Our winter sun favourites if you're missing the sunshine and plotting a warm weather escape

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Anyone remember the sun? If feels like a lifetime since we saw that big orange thing in the sky.

These colder, darker months (of which there seem to be many!) have got us dreaming of warmer climates. So if you're thinking some winter sun would go down nicely about now you're not alone.

There's still time to book a late escape and get away this winter, and if you're a planner you'll maybe be thinking of next winter. Either way we've got you sorted.

Find some of our top picks below.

Marrakesh, Morocco

Marrakesh delivers the buzz of many cities rolled into one.

From the labyrinth of souks selling spices, pottery and textiles, to rooftop restaurants, riads and museums, this centuries old trading city is full of life and energy. Explore the public garden - Jardin Majorelle - which is one of the most visited places in Morocco; head to the stunning 19th century Bahia Palace; and spend some time in the Djeema El Fna, the legendary main square.

Find out more about Marrakesh - here.

Hurghada, Egypt

Hurghada

A great place to top up that winter tan, and try your hand at some water sports while you're at it. A strong favourite among those into their scuba diving and kite surfing.

For a more relaxing experience float down the Nile on a river tour and see magnificent ancient monuments such as Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings and Elephantine Island, and then unwind at night by checking out the desert night sky or spend time in the bars and restaurants surrounding the marina.

More about Hurghada - here.

Madeira, Portugal

Featured image - destinations - Madeira

Madeira, or the Pearl of the Atlantic, is often rated among Europe's best islands to visit.

Floating 1,000km off mainland Portugal this place is famed for its unspoiled nature and dramatic landscapes, along with the gorgeous cobbled streets, galleries and bars of Funchal. Levada walks are a great way to see the island, and who doesn't love a winter walk, especially when there's sunshine involved.

More about Madeira - here.

Canary Islands, Spain

Featured Image - Gran Canaria

There are few better places to enjoy the sun than in the Canaries - and with direct flights from Edinburgh to Fuerteventura, Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote through the winter we've got you covered.

Fuerteventura often features among the top of winter 'book it' lists given its year-round sunshine, idyllic resorts, and outdoor activities; while Tenerife is a firm favourite for many reasons - not least the 12,000ft El Teide volcano - and Gran Canaria is loaded with world class beaches and lush green mountains.

Lanzarote is another top destination with its landscape, fantastic food and great weather.

Find out more about:

Paphos, Cyprus

This city on the Cypriot coast is packed with beaches, historical sites and lively nightspots. Visitors flock to Old Paphos, or Palaepaphos - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for its museums, galleries and ancient theatres, villas and tombs.

Among the highlights are the stunning Aphrodite's Rock, Paphos Archaelogical Park, one of the country's most important archaeological sites, and the Akamas Peninsula National Park which contains a lagoon, natural spring pools, nature trails and a gorgeous beach.

Find out more about Paphos - here.

Book flights here

Flying with the family

For some families, particularly those with young children, arriving at the airport for a flight can be quite daunting.

However it shouldn't be a stressful experience, and we're always on hand to help with whatever you need.

(Don't forget - we've got a dedicated family lane at security.)

Advice for families

Browse the shops

If you're looking to pick up a pre-flight bargain or a holiday essential once you arrive at the airport then you're in luck.

We have an extensive selection of retail options on offer to passengers, selling everything from designer clothes and electronics to sunglasses and suitcases.

Airport shops

Find out what we've got on offer before and after security here.