If the chilly Belfast winter has left you longing for some sunshine and dreaming of exotic climes, why not banish the post-Christmas blues and give yourself something to look forward to by planning your 2012 summer holiday?

Whether you fancy dipping your toes in warm azure waters and soaking up the rays on one of the many amazing holidays to Spain or getting off the beaten track and discovering far-flung island retreats, there is something out there for everyone.

If you’re looking for inspiration for your summer break, here are some ideas to get you in the holiday mood:

1. Mainland Spain and the Spanish Islands

Spain has long been popular with British tourists and it’s no surprise, with the promise of warm temperatures all year round, endless stretches of golden beaches and myriad family-friendly resorts. Benidorm holds a place in many a tourist’s heart and if you’re searching for accommodation, look no further than the Gran Hotel Bali.

The Spanish Islands have something for everyone, from cloudless skies and stunning coastlines to adrenaline pumping activities and luxury spas. Tenerife, Lanzarote, Majorca and Ibiza are great for family holidays and trips away with friends; sunshine is almost guaranteed and there is no shortage of things to do and attractions to explore.

The Costa Adeje Gran Hotel in Tenerife is an ideal base for exploring the island and sampling the best it has to offer. For those looking for a quieter retreat, why not consider the slightly less touristy spots of Menorca, Fuerteventura and La Gomera?

2. Italy

Italy is an ideal destination for anyone who is looking to combine sun, sea and sand with sightseeing. Italy boasts some of the most beautiful cities in the world – Rome, Florence and Venice, to name but a few – as well as exclusive coastal and lakeside resorts. Italy is world-renowned for its cuisine and is home to an astonishing array of iconic landmarks, works of art and architectural feats.

3. Bali

For those looking to travel a little further afield, Bali is the perfect destination for an exotic island adventure. This Indonesian gem, a Mecca for travellers from all over the globe, offers countless pristine beaches, breathtaking panoramas and the chance to experience a completely different culture. You can choose to discover the island from luxury hotels and boutique spas or budget-friendly crash pads.

4. The Greek Islands

Anyone who has watched the film Mamma Mia will be familiar with the awe-inspiring Greek Islands. The better-known islands, such as Crete, Corfu, Rhodes and Kos are perfect for family trips, while intrepid adventurers will enjoy discovering untrodden paths on the less well-known islands, including Santorini and Kefalonia.

5. Florida

Florida is the ultimate family holiday destination, with hundreds of things to keep children and adults happy, from meeting Mickey Mouse and watching Shamoo the killer whale in action, to walking round a film set and seeing alligators in the wild. The climate is amazing, the scenery is stunning and you are guaranteed to leave with lifelong memories.

With Christmas and New Year fading into a distant memory and the winter in full force, now is the perfect time to start planning your next holiday, so what are you waiting for?