WHERE IS CHEAP AND WARM IN JANUARY?

Have a question? Ask our expert Simon Calder

Q We are a retired couple and my health is not too good. But we’ve been thinking of January/February break somewhere warm for a few weeks. We’re not wealthy. Any ideas?

Ray

A Sorry to hear about your health. Were that not a concern, I would recommend Egypt – either Luxor or Hurghada – for guaranteed sunshine and great value. But given your medical concerns, the obvious answer

is the Canary Islands – with excellent medical facilities and, as part of the EU, covered by the European Health Insurance Card, giving NHS-equivalent treatment free.

In order, my package-holiday favourites are Tenerife (great resorts, superb scenery, loads to explore); La Palma (not terrific for beaches but intensely green and beautiful – no crowds); Lanzarote (astonishing landscapes plus the art and architecture of César Manrique); Las Palmas (best “proper” city plus colonial elements). Favourite overall, though, is small, remote El Hierro – though it’s more expensive and difficult to reach. Also, medical facilities tend to be more primitive.

Every day, our travel correspondent, Simon Calder, tackles a reader’s question. Just email yours to s@hols.tv or tweet @simoncalder

(Getty) Safe and sound: Canary Islands, such as Lanzarote, are well served by hospitals that are accessible to British holders of the European Health Insurance Card