For most parts of the North or the Midwest, you’re already familiar with how brutally cold it can get during the winter months. As beautiful as snow can be, it’s only fun for a couple of hours and then it’s time to get in the house and turn the heat up on high. However, there’s nothing like a great getaway to a sandy beach under some hot sun by the water. For those of you looking to escape Jack Frost in the upcoming months, here’s a list of six destinations to catch a nice tan for the winter.
Costa Rica
Warm weather and nature are what Costa Rica is notorious for. Whether you’re looking to lay a towel down and sit in the sun or go zip-lining through the jungle, Costa Rica has got you covered. Known for the temperature to get as high as 95 degrees and the low at 72, there won’t be any reason to pack a cardigan on this trip, except for arriving back at the airport. Be sure to spend a couple of days on the beaches of Santa Teresa or Nosara. Take a nature hike through the Monteverde Cloud Forest, or give your mind and body the relaxation it needs at hacienda AltaGracia.
Cape Town
The coastal city of Cape Town in West Africa is perfect during the winter months. Unfortunately, December and January are Cape Town’s high season, so there are crowds and higher rates for travel and lodging. Still, it’s very much worth the experience. The city has a variety of terrains, from beaches to mountains. There are also vineyards you can visit at their absolute peak in beauty. All the restaurants are delicious and if you’re interested in a little nightlife you can head over to Camps Bay Beach.
Maldives
The Maldives of the Indian Ocean is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. Filled with private luxury villas and bungalows over clear blue waters. With temperatures reaching as high as 88 degrees, the weather is perfect for all the underwater activities you can try.
Seychelles
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North of Madagascar, you can experience seeing giant tortoises and coconut crabs in Seychelles. Two of the islands, Mahé and Desroches feature their own Four Seasons hotels, which tourists far and wide rave over. The weather reaches close to 90 degrees daily, so pack light with plenty of tanning lotion.
Phuket
One of the most luxurious destinations in Southeast Asia, Phuket is breathtaking as well as affordable. With the weather going as high as 91 degrees. However, if you’re ready to fly almost 18-20 hours from the U.S. to get there, it’s worth every moment of that flight once you arrive. The five-star hotels cost anywhere between $30 – $40 a night. There’s also a variety of options to choose from, luxury Airbnb, hotels with private beaches, or private bungalows facing the ocean. Known to be a little like the Miami of Southeast Asia, with a considerable amount of young tourists coming to party and have a good time, there’s still plenty of fun you can find for the family in Phuket as well.
Maldives
The Maldives of the Indian Ocean is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. Filled with private luxury villas and bungalows over clear blue waters. With temperatures reaching as high as 88 degrees, the weather is perfect for all the underwater activities you can try.
Belize
Within recent years, Belize has become a top tourist destination among backpackers and travel aficionados. The beaches are serene and the country’s rainforests are protected by the government. Belize is an amazing country full of beautiful landscapes. Also known as the heartland of the Mayan Empire, you’ll find many Mayan ruins. You’ll find some people that are direct descendants of the Mayans but also you’ll see diversity and influences from a rich history of migrations of Afro-Indian Garifuna, Latinos, Chinese, and even Mennonites. With the weather reaching 84 degrees during the winter months, this is one destination you don’t want to miss.
