Winter Vacation Hot Spots

The teeth chattering cold of winter has people running for heat in their homes but there is another way that many people choose to escape the bitterness, vacations. Winter vacations are a great way to heat up and give that spring tan a head start. Many places offer a tropical getaway but I will show you which ones will do the job and for the best value.

The first winter destination is not as much tropical as it is isolated but still offers great amenities. Phoenix, Arizona is a hot winter spot because of the warm atmosphere, great golf, and wonderful spa's. Phoenix is centered around the red rocks and desert, but offers activities like the Grand Canyon and amazing hiking to desolate places where you can be alone with yourself. If you prefer outside activity but still want to stay in civilization, Phoenix has world-renowned golf courses. The courses here are often used for professional tours but they still have adequate lower priced courses that are well maintained in the area. After a long day on the links, Phoenix has many top of the line spas and exquisite shops that has something for everyone.

The next winter destination is not a place to work on a tan but the roaring fire sure can heat you up. Skiing in Colorado has attracted the rich and famous to its snow covered peaks but are still affordable to everyone else. These majestic mountains are home to some of the most pristine slopes that riders of every ability can enjoy. One of the many top resorts the state offers is Keystone. Keystone offers great skiing from the bunny hills for beginners to the bowls that offer constant fresh powder. The resort is located around many hotels and has many condos right along the base of the mountain.

The third spot that is perfect for a winter escape is St. Johns, in the U.S. Virgin Islands. This small island is almost all national park so has much of its beauty preserved in the wilderness. The island boasts two main hotels and has a number of bed and breakfast houses. While the accommodations are limited, the activity on the island is plentiful. The island is home to the softest sand in the Caribbean and the snorkeling is top of the line. The main city on the island holds top of the line restaurants but still has some local shops around that can create a lively atmosphere. The weather here is always suitable for a day at the beach and has sunshine year round.

The top spot that I would recommend for a winter getaway is Kauai, Hawaii in the tropical south pacific. Kauai is the most northern island of the chain and is the least developed. This allows for the islands natural scenery to embrace the visitor and allow them to set into the tropical theme. The island has amazing beaches that are home to high surf and vastly colored fish. The climate here is warm and tropical but since it has rainforests on the island, it does rain its fair share. Aside from the rain, which only lasts a few minutes before passing and is very refreshing, this island will make any cold visitors warm up in its enticing atmosphere.

If you are locked up in a frozen tundra, a tropical vacation might just get you in the mood to start the spring. So if you are looking for a place to unthaw in the dead of winter, whether it is on a sun soaked beach or in front of a warm fire sipping hot chocolate, all of these places will warm you up.