Winter is coming and if you don’t want to suffer through blizzards and freezes, it’s time to plan an escape. Here are 7 warm vacation spots to visit.
Experts are calling for a bitterly cold winter across the United States this year. The Great Lakes, the Midwest, and New England are due for lots of snow and biting cold temperatures. Even parts of the Southwest will experience lower-than-usual temperatures.
If you’re already anticipating your escape from the cold, now is the time to start planning. Our world has no shortage of warm vacation spots year-round. So, where are the best and warmest places to visit between December and March?
Whether you prefer to sunbathe on a beach or work up a sweat on a hike… we’ve got you covered! Here are 7 of the best warm winter vacations you need to consider taking.
1. Cayman Islands
Crystal blue waters, white sandy beaches, blue skies, and palm trees. Sounds a lot better than frigid winds, slushy roads, and a foreboding overcast sky, doesn’t it?
The Caribbean is a trove of destinations for warm winter vacations. The Cayman Islands, in particular, are one of the lesser-known Caribbean destinations. But that doesn’t make them any less tropical and inviting, either.
It’s hot and humid year-round on the Cayman Islands, located right off the southern coast of Cuba. Precipitation levels are lowest in the winter. So, if you go anytime between January and March, you can expect little rain and plenty of sunbathing.
2. Turks & Caicos
Turks and Caicos is another lesser-known Caribbean destination. It’s technically part of the Atlantic Ocean. Yet, it competes with places like the Bahamas for some of the most beautiful tropical sights.
Like the Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos are another British Overseas Territory. There are multiple islands and cays to choose from. The climate is a bit arid in comparison to other Caribbean destinations. But it’s still warm and humid nonetheless.
Aside from sunbathing and swimming, visitors can go whale watching, kiteboarding, and snorkeling. Turks and Caicos are also known for having some of the world’s finest fish fry!
2. Australia
As we bust out our snow shovels, folks in the Southern Hemisphere are grabbing their sand shovels. If you’re looking to escape far and wide this winter, head down under to Australia.
Summer begins on December 1st in Australia. But the land of koala bears, friendly people, and the Outback is expansive and diverse. Temperatures fluctuate throughout the continent, especially in the summer.
Queensland, Victoria, and South Australia are Australia’s warm places to visit in January. Queensland and Victoria are ideal if you love beaches and humidity. South Australia, which is home to the Outback, is drier and arid.
If you prefer cooler and more comfortable weather, head to the south island of Tasmania. Tasmania holidays are perfect if you love hiking and being around nature. The capital city of Hobart also offers a great city escape with tons of food and culture to experience.
3. India
India is a magical place with so much to offer travelers in the winter. The country is rich in history, culture, architecture, food… and the list truly goes on.
Like Australia, India is huge, and so the temperatures and sub-climates fluctuate. If you prefer a warm and dry climate, you may want to stay more southern around the capital city of Mumbai. Should you stay in Mumbai, there are lots of day trips you can take via train or bus.
Looking to experience a wet and tropical climate that’s lush in greenery? Head to the region of Kerala, which is south of Mumbai.
But if you’ve always dreamed of going on a camel safari, head northwest to the region of Rajasthan.
5. Thailand
What are some warm places to visit in January in the Far East?
Thailand not only boasts an exotic and tropical climate year-round. It’s one of the most fascinating places on Earth with a long history and a culture like no other.
Thailand is cooler in the winter. Luckily, it doesn’t rain much from December to March. So, if you head there in the winter, you’ll still experience lots of sunshine and warm humidity.
In Central Thailand, you can get lost in Bangkok and go on plenty of day trips outside the city center. If you’re looking to spend time on the beach and see gorgeous sunsets, head south to Phuket Island.
6. Mexico
Maybe you’re looking for a new way to experience Christmas this year. There’s still time to plan a getaway by time 2019 rolls around. And if you’re looking for warm places to visit in December, head down to Mexico.
Christmas is a beautiful and important time in Mexico. Mexicans celebrate it from the middle of December until January 6th. You’ll get to experience a Feliz Navidad in true Mexican style. No matter if you’re in Mexico City, Monterrey, Cozumel, Tulum, or beyond.
The more south you go, the warmer it will be. Even if you stick close to the US-Mexico border, you’ll still be able to escape the frigid cold and soak in some sun.
7. Costa Rica
What are some warm vacation spots in Central America? Each country in Central America is beautiful and special in its own way. But one contender stands out from the rest, it’s Costa Rica.
There are parts of the country that rain a lot in the winter. You may want to avoid the Northern Lowlands if rain is a concern for you.
Apart from that, Costa Rica is rich in natural beauty and things to do. Not only is it safe, clean, and an all around friendly place to be. You’ll have no problem experiencing an array of adventures.
Escape to Warm Vacation Spots This Winter
No one in the Northern Hemisphere can escape the fact that winter is right around the corner. But you can escape to places where there are sunnier skies and warmer temperatures. And the time to plan is now!
If you live in the US and are on a budget this winter, you don’t have to feel left in the cold this winter. The Southern US is chock-full of warm vacation spots – and they’re only a road trip away!
So, pack up the car, put on your sunglasses, turn up the music, and check out these southern road trip destinations.