When thinking about the best destinations for a winter break, it’s easy to think of this time through the lens of the holidays – which is understandable, given the many cities that completely transform for this time of year. And if for many the light shows in December were unmissable attractions, there are many other reasons to travel in winter, even after the magic of the holidays has worn off.
Dream destinations for a memorable winter holiday away from Europe Photo Collage DMS
You can take a weekend getaway to Valparaíso, head south (we’re talking extreme south here) for an Antarctic cruise, or book a flight to the Caribbean to explore Mayan ruins, guided dive tours, and luxury resorts. In Malaysia, for example, the Eastern & Oriental Express train offers several once-in-a-lifetime journeys waiting for you to discover.
Whether you’re looking to kick off the ski season or escape the winter chill, here are seven remote destinations (SEE PHOTO)recommended by Condé Nast Travelerto be among the best attractions for a memorable winter vacation.
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Eastern & Oriental Express the legendary train from Malaysia Photo Collage DMS
Malaysia: an unforgettable journey between two worlds and paradise islands
Malaysia, separated by the South China Sea, can be seen as two countries in one: Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo Malaysia, and the islands add to the beauty of the landscape. The country’s geographical and ecological diversity is one of its biggest draws, but it makes travel planning more complicated – the ideal time to visit depends on which coast or island you want to explore.
Fortunately, there is a very pleasant and extremely luxurious solution to this problem: the legendary Eastern & Oriental Express train, operated by Belmond. It now offers four different multi-night itineraries in Malaysia, even after “Festive Malaysia” (which took place over the holidays), departing from Singapore, to pass through Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and Penang.
And even if there will be no more mica “transformation” at Christmas, with the special Eve dinner, passengers will be able to enjoy many other surprises and explore the towns along the route, enjoying cooking classes and puppet shows.
Miami, winter: art and luxury under the tropical sun
Many people choose to visit Miami Florida in early December for Art Basel Miami Beach, a glittering event that attracts the world of fashion as well as art, with artists coming from Rio de Janeiro and Cairo, for unique dining experiences, among others.
Of course, there are many reasons to visit Miami beyond Art Basel, including an ever-expanding luxury hotel scene. St. Regis Bal Harbor Resort is an artistic destination in itself, with geometric metal walls and impressive sculptures hanging from the lobby ceiling. Other luxury amenities such as private butlers and a gourmet burger bar make this the perfect setting to celebrate a special event.
For a May holiday “coastline” (but just as luxurious), you can head to The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, located about 15 miles from South Beach. The spectacular ocean views and tequila restaurant are year-round attractions, including winter.
Belize: A luxury destination for a memorable Caribbean adventure
South of the Caribbean coast, far from the tourist crowds of the Yucatán, Belize has transformed from a destination for back-packers (tourists who travel only with a backpack on their back and on a low-cost budget) to a place of luxury.
In addition to world-class coral reefs for diving and Mayan ruins to explore, the country is renowned for its conservation efforts, particularly in protecting marine life. Many hotels and resorts have adopted eco-friendly principles, including Turneffe Island Resort, which makes considerable efforts to support the population of Antillean manatees (herbivorous aquatic mammals known as Caribbean manatees and described as “sea cows” due to their gentle appearance and behavior ) from nearby Turneffe Atoll.
Guests can have the opportunity to observe these gentle creatures while on the resort’s 14-acre (more than 5.5 hectares) private island, and purchases from the gift shop go directly to their Belize Conservation Program.
In addition, Matachica Resort & Spa, which offers an adults-only luxury vacation on a white-sand beach, hosts interactive workshops about the Belize Barrier Reef, including guided diving trips and helicopter tours.
Santiago and Valparaíso: discover the charm of Chile – adventure, wines and crafts
Many tourists make the mistake of overlooking the capital of Chile in favor of other famous South American destinations such as Rio or Buenos Aires. But Santiago is not only a great base for outdoor adventures, thanks to its location between the Andes and the Pacific, but also an ideal destination for those who love delicious food, great wines and shopping opportunities.
After exploring the city’s most interesting neighborhoods, a trip to Valparaíso is recommended – the former home port of Pablo Neruda and the current headquarters of the Chilean Navy. Valparaíso is only a two-hour drive from Santiago, but it’s worth staying at least one night in the area (and not just because you’ll enjoy lots of wine).
With its colorful houses on the hillsides and abundant street crafts that could be displayed in a museum, Valparaíso is a place that is hard to leave.
Antarctic expedition: a unique adventure in early 2025
Now is the ideal time to book that extraordinary trip you’ve always dreamed of – an expedition to Antarctica, for example. The white continent shows its maximum beauty between December and March, when the wildlife is active and the sun shines almost 24 hours a day. Although such trips require careful planning, there is still time to book a place on an expedition cruise early in the year.
Some travel agencies propose departures with itineraries ranging from 10 to 15 nights, including stops in the Falkland Islands and South Georgia. Another great option is shipping “Antarctic Explorer: Discover the 7th Continent”a journey of 11 days.
Each cruise includes typical stops, but some also offer unique experiences, such as mountain heli-trekking, where guests board a helicopter (imagine the views!) and fly into inaccessible terrain to go hiking or snow-shoeing (walking on snow with the help of special shoes, on inaccessible terrains).
Charleston – South Carolina: magic with personal butlers
But if you want an authentic experience but aren’t a fan of the cold weather, Charleston, South Carolina is the perfect destination for you. In fact, winter is said to be one of the best times to visit this city, when temperatures stay between 10 and 20°C.
And if you missed the 35th Annual Christmas Festival of Lights with its approximately 2 million twinkling lights, or Holiday Swing – the concert of reinterpreted carols performed by the Charleston Jazz Orchestra, know that all is not lost, because the city there is no shortage of fabulous hotels, some of which have personal butlers available to guests who can bring them any snacks and drinks requested.
Whistler: North America’s skier’s paradise
And if you’re looking for top-notch ski slopes, Whistler Canada might just be the place for you, being the largest ski resort in North America. With 8,171 acres (over 3,300 hectares) of skiable terrain and slopes ranging from the easiest (green) to the most difficult (double black), the twin peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb offer options for all winter sports enthusiasts.
In addition, the Big Red Express and Creekside Gondola were upgraded a few years ago to carry more people, making the ski areas much less crowded and visitors enjoying more powder rides .
After a day on the slopes, you can relax in Whistler Village and take advantage of the après-ski atmosphere. Here you’ll find a wide variety of bars and restaurants, from the sophisticated Wild Blue, a seafood joint, to the elegant but relaxed Braidwood Tavern. As for the hotels, some of them, located right at the base of Blackcomb mountain, look like real fairy-tale castles.
