Hot Winter Vacation Spots

Due to a number of people asking me for advice on where to go for their winter vacation, I figured I’d pass along some of my knowledge. So, without further ado, here is a list of some of my favourite places to visit during the winter months: If you’re dreaming of a getaway but aren’t sure where to go check out these hot winter vacation spots. These are just a few of the places that are most popular this time of year.

Where do you want to spend your vacation this Christmas? Everyone is requiring their preference, don’t get confused and waste time. So, if you are looking for a place where you can relax your mind and soul then here are the places which will make your winter vacations awesome.

One of the best things about Winter is that it’s a great time to go on vacation. One thing to keep in mind is that winter is the busiest time of year for travel as well. So if you’re planning on traveling during this season, it’s best to book your flight and accommodations well in advance . That way, you can get your ideal spot for traveling. Some of my favorite Winter destinations are Puerto Rico, Cuba, Bahamas, and Dominican Republic.

Hot Winter Vacation Spots

Sure, the next few months promise to bring heaps of frigid fun. The winter also makes Jack Frost a permanent resident. It won’t be long before the thermometer in your neck of the woods dances around 32°F and sharp, piercing gusts penetrate the umpteen layers you carefully put on before leaving the house. Between December and February, it’s not so much a cold snap as a long, extended freeze with a solid chance of precipitation. Why should you grin and bear it while the wind is chilling you to the bone and you’ve lost feeling in all extremities? Don’t you deserve a reprieve from arctic temperatures and icy roads? We think so!

Ready to fly the frozen coop? Pack your bags for these sun-drenched spots across the globe. 

1. Sri Lanka

Jetsetters looking for something off the beaten tourist path should consider Sri Lanka. An overlooked gem, this exotic island in the Indian Ocean seduces everyone who steps foot with its stunning unspoiled wilderness, colorful history, and flavorful cuisine. Due to the proximity and a lack of crowds, it’s possible to pack a lot into a trip to Sri Lanka. Kick things off by climbing the steep staircase to the top of Sigiriya. Other highlights include the Golden Temple of Dambulla and biking through the tea plantations.

2. Galápagos Islands

For wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers, nothing even comes close to the Galápagos Islands. Winter is truly a special time, marked by warm temperatures, plentiful sunshine and calm waters. It’s also breeding season for many animals – thus increasing your chances of encountering giant tortoise eggs hatching and flamingos nesting. Fancy a snorkeling excursion? The tides around Gardner Bay brim with parrotfish, whitetip sharks, and stingrays. Following an action-packed day spent discovering the Galápagos Islands, recharge your batteries at Pikaia Lodge.

3. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Over the past three decades, Dubai has exploded into an international hub of business and tourism. It’s no accident that glitterati from across the globe journey to this opulent, desert paradise. Known for its jaw-dropping modern landmarks – most famously the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building – and ultra-glamorous scene, the “City of Gold” certainly lives up to its extravagant nickname. Add to that, award-winning restaurants, glitzy mega-malls as well as luxurious resorts ( the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah) and high-end business-oriented hotels like The Oberoi Dubai.

4. Hanoi, Vietnam

Ancient architecture, rich culture and proximity to Ha Long Bay  (it’s a 60-minute seaplane ride from Vietnam’s capital) are just a few of the reasons Hanoi is a strong contender for where to go this winter. Upping the appeal? Hoàn Kiếm Lake and street food! Head to Lý Văn Phức to sample phở and com binh dan (“commoner’s rice”). Wallet-friendly prices certainly don’t hurt either. That’s right: a trip Hanoi won’t drain your bank account, but it will yield photos and memories to last a lifetime. 

5. Buenos Aires, Argentina

An irresistible blend of European and Latin influences, Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital is one of the most sizzling cities on the planet. When the thermometer spikes and the humidity rises in the winter, it gets even hotter. Expect generous cuts of steak, endless red wine, sultry late-night groove sessions at the milongas (tango halls) and an influx of tourists. You’ll also find a variety of enticing events. December heralds in festive fun, fireworks illuminate the sky on New Year’s Eve and Carnaval Porteño kicks off in February.

6. Saint Lucia

The winter woes simply don’t exist in Saint Lucia – not with sunny skies, blue waters, volcanic beaches, and stiff rum cocktails. Volcanic beaches, posh spas, and hot springs beckon relaxation seekers, while adrenaline-pumping ziplines and dive sites attract more active types. Pack your hiking boots because the UNESCO-listed Pitons, shown here, are not to be missed. As you’ve probably gathered, Saint Lucia is pretty darn romantic. Looking to turn up the heat? Reserve a room at Marigot Bay or Jade Mountain Resort.

7.  Ko Samui, Thailand

In the realm of tried-and-true vacation destinations, few compare to Ko Samui. Thailand’s second-largest island and reigning holiday hotspot serves up an intoxicating mix of sandy stretches, coconut groves, dense jungle, mesmerizing temples, and welcoming locals. There are fantastic places to stay – namely the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui – along with pampering spas, hip bars to watch the sunset, and wonderful restaurants. Speaking of food, we’d be foolish not to spotlight the flavorful fare. True to its fishing roots, dishes run the gamut from Thai-style crab curry to tom yum goong (hot-and-sour seafood soup).

8. Lima, Peru

World-class museums, UNESCO sites, vibrant nightlife, and a top-notch culinary scene make Lima an alluring city break. First up, we need to talk about the food. The gastronomical capital of Latin America boasts a bevy of fine dining restaurants, plus no-frills cevicherias and bustling markets. In between meals, check out pre-Columbian ceramics at Museo Larco. Be sure to hit up a few of the independent galleries and contemporary art venues, too. It’s worth noting that you can do all this while wearing a T-shirt in December, January, and February.

9. St. Kitts

Guaranteed excellent weather and a wealth of outdoor pursuits await in St. Kitts. The Caribbean nation enjoys a balmy climate with average temperatures hovering around 82°F. Translation: perfect conditions for rainforest treks, 4×4 expeditions and touring old sugar cane plantations. Even better, a winter jaunt to St. Kitts doesn’t have to break the bank thanks to a slew of affordable beach bars, restaurants and hotels. On the flip side, if you’re in a position to splurge, we recommend shacking up at the Park Hyatt St. Kitts.

10. Ambergris Caye, Belize

If value, weather and underwater exploration factor heavily into your vacation decisions, let us introduce you to Ambergris Caye. Beloved by beach bums and retirees on a budget, this Belizean island also has a lively side with nightlife centered around San Pedro and enough aquatic activities to banish any thoughts of boredom. On that note, you can’t talk about Ambergris Caye without mentioning the Belize Barrier Reef. Off the eastern coast lies unparalleled dive sites – most famously the Blue Hole.