Morocco to the Maldives: Top warm climate travel destinations for winter

As winter blankets much of the world in a snowy embrace, there's no better time to escape the chill and embark on a winter vacation to a warm and sunny destination. While frosty temperatures and snowstorms have their charm, sometimes we yearn for a different kind of winter magic.

In this guide, we'll take you on a sun-soaked journey to ten inviting warm climate countries, where you can trade your winter coat for a swimsuit and your snow boots for sandals.

In Costa Rica, you can experience the thrill of zip-lining through lush rainforests, explore volcanic landscapes like Arenal, and go white-water rafting on the Pacuare River. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Manuel Antonio National Park offers the chance to spot monkeys, sloths, and a vibrant array of tropical birds.

Don't miss out on the classic "gallo pinto," a flavourful dish of rice and black beans, often served with eggs and a side of ripe plantains. Sip on a "cafecito," a traditional Costa Rican coffee, and indulge in a fresh ceviche with the catch of the day.

Mexico boasts stunning beaches along its coasts, from Cancún to Puerto Vallarta. Explore the ancient Mayan ruins in Chichen Itza and Tulum, or take a cultural journey through the streets of Mexico City. For adventure seekers, the Yucatán Peninsula offers cenote diving and jungle excursions.

Dive into a bowl of rich and spicy pozole, a traditional Mexican soup made with hominy, meat, and a variety of seasonings. Savour a hearty serving of tacos al pastor, garnished with pineapple and cilantro, and wash it all down with a refreshing margarita.

Explore the vibrant markets of Bangkok, visit the historic temples in Chiang Mai, or relax on the idyllic beaches of Phuket and Krabi. The country's landscapes offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and visiting the stunning waterfalls in Erawan National Park.

Dive into the fiery Tom Yum Goong, a delicious Thai soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, and chili. Treat your taste buds to Pad Thai, a world-renowned stir-fried noodle dish, and satisfy your sweet tooth with mango sticky rice.

Discover the bustling medinas of Marrakech and Fes, and wander through the Sahara Desert on a camel trek. The Atlas Mountains offer hiking opportunities, and the historic cities are rich in cultural sites like the Ben Youssef Madrasa.

Dive into the bursting flavours of a traditional tagine, a slow-cooked stew often made with chicken, lamb or vegetables. Delight in aromatic couscous dishes, and don't forget to try Moroccan mint tea, a fragrant and refreshing beverage.

Explore the Great Barrier Reef for world-class diving, visit the iconic Sydney Opera House, or embark on an adventure to Uluru, the famous sandstone monolith. Australia's diverse landscapes offer experiences from surfing on Bondi Beach to hiking in the Daintree Rainforest.

Taste a classic Aussie meat pie, a pastry filled with seasoned minced meat, often enjoyed with ketchup. Indulge in a shrimp-on-the-barbie barbecue, or try the ever-popular Vegemite on toast.

Go on a safari adventure in Kruger National Park, explore Cape Town's scenic beauty and iconic Table Mountain, or visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. South Africa's diverse landscapes and cultures make for an enriching experience.

Sink your teeth into a delicious bunny chow, a South African fast-food classic of hollowed-out bread filled with curry. Sip on a glass of South African wine, as the country is renowned for its winemaking heritage. Enjoy a braai, a barbecue feast featuring delicious grilled meats and traditional sides.

The Maldives is synonymous with paradise. Relax in luxurious overwater bungalows, swim with colourful coral reefs and marine life, and bask in breathtaking sunsets on the white sandy beaches.

Indulge in Maldivian fish curry, a spicy and aromatic dish made with locally caught fish. Sip on a fresh coconut, and relish traditional snacks like "hedhikaa," delicious fried treats perfect for snacking by the ocean.

Explore the ancient ruins of Athens, relax on the beautiful beaches of Santorini, and visit the historic sites of Delphi. Take a boat trip to the picturesque islands of Mykonos and Rhodes, or immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Crete.

Enjoy a traditional Greek moussaka, a layered dish of eggplant, minced meat, and bechamel sauce. Savour fresh Greek salads with feta cheese and olives, and don't forget to indulge in baklava, a sweet and flaky dessert.

Explore the historic streets of Lisbon, bask in the beauty of the Algarve coast, and visit the charming town of Sintra with its palaces and castles. Portugal offers excellent opportunities for surfing, hiking, and wine tasting in the Douro Valley.

Delight in a dish of Portuguese bacalhau à brás, a savoury blend of codfish, potatoes, and eggs. Savor the famous Pastéis de Nata, delicious custard tarts with a flaky pastry shell. And, of course, enjoy a glass of Port wine from the Douro Valley.

Explore the beautiful capital of Nassau, relax on the white sandy beaches of Paradise Island, and swim with dolphins in Blue Lagoon Island. The Bahamas offer opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and enjoying water sports in the clear turquoise waters.

Enjoy a plate of conch fritters, a beloved Bahamian dish made with deep-fried conch meat. Indulge in a traditional Bahamian stew with tenderised chicken or fish, known as "stew fish" or "stew chicken." Don't forget to sip on a Bahama Mama cocktail, a fruity and tropical favourite.