shorts, bikinis and flip flops mean you can travel with just a carry-on, saving valuable time at the airports.
A study conducted by Michigan State University showed people who spend time near the ocean or other large bodies of water are more relaxed mentally. Moreover, sunshine has been shown to trigger the release of serotonin, a hormone that helps us feel calm and focused.
A beach vacation is no excuse to be lazy (unless that's your whole point of a holiday). There are plenty of opportunities to keep healthy and active through snorkelling, beach volleyball, hikes or surfing. Plus, walking and running on the sand requires as much as 2.7 times more effort than on other, firmer surfaces — so you can work out for less time and spend the rest at the poolside bar. Win win!
As long as you slather on the sun cream, a vitamin D-filled holiday can do wonders for your body’s largest organ. Sand exfoliates and sea water is a natural healer – those suffering from psoriasis and eczema often find the mineral-rich ocean water to improve their conditions. It’s a recipe for a lasting glow.
For some people, switching off from work and social commitments is no easy task. Beach vacations are the best excuse to stop, relax and spend time with family. The bright sun has a sneaky way of making our digital screens unreadable outdoors, so we’re forced to pick up a book or simply chat with those around us.
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Take advantage of Club Med's Season Opening Sale with a guaranteed 20% discount for resorts in the Seychelles and Mauritius:
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Mountain holidays are a perfect mix of exercise, adventure, picturesque alpine views – and the much-beloved apres ski! Need more convincing to brave the snow?
There are few places more magical than the still silence of a snowy meadow, with drooping branches of evergreens and animal tracks dotting the landscape. Or the awe-inspiring peaks of a jagged mountain range, with views as far as the eye can see. The stars shine bright during winter’s long nights, and if you’re far enough North, you might even see the infamous Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights.
When it's cold, our bodies work harder to maintain a core temperature, humidify the air we breathe and keep us warm. We burn more calories, and have less inflammation in our bodies. The cold air acts like a natural ice pack and helps joints feel less swollen. Plus, some research has shown exposure to the cold air can boost our immune systems and help us fight off infections.
Cosy up by the fire with your loved ones – ‘tis the season for chunky-knit blankets and steaming cups of hot cocoa or mulled wine! Need we say more?
Pair a ski adventure with a trip into town. Come December, Europe’s cities and villages all have open-air Christmas markets (lockdown restrictions dependent), a hub of local culture, crafts and fantastic food. Pick up a few souvenirs of your travels, or festive season gifts for those you left back home.
Most resorts offer ski lessons for beginners and children – along with plenty of other snow activities to try such as snowboarding, snowshoeing, or sledding. Not keen to be out in the cold at all? A good book by fire at the lodge, or a dip in the hot tub are reason enough to join the family on their wintery ski holiday.
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Take advantage of Club Med's Season Opening Sale with a guaranteed 20% discount for ski resorts in France:
Contact your friendly Sure Travel agent to help you decide which of Club Med's discounted packages to book. Find your nearest agency here.
