Top Long Haul Holidays in 2023 - Part 1

It's nearly summer, and there's nothing that puts you in the mood for sunshine quite like sunshine! If you're dreaming of lying on a tropical beach, either now or later in the year, sipping cocktails and enjoying the sun, we've got the top locations for you.

Costa Rica

About Costa Rica

It’s safe to say Costa Rica is a getaway for all; families, couples, friends, and even a solo trip. Costa Rica has everything from volcanoes to rainforests, beaches to bars, restaurants and luxury hotels. If that isn’t enough to persuade you, here are some interesting facts to change your mind:

• Costa Rica has 27 national parks that account for nearly 6% of the world’s biodiversity, including sloths, iguanas, sea turtles, howler monkeys and hummingbirds.
• There is a volcano where you can take a dip in the natural hot waters.
• Costa Rica offers many activities for thrill-seekers and adventurers, like river rafting, surfing and ziplining through the rainforests.
• Along with the gorgeous beaches, Costa Rica is an overlooked foodie destination with their national dish being Gallo Pinto which is the Costa Rican take on rice and beans.
  
  

Caxton's Top Hotel Pick

We've picked out the Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.

This luxury resort offers nature, relaxation, and adventure whilst being located at the base of the famous Arenal Volcano deep inside a tropical rainforest.

When to Visit

Between mid-November and April you will be able to enjoy the warm sun for around 12 hours of the day with temperatures just shy of 30 degrees Celsius. May to mid-November is referred to as Costa Rica's green season, with rain falling heaviest in September and October. During this time you’ll often find sunny mornings and rainy afternoons, so if you don’t mind getting caught in a mid-afternoon shower, it’s a great time outside of the busier peak season.

Cuba

About Cuba

Cuba is one of the very few places that are said to be ‘unspoiled’. The island will take you back in time with its architecture, vehicles, clothes, and electronics.
The weather in Cuba will not disappoint if you’re after a hot summer trip. There are picture-perfect beaches with crystal clear waters and white sand, as well as having areas perfect for hiking and camping.
Cubans love music so prepare to see DJs, street performers and Timba bands. Where there is music, dancing swiftly follows so keep your dancing shoes at the ready.

Not convinced yet? Here’s a couple of ways to taste the Cuban culture:

• Walk through the streets of Trinidad to enjoy Spanish Colonial architecture.
• Visit Disco Ayala for an unreal experience of clubbing in a cave 100ft underground.
• Tour Havana in a classic car.
• Grab a drink at mojito mojito in Havana.
  
  

Caxton's Top Hotel Pick

We've picked out the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski in Havana.

A luxury hotel with multiple amenities for the residents such as the spa, a rooftop pool, and a bar with amazing views and has the best breakfast in Havana.

When to Visit

Between November and April would be the best time to travel to enjoy the warm weather and save yourself from the rainy and hurricane season in Cuba, with highs of 27 degrees Celsius on average. Hurricane season runs from June through November, with the worst being September and October. You can visit during the summer (May to August) but there is no guarantee it will be uninterrupted sunshine as this is classed as the wet season.

Travel Advice

Cuba is a popular destination with a lot to offer, but if you are planning on visiting the US in the next ten years, it is worth knowing that people who have visited Cuba within the last ten years are ineligible for the ESTA visa which can be easily applied for online. That doesn't mean that you can't go, but you will need to go to the embassy to get a proper visa which is more expensive, and takes a lot longer.

Mexico

About Mexico

Mexico is an absolute treasure trove of culture and a great place to visit. It is famous for many things, but there is one prominent one that comes to mind, TEQUILA! Don’t worry though, we’ve found some other things to lift your spirits.

• For beach lovers, Mexico has 6,000 miles of glorious coastline.
• Mexico’s cuisine is diverse and differs throughout the regions, but staples throughout their dishes are corn, beans, and chili.
• There is a range of adventures and activities to undertake like diving with sharks to hot air balloon rides
• There are 35 UNESCO World Heritage sites across Mexico.
• You can book tickets to go watch Lucha Libre, Mexico’s long-standing wrestling culture.
  
  

Caxton's Top Hotel Pick

We've picked out the Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City.

Step outside the doors, and you’ll find yourself on the grand boulevard of Paseo de la Reforma, just a short stroll away from Bosque de Chapultepec and the trendy neighbourhoods of Condesa and Polanco.

When to Visit

Between December and April is Mexico’s dry season, so expect non-stop sunshine and temperatures averaging around 24 degrees Celsius. The rainy season runs from May to September, but the rain tends to come in short bursts generally in the afternoon and the temperatures stay warm, so don’t let that put you off! Hurricane season is June to November with the worst being in September and October.

Dreams of a tropical holiday could really com true this year! Check out the second part of this article here, where we highlight three more long haul destinations. And don't forget, you can enjoy fee-free spending when you use your Caxton currency card. Ahead of your journey, log into your account to top up your card. Or if you’re new to how pre-paid currency cards work, learn more about how you can spend and save money before you register an account with us.