Is anyone already dreaming of warm places to visit in December? Don’t get me wrong. The magic of winter is truly unparalleled: sparkling snow, festive holidays, and cozy evenings by the fireplace. But even with all its romantic perks, just thinking about this season can be pretty draining. Much less stare at him for five long, tiring weeks of daylight saving time.
No matter how much you love winter, it’s hard to endure chapped lips and weak sunlight for long, which is why we think the cold season is one of the best times to travel. Sunny beaches and tropical islands offer much-needed seasonal getaways, and hotel and flight prices are high. It tends to decrease as the temperature rises.
If you prefer white sand beaches to a white Christmas, you’re in luck. Regardless of the season, we rarely (if ever) experience temperatures below 50 degrees.
Whether you’re looking to get a tan while your friends are shivering back home, or you’re looking to trek through the arid deserts of Africa, there’s a cozy destination waiting for you. I am. From San Diego to French Polynesia, here are 19 warm winter holidays perfect for this season.
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This article has been updated since its original publication date.