Winter may be in full swing, but that doesn't mean you have to stay cooped up at home with a blanket and a hot drink. These winter vacation ideas offer a haven for anyone looking to escape the cold.
1. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
It’s home to the world's tallest tower, the world's largest shopping mall, and the world's biggest man-made marina. While it’s not where you’d pick for an affordable winter getaway, Dubai is a larger-than-life vacation destination that attracts travelers from all over the world on the hunt for luxury.
In the winter, you’ll find high temperatures in the 70s and lows in the 60s. In January, the coldest month of the year for Dubai, lows average about 54°F.
While you're there enjoying the warmth, be sure to include these sites on your itinerary.
Burj Khalifa
Enjoy breathtaking views from the tallest building in the world. To get the full experience, travel to the 148th floor — although it goes all the way to 160 — to take in the view from the world's highest observation deck.
Dubai Mall
Right next door to the Burj Khalifa is the Dubai Mall. A paradise for shopping enthusiasts, it offers 1,200 stores, an ice rink, aquarium and underwater zoo, movie theater, kid-friendly attractions, and more. Just be sure to grab one of the free maps!
If, after all that shopping, you’re still in the mood for some retail therapy, head to the Souk Al Bahar. Sitting alongside the mall, it’s the “sailor’s market” that draws locals and tourists alike. It’s often described as “old Arabia,” but take that with a grain of salt. Dubai as a city is relatively young; the United Arab Emirates was only established in 1971. Still, you can enjoy the ambience at the souk’s many stores and restaurants.
Jumeirah Beach
One of Dubai's most popular beaches, Jumeirah has something for everyone, whether you're looking to indulge in some water sports, have fun with your kids, or just relax and soak up the rays.
Although Dubai is notorious for being expensive, Kite Beach, Nessnass Beach, and Black Palace beach are all free and open to the public.
Bastakiya Quarter
The city's historic district, Bastakiya Quarter, is home to art galleries, cafes, and cultural institutions that offer a quiet reprieve from bustling downtown Dubai.
Visit Al Fahidi Fort, which houses the Dubai Museum. If you’ve ever wondered what the UAE was like before the discovery of oil, this is where you’ll find out. (Hint: It was very different from what you see today.)
Gold and Spice souks
Dubai is famous for its thriving souks (bazaars). Located on opposite sides of Dubai Creek, the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk sell everything from gold, platinum, and diamond jewelry to spices from around the world, such as saffron, cinnamon, and ginger.
2. Phuket, Thailand
Phuket's white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters make it a favorite vacation spot for travelers who want to avoid the cold. An hour by plane from Bangkok, Phuket is an island paradise known for its rich culture and signature cuisine.
Winter temperatures in Phuket can get up to the low 90s. Be sure to plan your trip for after the rainy season, which is September and October. Beaches are unsafe during that time. If you see a red flag on the beach, don’t go in the water.
Here are some of our top spots in Phuket.
Big Buddha
This giant Buddha statue looks down on Phuket from the peak of Mount Nagakerd. The Maravija Buddha is 150 feet of marble and offers visitors a one-of-a-kind view of Kata Bay, the Karon strand, and the islands of Chalong Bay.
The Big Buddha is open every day and free to visit. Bicycles are available for rent if you prefer a bike tour over walking.
While the Big Buddha is a major tourist attraction, it is still religious site. Please dress appropriately, covering your shoulders and knees.
Kata Noi Beach
Kata Noi is a family-friendly beach known for its peaceful atmosphere and tranquil waters. Be sure to hang around for sunset, as the views at that time of day are hard to beat.
In the mood for more of a party vibe? Just head north to Patong Beach, home of some of the best nightclubs in Thailand and more than a few resorts.
Wat Chalong
The colorful Wat Chalong is Phuket's biggest Buddhist temple. If you stop by at 5 p.m., you'll be able to witness the monks praying.
Like the Big Buddha, there's a strict dress code. To enter the temple, you must take off your shoes, and women are expected to wear clothes that cover their shoulders and knees.
Spas
Visiting one of Phuket's hundreds of spas should be on every visitor's to-do list. They're renowned for their traditional Thai oil massages, aroma therapy, and herbal treatments that you just can't find in the U.S.
Spa treatments are reasonably priced in Thailand, too. A two-hour massage at some of the best spas will run you around $200 USD. Go somewhere that isn’t a five-star hotel, though, and the charge will be closer to $10. Thailand, in general, is one of the best destinations for cheap winter vacations.
Boat tours
Phuket's boat tours are not to be missed. They offer something for everyone, whether you want to take in the beauty of the surrounding islands, snorkel or scuba dive in pristine waters, canoe, stand-up paddleboard, or swim.
Boats are also a great way to simply get from one beach to the next. When merely trying to get from Point A to Point B, consider a long-tail boat as a kind of taxi.
3. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Spanning 5,700 square miles in northern Tanzania, the magnificent Serengeti National Park is a dream come true for animal lovers. While exploring the park, you can find everything from elephants and hyenas to lions, giraffes, monkeys, zebras, and more.
Tanzania lies just south of the equator. June through October is considered winter there, but if you’re traveling during North American winter, expect high temperatures in the 80s. Don’t be surprised if it gets humid then, too.
Here are some ideas for how to spend your time in Tanzania.
Balloon safaris
Serengeti balloon safaris give visitors a bird's eye view of all the park has to offer. The flights last about an hour and carry travelers across Central Serengeti, the Western Corridor, and Southern Serengeti.
You might only be able to balloon in certain areas during certain times of the year due to weather conditions. Check with the balloon company before you automatically rule anything out, though. Sometimes when you think it would be impossible — like during the rainy season — it ends up being ideal. Balloons don’t get stuck in the mud like ground safaris, after all.
The Great Migration
As one of the world's largest animal migrations, visitors can take in the Great Migration's millions of wildebeest, zebras, gazelles, and other animals from December to June. The animals' location depends on the time of year, so if you're visiting in the winter, you'll want to stay in the southern plains area of the park.
Retina Hippo Pool
If you want to see hippos, Retina Hippo Pool is the place to go. Located in Central Serengeti, the Retina Hippo Pool is home to hundreds of these massive mammals.
There are safari lodges and camps nearby. You might enjoy making this your home base for a while and trying to catch a glimpse of a variety of animals. The pool isn’t just for hippos. You’ll also find crocodiles and big cats — leopards and lions mostly — during the winter.
Seronera River Valley
Covering a large part of Central Serengeti is the Seronera River Valley, where you can find elephants, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests as well as predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. It's also one of the best places to spot some of the park's elusive leopards.
Beyond wildlife, keep an eye out for Maasai rock paintings. You’ll find some in caves used by the Maasai to shelter their livestock.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
The Caribbean islands of Turks and Caicos — there are 40 total, although only eight are inhabited — have gained massive popularity in the last few years. Still, you won’t find the crowds here that are common on many of the other isles in the region.
With all that it has to offer, Turks and Caicos is worth the consideration whether you’re looking for a couple's destination, things to do with kids, or going on a solo travel adventure.
Winter weather in Turks and Caicos typically stays in the 70s and 80s, making it the perfect escape when fighting off the winter blues. Try to time your visit for December or later to avoid hurricane season, which usually runs June through November.
Grace Bay
Grace Bay is where you’ll find many of the luxury resorts on the island. It’s no wonder, either. The beach is routinely recognized as one of the best in the world. At only about three miles long, it makes for a nice, leisurely stroll, particularly at sunset.
Grace Bay is one of several beaches that make up Princess Alexandra National Park. Its northern barrier reef is a popular (and busy) dive site. If you don’t feel up to the nearby resort crowds, go a little farther afield to Leeward Beach or Bight Beach.
Chalk Sound National Park
This pristine natural lagoon is all white sand beaches and turquoise water. The best way to see it isn’t by boat tour, though. Because it’s a protected habitat, you’ll have to either drive or see it by paddleboard or kayak.
The crystalline water gives a clear view to all the fish and wildlife in the lagoon. You shouldn’t have to work too hard to catch a glimpse of barracuda, stingrays, and some varieties of small, relatively harmless sharks.
Thursday Fish Fry
If you’re in Providenciales on a Thursday, schedule a night of dinner and entertainment at Stubbs Diamond Plaza. The place is packed with local food — including conch prepared in every way imaginable — as well as live music, and booths where artists sell their handmade crafts.
Glowworm cruises
For a few nights around the full moon each month, you can take a short cruise into the wetlands to see a unique glowworm display. Bioluminescence in mating females give off a green glimmer. It’s a natural phenomenon you won’t see just anywhere.
Glowworms can be seen around the islands, although Caicos Banks is one of the best. Book a tour with a boat for the best chance of seeing them at their peak.
Travel Insurance for Winter Vacations
Winter travel, even when your destination has warmer temperatures, can come with risks. Snow at home can delay your departure flight or cause you to miss a connecting flight. Seasonal illness might make it impossible for you to travel.
Rely on travel insurance to protect your money if you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason. With the right coverage, you could be reimbursed for prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses. Look for coverage that includes medical benefits, too, since your domestic health insurance typically doesn’t cover you overseas.
Get a quick quote online or talk to a licensed agent to find the right travel insurance for your winter vacation.
