In the midst of a dreary, damp and chilly January, you might be daydreaming about a sun-soaked escape where you can relax for a week or two.

Starting 2025 with some winter sunshine is a brilliant way to gear up for the year ahead, and there's a plethora of destinations to pick from. While it's true that many European countries are a bit nippy in January, by travelling a little further afield, you can bask in much warmer climates with golden beaches and crystal-clear seas.

Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt, just over five hours away from London, offers all this and more, boasting an array of stunning beach resorts, lively nightlife and picturesque landscapes. According to the holiday gurus at On The Beach, Sharm El Sheikh is a 'proper' sanctuary if you're seeking a place to unwind and have fun this winter.

This Egyptian resort is nestled on the Red Sea coast, and despite being just over five hours away, the January weather couldn't be more different from the UK's. During this time, temperatures can soar up to 22C - which is actually Egypt's coldest month.

According to easyJet, sun seekers looking to top up on Vitamin D this Easter break should look to the Red Sea destination after it topped a list of the most reliably sunny places within easy reach of the UK. Climate data from the last 25 years has been used as part of the index to rank destinations by the percentage of predominantly sunny and dry days in April, with Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt topping the list. The index also displays average temperature highs, hours of sunshine per day, and the chance of rain.

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Sharm El Sheikh boasts around a 99% reliability rate for sunny and dry days during the Easter break. The former, Egypt’s purpose-built family resort city, has been crowned with the number one spot for its highs between 28C and 30C, and between 10 and 11 hours of sunshine per day. Holidaymakers there typically enjoy 11 hours of sunshine per day. Right now there are flightsavailable in April for from £43.

However, for Brits in search of some warmth, it's simply perfect. Egypt's region has something for everyone, making it an ideal holiday spot. From the sand-dune-filled deserts to towering mountain ranges, the natural scenery is truly awe-inspiring.

The city is also nestled right on the coast, so if you're partial to a bit of sun, sand and sea, then you're in for a treat. Sharm El Sheikh boasts some of the most crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkelling.

Indeed, one of the area's true highlights - Ras Mohammed National Park - is hailed as a 'snorkeler's paradise'. Here, you can catch sight of an array of tropical fish and even sea turtles if fortune favours you.

Sharm El Sheikh truly springs to life after dark too, with top-notch venues like Pacha and the Hard Rock Cafe hosting concerts, DJ sets, and much more. For those after a more laid-back evening, there are relaxed cocktail bars aplenty, many perched right on the waterfront for added serenity.

When planning your Sharm El Sheikh getaway, there's a wealth of resorts and hotels to pick from, catering to various budgets. From the Sea Beach Aqua Park resort at £364pp to the slightly more upmarket Cleopatra Luxury Resort at £544pp, there's a multitude of options to delve into - each boasting their own unique features.

So, if you're keen to treat yourself to a holiday this New Year, this Egyptian gem might be worth considering.