Tag: Winter

Why This Sunny Region Of Spain Is A Must Visit For Americans This Winter

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We are sure visiting Europe in winter does not sound too appealing to most, as it’s the coldest period across the continent, and in a majority of countries, sunshine hours are severely limited, not to mention the fact that it normally gets dark before you have time to finish your post-lunch siesta.

Luckily for you who have yet to take a Transatlantic trip following Europe’s reopening for tourism, not all of it will be plunged into darkness come winter.

This one region along Spain‘s Southern coast will likely remain sunny and relatively warm still throughout the season, and for you culture enthusiasts out there, you are in for a treat:

The Perfect Off-Season Sunny Getaway

Costa del Sol literally translates from Spanish as ‘Sunny Coast‘, and it couldn’t have been more appropriately named.

Located in Southwestern Spain, near the border with Portugal, and at the closest point between Europe and Africa, it has pretty mild winters compared to other regions in Europe.

For starters, due to its geographical location near the African tectonic plate, its seasons are not nearly as defined as in Central or Northern Europe, where spring and summer are warm, autumns are rainy, and winters are typically extremely cold.

The best way to describe the weather in the Sunny Coast is ‘eternal spring‘, with a seasonal spike in temperatures starting from May and lasting as late as October.

In fact, we wouldn’t actually recommend you visit during the hotter months unless sunburns and sleeping under 95°F don’t faze you.

The coldest month on the Sunny Coast is January, and even then, temperatures still average 64.4°F during the day and only drop to a maximum low of 46.4°F late at night.

Rainy days are infrequent, and though the Mediterranean is off-limits for swimming this time of year unless you’re used to colder waters, you can still wear shorts and lightweight jackets when stepping out for some sightseeing.

It may sound like an odd statement to make, but the off-season, particularly winter, is when the Sunny Coast is best enjoyed.

What To See Around Costa Del Sol

The Sunny Coast is part of the Andalusia autonomous region of Spain, and extends from the province of Granada, to the East, all the way to the Gibraltar Peninsula, near Cádiz.

It is bounded by the Mediterranean Sea, and interspersed with traditional Andalusian villages, luxurious beachfront hotels and golden sands.

One of the largest cities is Malaga, a coastal resort spot that enjoys a year-round warm climate and a plethora of cultural attractions, from the House of Picasso, where the artist was born and spent his early years, to a medieval hilltop Moorish fort offering sweeping views of the coastline.

Other Malagueto icons are the Plaza de Toros, a historical bullring, Malaga Cathedral, a Reinassance effort built following the Christian Reconquista, and the Atarazanas Central Market, where visitors will find a variety of food items and Andalusian delicacies.

Outside Malaga, some unmissable gems include Estepona, famous for its palm-lined boardwalk; Fuengirola, where the liveliness of the social scene is not conditioned on the season; Marbella, the unofficial seafood and yachting capital, and Frigiliana, a whitewashed, cobbled village straight out of a fairytale.

Tourists are particularly fond of Torremolinos, a coastal resort town within short driving distance of naturist-friendly beaches and boasting a high concentration of LGBT-friendly venues, and Benalmádena, where hiking trails, a cable car ride, and a charming Old Town await them.

The Sunny Coast Is Affordable To Visit This Winter

One of our favorite things about traveling down the Sunny Coast of Spain in summer is how affordable it is.

Granted, it is far from being one of Europe’s most expensive destinations, and it’s been a go-to budget-friendly getaway for years, but it gets particularly cheap over winter due to the seasonal tourism drought, which helps bring prices down.

This January, you can book a hotel room in Hotel Zeus in central Malaga for only $78 per night, down from $87.

The four-star Room Mate Valeria, a chic accommodation a short 10-minute walk to Malagueta, the city’s main sandy beach, is also $128 this season, down 40% from the usual rate of $213.

For those who don’t mind sharing a room, we strongly recommend Chinitas Urban Hostel, in the heart of the Old Town, where they will have access to a rooftop bar with privileged views over the ocher-colored cityscape and of Malaga Cathedral for only $26.

If it’s an all-inclusive vacation you’re after, the Melia Marbella Banus is a great pick, located on a quieter coastal section near Puerto Banus, only 150 meters from the beach, with prices starting from $228 for a Premium room.

Over in Estepona, the Elba Estepona Gran Hotel & Thalasso Spa is a favorite among wellness seekers, with all meals included and access to state-of-the-art spa facilities for $208 per night.

How To Get To The Sunny Coast From America

If you’re flying in from America, the easiest way to reach the Sunny Coast is flying first into Madrid, Barcelona, or any other European destination offering winter flights to Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, the main international hub serving the coastal provinces.

These would be a majority of Northern European and non-coastal destinations in Central Europe.

Some intra-Europe flights to Malaga can be as cheap as $25 one-way.

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January 8, 2024
6 Underrated U.S. Cities Perfect For A Weekend Getaway This Winter

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Now that the holidays have passed, travelers’ schedules may be limited. But that doesn’t stop us from scratching our incurable travel itch.

We might just have to sacrifice a weeklong trip and narrow it down to a fun weekend getaway. There’s nothing wrong with that this time of year, especially since the U.S. has so many cool spots to spend a few days.

We all know the iconic cities of the U.S., but there are some sunny, underrated gems that are easily accessible and just the right size to squeeze in a weekend getaway during the dead of winter.

Tampa, Florida

If there is one thing we can all agree on, we are all seeking a sunny escape this time of year. While places like Miami and Orlando steal Florida’s thunder, there are underrated cities like Tampa perfectly suited for a weekend away.

There’s no Disney World here, but an easy explorable city awaits near some of Florida’s top beaches.

Commonly in the 70s in January, Tampa is perfect for packing shorts for a nice bike ride or beach day.

Nearby Anna Maria island is an amazing tropical escape along with top-rated Clearwater and Siesta Keys.

And best of all, prices tend to drop in winter to splurge more on top-notch experiences and dining, such as the very underrated Cuban food scene.

Scottsdale, Arizona

Phoenix may be a much larger city, but those seeking a desert escape may want to opt for the trendy neighboring city of Scottsdale.

Home to the scenic Camelback Mountains and oodles of shopping, restaurants, and nightlife options, Scottsdale is worth a weekend splurge.

Arizona has sweltering summers. So much so that you may find yourself on the free shuttle in Scottsdale just for the A/C.

Winter makes for a great time to enjoy a much milder climate to wander the streets of Old Town or sit poolside at the many luxurious hotels to choose from.

Outdoor lovers can take in the surrounding scenery with plentiful hiking trails or play a round of 18 holes.

Orange County, California

While technically not a city itself, Orange County is a cluster of smaller cities suited for weekend getaways.

Rather than fly into San Diego or Los Angeles, Orange County does have its own airport with plenty of flights nationwide.

Upon landing, travelers can take their pick between the high-end shopping of Newport Beach, the luxurious lifestyle of Laguna Beach, or activate their inner child for a day at Disneyland in Anaheim.

Ritzy hotels are spread throughout Orange County, which is the hometown of some of Southern California’s prettiest beaches.

San Antonio, Texas

Just an hour south of Austin is a city with a completely different personality but well-suited for a memorable weekend.

A city made for restaurant patios, San Antonio is one of the top foodie destinations in America, where travelers can indulge in a variety of Mexican cuisine and margarita sippin’.

Home to an easily walkable downtown district with historical sights, luxury hotels, and the famous Riverwalk, travelers will have no problem staying busy and resting comfortably.

And, of course, you can’t skip out on the local Mexican markets.

Palm Springs, California

As an LGBTQ hotspot, come one, come all – Palm Springs is happy to have you. This quirky city has a historic past of being a popular escape for celebrities but is more known for nearby music festivals nearby Joshua Tree National Park nowadays.

You can easily jam-pack your weekend with all sorts of fun here with lavish hotels, trendy restaurants, and good vibes galore.

Palm Springs is typically a sunny escape in winter, so don’t be fooled when you fly in over snowcapped mountains.

South Padre Island, Texas

Commonly a Spring Break destination, a winter break in South Padre is nice too. While Texas is generally underrated for beaches, South Padre may be the best of all.

Some may argue Port Aransas, but South Padre has better winter weather and cheap beachfront resorts to enjoy picturesque beaches before the college crowds soon take over.

Vacationers can fly into nearby Brownsville and hit the beach for a weekend of sunny days lounging around, going on dolphin tours, or barhopping with more elbow room in the winter season.

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January 5, 2024
Why Winter Is The Best Time To Visit These 4 Hugely Popular European Destinations

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For Americans, Europe is more commonly associated with summertime, when it’s nice and pleasant out to go for a pistachio gelato by a pebbly beach, ride Vespas down a cliffside road in an Amalfi town, or island-hop around the Aegean.

Sounds heavenly, as long as the scorching July heat and the thought of an inevitable sunburn do not faze you, and you’re not too worried about spending hours on end in a queue to visit the Eiffel Tower: it’s all about that signature European joie de vivre, right?

What if we told you some classic summer destinations are, in fact, best enjoyed in colder weather, when crowding is so minimal during mornings you can have the whole city to yourself, and prices are not so exorbitant?

Here are 4 European gems you should visit in winter:

Paris, France

Though Paris is relatively busy year-round, in winter, it feels unusually quiet-er, as people are not keen on flocking into the narrow streets of the Latin Quarter when temperatures drop, and museums like the Louvre or Orsay are not overrun by school groups fulfilling their summer trip schedule.

Perhaps Europe’s number one tourist destination, the French capital is beautiful regardless of season, what with its well-planned cityscape, a multitude of flowery cafés, and wide boulevards, but there’s no denying it is far more pleasant to stroll when the summer hordes are gone.

There are places that just fit that somber wintery aesthetic: believe us when we say there is nothing less idyllic than sharing your ‘secret’ picnic spot in Luxembourg Gardens with thousands of other romancing couples or sitting on the steps of a jam-packed Montmartre in mid-July.

We would very much rather walk around the quartier in the crisp winter air while trees are barren and offer more than just short glimpses of the stately Haussman architecture the foliage normally hides, and the local brasserie is not overflowing with seasonal tourists, but chatty, high-spirited locals.

Rome, Italy

Yet another destination that often gets ruined by mass tourism is Rome. Unlike other Southern European spots, it is not your typical beach destination.

Yes, there is a beach in the wider metropolitan region, more specifically in the Ostian suburbs, but culture enthusiasts dreaming of marveling at the Sistine Chapel or retracing the steps of gladiators upon entering the Colosseum are not exactly going out of their way to sunbathe in an off-path, largely residential coastal zone of Rome.

With that being said, why go in summer anyway?

Rome is a sightseeing hotspot, and between late May and early September, it is a literal furnace, with temperatures that soar above 100 degrees and mile-long queues snaking around the block for all of your bucket list attractions.

Between December and March, some rain is expected, and even the occasional snowfall should temperatures drop dramatically, but the sun still shines for half the time, and in a worst-case scenario, should every single day be cloudy and cold, you can bet a freshly-cooked Pasta alla Gricia and a non-industrialized macchiato will keep you happy, cozy and warm.

Unless you fancy elbowing your way through a crowd for pictures of Trevi Fountain, we strongly suggest you reserve your go on a Roman holiday off-season, as you won’t be sweating profusely, the volume of tourism is lower, and consumer prices are not hiked in response to an overwhelming demand.

Seville, Spain

Third on the list, Seville is perhaps Spain’s third most-visited city after Madrid and Barcelona.

Famous for a colorful Plaza de España, a grouping of stately buildings arranged in a half-circle bounded by a manmade canal, the maze-like Triana neighborhood, lined by narrow, whitewashed houses, and a landmark medieval Cathedral, it truly makes for one of the country’s most iconic cityscapes.

The only downside is Seville is located in what’s Europe’s hottest region, where it’s virtually impossible to stay outside for longer than a couple of hours in the scalding Sevillano summer: you shouldn’t be surprised if the city thermometer exceeds 120°F even after sundown.

Needless to say, winters are pretty mild, with an average of 60.8°F and only six days of rain.

This means you may still eat alfresco and wear light jackets and even shorts sightseeing during the day; that is, if you don’t mind moderately chilly winds.

Similarly to Rome, you’re not going to Seville for a Mediterranean beach vacation: it’s inland, and there’s no beach after all.

Instead, you’re going there for the architecture, delectable ethnic cuisine, and the peaceful city parks, which, thanks to Andalusia’s year-round warm weather, can remain verdant even in the low season.

Lisbon, Portugal

Fourth and final entry: Lisbon is a hilly port city sitting on the banks of River Tagus, right where it empties into the Atlantic Ocean, and it’s grown to be a massively popular summer destination for Americans in recent years.

Something many who have been to Lisbon will agree, however, is that unless you have a certain physique, and you have well-trained lungs and can cope with an overpowering heat, you cannot tackle the seven hills the sprawling Portuguese capital is built on, nor set out to explore without pausing every now and then for an orange sumo break in a climatized café.

We will go ahead and say Lisbon, much like Paris, Rome, and its neighboring Seville over the Spanish border, should be visited over winter.

The reasons for that have been stated one way or another previously:

It is more of a sightseeing, cultural destination, a quality it shares with Rome, and though the Portuguese coast is a short half-hour drive away, the average tourist is not flying all the Lisbon for beaches, especially when North Atlantic waters are noticeably colder than the Mediterranean.

They are drawn to the medieval castle perched atop the colorful Alfama district, the ancient convents, and the marvelous food scene.

During a temperate Lisboense winter, nights may be cold due to the strong winds coming from the Atlantic, and you should expect more rain, but daylight hours are plentiful, and the average temperature is a very comfortable 57.74°C.

Plus, wandering the narrow cobbled alleys of Lisbon accompanied by their significant other amid the dense mid-winter fog, a bottle of Carcavelos wine in hand, to the tune of a fado ballad as played by a Portuguese busker is something we think everyone should experience at least once.

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January 3, 2024
These Three Towns Near Cancun Are Skyrocketing In Popularity This Winter

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Whether by cruise, train or plane, there are 3 Mexican towns skyrocketing in popularity this winter.

Cancun, of course, is America’s favorite beach getaway in Mexico, but there are 3 Pueblo magicos nearby, all worth a visit.

Sometimes the crowds of Cancun don’t pass the vibe check for certain vacationers, yet this side of Mexico is too good to pass up entirely.

Whether Cancun is your mainstay or gateway into this beautiful coastal region, travelers have to check out Cozumel, Bacalar, and Tulum.

This trio of magic towns have become tourist hotspots and will only continue trending upward as we head into 2024.

The Island Of Cozumel

Just off the coast of another tourist hotspot, Playa del Carmen, the gorgeous island of Cozumel is easily within reach.

As a popular cruise port in the region, many see it as just a blip in their Mexico travel plans. Cozumel is far more deserving than just a ‘stop and go’ destination.

If Cancun’s crowds aren’t your jam, then perhaps Cozumel will serve as the next best thing. This gorgeous island is home to luxurious all-inclusive resorts; there are just fewer to choose from.

Since Cancun is the most popular international destination for Americans, Cozumel is all but guaranteed to have fewer crowds to enjoy more elbow room.

Cozumel isn’t as developed as Cancun’s jam-packed tourist zone, so you can explore the blue waters, incredible beaches, and lush green jungles as a more secluded getaway.

The Otherworldly Town of Bacalar

Vacationers coming to Mexico expect pristine beaches to look out over the vast ocean, but what about visiting a lake?

Lake Bacalar is a trek from Cancun, but the otherworldly blue waters are worth the 4-5 hour journey. However, the new Maya Train will surely expedite your trip.

This off-the-grid small town has seen a surge in popularity, with travelers forgetting all about the Mexican Caribbean and perfectly satisfied with this picture-perfect lagoon.

So perfect, in fact, the waters change shades of blue through the day, giving it the name Lagoon of the Seven Colors.

Despite its small size, the town has plenty to offer to keep busy. It goes without saying you will want to spend the majority of your time in and around the water, where you can go swimming, kayaking, take a boat tour, or lounge around in a hammock.

It’s easy to see why this stunning area is known as the “Maldives of Mexico”. Nestled along the same mesmerizing body of water are multiple cenotes to enjoy a nice swim in other scenic spots.

And when you need a break, the town itself is easily walkable with local restaurants and shops to check out.

Tulum – Mexico’s Trendiest Destination

Where to even start with Tulum? Perhaps the most transformed destination heading into 2024 is this gorgeous getaway a couple of hours south of Cancun.

Soon, flying into Cancun will no longer be a requirement to reach Tulum as the new international airport is now open, with new flights from the U.S. beginning to arrive in spring.

Plus, travelers will be able to hop aboard the highly anticipated Maya Train to visit Tulum as well. However you get here, you simply won’t regret being here.

This magic town is beginning to feel more like a magic city with its growth and surge in popularity. Already home to a booming arts scene, travelers have been packing in for more natural attractions, such as Playa Paraiso Beach and the Cristal and Escondido cenotes.

Others venture into the jungle to see the preserved remains of historical Mayan ruins. Beyond the beautiful coastlines of popular beaches, Tulum has become an eco-tourism hub where travelers see this as a safe haven to focus on sustainability as well as their own health and wellness.

Yoga retreats have become increasingly popular, while sustainable destinations like the UNESCO-protected Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and the newly opened Jaguar Park are top eco-driven attractions.

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January 1, 2024
Why You Should Visit This Trending South American City This Winter

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Colombia has been one of the trendiest destinations of 2024.

Travelers have been flocking to this South American country in record numbers, lured by affordable prices, beautiful scenery, and vibrant cities.

There’s one city in particular that should be at the top of your travel bucket list — Cartagena.

Cartagena, Colombia is the perfect destination to visit this winter. This gorgeous, colorful city provides the perfect blend of history, culture, and beaches. It was recently named one of the best places to go in 2024 by Travel + Leisure.

Here’s why you should plan a trip to Cartagena this winter.

History, Culture, And Beaches

Cartagena is a unique destination because it offers a great mix of history, culture, and beaches. The city is located right on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, and its strategic location means that it was an important port for hundreds of years.

In the walled old town of Cartagena, you’ll be amazed by the colorful colonial buildings, cobblestoned streets, historic churches, and fortified city walls.

There’s a lot to explore for travelers interested in history and culture. It’s also a great destination for foodies — you can try delicious local street food and fresh fish in Cartagena.

But in addition to the history and culture, Cartagena is also a great beach destination. Outside the old town, you’ll find beaches in the modern Bocagrande district.

However, the best beaches are a boat ride away from Cartagena. I recommend visiting the Islas Rosarios, an epic day trip from Cartagena with the most beautiful Caribbean beaches.

Caribbean Vibes For A Lower Price

Traveling to the Caribbean can be expensive. Most travelers don’t think of South America when they think of the Caribbean, but Colombia’s coast is indeed part of the Caribbean. You can definitely see, taste, and feel the Caribbean influence on Cartagena.

Colombia is one of the cheapest destinations in Latin America, so visiting Cartagena is a great way to get a taste of the Caribbean without breaking the bank.

To save money, consider staying outside the old town (the artsy Getsemani neighborhood just outside the city walls is a great choice) and eating local food instead of the pricier tourist restaurants.

Getting to Cartagena is also affordable. The budget carrier Spirit Airlines offers nonstop flights to Cartagena from Orlando, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale. There are also nonstop flights from Atlanta on Delta and New York on JetBlue and Avianca.

This makes Cartagena one of the best tropical destinations in Colombia if you’re looking for Caribbean vibes and culture.

Great For Solo Travelers

Another reason to visit Cartagena this winter? It’s great for solo travelers!

Many destinations in the Caribbean are not solo traveler-friendly, but Cartagena definitely is. There are tons of social hostels where solo travelers can stay, and if hostels aren’t your style, you can meet other travelers by doing activities like walking tours, cooking classes, or a boat trip.

Cartagena is also one of the best destinations in Colombia for solo female travelers because it’s one of the safest cities in the country.

Winter Has The Best Weather

Finally, winter is a great time to visit Cartagena because of the weather!

Cartagena has a year-round tropical climate, and there’s very little temperature variation throughout the year. Typically, the daily high is around 89° F, and the low is around 79° F. However, during the winter, it can be a couple of degrees cooler so it’s not quite as sweltering hot.

December through April is also considered the “dry season” in Cartagena. This means you’ll have sunnier weather with less rain. Additionally, it’s not as humid during the winter.

This makes winter the best time to visit by far — the weather in Cartagena can be oppressively hot and muggy during the summer, but winter is perfect!

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December 31, 2023
4 Reasons Why This Southeast Asian Country Is The Ultimate Winter Escape

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Are you dreading the sudden drop in temperature and the days that get shorter and shorter as we approach a cold and gloomy winter?

Perhaps it’s time you start narrowing down your winter getaway options and, dare we say it, to one Southeast Asian country in particular.

Famous for its paradisaical beaches, nightlife districts, vibrant city breaks, and low cost of living, Thailand is slowly but surely becoming one of the most sought-after tourism hotspots worldwide, being expected to have hosted as many as 25 million visitors by year’s end.

Here are 4 of the main reasons why the Asian gem is not only a world-class tourist destination but the ultimate winter escape:

The Thai Capital Is The 4th Most Popular City Worldwide

Bangkok has always been a go-to destination for backpackers exploring Southeast Asia due to its lower prices compared to most national capitals, a wide range of attractions, and lively social scene, but now it’s been officially named one of the leading tourist destinations worldwide.

According to a survey published by eDreams Odigeo, an important travel company, the Thai capital is the 4th most popular tourist city right now, behind London, Paris, and New York, and the highest-charting Asian hub on the list.

This is further proof Thailand as a whole is surging in popularity with international visitors, as Bangkok is the main entry point into the country, as well as its largest cultural center, home to a plethora of historical temples, ethnic districts, and entertainment zones.

Among Bangkok’s most famous landmarks are the Grand Palace, an important symbol of the traditional Kingdom of Thailand, the only one in Southeast Asia not to have been colonized by European powers, the imposing Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

Beautiful Off-Path Sites

Thailand’s trendiness is not only linked to all-time tourist favorites like Bangkok, overdeveloped Phuket, or the adult entertainment capital that is Pattaya: beyond the most obvious points of interest, there is an entire undiscovered country Westerners are only now getting acquainted with.

Off-path tourism is a leading trend in a post-crisis world, especially now that the tourist hordes are back, yet fortunately for the crowd-wary visitor, Thailand certainly has no shortage of lesser-known gems where they can still escape the madness.

One of them is the mysterious Ko Kut island, which unlike Phuket, has not been essentially dollarized nor overrun by Americans and Europeans.

It remains very much an unspoiled Thai island at heart, with pristine nature reserves, unruffled beaches, and undisturbed fishing villages.

90 miles from Bangkok, Lopburi is yet another coastal town that does not often feature on tourists’ wishlists, though it should: it is mentioned by legendary Italian explorer Marco Polo in his Travels book, and it boasts a high concentration of temples and shrines.

Thailand Is Hugely Affordable

We know Americans are heading en masse to Cancun, Punta Cana, and the wider Caribbean this winter, but these are far from being affordable sunny getaways by any standard.

Hotel rates in Cancun can easily go as high as $500 per night during the peak travel season, and across the Caribbean as a whole, the hospitality industry is almost exclusively geared towards big spenders and luxury tourism, making it less attractive to budget-conscious travelers.

Thailand, on the other hand, is a budget traveler’s paradise, with lower prices across the board, from accommodation down to transportation to food in local restaurants.

According to BudgetYourTrip, visitors can spend as low as $30 per day during their stay in the country.

A mid-range vacation for two people in Thailand costs on average $1,178, including two or three-star hotel rates, local transportation, and even sightseeing, making it one of the least-expensive tropical destinations globally.

Americans Don’t Need Visas To Enter Thailand

Southeast Asia may be an incredibly popular destination among Westerners, but it is by no means the easiest place to go, nor the least bureaucratic.

A majority of countries in the subregion still have pretty strict visa rules, either requiring Americans to obtain a pre-authorized entry permit or even applying for a visa upon arriving – Thailand, on the other hand, allows them to visit hassle-free.

Landing in the kingdom, American passport holders can stay up to 30 days without applying for a visa, or an e-Visa in advance.

This means, as a U.S. citizen, you are free to book the next flight out to Bangkok without hesitation or fear your entry authorization will not arrive in your inbox on time.

Additionally, Thailand is now considering extending visa-free stays to up to 90 days for some nationalities, starting with Europeans.

While this does not yet apply to Americans, we wouldn’t be surprised if the United States is soon added to the 3-month visa-waver list.

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December 27, 2023
Why Winter Is The Best Time To Visit This Iconic Middle Eastern City

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While winter travelers have a tendency to muster through the seasonal blues by visiting either a quaint European town or a sunny Caribbean beach, a spontaneous trip to the Middle East shouldn’t be crossed off altogether.

As a matter of fact, January and February make for the perfect time to visit one of the region’s most coveted attractions, which also happened to break its all-time tourism record just a couple of weeks ago.

So, for those still in search of their next winter getaway destination, here’s why you might want to consider Dubai:

Airfare To Dubai Is About To Plummet

While there’s a lot of value to a winter getaway to sunny Dubai, between travel, accommodation, and experiences, the costs can really add up, making that dream vacation of yours once again unattainable.

With that said, those prepared enough to time their visit right might be able to make some major cutbacks in travel expenses, and winter is the ideal time to take advantage of the record-low plane ticket prices.

According to Skyscanner, January and February are the cheapest months of the year to fly to the Middle Eastern hub.

Round tickets during these upcoming months are set to cost between $608 and $610, which, while by no means cheap, is notably cheaper than the $1084 you’d have to pay if you were to travel during the holidays in December.

So, if you’re planning on escaping the freezing temperatures here in the U.S. this winter, pushing your Dubai vacation back just a couple of weeks can end up saving you upwards of $476 – even if you have the money just lying around, postponing the flight would allow you to spend more on local experiences.

The Weather Is Flawless

If you’ve already thought about going to Dubai this winter, chances are that one of the main factors that informed your decision was the paradisic weather the city is now famous for.

Since Dubai has an arid desert climate, with summer temperatures ranging between 86°F (30°C) and 106°F (41°C), winter is actually the perfect time to enjoy the local attractions and world-class beaches without sweltering under the extreme heat.

Temperatures this time of year tend to stay more within the 61°F (16°C) to 79°F (26°C) range, and with only one potential day of rain predicted for both January and February, beachgoers are bound to have a blast!

Speaking of which, the average water temperature in the area hovers around 75.2°F (24°C), so all you need to bring along for a day exploring the underwater wonders of Dubai is your swimming gear.

With all that said, bringing a light jacket along on your nighttime strolls might be a good idea – your luggage space shouldn’t suffer too much since you’ll basically live in swimwear and light linens for the rest of the trip.

There’s So Much To Do And See

One of the greatest perks of the mild, pleasant weather that Dubai enjoys all throughout January and February (beyond being able to bask on the stunning local beaches) is the fact that you’ll be far better able to appreciate the local culture and stunning sights, of which there are many.

Adventurers shouldn’t miss out on an organized tour of the famous Red Dunes of the Arabian Desert, which are usually pretty reasonably priced.

A ticket that gives you access to camel rides, sandboarding, stargazing, and BBQ options can start as low as $40 per person and is sure to deliver the experience of a lifetime.

City trippers, on the other hand, can better appreciate the city’s remarkable cultural scene, complete with the jaw-dropping views of Burj Khalifa, the historic Al Fahidi District (home to the Dubai Museum), the Dubai Opera, and a plethora of A-list festivals and events that are not to be missed.

On January 19th and 20th, 2024, Ed Sheeran will be bringing his ‘+ – = ÷ x’ Mathematics Tour to Dubai at the Sevens Stadium, and keeping in mind Ed’s knack for performing and Dubai’s general flare, the show promises a feast for the senses.

Other events/shows that take place these upcoming months include OneRepublic Live, KPOP Overdose, and a live show of The Phantom of the Opera, though for a more comprehensive schedule, you can head over here.

Lastly, shoppers will fall in love with the annual Dubai Shopping Festival.

The iconic event that has already started and is set to continue until January 14th, 2024 is exactly what it sounds like – a complete shopping and entertainment extravaganza known for its discounts, promotions, raffles, food festivals, and firework displays.

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December 26, 2023
This Is The Top U.S. State For An Ultimate Winter Wonderland Vacation

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While the idea of sun, sand, and surf is very appealing during the wintertime, sometimes it’s actually kind of nice to embrace the true meaning of the season.

That means getting hunkered down in a cozy cabin in front of a roaring fire while the snow falls on the mountains and pine trees outside.

It’s a dreamy winter travel vision in its own right, and luckily the United States has some of the best places on earth to live out this fantasy.

Perhaps the most popular, and with very good reason, is the state of Colorado.

Whether it’s skiing, fine dining, luxury wellness spas, or just hanging out in hipster mountain towns, this winter wonderland has so much to offer…

Winter Sports Paradise

It’s well-known that Colorado is home to some of the best skiing locations on the planet, with towns such as Vail, Aspen, and Breckenridge among the favorites.

There are more than 1,500 miles of ski slopes in the state, served by 28 ski resorts and over 300 ski lifts – so even when it gets busy, you’ll always be able to find somewhere to go.

It’s not only downhill winter sports that are unrivaled here; you can also partake in snowshoeing or cross-country skiing at one of the many Nordic Centers in Colorado, as well as try your hand at dog sledding, snow tubing, or even snowmobiling.

Despite the cold, Colorado boasts many sunny days in winter and very dry snow, so being out in it all day doesn’t feel like a chore.

An Appetite For Après

After any amount of winter sports, you’re going to be ready to eat.

But one of the great things about Colorado is that it’s fast-becoming a recognized foodie destination, so you could go there just for the food if skiing isn’t your thing.

Boulder, Aspen, and Vail are all home to some incredible restaurants, with brewhouse-style grub being one of the main things they excel at.

The state even has a growing number of Michelin starred restaurants for those seeking luxury dining.

Scenery Like Nowhere Else

About half of Colorado is mountainous, making it a place where breathtaking scenery is just part and parcel of being there.

While some of the main hiking trails may be a little less accessible in winter, there are still plenty of places to catch a glimpse of a stunning vista at this time of year.

The valley town of Breckenridge is best viewed from Boreas Pass Road, while Pikes Peak Summit near Colorado Springs can still be viewed from Garden of the Gods in winter.

Another great sight to witness is the Colorado National Monument, which you can check out from several different lookout points around Monument Canyon.

Ensure that you are prepared for winter driving conditions and keep an eye on snowfall in the weather forecast if you’re on a sightseeing trip in a car.

Mountain Towns Are A Vibe

There’s just something about being in a mountain town that gets your inner party animal going.

One place where you can enjoy the nightlife long after the sun has gone down is Colorado Springs, which is predicted to be one of the trending travel destinations in 2024 according to a recent study by Airbnb.

Then there’s the state’s biggest city, Denver, which is known for its great music scene, welcoming bars, and a large number of independent breweries.

Warm Up The Cold Winter

The wellness scene in Colorado is excellent, and one of the best ways to experience it is by staying at one of the many amazing hot springs.

There are almost 30 different hot springs in the state covering everything from ultimate luxury to family-friendly resorts – all of which will leave you feeling recharged and cleansed thanks to their warm waters that are naturally rich in minerals.

Durango Hot Springs is one of the most popular for luxury, while Glenwood Hot Springs offers water slides for the family.

Pretty much every single one of these hot spring spas has amazing views of the stunning Colorado landscape – a combination that makes me feel relaxed just writing about it.

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December 25, 2023
Why Winter Is The Best Time To Visit This Sunny Latin American Country

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Travelers looking for sunny shores, history-filled cities, and remarkable food this winter can’t go wrong with Latin America, a region known for its stunning attractions and fascinating cultures.

Though many associate this time of year with gloomy skies and frigid temperatures, there’s one gorgeous country located south of the U.S. that’s currently defying all expectations through its crystal-clear skies, welcoming atmosphere, and beachy allure.

So, if you’re planning on taking a well-deserved vacation anytime soon, here’s why now might be the best time to explore the wonders of Costa Rica.

Flight Prices Are At Their Lowest

One of the main reasons why you’ll want to book your tickets to Costa Rica right now is that flight prices will soon be at their lowest annual rates.

According to Skyscanner’s airfare comparison tool, January is by far the cheapest month to fly from the U.S. to Costa Rica, with plane tickets hovering around $155 per person, as opposed to the $261 or $244 you’d have to pay in June or November, respectively.

Taking advantage of the price drops this time of year could potentially save a group of four people up to $424 in travel costs alone.

So, whether you’re looking to snag some budget-friendly flights yourself or searching for that perfect holiday present for someone you love, January plane tickets to Costa Rica would be the perfect choice.

The Weather Is As Good As It Gets

December marks the beginning of the dry season in Costa Rica, making winter one of the very best times to fully enjoy the dreamy beaches the country is so widely known for.

Temperatures in most coastal locations this time of year hover around 80°F and 90°F (26.7°C and 32.2°C), while sunshine is abundant and precipitation as low as it gets – in short, it’s the perfect weather for a warm winter getaway that’ll help you escape the gloomy skies back home.

Adventurous travelers, in particular, will find January and February to be the perfect time for outdoor excursions, hikes, and climbs that aren’t interrupted by heavy rains.

The absence of temperamental weather conditions also makes it easier for nature lovers to spot Costa Rica’s world-renowned wildlife, so make sure to add a national park or two (Manuel Antonio, Corcovado, and Tortuguero would be my top picks) to your travel itinerary.

It Will Be An Event-Filled Winter

Though Costa Rica always boasts that vibrant, Latin American charm we’ve come to know and love, the country truly comes alive during the winter months through its many events and festivals that provide opportunities for visitors to engage with the local culture in its truest form.

One of the undeniable highlights of the winter event calendar is the Fiestas de Zapote, an annual festival in San Jose that features bullfighting, rodeos, and traditional Costa Rican music, just to name a few.

This year, the festival is set to take place between December 25th, 2023, and January 5th, 2024, so if your travel schedule is flexible enough, definitely try to time your visit so that it coincides with what many believe to be Costa Rica’s most iconic event.

If you’re planning to fly to the country a bit later in January, you can always attend the long-awaited Palmares festival, which is a massive celebration full of parades, concerts, and entertaining acts.

The event always starts on the second Thursday of the year, which, in 2024, coincides with January 11th, and ends on the month’s third Sunday, or, in this case, January 21st.

There’s A Lot To See

While Costa Rica is a perennial favorite among avid sightseers across the world, winter comes with a unique set of views and experiences that are bound to leave you a bit breathless.

January, for example, marks the peak of sea turtle nesting season on the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.

Remember the Tortuguero National Park I mentioned earlier?

That’s where you can take some fascinating guided tours and witness the incredible spectacle of sea turtles laying their eggs this time of year.

Winter is also the best time for birdwatching in the country, and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and the Manuel Antonio National Park, in particular, are prime locations for those looking to spot a wide array of toucans, parrots, and vibrant hummingbirds in their natural habitats.

Last but certainly not least, now is the perfect time to lie back and bask under the Costa Rican sun in one of the many world-class beaches that dot the region, including (but not limited to) Playa Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, and Conchal.

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December 24, 2023
These Are The Top 5 U.S. Mountain Towns To Visit This Winter

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It’s officially cold weather season, and travelers are either trying to avoid the winter weather in sunny lands or embracing all the winter fun they can before the snow melts.

If you are a traveler looking for a white winter wonderland, where better to find it than a mountain town?

Mountain towns come in all shapes and sizes. You can find bustling towns near ski slopes full of crowds, activities, and nightlife. Or, you can cozy away at the foot of a mountain in off-the-path destinations.

We researched travel polls, experts’ advice, and first-hand travelers’ experiences to find the top 5 U.S. mountain towns to visit in the 2024 winter season.

Have a look and see which one is for you!

Top Mountain Town for Winter Activities: Mammoth Lakes, California

Mammoth Lakes, California was voted the “#1 in Best Mountain Towns to Visit in the USA” this year by U.S. News’ readers and travel experts. Once you see the views, you’ll understand why!

This beautiful town is surrounded by mountains, lakes, and hot springs and boasts 1.3 million winter visitors per year on average.

At this hot winter vacation spot, you can enjoy skiing down one of over 150 ski trails or take an excursion on a snowmobile across the country.

If you are looking for a place where you are sure to find loads of snow, Mammoth Lakes is an excellent spot. According to the New York Times, Mammoth Lakes was the snowiest place in North America in January 2023.

Top Mountain Town for Rugged Beauty: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Historically, Jackson Hole, Wyoming brought in its main revenue from logging and ranching. However, in recent years, it has become a coveted travel destination.

Part of the charm of this popular western mountain town is its rugged beauty and new attractions such as ski slopes, resorts, and art venues.

This town is also close to Yellowstone National Park and Teton Mountain Range. You can search for elk as you sleigh through the National Elk Refuge with an experienced naturalist. Also, don’t miss the annual Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race held in late January!

Jackson Hole has captured the hearts of famous stars such as Harrison Ford, Sandra Bullock, Matthew McConaughey, and others.

Top Out-of-the-Way Mountain Town: Tubac, Arizona

If you are looking for a quiet mountain town getaway, you can add Tubac, Arizona to your itinerary.

This town rests between the mountain ranges of Tumacacori and Santa Rita. Its population is only around 1,200, but it is brimming with art, culture, and good food.

In fact, Tubac was named the number one small-town art scene in 2021 by U.S.A. Today.

You can enjoy walking through art museums and funky boutiques and sipping wine at a nearby winery. Or, practice your swing on the year-round golf course featured in the movie Tin Cup.

Besides its art, this town’s claim to fame is the 18th-century San Ignacio de Tubac Spanish fort set in the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park.

The restful scenery in this state park is on the eyes and full of this town’s unique history.

Top Mountain Town for All-Season Fun: Vail, Colorado

Vail is one of the top ski towns in the U.S.—and the world. Here you can pull out your skis and snowboards and dust off your winter sport skills.

Whether you’re a pro skier or still trying to conquer the bunny slopes, you can enjoy the amazing views this town offers.

This mountain town sits in the middle of 5,289 acres for skiing and lush forests. Its Bavarian-style architecture allows you to imagine you are vacationing in Europe while never leaving North America.

When the snow melts away, there is still plenty of fun to be had. You can raft the Blue River, enjoy music festivals, or take a hot air balloon tour as you look down on the White River National Forrest.

Top Mountain Town for Culture: Taos, New Mexico

Taos, New Mexico is rated by Triple A as one of the best winter vacation spots in the U.S. This town is deeply rooted in Native American culture and is home to Taos Pueblo, a World Heritage Site.

There are many breathtaking views in and around this mountain town.

Some of the top attractions include the town’s adobe architecture, one of the highest bridges in the world, and the national landmark, San Francisco de Asis Church.

This church is still active, but it is also a work of art that draws visitors from around the world. You might recognize the structure from Georgia O’Keeffe’s paintings and Ansel Adam’s photos.

Nearby is the Taos Ski Valley resort which receives an average of 300 inches of snow per year. Snowshoeing in the Carson National Forest and bathing in the Stagecoach Hot Springs are also top winter activities for Taos residents and tourists.

Taos, New Mexico offers a bit of art, culture, and fun for North American tourists and world travelers.

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December 20, 2023