6 Best Winter Vacation Ideas

I’ve always felt that there are two types of winter vacationers- those who would like to escape the cold and find sunnier weather and those who enjoy the cold and are looking to enjoy the beauty of winter. Well, whichever type of traveler you are- here are some awesome winter vacation ideas:

Nestled along the Caribbean coast, Cancún is a tropical paradise that welcomes winter travelers with open arms. As the northern hemisphere shivers, Cancun enjoys temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to 80s. With its beautiful white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, Cancún is the epitome of a sunny winter escape. In Cancun, you can snorkel, swim, or just relax with a drink on the beach. If you’re feeling more adventurous and active, you can also explore the surrounding Mayan ruins.

This isn’t necessarily the warmest idea on the list, but it is an escape from snowier, colder parts of the country. You can expect temperatures in the 50’s, with colder weather at night. No matter, you can stay comfy in layers as you explore everything Big Sur has to offer. I had an amazing girls’ trip some years back and I have fond memories of the food scene, outdoor activities, and going on hilly runs.

While winter blankets other countries, Sydney basks in the warmth of summer. Sydney offers cultural activities like opera and museums as well as natural beauty in its parks, botanical gardens, and beaches. With temperatures ranging from 70-85°F during the winter, Sydney provides a sunny holiday to travelers.

If you love the cold and the thrill of speeding down the slopes gives you an adrenaline rush, then you should try Aspen. With its world-class ski resorts and gorgeous mountain views, it’s a wonderland for those enjoy winter sports. Even if you’re a newbie to the winter sport scene, there are activities for all skill levels. Believe me, I’m no Olympic athlete, and I had a great time in Aspen. (This is also despite cold weather normally being my personal kryptonite.)

Canada’s Banff National Park becomes even more beautiful during the colder months. Gaze upon the beauty of its frozen lakes, take a snowmobile tour, and warm up in the hot springs. With its charming, picturesque landscapes, Banff is a must-visit for any winter-lover.

Embrace the contrast of cold and warmth by visiting the geothermal hot springs of Iceland. The Blue Lagoon, surrounded by snow-covered lava fields, is an amazing experience. Even better, this year is supposed to be great for viewing the Northern Lights, and Iceland provides the opportunity to view this awe-inspiring phenomenon.

Whether you are excited to go skiing and drink hot cocoa or you’re ready to sit on the beach and enjoy a cold drink, these travel destinations could work for you. (Of course, stay tuned to travel alerts and updates- things can change from month to month.) Happy travels!