I hate the cold. Honestly, living in Utah has been hard just because of how dang cold it is here for like half the year. But specially those winter months from January to March, I start to get stir crazy. This year, I wanted to avoid the worst, coldest bits and try to find the best winter vacations. After loads of research, these are my bucket list winter getaways. For clarification, I am counting winter as January, February, and March. With temperatures shown in Fahrenheit.
Hawaiian Islands
The winter averages in the Hawaiian Islands have highs of low 80s and lows of mid 60s. When it is blizzarding in Utah, I just think of those warm beaches and hot sand. Though the winter months may have more rainy days, I would take rain over snow any day.
Currently, tickets are around $400-500 per person from Salt Lake City. Hotels will be pricey this late in the game but you might be able to do a private rental through AirBnB for under $100 a night. Either way, it isn’t cheap to go last minute.
That is the beauty of a bucket list for winter getaways they don’t always have to be realistic. Maybe better planning for next year to enjoy a sunny place during these cold winter months.
Mexico
Cities like Cabo San Lucas & Cancun, the winter averages are highs of low 80s and lows of high 60s. Cities more inland have colder temperatures with Mexico City averaging highs of mid 70s and lows of high 40s. It is up to you which city you would like to visit. Personally, having been to Cabo, I would visit one of the outer beach cities.
Flights prices vary but range similar to Hawaii, around $400 per person. However, accommodation for these beach cities are slightly cheaper than Hawaii. Plus, I would guess that you would find food cheaper in Mexico than the islands. Someone share their insight on this.. please!
I have a few friends who have gone to Mexico as their winter getaway and their photos are to die for. The inland cities, though colder, are still warmer than Utah during these months. There are loads to do inland as well. From cultural things to more adventurous Mexico has a lot to offer.
Thailand
Thailand has been on my bucket list forever. I am dying to go to Phuket for their stunning beaches, night markets, temples, and elephant sanctuary. Thailand is number one on my winter getaway bucket list with Phuket’s winter highs at high 80s and lows at mid 70s.
In fact, they say the best time to visit Thailand is between November and early April. How is that for the best winter vacation?! Get far away from the snow and blizzards by visiting Phuket and laying on a nice warm beach or checking out the night markets. Or visiting Chiang Mai to see the elephant sanctuaries or visit a national park.
All of these things are absolutely amazing and look like a great way to relax, enjoy some where new, and get to see how another culture lives. Flights are the priciest to here (cheapest I saw was about $900 per person), but if you were to plan ahead I am sure you could get a killer deal!
As of right now, these are my bucket list warm winter getaways. I hope over the coming years, Jordan and I can check some of these places off the list and enjoy some warmth when our home is freezing. If you are in the market for a warm weather getaway make sure to check out my related posts on finding the best flights: How to Find Cheap Airfare & A Complete Guide to Google Flights.
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