6 Tropical Vacation Destinations for the Perfect Winter Getaway
A report recently published by the flight-comparison site Jetcost.com revealed that 23 percent of Americans prefer to take their vacation during the winter, citing reasons such as lower costs, fewer crowds, and escaping bad weather. In fact, of the 23 percent of Americans who expressed a preference for winter vacations, 2 out of 5 were not planning a summer vacation the following year. Read on for a selection of tropical vacation destinations to escape the short days and plummeting temperatures.
1. Bora Bora — French Polynesia
With its white sandy beaches, over-water bungalows, and thatched-roof villas, Bora Bora is a dream vacation destination for many. Comprising the villages of Anau, Vaitape, and Faanui, this tiny island is home to under 9,000 permanent residents. The island is so small that there are no forms of public transport.
Scuba diving and snorkeling are extremely popular activities on Bora Bora, as its crystal-clear waters host an impressive array of marine species, including sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and starfish.
The island’s Matira Beach, world famous for its calm waters and soft white sands, made it to №8 on CNN’s list of the World’s 100 Best Beaches.
2. Male — Maldives
Male is the capital of the Maldives, which attracts visitors looking to immerse themselves in the island’s culture and history. For those seeking a relaxing beach holiday, the islands of Rasdhoo, Dhigurah, and Maafushi may be more appropriate choices, since Male is quite developed. Male offers a more conservative perspective as well. With Islam the official religion in the Maldives, visitors are required to adhere to its dress code. Chests and thighs must be covered.
Top attractions in Male include the Grand Friday Mosque, the largest mosque in the Maldives; Sultan Park and the National Museum, which are located in the former royal palace of the Sultan of Maldives; and the local market, where tourists can immerse themselves in Maldivian culture, encountering curiosities like the Hala fruit, which some say resembles an “exploding planet.”
3. Luquillo — Puerto Rico
Renowned for its beaches, Luquillo attracts visitors from near and far, providing a haven for snorkelers, scuba divers, and surfers alike. Luquillo’s al fresco appeal transcends its azure waters and powdery golden sand. The municipality borders El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the United States. Here, peaks of the Luquillo Mountain Range reach 3,525 feet above sea level.
Luquillo’s unique landscape provides easy access to both the mountains and the beach, presenting the perfect vacation destination for those who enjoy spending quality time outdoors.
4. Bali — Indonesia
Popular with travelers of all ages and tastes, from gap year backpackers to families, Bali offers an abundance of activities to keep visitors entertained.
The Gili Islands is a tiny, three-island archipelago that provides the perfect escape from the mainland. In addition to swimming, diving, and snorkeling, visitors can also take part in cooking classes, cultural experiences, and more.
Tanah Lot Temple is a Hindu pilgrimage site that combines Bali’s cultural, natural, and historic elements in a single spot, steeped within a stunning rock façade facing the ocean.
Meanwhile, located just outside of Ubud, Tegenungan Waterfall can be reached via a 15-minute trek through the lush forest. Visitors are rewarded with a thundering 15-meter-high cascade. The waterfall is incredibly powerful, and visitors should maintain a safe distance. Nevertheless, Tegenungan is well worth the trek, whether viewed from the rocky surroundings or while taking a dip in the catchment.
5. Yucatan Peninsula — Mexico
Located on Mexico’s Atlantic Coast, the Yucatan Peninsula is a unique fusion of ancient and modern culture. Combining incredible beaches with ancient ruins, the Yucatan juts out from the mainland, creating a distinctive wilderness that hosts a myriad of different bird, mammal, and marine species.
Here, visitors can explore the jungle in search of howler monkeys and jaguars, or swim in the peninsula’s pristine waters with schools of brilliantly colored fish. Visiting the Yucatan Peninsula provides a glimpse of an endangered animal kingdom, simultaneously providing a much-needed income for those who protect it.
6. Fernando de Noronha — Brazil
Brazil is fabled for its beaches, but with such popularity comes vast tourist numbers. To beat the crowds, visit in wintertime and head 220 miles off the northeastern coast to the stunning Fernando de Noronha archipelago.
Recognized as one of the world’s best islands in the Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Awards, Fernando de Noronha lies at the tip of a submerged volcanic formation. Just one of its 21 islands is inhabited, with a population of just 5,000.
Fernando de Noronha’s picture-perfect beaches boast dramatic mountain backdrops. However, paradise comes at a price — the cheapest hotels start at $170 a night. Only a limited number of tourists are permitted to visit per day, so it is crucial to plan your trip in advance.
