Give Christmas a miss

Escaping the Christmas-themed everything of the UK and fleeing to sunnier climes is still possible. Scott Dunn has seven-night breaks at the four-star Sheraton Salobre in the south of Gran Canaria, a luxurious retreat complete with its own Aloe Spa. Prices start from £750pp, including British Airways flights and Private transfers.

· Scottdunn.com, 020-8682 5080.

Healthy start to 2007

Mince pies, turkey and lashings of booze tend to take their toll on the body and may lead to a rather bloated beginning to 2007. Yoga retreat specialist Lotus Journeys is offering a dramatic alternative with two weeks of instructed yoga, meditation and organic food at the Bhakti Kutir retreat near Palolem beach in Goa, starting on December 23. The package includes yoga tuition from instructor Lara Bauman, treatments, transfers, accommodation, brunch, Christmas and New Year parties, day trips to local attractions and liquid refreshment from the Bhakti Kutir's very own juice bar. £800pp excluding flights.

· Lotusjourneys.com 020-8968 3666.

New Year on the beach

Ditch the grey and start the New Year in Kenya taking in the blues of the Indian Ocean and cloudless skies, the white sands of Mombasa's beaches, and the greens of Amboseli national park. The African Safari Club has a 13-night deal departing December 30 for £513, including full board at the three-star Coral-Palm Beach Hotel, return flights, and local transfers.

· Africansafariclub.com, 0845 3450014.