Don’t get us wrong, we are LOVING silly season, and the cosiness is lovelyyyy at the moment, but we’d be lying if we said we hadn’t thought about getting some winter sun in 2026…If you’ve also been sitting there wondering how quickly you can pack a bikini and disappear somewhere warm, then we’ve got you. 2026 is the time to do it, and we have put together our top picks! From dreamy beaches to island hopping (and even one chilly-but-magical escape), these are the four destinations that need to be on your winter wish list for 2026. ✨
If winter for you = “get me as far from this cold as possible,” Bali is the one. Imagine swapping a frosty morning for coconuts and beaches! Spend your days wandering through lush rice terraces, chasing hidden waterfalls, sipping coconuts while the sun sets, and wandering Ubud markets in search of a sweet treat at night.
Bali is pure magic, we LOVE Bali, and it is the perfect place for escaping winter and finding your inner zen. Our Bali Bliss takes you to Semiyak, Ubud and Nusa Lembongan with activities including surfing, island hopping, temples and a massage - cause you’ll deserve it after all of those cold winter nights!
Or if you fancy more beach time, join our Bali Paradise trip, which takes you through Canggu, Uluwatu and Gili Trawangan. With a spa day, jewellery making, sunrise paddleboarding and more included this is another great option for banishing the winter blues, topping up your tan and getting your snorkelling fix!
Check out our Bali trips here:
Bali Paradise (11 days)🌴
Bali Bliss (10 days) 🌸
1. Pack light, breathable clothes
It’s hot, humid, and sticky - airy dresses and loose fits will always be your best friends.
2. Bring reef-safe sunscreen
You’ll be in and out of the ocean and pools constantly. Good for you, good for the coral.
3. Don’t skip the coconuts!
We love young coconuts and you’ll always find us sipping one in the sun whilst in Bali, they’re great for your stomach and are a staple whilst you are in Bali!
If you want winter sun and a chance to visit some iconic spots in South East Asia, Thailand Paradise is calling your name. Picture trading your winter layers for longtail boats, sparkling blue water, and sunsets that are out of this world. Spend your days island hopping between hidden beaches, snorkelling over colourful coral reefs, visiting an elephant sanctuary, and staying in floating bungalows.
Our Thailand Paradise trip takes you to some of the country’s most magical islands, combining adventure, chill vibes, leaving you feeling relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated. It’s the ultimate escape for spicing up your winter, making new friends, and creating unforgettable memories that will beat the winter blues every time.
Find out more about our 9-day Thailand Paradise trip here 🌅
1. Don’t underestimate the sun
It’s strong. Stronger than your ex's opinions. SPF all day, every day.
2. Carry cash
Market stalls, street food, boats - cash is queen here.
3. Stay hydrated
Humidity + exploring + cocktails = drink more water than you think.
If you want winter sun that feels like stepping straight into a postcard, Australia is the one. Think golden beaches, surf culture, city skylines right next to the ocean, trendy brunch spots, national parks, koalas, and the most chilled-out locals on earth. This is your sign to swap the frosty mornings for golden beaches, ocean swims, and sunsets that turn the sky pink.
The Gals Who Travel East Coast route hits all the highlights, whether you want to learn to surf, snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef, or simply explore the local café culture. This tour ticks all that off and more. Aussies are friendly, the vibe is laid-back, and the summer days feel endless.
Find out more about our Australia trips for 2026 here 🦘
1. Leave room in your bags for shopping
Girls the shopping in Aus is amazing, so leave room for plenty of shopping hauls!
2. Tap your card for everything
Australia is almost fully cashless. Makes life easy.
3. Embrace early mornings
Sunrise swims and coastal walks hit different here. The locals LOVE an early morning, so make the most of it and live like the Aussies do!
If heaven were real, it would probably look like the Philippines. Think island hopping, lagoons that look unreal, white-sand beaches, turtle spotting, waterfalls, and the warmest hospitality. Swap snow boots for snorkelling gear and spend your days exploring hidden lagoons, swimming with turtles in Cebu or Moalboal, chasing waterfalls inland, and hopping between breathtaking islands like El Nido and Coron.
The amazing Gals Who Travel Philippines tour combines relaxation with adventure, giving you plenty of time to chill on the beach, snorkel the day away and explore local gems thanks to your amazing guide. Whether you're exploring turquoise bays, ziplining between beaches, or soaking up the sunset from a beachfront bar, this is the place to be when winter gets too… wintery.
Want to know more? Here's all the information on our 10-day Philippines trip☀️
1. Island-hopping days can get windy
Bring a waterproof bag for your phone/camera.
2. ATMs aren’t everywhere
Always carry some pesos for remote spots.
3. Pack a power bank (especially for boat days!)
You’ll take so many photos - don’t let your battery die on you.
Okay, this one’s not “winter sun”… but it is another amazing winter escape for 2026. If you’re dreaming of temples dusted with snow, neon cities, cosy street-food stalls, steaming onsens, and landscapes that look straight out of a Studio Ghibli film - add Japan for your list in early 2026!
Yes, it’s cold. But it’s also so magical, too! It is also quieter during these months, which makes the cities and hot spots calmer. The snowy mountains, hot matcha, warming ramen, and bucket-list cities make winter a great time to visit Japan if you love a little chilly aesthetic.
Find out all about our 12-day Japan trip here! 🇯🇵
1. Layer up
It’s cold, but you’ll be in heated trains, restaurants, and shops. Layers = comfort.
2. Learn a few simple Japanese phrases
A little “arigatou” goes a long way.
3. Visit an Onsen
If you get the opportunity, whilst you are away, visit a steamy paradise. It’s the perfect way to end a crisp day exploring.
Winter in 2026 doesn’t have to be all dark mornings, oversized coats and freezing commutes. Whether you're craving sunshine, beaches, adventure, or a cosy cultural escape, these destinations are great options. From Bali to the Philippines, your winter travel mood board just got a whole lot sunnier.
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