Endless summer

With the longest day of the year already passed and the new Tourism minister John Penrose considering plans for clocks to be moved forward to make UK evenings lighter and longer, Thomas Cook selects its hot pick of destinations boasting the most daily summer sunshine – for those who don’t want to wait another year for their full quota of daylight hours.

Egypt
In at number one spot is Egypt, with a July average of 13 hours sunshine per day. Renowned as a snorkeller’s paradise, Egypt has some of the finest beaches and coral reefs in the world – ensuring the long days are packed full of activities. And it’s not just its seafront that offers a world of discovery, with Egypt’s stunning pyramids, temples and bazaars providing a magical insight into this oldest of civilizations.

Thomas Cook - 7 nights in Egypt from £424 per person
Staying at the 4 star Mercure Hurghada Hotel in Hurghada on all-inclusive, London Gatwick - 29th June 2010
thomascook.com

Turkey
Hot on Egypt’s tail is Turkey, with an average of 13 hours sunshine per day in July. With beautiful beach resorts, sparkling blue seas and never-ending sunshine, Turkey is the perfect destination to while away long days in. There’s plenty of attractions too, including the environmentally protected playground of Turtle Beach, where you can bathe in the mud, visit the Lycian rock tombs and spot loggerhead turtles from afar as they venture onto the beach to lay their eggs.

Direct Holidays - 7 nights in Turkey from £444 per person
Staying at the 3 star Ideal Hotel in Marmaris on all inclusive, London Gatwick - 19th July 2010
directholidays.co.uk

Ibiza
Ibiza holidaymakers may be waiting longer than they think to see its legendary sunsets in July, with an average of 12 hours of sunshine per day. Offering a choice of resorts dotted around the coastline of coves and sandy bays, there is a side to Ibiza that will seduce everyone from party lovers and young couples to families and single travelers.

Whether Ibiza’s stunning sunsets signal the start of partying in San Antonio’s legendary bars and clubs or inspire a romantic meal for two, the White Isle with its golden sands, blue seas, hippy markets and non-stop nightlife will give you a summer solstice to remember.

Airtours - 7 nights in Ibiza from £334 per person (3 adults sharing)
Staying at the 3 star Sal Rossa Apartments in Playa d'en Bossa on self-catering, London Gatwick - 5th July 2010
airtours.co.uk

Majorca
With a daily average of 11 hours sunshine in July, Majorca has something to keep every age group entertained. Try the south of the island for a more active break in the lively resorts of Palma Nova and Magaluf, whose golden beaches play host to an array of watersports. If it’s relaxation you’re craving, then head to the east of the island for long, lazy days amongst the pine fringed ‘calas’ and pretty bays of resorts such as Cala Bono and Cala d’Or. Alternatively, try the cosmopolitan capital of Palma for a combined city and beach break.

Cresta Beaches - 3 nights in Majorca from £640 per person
Staying at the 4 star Puro in Palma on bed and breakfast, London Gatwick flying with Easyjet – 5th July 2010
crestaholidays.co.uk

Tenerife
Boasting an average of 9 hours of sunshine per day and highs of 29?C in July, Tenerife is an ideal place to celebrate the start of summer in. Renowned for its lively nightlife, there is more to this beautiful island than just nighttime entertainment, including some of the best waterparks in Europe and some of the most stunning scenery thanks to its mountainous backdrop.

Sunset - 7 nights in Tenerife from £359 per person
Staying at the 3 star Miramar Hotel in Puerto de la Cruz on half board, London Gatwick - 6th July 2010
thomascook.com

*Optional supplements may be applicable at the time of booking. Correct at the time of issue however subject to change.