THIS week we saw the return of Blue Monday, which is claimed to be the most depressing day of the year. 

The term was first coined by UK travel company Sky Travel back in 2005. At these times many of us may wish to escape to somewhere a little brighter and better.

With Christmas out the way people will be planning their summer holidays but may also be looking at a winter getaway to beat those January blues.

We spoke to three travel companies across north and west Cumbria to find out what were the most popular travel destinations for their customers this year.

Whitehaven travel agent, Cumbria Travel, named their top five holiday destinations: "Our top destinations are: Turkey, New York, Iceland, Spain and Las Vegas," they said.

"Turkey and Spain have always been popular holiday destinations for Cumbrian tourists."

Nowadays some of us are going further afield and exploring the United States; with New York and Las Vegas being top places to visit. Cumbria Travel also explained that Florida was popular amongst holiday goers.

Whilst most of us enjoy the sun, it is also becoming increasingly popular to visit colder climates with Iceland becoming a place to go for those in Whitehaven. It is a great place to see the northern lights and enjoy the Blue Lagoon natural springs. 

Workington-based travel agents, Craig Travel, said: "Krakow, Turkey, Benidorm and the Canary Islands are always popular."

Benidorm and the Canary Islands have been a firm favourite of us Brits for decades, offering top class package holiday deals. 

Krakow in Poland is also growing in popularity. This culturally rich city is famous for its salt mines and Jewish district. It is a great place for a city break both in the winter months and summer season.

Carlisle-based estate agents TUI Holidays, said: "Our top places to visit are Cape Verde, Zante, Turkey, Spain and Mexico."

Cape Verde and Zante are popular places for young people looking for a trip away with their friends.

Whilst Mexico is becoming increasingly popular for those looking to holiday in the winter months because of its warm climate.