Top 10 Bargain Breaks to Beat the Winter Blues

Don't give up on a late holiday in the sun, just make sure you snap up good deal somewhere you can meet the locals. Ian McCurrach selects the best

1 Dubai

Dubai hits the headlines for its swanky five-star resorts. But there are other, cheaper, well-appointed options, too. The budget-but-chic Rimal Rotana Suites, in downtown Deira bordering the Creek, has a rooftop pool where you can soak up the same rays and be within walking distance of the city's cultural highlights. Remember, you can make further savings by eating at local restaurants.

2 Sri Lanka

Fly'n'flop takes an exotic twist at the ocean-facing Hotel Riverina on the sands of Beruwela beach. This cut-price option is an especially good choice for families, because there are plenty of children's activities at the hotel.

3 Kenya

Tourism is on the increase again in this East African nation. And it isn't all about safari, there are great beaches to enjoy, too, without crippling jetlag. Book a package to the Diani Sea Resort to get good accommodation at three-star prices with the city of Mombasa within easy reach for a day trip out.

4 India

For the culturally minded traveller in search of warmer weather, Kuoni's introductory trip to Rajasthan takes in the country's must-see historic palaces and forts at a snip. Highlights include New Delhi's Lutyens' architecture, the Taj Mahal at Agra, the "Pink City" of Jaipur and its Amber Fort.

5 Dominican Republic

More budget all-inclusive beachfront action is on offer at the Casa Marina Reef Hotel in Sosua on the north coast of the island. Facilities include five restaurants and four bars, guaranteeing variety during your two-week stay. And when you need to get out, choose from the collection of excursions.

6 Thailand

The Cosy Beach Hotel Pattaya is another beachfront resort with tropical gardens in a quiet location. The property only has one restaurant serving a mix of cuisines, but you can cab it cheaply to nearby central Pattaya for more choice and shopping. There are plenty of watersports on offer and the beach is quiet and safe for kids.

7 Jamaica

A week in the sun on an island with a laid-back vibe is a no-brainer for beating the winter blues. Trelawny Beach Hotel, set on Trelawny beach in the north of the island, offers the whole deal for a bargain price: good watersports, crèche facilities for families, and a raft of excursions, including the YS Falls and Kingston.

8 Cape Town

Cape Town is a topographically stunning city offering visitors beach, city and mountain in one hit, with sunshine guaranteed. And thanks to the weak rand, after-dark dining at world-class restaurants such as Tank in trendy De Waterkant will cost less than a takeaway at home. Stay at the Camps Bay Resort and you'll be based in one of the trendiest areas of the city.

9 Mexico

You can set the budget from the outset on an all-inclusive break. And all-in doesn't mean you can't break out and explore the country you're visiting. The Catalonia Riviera Maya Hotel, set on a beach on Mexico's Mayan Riviera, offers interesting excursions such as a trip to the historic Mayan ruins in Tulum. Meanwhile, on site there's a coral reef that offers good snorkelling, and facilities include five swimming pools and a choice of six restaurants.

10 Rio de Janeiro

Rio is all about the beach. But make sure you tick off the must-see sights - Corcovado, Sugar Loaf, the traditional tram to Santa Teresa - before you hit the city's sands. Ipanema and Leblon are the trendy places to hang out.