Great places to escape the winter
Wonderful destinations to escape the winter
When winter temperatures drop, the idea of escaping to a warm climate becomes more and more desirable. Although snow does fall in some parts of the country, the US has a wide variety of landscapes, from beaches to deserts, for those who want to escape the winter. If you’re looking for an outdoor experience this winter, consider heading to one of the following destinations:
Palm Springs, California
There’s a lot more to Palm Springs, California than palm trees (although they’re an essential component of the scenery). You can admire vast desert landscapes from the top of the Aerial Tramway, walk through the downtown Spanish architecture area and visit world-class museums. There is no need to wear a coat because the city has a minimum temperature of 68° throughout the winter. This luxurious destination is just 100 miles east of Los Angeles and 120 miles northeast of San Diego, California.
Winter is a great time to hike through Andreas Canyon, located south of Palm Springs, California. You can enjoy the desert landscape without suffering from its heat.
Caladesi Island State Park, Florida
24 miles by car and ferry northwest of St. Petersburg, Florida, Caladesi Island is known for its tranquility and romantic seascapes. The climate is perfect this time of year, with an average maximum of 73°. There are lots of fun activities like sunbathing, hiking and kayaking through mangroves and bays to explore at Florida State Park.
The azure waters, white sand beaches and relaxing environment have given Caladesi Island, Florida, the reputation of being one of the best beaches in the US.
Moloka’i, Hawaii
There’s no better time to visit Hawaii’s Moloka’i Island than right now. Known as the “Friendly Island,” Moloka’i, located approximately 25 miles off the southeast coast of the island of O’ahu and accessible by boat or plane, is also home to the Kalaupapa National Historic Park. Nestled on the island’s north coast, the park offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean that are made more pleasant with an average temperature of 75°.
On the island, you can explore the fishing town of Kaunakakai in the southeastern part of the island or the incredible Halawa Valley in the far east.
Scottsdale, Arizona
January is truly the best time to visit Scottsdale, Arizona. Between Phoenix and the Tonto National Forest, this city has a pleasant climate (average temperatures of 68°) as opposed to the extreme desert heat that the city experiences in summer. The winter weather is perfect for golfers who flock to central Arizona’s many courses. To enjoy the desert landscape, there is a 1,5 mile hike that leads to the summit of Camelback Mountain.
Summer can get too hot to experience the wonderful desert landscape of Scottsdale, Arizona, but winter is perfect for hiking.
US Virgin Islands
If you can’t decide between relaxing on a beach, visiting a bustling urban center or taking a sailboat ride in the bay, do it all in the US Virgin Islands. This tropical Caribbean paradise is made up of three islands: St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix. Each island offers something different. You can shop and dine al fresco on St. Thomas; see beautiful cove beaches and St. John’s Virgin Islands National Park, and visit Buck Island Reef Island National Monument and unique Dutch architecture on St. Croix.
And you’ll find stunning beaches at these three locations. The temperature hovers around 77° at this time of year and the islands are just 2.5 to 3 hours flight from Miami, Florida.
Each of the three islands that make up the US Virgin Islands has something unique to offer. But all have a warm climate, a beautiful landscape and many beaches.
Austin, Texas
If you want to escape to a warm-weather place that also has a quirky charm and a host of unique cultural attractions, head to Austin, Texas. The city’s temperature rarely drops below 62°, which makes outdoor attractions more inviting. Enjoy your time boating on Lady Bird Lake in the center of town, or spend your time exploring the Zilker Botanical Garden with its plants and hiking trails.
You don’t have to leave Austin, Texas to enjoy great outdoor experiences. You’ll find many natural attractions right in the heart of the city, including Lady Bird Lake.
And remember that Mundi can take you to any of these destinations with comfort, sophistication and safety.