Where to travel this winter when you're tired of resorts

It is time to start planning your dream winter vacation. But for many, deciding where to go can be the hardest part.

If you’re looking for a sign to book a vacation this winter, this is it. It’s time to start planning your dream winter vacation; deciding where to go can be the hardest part. Whether you plan to escape the cold with a tropical adventure or want to embrace all that winter has to offer, we’re here to inspire your next getaway.

For those craving something different from the usual resort routine, shake up your plans this year. While staying at an all-inclusive resort is easy and familiar, venturing beyond the resort gates unlocks much more—space to yourself, vibrant local cultures, and one-of-a-kind experiences.

From sandy shores to snowy slopes, unique escapes await every kind of traveller. Discover more of your destination, and skip the resorts with these captivating winter vacations.

Trade the resort for the open sea

This winter, why not consider swapping your usual snow boots for a swimsuit and trading the predictable resort experience for the vast open sea? Cruising offers a fantastic alternative for travellers eager to escape the cold and maximize their vacation time.

A growing number of people are choosing cruises over traditional all-inclusive resorts, and for good reason. One of the main draws is the ability to visit multiple destinations all within a single, seamless trip. You'll still find many of the same comfortable amenities you'd expect from a resort, like pools, restaurants, and entertainment, but with the added excitement of waking up to explore new and fascinating ports of call. Furthermore, some cruise lines, including well-known names like Holland America and Royal Caribbean, even sail to exclusive private islands. 

Latin American: Sun, sand and culture

Bypass major hotspots and embrace under-the-radar gems. Costa Rica, Peru, and the Galapagos promise breathtaking beaches, local flavours, and rich biodiversity far from the crowds.

Costa Rica lets you mix beach bliss with rainforest adventures, wildlife sightings, and volcano treks. Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste boasts clear water and spectacular views. Snorkel, fish, or drift on a sunset catamaran, then pop over to the lively village of Coco for buzzing cafés and nightlife.

In Peru, famous for its ancient ruins but less for its coast, discover hidden beach towns. Menorca offers a buzzing scene for surf and sun. For a quieter vibe, Vichayito Beach is ideal for families, kite surfers, and divers alike.

For a bucket-list trip, head to the Galapagos. Relish the wildlife and surreal landscapes before basking on Red Sand Beach, where volcanic minerals transform the shoreline into a dramatic rust-red. Snorkel in turquoise water among sea lions and spot flamingos on the sand.

Europe: coastal charm and culinary adventures

If Europe is calling your name, winter is the continent’s most underrated season when airfares are low, crowds are gone, and authentic adventures come to life. For travellers craving something different, Portugal and Spain invite you to embrace their gentle winter sun, vibrant culture, and uncrowded coastlines.

In Portugal, skip the mega-hotels and discover the Algarve’s windswept Atlantic beaches, colourful fishing villages, and hidden sandy coves. The region’s slow pace and friendly locals make it an ideal escape for anyone craving authenticity over all-inclusives.

Culinary enthusiasts will find their haven here. Portugal belongs on every foodie’s wish list: imagine sipping local wines or tearing into just-baked bread as you watch fishing boats haul in the evening’s catch. Take a hands-on cooking class to master traditional dishes, or simply savour a pastel de nata in Lisbon before feasting on fresh seafood along Albufeira’s shores. 

Snowy wonderlands: see the Northern lights

Not everyone heading on vacation this winter wants to escape the snow. Whether you want to explore more of Canada or experience Europe’s colder climates, a cold-weather vacation is perfect for winter travellers looking for a new experience.  

Travelling within Canada is always a great option for a vacation. This country offers so much to enjoy and explore, especially in the winter. Canada is a cold lover’s paradise, whether you’re chasing the auroras or racing down the slopes. Whistler, British Columbia, offers over 200 ski runs and five terrain parks, with hills for beginners and seasoned skiers. Plus, the skiing season lasts nearly six months, leaving you plenty of time to hit the slopes.  

For those who do not shy away from the cold, winter is a great time to visit northern Europe. With destinations like Norway’s Svalbard and the Icelandic capital, Reykjavik, northern Europe offers snow-covered landscapes and amazing opportunities to see the northern lights.  

Svalbard, located between Norway and the North Pole, is a magical place to visit in the winter. Between November and mid-February, a 24-hour darkness settles over the Norwegian archipelago, making it the best time to view the auroras as they’re visible day and night. Reykjavik offers an unparalleled place to experience the beauty, history, and culture of Iceland. Plus, you’re just a short trip away from the hot springs, volcanoes and glaciers that surround the city, allowing you to take in all Iceland has to offer this winter. 

Looking to travel this winter?

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