With winter in full swing in the UK, many people start dreaming of sunny and warm escapes.
February is often one of the coldest months and is the perfect time to look for destinations where the sun blazes and temperatures soar.
With that in mind, Express.co.uk spoke to travel expert Wayne Kask, the founder and CEO of Discover West Central Florida, to get his top recommendations for warm getaways.
Wayne said: “If you’re looking for somewhere warm in February, where it’s over 30C, I’ve got a few out-of-this-world places I’ve been to that have stayed in my heart.
“In Africa, Egypt always stands out for me. I remember being in Luxor one February, and it was hot – like, properly over 30C.
“Walking around the temples in that dry heat felt surreal, like stepping into another world. Aswan, further south, was even warmer. If you’re into history and sunshine, you’ll love it there.”
The expert might have a point. Luxor in Egypt has average high temperatures around 26C in February, with some days exceeding 30C.
The city is a treasure trove of ancient history, offering must-see sites like the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple.
Further south, Aswan is even warmer, and its scenic Nile views, the majestic Philae Temple, and traditional felucca boat rides make it a popular destination.
Wayne also recommended Senegal, particularly Dakar. He said: “When I was in Dakar, the beaches along the Petite Côte were warm and laid-back.
“The water was perfect, and the days were sunny and around 30C. I could sit by the beach, watch the fishing boats, and just soak it all in.
“You’d enjoy the mix of culture and great weather – it’s got a really welcoming vibe.”
Dakar enjoys average temperatures around 24C in February, and its markets, music scene, and beautiful beaches make it a fantastic spot for sun-seekers.
For guaranteed heat, Wayne also suggested heading to Morocco. He said: “I’ve been to Ouarzazate, near the Sahara, and it was pure desert warmth.
“You’ll love how intense and golden it feels out there – it’s a totally different kind of escape.”
Ouarzazate is known as the gateway to the Sahara and typically sees average highs around 20C in February, with the surrounding desert areas often much warmer.
Visitors can explore the stunning Taourirt Kasbah and the famous Atlas Film Studios.