14 Winter Vacation Ideas in the U.S., From Ski Resorts to Sunny Beaches
Editor's Note: Those who choose to travel are strongly encouraged to check local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19 and take personal comfort levels and health conditions into consideration before departure.
A winter vacation is a great cure for the letdown that often comes after the holidays and the “winter blahs” that start as the season seems to drag on. Where to go is the question, with so many options and, in some destinations, attractive prices. In other locales, it’s high season with prices to match, but worth every dollar to travelers who want to escape to a warm, sunny place.
Everyone has a different goal when it comes to winter vacations. Some want to ski or at least savor all that goes with a snowy environment, like cozy fireplaces, hot cocoa, mulled wine, crisp air, and mountains draped in white. Others want to lounge in the sun and swim in warm tropical waters.
Here are our top 14 winter vacation ideas for destinations around the United States. Please note that some events and offerings may have changed due to the coronavirus pandemic, so check before planning your trip.
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Best Places to Travel in December
Editor's Note: Those who choose to travel are strongly encouraged to check local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19 and take personal comfort levels and health conditions into consideration before departure.
This eventful year is coming to an end, and a vacation might be the best way to bid farewell to 2020. If you’re a fan of winter activities anticipating snow, crisp temperatures, and a mountain getaway, think about Breckenridge, Colorado where you’ll find holiday festivities as well as great skiing. Also located in picturesque mountains with cozy places to enjoy winter weather, we have Lenox, Massachusetts in the Berkshires and Highlands in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
If you prefer a summerlike climate for your end-of-the-year escape, consider Miami, Puerto Rico, or Los Cabos and picture yourself sunning on the beach or poolside with a cocktail in hand. The Hawaiian Islands are favorite winter destinations, and this month we’ve focused on Lanai and the Big Island. The Republic of Maldives also offers a number of socially-distant vacation opportunities in exclusive resorts or individual villas.
Closer to home for most of us, Palm Springs is mild in December and a great place for shopping or relaxing. Las Vegas is entertaining any time of year, and hotels, casinos, and restaurants are open with COVID-19 guidelines in place. Whatever your reasons for looking forward to the last month of 2020, I’m hoping you’ll end this year with a trip on your schedule.
These are the 11 best places to travel in December.
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