Winter Getaways

The excitement never stops at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi. You can go for a dip in the infinity pool, get your heart pumping in the fitness centre, and listen to live DJs. Look out over the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf, or head to BAR-B Spa for a soothing treatment, such as a massage, facial or body wraps. And, at the end of each day, you can admire the stunning Dubai sunset.

Make sure you pack your dancing shoes, though. The DJ sets by the infinity pool will have you tapping your toes as you sip a cocktail. And, in the evenings, the indoor and outdoor W Lounge really come to life with pulsing beats. Fancy dinner and a show? Head to Papillion for delicious dishes and contemporary cabaret. With music, dancing and great food all in one place, what more could you ask for?

Tucked in a stunning horseshoe bay on the southwest shore of Antigua, Carlisle Bay is in a stunning spot. This luxury resort is set against a backdrop of white sands, turquoise waters, and emerald green rainforest. There are only 87 exclusive suites here, each one exquisitely decorated and with sweeping ocean views. And, December to April is the best time to visit Antigua, making this the perfect choice for some sought-after winter sun.

And all you foodies out there are in for a treat. Carlisle Bay gives you the pick of the bunch with their distinctive dining options. Make sure you check out fusion restaurant, East. With a reputation for being one of the best restaurants in Antigua, this place serves up tantalising flavours of Japan, Thailand and Indonesia.

Thailand is packed full with stunning national parks, world-class beaches, and mesmerising landscapes. And November to March is the perfect time to visit, as you can leave the British winter behind and soak up some tropical sunshine.

Island-hopping is a great way to discover Thailand’s charms. Many islands are surrounded by coral reefs, and the warm waters are teeming with exotic fish, rays and turtles. 

You can fly into Krabi, which is famous for its outstanding natural beauty. You can snorkel beneath limestone cliffs, stroll along sandy beaches, or embark on a diving trip to Hong Island. Next, you’ll head south to Koh Lanta – an island with fantastic scuba diving. On the edge of Mu Koh Lanta National Park, you’ll find the first-class dive sites of Purple Rock and Red Rock. As well as their colourful corals – from which they take their name – the sites also boast anemones, rays and sharks.

INGREDIENTS

• - 500g skinless, boneless chicken thighs

For the marinade

• - 1 lemon, juiced
• - 2 tsp ground cumin
• - 2 tsp paprika
• - 1-2 tsp hot chilli powder
• - 200g natural yoghurt

For the curry

• - 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• - 1 large onion, chopped
• - 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• - 1 green chilli, deseeded and finely chopped (optional)
• - thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
• - 1 tsp garam masala
• - 2 tsp ground fenugreek
• - 3 tbsp tomato purée
• - 300ml chicken stock
• - 50g flaked almonds, toasted

METHOD

1. 1. In a medium bowl, mix all the marinade ingredients with some seasoning. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss with the marinade. Cover and chill in the fridge for an hour, or leave overnight.
2. 2. Heat the oil in a large, heavy saucepan. Add the onion, garlic, green chilli, ginger, and some seasoning. Fry on a medium heat for 10 mins or until soft.
3. 3. Add the spices with the tomato purée, and cook for a further 2 mins until fragrant.
4. 4. Add the stock and marinated chicken. Cook for 15 mins, then add any remaining marinade left in the bowl. Simmer for 5 mins, then sprinkle with the toasted almonds.
5. 5. Serve with rice, naan bread, chutney, coriander and lime wedges, if you like.