Egypt & North Africa

Hurghada has transformed from a small fishing village into one of Egypt's top resort destinations. Set on the Red Sea coast, it's a paradise for divers and snorkellers, with some of the world's most biodiverse coral reefs. All-inclusive resorts offer excellent value.

Sharm el-Sheikh sits at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula between the Red Sea and the Sinai mountains — and has one of the world's finest underwater ecosystems. Ras Mohammed National Park is a world-class dive destination, and the resort town has excellent all-inclusives.

Marrakech is one of the world's most intoxicating cities — the "Red City" of Morocco, with a UNESCO-listed medina packed with souks, riads, palaces and the famous Djemaa el-Fna square. The Atlas Mountains are on the doorstep and luxury riads offer extraordinary experiences.

Agadir is Morocco's purpose-built beach resort on the Atlantic coast — with a long, wide beach of golden sand, reliable sunshine and a relaxed, modern feel. It's more laid-back than Marrakech and a great winter sun option with direct UK flights.