As Brits, we’ve gained a reputation for always thinking about our next holiday - and who can blame us?
As we enter the darker, wetter and gloomier months of the year it’s only natural for many of us to start planning our next getaway to give us something to look forward to. A report by ABTA - The Travel Association found that 84 per cent of British people went on holiday in the last 12 months, with each person on average taking more than three holidays a year.
While a lucky few may be able to seek out some winter sun, many of us will spend the next few months caught up in the chaos of Christmas and trying desperately to stick to our New Year's resolutions. April, then, is the perfect time to plan your first getaway of the year. Known for its frequent downpours, the average temperature in the UK in April is a chilly 9°C - making it all the more worthwhile to travel for a fix of vitamin D.
But where can you find some April sun in Europe and beyond?
Seville
This southern Spanish city is a great location to visit for some spring heat due to its distance from the coast.
With average April highs of 22°C and lows of 11°C, Seville can be warmer than other Spanish cities such as Barcelona (17°C) around this time of year - and it boasts an average of eight hours of sunshine a day. Seville can easily surpass 40°C in summer, so April is a great time to visit, plus you’ll be able to catch the city’s iconic Easter parades.
Dubai
Thanks to its desert terrain, Dubai is a safe bet to visit all year round if you’re craving some sunshine, although April, on average, provides a more palatable temperature to lounge in (33°C) compared to the likes of May (38°C), June (40°C) and July (41°C).
Compared to other months, things cool down slightly in the evenings, so you’ll be able to enjoy The Dubai Fountain’s iconic light show without beads of sweat forming on your brow.
Thailand
April falls into The Land of Smiles’ shoulder season - the period between its peak and rainy season, so prices on holidays are likely to be cheaper.
Don’t worry about the weather though, as you’re guaranteed sunshine with monthly averages of 30°C to 35°C. If you’re short on time and stuck between mainland cities including Bangkok or the country’s famous islands, the shores of Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Samui and Koh Tao may be your best bet, as the cities can verge on being too hot.
Bali
The Indonesian island is a top travel destination for Instagram influencers from around the world thanks to its beaches, partying and historic culture.
April marks the start of Bali’s dry season, so the weather improves (the temperature can sit anywhere between 32°C and 25°C), and its hotspots aren’t so saturated by tourists, who tend to flock to its shores between June and August.
Florida
If you’re after jampacked days of amusement parks and crocodile spotting, Florida is a brilliant destination - especially for families - in April.
With temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C, it won’t be too hot for the long list of activities the US state offers, and you’ll be safe from the state’s hurricane season, which begins in June.
Morocco
A country steeped in rich culture, the climate in Morocco shifts from late spring to early summer in April.
With temperatures beginning to heat up, April is one of the optimum months to visit: you can expect pleasant averages of 24°C (which can increase to 32°C in southern regions). If you’re into hiking, April is also a great time of year to visit the High Atlas mountain range, with tours running through to November.
Cyprus
The shores of Cyprus have long been favoured by British tourists. Although milder than other months (temperatures reach a maximum of 23°C), many take to the island later in the year, so you’re likely to save on your flights and hotel (and enjoy more space on the beaches).
