Got a taste for the sun? 6 ideas to tempt you away

The British weather can be so unpredictable, just as we thought summer would never arrive, this month’s glorious sunshine has got us all in the holiday mood.  However, as we know only too well, this can be quickly dampened by howling winds and sharp showers leaving many of us wishing we had booked that luxury holiday abroad after all. But it’s not too late to get away in 2013! Here are a few recommendations of destinations and resorts ideal to visit in July, August, September or October this year, whether you’re travelling as a couple or with family. Couples If you want to enjoy a blissfully calm romantic break with your loved one, you may well feel wary about booking during the summer months for fear that everywhere will be overrun with boisterous children. But there are plenty of exceptional hotels that are more concerned with catering to couples in need of a change of scene – and many offer remarkable value, even during this peak travel period. Alternatively, you can always opt to holiday in September, when the kids have returned to school but the good weather still lingers across Europe. Le Méridien Penina Golf & Resort, Portugal Particularly popular with activity seekers but also ideal for those in search of indulgent relaxation, the rooms here offer balconies with exquisite views of the surrounding mountain range. Dine in style at the Sagres Restaurant with its various theme nights, or try your hand at the 18-hole championship golf course. Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives Choose from 64 luxurious villas and suites, offering butler service, plunge pools, tropical outdoor showers or private verandas with direct access to the sea. Create your own water adventure at the PADI dive centre, or simply retreat to the secluded Jiva Grande Spa. Family Bring their summer misery moans to a welcome end by whisking the whole family away for an unforgettable holiday where sunshine and an equally warm welcome are guaranteed. Build precious memories of family bonding together and then, when you feel in need of some time to yourself, leave the children in capable hands at dedicated clubs. Anassa, Cyprus Anassa offers the whole family the space to spread out and explore. Spend a fun-filled day rock climbing, trekking and journeying through your own safari adventure at the nearby Akamas Nature Reserve, or set sail together for a private family cruise on the resort’s luxury yacht. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando® Located just a few minutes from Universal Studios® and Universal’s Islands of Adventure®, guests will find that the uniquely tranquil atmosphere of this Italian Riviera-style resort offers welcome respite at the end of a thrilling day at the parks – plus you’ll receive exclusive access to selected rides. Half term breaks As Britain takes an Autumnal turn, the balmy European weather, soothing year round sun of North Africa or the Caribbean’s welcoming warmth proves even more tempting… luckily, October half term is often much quieter than the school summer holidays, so it’s a good time to travel if you’d like to avoid the crowds. ABAMA Golf & Spa Resort, Tenerife A true hidden gem, the expansive ABAMA Golf & Spa Resort boasts no less than 10 restaurants and nine swimming pools, including two natural ocean lagoons where you can indulge in a spot of crab watching. Club Abami offers a varied programme of family-friendly activities from cooking workshops and sculpture classes to treasure hunts and music nights. Ocean Two, Barbados Set within walking distance of St. Lawrence Gap on a tranquil stretch of Dover Beach, guests can enjoy watersports, diving and snorkelling amongst the vibrant reef that borders the resort, as well as dances, crafts, outings, and magical movie nights under the stars. Maxine Roberts is Head of Marketing at Carrier. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.