WINTERSUN: HOT SPOTS

Chris Haslam’s pick of ten destinations to escape the cold drew numerous other suggestions from our readers and ignited a heated debate over the virtues of Dubai and the UAE.

Read and comment on the original article: 10 classic wintersun destinations

Where is Australia? I loved it there. It's got almost everything and the same sorts of beaches as Barbados in places like the Whitsundays. However, I guess it's not very cheap when one factors in getting there. Michael, The Hague, Netherlands

I am rather glad you have left out Goa. Travel writers seem to think it somehow passe. Good, keep it that way. M Howroyd, St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex

What about UAE? Excellent beaches, five-star hotels and restaurants, desert safaris, nightlife, skiing (yes!) and the stunning architecture of a 21st-century metropolis. How can it not be on the Top 10 list? Michael, Dubai

Because it’s colourless, characterless and soulless. Phil, Estepona

I would argue against Phil from Estepona's view of the UAE as "colourless, characterless and soulless". What a travel snob you must be! Have you visited places like Fujairah and snorkelled on the untouched coral reefs? Have you climbed Jebel Hafit and explored the 4th century BC caves? Have you slept under the stars in the desert dunes? Or have you maybe had a stop over in Dubai and hated your time in the Jumeirah Beach resort as it wasn't "real" enough for you? The title of the article is "Classis WinterSun Destinations", not "Cultural vacations for the pretentious". Rick, UAE

Egypt has had more than its share of terrorist attacks directed at tourists. Instead of Sharm el Sheik, I'd recommend nearby Eilat in Israel. You get the same sunshine and sea, excellent eating and plenty of attractions such as underwater coral observatory, desert jeep tours and superb hiking trails. David Henry, London

I have been to Egypt twice and would not hesitate in going back again. Officially Sri Lanka suffers from “terrorism”, yet it was one of the most amazing places when I went there in Feb 07 - highly recommended. Geoff, London

I worked seven years in the Middle East (and live in Thailand). Dubai is amazing, but I repeat the comment made by a previous contributor: UAE (the Middle East generally): characterless, colourless and soulless (and sterile). Andrew Munn, Bangkok, Thailand

Go to Israel if your desire is to have a wonderful holiday in warm sunshine with friendly people. Let guys like Geoff in London limit their horizons because of political situations totally of our control. Ian, Bordeaux, France

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