Top 5 Winter Getaways to Get You Through the Cold Months

Northern winters seem to go on forever, which makes the “winter getaway” a common feature of many Americans’ lives. Holiday school breaks are a good time to enjoy time relaxing with the family in a fun setting with plenty of activities available. A few of the destinations are among the most popular choices for those wishing to get away for a memorable mid-winter break.

1. Colorado Ski Vacation

Skiing is a fun activity for the whole family, and Colorado offers a number of ski resort communities that cater to family ski trips. Vail has a reputation for welcoming families with a variety of lodging options and many non-skiing activities. Beaver Creek, CO offers a ski school, nursery and other activities for smaller children. At Aspen, kids under 6 can ski for free, a definite advantage for cost-conscious families, along with children’s programs to keep kids busy while adults ski. If your family loves the outdoors, a Colorado ski vacation may be perfect for your needs.

2. Enjoying the Florida Sunshine

In contrast, Florida’s year-round sunshine and warmth can be the perfect destination to get away from winter’s chill. Florida beaches are some of the best in the world, and families can find many historic, cultural and wildlife centered activities to enjoy. Of course, Disney theme parks are always a big attraction, and you can find many discounts throughout the winter season.

3. Atlantis, Paradise Island in the Bahamas

If sun and fun are what you’re looking for the family, the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island in the Bahamas can fulfill your needs. Close enough to be convenient, yet a world away, you can choose from a variety of activities for both adults and children. The casino and nightclubs offer adults entertainment whenever they like, and children can enjoy water slides, swimming pools, underwater sea life, watersports and tantalizing beaches. This quiet getaway caters to families seeking a relaxing respite from their busy workaday world.

4. The Hawaiian Islands

A Hawaiian vacation is the ultimate in winter getaways because it offers a completely different environment, a warm welcome and a wide variety of activities for everyone in the family. Once a retreat for honeymooners, Hawaii has become one of the most popular getaways for families because of its unique cultural, natural and historical attractions. Visitors can see an active volcano, snorkel among spectacular sea life, bodysurf on the waves, tour Pearl Harbor, kayak, swim, view the stars or just lie on the beach and play in the sand. Hawaii offers good food and lots of fun for people of all ages.

5. Grand Cayman, the Cayman Islands

A little closer to the U.S. mainland, the Cayman Islands offer a fun family vacation in a relaxed and welcoming tropical environment. A number of resorts offer family-centered activities with horseback riding, helicopter rides, hiking, wildlife viewing and swimming with stingrays or dolphins. Of course, the beach always awaits your presence, with sun throughout the year and pleasant temperatures to warm your winter-weary bones.

While it’s great to enjoy the winter season at home, you can also consider visiting one of these five wonderful winter getaways or any other place you and your family like.