August is officially here, but unfortunately the British summer is looking bleak. After a few fabulous days of sunshine back in June, July has been peppered with grey skies and downpours. Whilst we can keep our fingers and toes crossed that the weather improves for August, if you’re in dire need of a spot of sunshine, we recommend jetting off for a last minute break.
After much discussion in the Jon Richard head office, we’ve narrowed down our top 5 last minute holiday destinations. All that’s left for you to do is book those flights and start packing!1. GreeceFrom watching the sunset over Santorini, to marvelling over the Pantheon at the Acropolis, to taking a dip in a luxury infinity pool in Crete, this beautiful destination is only a few hours plane ride away. But with so many incredible Greek islands to choose from, it can be tricky to settle on just one. To really make the most of your get away, why not sail your way around and go island hopping?2. CroatiaCroatia has so much to offer its visitors. Whilst it may be near impossible to fit everything in in one trip, there’s a few must-sees we highly recommend. Soak up the serenity and go for a swim at the Krka waterfalls; visit Diocletian’s Palace in Split, an ancient Roman palace that today is home to many bustling shops and restaurants; and enjoy a day at the beach followed by an evening of drinking cocktails as the sun goes down on the island of Hvar.3. BarcelonaIf you just love a city break but are keen to get a few beach days in too, then Barcelona is the place for you. Just a 2 hour flight away, if you can only get a few days off work, it’s the perfect place to go for a long weekend. Explore the work of Spain’s most infamous architect, Gaudi, and marvel at the Sagrada Familia, the unfinished cathedral that’s been under construction since the 1800s, and the iconic fairytale-like buildings of Park Guell. It’s tradition in Spain to enjoy a big lunch and a smaller dinner, so after a morning of exploring get ready to feast on paella and tapas, washed down with a jug of sangria, before heading off to the beach.4. SicilyYou’ll find this beautiful and charming island in the toe of the boot that is Italy. Teeming with culture, heritage and stunning landscapes, this holiday destination is pure paradise. Whilst you’re there be sure to visit, the island’s capital Palermo, also known as the ‘city of delights’; Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano; and the glorious Valley of Temples.5. NiceFor sunshine, excellent wine and a relaxing peruse around a beautiful city, we say head to Nice. You’ll find yourself spending your days relaxing on the beach, visiting the infamous flower market and wandering down the Promenade Des Anglais. If you really want to see the city, why not rent a bike or even a pair of rollerblades for a fun-filled day of exploring. In the evening, visit one of Nice’s many amazing restaurants and bars to enjoy a sumptuous meal and a bottle of rose wine.