9 winter vacation ideas to plan now

The arrival of November is just around the corner, which means winter is just around the corner. The leaves are changing color, temperatures are dropping in most of the country, and snow has already fallen in some areas.

All of this means it’s time to plan your next dream vacation. Whether you want to escape the winter weather and head into the sun, or enjoy winter activities like skiing and snowboarding, winter is the perfect excuse for a vacation.

Of course, winter holidays are one of the most popular travel times of the year, so now is the time to book a vacation trip to make sure you don’t get caught up in overpaying or find everything sold out.

From snowy city adventures to skiing or escaping to get a tan in the sun, we’ve put together a list of the best places for an unforgettable winter getaway.

Explore the winter wonderland and holiday market

Exploring the city in winter has an undeniable charm. Snowflakes fell gently on the streets and green spaces, interrupted only by festive cheers. Of course, cities around the world are known for their festive decorations, and some – especially in Europe – are known for vast holiday markets that are sure to get everyone in the festive mood.

New York City during the holidays.

Every year after Thanksgiving, New York City transforms into one of the most magical winter wonderlands in the world.

The decorations scattered throughout the city are some of the most iconic you’ll come across. From the giant Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center to the window decorations at department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman, to the ice skating rinks in Central Park, Bryant Park, and Rockefeller Center, wherever you look, you’ll be greeted by the holiday season. Overwhelmed with joy.

Don’t forget to book tickets for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular at The Rockettes, or visit one of the many holiday markets in cities like Bryant Park and Union Square. If you’re looking to venture outside of Manhattan, you won’t want to miss the holiday lights in Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighborhood, where some homes invest thousands of dollars in extravagant displays of lighting and decor. year.

Chicago is a great city to visit in winter.

The Windy City takes the holidays very seriously, and every corner of the city is filled with holiday cheer, from the boutiques of the Magnificent Mile to the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.

Stroll through the famous Lincoln Park Zoo and see the dazzling ZooLights exhibit with over 2 million lights. Grab your skates or rent a pair and head to the Millennium Park Ice Rink, where you can admire Chicago’s iconic Cloudgate sculpture – commonly known as “The Bean” – or at Maggie Daley Park and its skating belt.

Chicago also has a perennially popular holiday market in Daly Plaza called Christkindlmarket. Modeled after traditional German Christmas markets, you can find a range of holiday-themed gifts and treats.

Don’t miss the chance to contribute to the holiday cheer at the city’s world-renowned museums. Visit the highly regarded Museum of Science and Industry in November. January 16 and January 2022. On April 4, 2023, you’ll see its “Christmas and Light Holidays Around the World” exhibit, which showcases 50 Christmas trees decorated in traditions from around the world.

A traditional market in Vienna.

While summer is usually the most popular time to visit Europe, winter – especially around winter holidays – is a uniquely fascinating time to visit the continent.

While many European cities are charming in winter, Vienna, the capital of Austria, is different. It’s a gorgeous historic city, made even more beautiful by the lights and fresh snow. During the winter holidays, Vienna’s old square becomes the location of the Christmas market, selling a variety of traditional Viennese and Austrian trinkets and treats.

One of the most famous annual events is the Christkindlmarkt on the Town Hall Square around the Town Hall Park. If you bring the kids, they’ll be delighted as there are carousels and craft stations in the market, and the surrounding area is adorned with sparkling lights, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

Of course, one of the most popular vacations in winter is a sports-focused vacation at any of the major ski resorts around the world. Majestic mountains provide excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding, while cozy cabins provide the perfect atmosphere for an après-ski cocktail or meal.

Go skiing this winter.

When thinking of skiing in the United States, Colorado is probably the first place that comes to mind. While the state is home to many great ski resorts, Vail is one of the most popular, and for good reason.

Less than 100 miles from Denver, about a two-hour drive, Vail is a quintessential ski town and home to Colorado’s largest ski resort. Vail Ski Resort is a winter sports lover’s paradise, offering over 5,000 acres of skiable ground for alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, ice skating and more.

Modeled after an Austrian town, Vail Village offers visitors a variety of options for dining, entertainment, high-end shopping, and, of course, the winter charm of spades.

Winter, Stowe, Vermont.

While the East Coast may not be as popular as the West for skiing, there are plenty of great destinations for East Coast residents who don’t want to cross or leave the country to ski.

Stowe is a charming town located at the foot of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak. Whether you’re on the slopes for the first time or a seasoned veteran, Stowe offers skis for all skill levels.

After a day in the mountains, head to Spruce Peak Village for a stroll and breathe in the cool mountain air while shopping, having a drink or sharing a meal with family or friends. When you’re in town, you can also go ice skating or even catch a show at the Spruce Peak Center for the Performing Arts.

Verbier, Switzerland

Valley of the Swiss Alps, Verbier, Switzerland.

If you’re eager to travel abroad and want to experience some of the best skiing in the world, consider a trip to Verbier in the Swiss Alps, home to some of the world’s most famous peaks.

There is no doubt that Verbier is expensive, as it has earned a rather glamorous reputation. But if you’re looking for a splurge to get the winter hotspot off your bucket list, this is an excellent option that’s sure to get you planning your next visit.

About two hours from Geneva, Switzerland, Verbier not only offers incredible skiing (and a variety of other winter sports), but the town itself is matched by an incredible ski experience with bars, restaurants, nightlife, shopping, and more.

While skiers and snowboarders welcome winter with open arms, those who aren’t winter sports fans do what they can to escape the cold, hit the beach for some sun, and collect that all-important vitamin D.

The white sand and turquoise ocean of Miami Beach, Florida.

It might not be surprising to see Miami on this list. While Florida is home to hundreds of stunning beach towns and cities, Miami draws many for its combination of some of the best beaches in the country with a culture, food and nightlife scene that is hard to match in the United States.

Miami is a relatively easy flight from most places in the US, and even if you don’t want to spend your entire time relaxing by the pool or the beach, the city has plenty to offer. Explore the public art installations of the Wynwood Walls, any of the city’s cutting-edge art museums, and even the sights and sounds of the famous Calle Ocho near Little Havana.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro is located on the coastline of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico is a good option if you want to go a little further but don’t want to leave the US. Since the island is a US territory, you don’t need to carry a passport to enter or leave as long as you fly back to the US.

The island of Puerto Rico has a lot to offer visitors, including stunning Caribbean beaches, bustling restaurants and bars, a vibrant culture, and more. Most travelers arrive in the capital, San Juan. You can choose to stay there during your vacation, or explore other areas of the island that offer incredible surf and a relaxed small-town getaway vibe.

Don’t miss a tour of El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the National Forest System. Last week, following Hurricane Fiona, the National Forest reopened its gates to visitors, although some trails and areas remained closed. You’ll enjoy breathtaking natural biodiversity, stunning scenery, and plenty of opportunities for hiking and other outdoor activities.

Palm Beach, Aruba.

Putting the “A” on the ABC Islands (the other two being Bonaire and Curacao), Aruba is a fantastic destination for anyone craving sunshine.

Located outside the typical hurricane path, the island is great for the whole family, with numerous family-oriented resort hotels and plenty of kid-friendly activities. The climate is pleasant year-round, the temperature remains very stable and the breeze is steady to keep you cool by the pool or the beach. When it comes to beaches, Aruba has some of the best beaches, with powder-white sand and stunning, calm and warm turquoise waters.

If you want to get out of the hotel and explore, the island has plenty to choose from, including Arikok National Park, with its incredible wildlife and stunning desert terrain. Back in town, there are plenty of restaurants, bars and nightclubs to entertain even the most dedicated foodies and night owls.

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