The Exumas' 365 cays are part of the Bahamas which in total consists of 700 islands and about 2,400 cays. About 35 miles southeast of Nassau and 300 air miles from Miami, the Exumas are known for their turquoise waters, exclusive resorts, white sand beaches, and exquisite diving and snorkeling. Originally settled hundreds of years ago, the islands are still sparsely populated, with most of the population living on the three main areas of Great Exuma, Little Exuma, and the Exuma Cays. The capital city of George Town, located on Great Exuma, was founded in 1793. A favorite of visitors are the swimming pigs on Big Major Cay. Although no one knows exactly how they got there, the pigs have lived happily for years, swimming out to boats when tourists arrive. The cute pigs and piglets have become Instagram stars, naturally. Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, accessible by boat or seaplane, has special appeal for divers with its underwater reefs, caves, coral, sponges, and marine life that includes spotted eagle rays, barracuda, colorful fish, and spiny lobsters. On land, there are iguanas, sea turtles, and a variety of seabirds. A range of lodging is available, with beachfront hotels, guest houses, and exclusive resorts. For a secluded getaway, the Fowl Cay Resort’s private island near Pig Beach features waterfront villas with luxurious amenities.
Winter is moving along, so if you haven’t dusted off the skis or taken advantage of the warm outerwear you’ve received as gifts or bought for yourself, it’s time to plan a trip to a snowy destination. Vail is not only a classic ski city with hills for all levels of skiers and lessons for those who need to refresh their skills, but it’s a charming town with lots going on. Events there in February promise to be exciting and fun, even (and maybe especially) for spectators. On the East Coast, there’s Burlington, Vermont on Lake Champlain’s shores with a choice of local ski resorts. About four hours north, Quebec will be celebrating Winter Carnival with a variety of cold weather activities and the ice hotel will make its annual three-month appearance.
Related: The Best Places to Travel in January
If you’re getting chills just thinking about sleeping on a slab of ice, let’s shift to warmer destinations. The Exumas, part of the Bahamas, will have toasty temperatures and sunny skies. The Maldives, another island locale with sandy beaches, balmy breezes, and warm water, is known for superb diving and snorkeling among its coral reefs. Closer to home for most, Fort Lauderdale will have mild weather and much to do in the midst of Florida’s tourist season.
For celebrations, there’s Hong Kong’s Lunar New Year festivities, as they welcome the Year of the Pig with parades, fireworks, and traditional events. For one of the world’s most exciting pre-Lenten carnivals, Tenerife will astound with at least two weeks of merrymaking. For visitors who might enjoy some quiet moments between parties, there are miles of stunning beaches for relaxation.
A trip to Italy is always a pleasure, and the small city of Verona would please romantic travelers, and anyone who enjoys delicious food, historic buildings, and Italian wines. Speaking of wine, we also present South Africa in February — warm, fun, and home to hundreds of premium wineries set in gorgeous landscapes. Albuquerque, New Mexico should be on travelers’ lists of destinations to explore, with its pleasant February weather, opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, ride in a hot air balloon over gorgeous mountains, and learn about the native cultures of this historic area.
Think about a February getaway to one of these spots or get inspired by the suggestion of a winter trip, either to escape the cold or get right into it. Spring is coming soon upon the heels of this short month.