The winter season can be magical and full of fun outdoor sports. For some, shorter days and cold weather can cause winter blues, if you are someone who can use an escape every winter or simply loves to travel, definitely budget for the following must-visit destinations that are a warm winter escape.
The peak season to visit Hanoi, Vietnam, is actually in the summer. Winter is a perfect time to go to avoid crowds. The cooler weather allows for a more comfortable sightseeing experience at Old Quarter, enjoying cafe culture, the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, and Hoan Kiem Lake, among many other must-see attractions. And don’t forget to indulge in phở, bún chả, bánh mì, and winter seasonal soups and porridges, such as cháo sườn and bún riêu cua.
If it’s winter in the US, it is summer in New Zealand, making Auckland an excellent destination to get away from the chilling temperatures we experience here at home. You are met with beautiful beaches, such as Takapuna Beach and Cheltenham Beach, and great day trip destinations. Some places that won’t disappoint are Rotorua, Waitomo Caves, and Waiheke Island. Auckland also has a vibrant city life. There are plenty of cafes, museums, and summer music festivals to enjoy while you are there.
The Maldives are a tropical paradise and dream destination for anyone who wants a warm winter escape. It is a chain of islands along the Indian Ocean with white sand beaches and turquoise waters. The weather is consistently in the 80s Fahrenheit, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the sun. Some water activities available are snorkeling or diving or trying your hand at water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing. You can also visit the Old Friday Mosque and have sandbank picnics.
If you get the impulse to escape the winter blues, the Turks and Caicos are an ideal destination. Throughout the year weather is consistently in the mid-80s, perfect for enjoying the tropics. There are luxury resorts, villas, and vacation rentals in prime locations for you to enjoy good food, water attractions, and eco-adventures. Eat delicious seafood and indulge in island comfort food, such as local conch fritters, crab and rice, and johnnycakes. While you’re there, check out Chalk Sound National Park, Princess Alexandra National Park Barrier Reef, and West Harbour Bluff.
A fantastic winter escape destination is Yucatán, Mexico. This tropical region of Mexico enjoys mid to high 80-degree weather, sometimes reaching the low 90s, which is exactly what you want if you are running away from the harsh winters parts of the US experience. While you are in Yucatán, visit archeological ruins like Tulum, Chichen Itza, and Uxmal, natural sinkholes or cenotes, and many beaches along the Riviera Maya. Be sure to try regional dishes, likecochinita pibil,papadzules,poc chuc, andsalbutes.