THE washout weather that has plagued the country this year has many of us desperate for some sunshine.
As yet another rain-soaked week awaits, it makes sense to search out some blue skies and warm weather.
With the Easter break a way off, now is the perfect time to head abroad for some vitamin D at decent prices.
Here Head of Travel Lisa Minot picks some great deals on guaranteed sunshine destinations . . .
THE Canary Island favourite is always a good bet for sun as March arrives, with temperatures averaging in the low 20s.
The family-friendly 4-star Alexandre Gala near Playa de las Americas on the sun-drenched south-west coast has two outdoor pools, one of which is heated year-round.
As well as a buffet restaurant and two bars, there is a spa and sports facilities.
Its central location means it is close to the beach, bars and restaurants and just 1km from the Siam Park water park.
GO: Seven nights’ half-board at the Alexandre Gala is from £677pp including flights from Birmingham on March 4. See thomascook.com.
WARMING up nicely in March, Cyprus offers average highs of 20C.
Set on the beachfront of Kato Paphos, the 5-star Ivi Mare hotel is designed exclusively for adults.
There are three restaurants — buffet, Mediterranean and Japanese — as well as two bars, two outdoor freshwater pools and an indoor one.
There also a spa with sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi plus treatments for a pamper between sunbathing sessions.
GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the Ivi Mare is from £969pp including flights from Gatwick on March 2 and transfers. See easyjet.com/en/holidays and ivimarepaphos.com.
YOU are guaranteed tropical sunshine on the Caribbean coast of Mexico — and the all-inclusive 5-star AVA Resort Cancun makes the most of it, with all rooms and suites featuring panoramic ocean views.
The 2.8-acre beachfront lagoon is perfect for sailing, kayaking and paddleboarding, while another six pools offer more water fun.
There are nine fine-dining restaurants and eight casual options, including street food and ice cream salons.
There are also bars, cocktail lounges and nightlife venues.
GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive is from £2,175pp, including flights from Gatwick on March 11 and transfers. See ba.com and avaresortcancun.com.
AGADIR’S beaches are a hit with surfers thanks to the year-round swells.
And with temperatures sizzling in the high 20s around now, there is no better place to kick back on a sunlounger with a beer.
At this time of year, stays at the 5-star Hyatt Place Taghazout Bay are a steal, with luxurious rooms overlooking the ocean, two outdoor pools and a sandy beach just a 1.4km stroll away.
While golf enthusiasts are getting in the swing at the on-site 18-hole course, those seeking relaxation can book in at the Moroccan-themed spa.
GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the Hyatt Place Taghazout Bay is from £449pp with Luton flights on March 10. See loveholidays.co.uk.
ALL you will see from your room is blue at the 4-star Fuerteventura Princess, where four sprawling outdoor pools look on to the ocean.
Lush palm trees, volcanic mountains and hot weather make the island seem like a far-flung tropical escape, yet it is just a four-ish hour flight.
Sample local delights as well as familiar favourites at the buffet restaurant.
There is an outdoor tennis court, table tennis, billiards, volleyball and archery.
GO: Seven nights’ half-board at the Fuerteventura Princess is from £660pp including flights from Luton on March 4. See onthebeach.co.uk.
WITH GORGEOUS beaches and incredible swimming in coral reefs, Marsa Alam is ideal for a last-minute winter sun break.
TUI has new direct flights from Gatwick to the Red Sea resort, making it an easy flight with short transfers.
The 4-star Jaz Grand Marsa has its own private beach with a coral reef, as well as five pools, three of which have sea views.
The spacious grounds feature gardens and water fountains, plus tennis courts.
GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the Jaz Grand Marsa is from £666pp including flights from Gatwick on March 15. See tui.co.uk.