LONDON, January 18, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

After the rigours of the festive season, what better January detox than to head off for some winter sun on a well-deserved holiday? Golden rays on your face, warm sand between your toes, it's very tempting … but where to go?

The experts at Direct Travel Insurance have put together five hot tips for this year's winter sun destinations with help from the new ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents) Travel Trends Report 2012.

Book cheap travel insurance from Direct Travel Insurance and you benefit from excellent cover and superb customer service. Here we've also included some useful local know-how for each winter sun holiday spot:

Dominican Republic

Why go? For the miles of shimmering white sands, brilliant street scenes, wonderful plant and bird life in easy-to-visit eco parks, the tropical idyll of Samana, surf heaven and a gamut of high-excitement water sports.

Good to know: Most local firms providing quad biking, jeep rental, water sports, horse riding and excursions do not offer holiday insurance cover so make sure your holiday insurance covers such activities.

Mexico

Why go? Stunning Caribbean beaches, gorgeous food, family-friendly activities and a cultural bonanza marking the fact that 2012 sees the end of the Mayan calendar's 5,125-year cycle and the start of a whole new era.

Good to know: Cars are banned from certain areas on certain days under anti-pollution rules, depending on their number plate. Tourist rental cars are included, so be sure to check the situation.

Egypt

Why go? Some excellent deals are around to lure holidaymakers put off by political unrest, while Red Sea resorts are far from Cairo protests and remain safe for tourists. Snorkelling or Tutankhamen's tomb? You decide!

Good to know: The Egyptian Chamber of Diving and Water Sports website (http://www.cdws.travel/) has a wealth of information about conditions in Sharm el Sheikh and other resorts. Make sure any pre-existing medical conditions are covered.

Cape Verde

Why go? These ten little islands dubbed the African Caribbean boast beautiful beaches, multi-coloured towns, whale watching, funky nightlife and an evocative mix of African, Portuguese and Brazilian cultures.

Good to know: Although crime rates are low, there have been reports of holidaymakers being mugged so don't brandish valuables in public, take care and ensure you have adequate travel insurance.

Sri Lanka

Why go? For adventurous activity holidays or pure beach relaxation, tea plantations or sunset cocktails, Buddhist temples and good value for money, all wrapped up with a wonderful welcome.

Good to know: Some coasts have dangerous riptides or undercurrents so always take advice locally (ask at your hotel, for example) before racing into the sea.

DTI have cheap travel insurance for those on a budget as well as options with higher levels of cover. For a quick holiday insurance quote, visit http://www.direct-travel.co.uk or call +44(0)845-605-2700.

Notes for Editors

Established in late 1992 and trading since 1993, Direct Travel Insurance specialises in travel insurance for individual travellers, couples and families up to the age of 75. Direct Travel Insurance offers a range of cover options and added benefits including cover for over 100 sports and activities enabling customers to tailor their policies for single trip, annual multi trip, backpacking and winter sports.

All travel insurance policies are underwritten by Chartis Europe Limited. Direct Travel Insurance is a trading name of UNAT Direct Insurance Management Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA Number 312350). Chartis Europe Limited is also authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA Number 202628).

Contact:
Katie Elfer
Email: Katie.elfer@chartisinsurance.com
Phone number: +44(0)20-8774-5644
 
Address: Chartis Direct
96 George Street
Croydon
Surrey
CR9 1BU

SOURCE Direct Travel Insurance