It’s that time of year again, when temps start to plummet and we start longing for the summer months. Should you have the opportunity to use some of those vacation days, here’s a list of top winter sun escapes for 2017 that aren’t without reach from the USA!
MIAMI, FL
If you live on the East Coast of America, this is a no-brainer – Florida has the best weather this time of year. In the last few years, this city has boomed in hospitality and its art scene. It’s gotten a ton of big openings, including the palatial 1 Hotel South Beach and the glitzy Faena Hotel Miami Beach (which boasts a Damien Hirst sculpture and Top Chef winner Paul Qui’s new restaurant). This month, Swire will open the East Hotel downtown as well. Go in January to see the hotels, and stay for the unbeatable beaches.
NICARAGUA
Easy to fly into and full of activities (surfing, paddleboarding, hiking, fishing and more) this beautiful winter sun destination boasts stunning beaches, an ample amount of hotels and airbnbs to choose from and breathtaking wildlife. Unsullied by mass tourism, this colorful Central American republic is dry and sunny from December to April and offers beach downtime on both Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
The British Virgin Islands provide the feel of a warm weather private paradise island without having to travel too far. Some favorites include Scrub Island – a private island that provides full service relaxation, or Cooper Island – another remote island known for their eco friendly beach club and famed Rum Bar. You’ve got everything there from sailing and paddleboarding, to hiking the Virgin Gorda Peak and drinking a famous ‘painkiller’ at the Soggy Dollar Bar.
MEXICO
Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula on the Atlantic Coast, not only boats tropical winter weather but is also pretty trendy to visit right now. Swim in its green ceynotes, discover temples, or hit the beach in Tulum. Or Karisma’s Overwater Bungalows, located on Riviera Maya, are a magical option where azure blue waters meet the gorgeous shoreline of Maroma Beach (voted by Travel Channel as one of the top 10 beaches in the world.)
THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
As holiday destinations go, this Caribbean destination is a good one. Blessed with sunshine all year round and some truly breathtaking coastline, the Dominican Republic offers both a Latin party atmosphere and the relaxed nature of the Caribbean islands. Traveling with kids? Check out the new Nickelodeon Hotel & Resort in Punta Cana, a new gorgeous all-inclusive beach resort which literally has something for every age.