It’s the middle of the winter. The cold has been dragging on for months, and it feels as if there is no end to the bad weather in sight. Sometimes you just need a vacation. Our team has come up with our list of the best places to escape the cold this winter.
Miami, Florida U.S.A
To start the list, we have Miami, Florida. Miami hosts fabulous beaches, museums, nightlife, and cuisine from across the world. For a more lively beach vacation experience, stay at a hotel on Collins Ave in Miami South Beach. Check out the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, the Miami Design District, and Little Havannah. This warm cultural hotspot is the perfect place for a week-long or even weekend getaway for travelers worldwide. The weather in February averages at a high of 75 degrees Fahrenheit (23.9 celsius) and a low of 64 degrees Fahrenheit (17.8 celsius). No need to fear hurricanes when visiting Miami in the winter as hurricane season does not start till the middle of the summer.
Turks and Caicos Islands, Bahamas
Next, we have the Turks and Caicos Islands. This British Overseas territory has hosted celebrities and influencers recently and is a gorgeous spot for a beach vacation. This travel destination has been featured on U.S News Best Caribbean Beaches List and U.S News Best Caribbean Honeymoons List.
For a luxury experience, stay in Providenciales in one of the many resorts located in that area of Turks and Caicos. Relax on the beach and soak up the sun while enjoying the crystal clear water. For the more adventurous traveler, go on a jet ski tour of La Famille Express, a sunken ship right off the coast on the south side of Providenciales. You can even jump off the boat into the beautiful water. While you are there, try the Turks and Caicos specialty of grits and johnnycake. These Islands will have you leaving feeling relaxed, recharged, and ready to push through the rest of the winter.
Zihuatanejo, Mexico
Located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, we have the fishing town of Zihuatanejo. Zihuatanejo is home to stunning beaches and views of the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains. Although not the most popular tourist destination, Zihuatanejo is no less beautiful. Located around 150 miles northwest of Acapulco, Zihuatanejo is the perfect place to visit that will give you views for days. Stay at one of the many hotels or resorts located on the coast, or opt for an Airbnb for a space of your own. Check out the local surf bars and historic downtown area. Relax on the beach and if you are feeling up to it, go on one of the numerous snorkeling tours. Try some of the mezcal that’s local to the Guerrero region. This town is the perfect getaway for those looking to enjoy the sun away from popular tourist destinations.
Nosara, Costa Rica
For those looking for great surfing, yoga, hiking, and beaches, look no further than Nosara, Costa Rica. Home to gorgeous hotels and lodging sites, Nosara has accommodations to fit the needs of any traveler. A quieter destination than some of Costa Rica’s hotspots, Nosara hits the mark on everything a traveler could want. Known for its surfing schools, yoga classes and retreats, culture, and cuisine, you will never find yourself bored in Nosara. Nosara is the best place to have an adventurous and relaxing vacation.
Saint Barthélemy
Located in the French West Indies, St. Barthélemy, aka St. Barts, is a stunning travel destination to flee the cold. This Island boasts stunning resorts for a higher-budget traveler and vacation cottages for those looking to visit on not quite as large of a budget. The beaches and scenery are to die for. Head to the Beach of Cayes Cove if you are looking to surf, otherwise relax on one of the many beaches that St. Barts offers. St. Barts is a unique travel destination with beautiful places to shop, ranging from high-end designers to quaint local shops. Restaurants in St. Barts are hands down outstanding. You can find culinary experiences ranging from high-end 5-star restaurants to delicious local street food. If you are looking to relax by the beach, shop, and eat good food, St. Barts is the perfect place for you.
Punta del Este, Uruguay
Increasingly popular among celebrities, Punta del Este is a stunning destination to escape the cold. This vibrant city is located in southeastern Uruguay on the Atlantic coast. Punta del Este has fabulous nightlife, exceptional cuisine, and stunning beaches. Punta del Este is a great place for people looking to explore a city while also having the beach vacation of their dreams. Lodging in Punta del Este ranges in price, making it an excellent choice for travelers on varying budgets. You can’t go wrong staying in a hotel or a vacation rental. Check out the Casapueblo museum, the La Mano sculpture, and Gorriti Island. Walk along the Punta del Este port and look out at the stunning boats and water. With 24 hours bars, outstanding clubs, and lively restaurants, you will always find something to do at night in Punta del Este. Whether relaxing on the beach or exploring the city, there is something for everyone in Punta del Este.
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena, Colombia, is a stunning fishing town, boasting beaches, nightlife, and architecture that make it well worth the visit. Stay at a hotel on the ocean to look out at the Atlantic and enjoy the beaches that Cartagena has to offer. Hotels range from modern to charming depending on the vibe you are looking for. Visit a beach club during the day to experience the Cartagena party scene. Go to the Historic District to learn about the rich history of Cartagena and check out the Castillo de San Filipe de Barajas. Make sure to stop by the unique Walled City of Cartagena. With so much to do in Cartagena, it can be easy to forget about going to the beach. But don’t. The beaches in Cartagena are outstanding and will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. The food in Cartagena is outstanding with great Colombian food and sushi. Make a reservation at a restaurant on the beach to simultaneously enjoy the food and the view. Cartagena is the perfect destination for those looking to relax and explore a historic city.
Tel Aviv, Israel
Situated on the ocean, the vibrant city of Tel Aviv is the perfect place to have both a city and a beach vacation. Tel Aviv is the largest metropolitan area in Israel and it has a lot to show for it. With an art scene, a nightlife scene, a culinary scene, and historical sites, there is something for everyone in Tel Aviv. Stay at a hotel on Tayelet, Tel Aviv’s beach strip for scenic views and 3-5 star accommodations. The Carmel Market is a must-see while in Tel Aviv where you can shop for food, clothing, jewelry, and just about anything. For a trendy experience head to the Florentin neighborhood where you can find street art, galleries, international cuisine, and bars. To best experience, the culture of Tel Aviv head to the oldest part of the city, Jaffa. There you will find gorgeous stone architecture and delicious food. Going to the beach is an integral part of Tel Aviv and is quite frankly a must. As your trip comes to a close, this city will leave you wanting more and planning your next visit.
Planning your escape from the winter cold? Schedule a consultation with us by clicking here or sending us an email at info@chloejohnston.com. Come away with us!