Costa del Sol among 'world's most optimistic destinations'

Brits looking to cheer themselves up with a last minute holiday in Spain may want to consider heading to the Costa del Sol, which enjoys 300 days of sunshine each year.

According to flight search engine Skyscanner, this makes the destination particularly ideal for a winter sun break especially during the dark and cold month of January.

"And with sunshine known to reduce stress and release endorphins, it's no wonder that thousands travel on flights to Malaga every January to soak up the winter sun and put a smile on their face," noted the comparison site.

The company, which is keen to lift people's spirits as the post Christmas blues and bad weather persist, named the Costa del Sol among the top five places to boost optimism alongside Vietnam, Japan, Canada and Norway.

While booking a last minute holiday delivers a break within an immediate time period, securing a summer vacation gives holidaymakers something to look forward to.