Are you dying to get away? While you might think of summer as prime vacation time, winter is also great for traveling. Why? If you live in the north, you can escape the ice and snow. If you go international, you can enjoy various holiday celebrations around the globe.
Wherever you jet off to, you want to make memories that last a lifetime. Give these vacation ideas a try, and you're almost guaranteed nonstop fun.
1. Scale a Challenging Peak
Unless you are in insanely good physical shape, you're not going to tackle Mt. Everest — but that doesn't mean you can't soak in some breathtaking views from atop other formidable peaks. You can climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, with training or as an experienced trekker. Are you planning on staying stateside? Head to colorful Colorado, where the Rockies offer unparalleled hiking delight. In the wintertime, you can explore via cross-country skis.
2. Recreate Your Prom in an Exotic Locale
Let's face it — prom night the first time is somewhat lame. Few people genuinely enjoy cardboard chicken served banquet-style. Since you're already splurging on vacation, go a little further by recreating that night as an adult. Get dolled up in your best dress and book reservations at the most elegant restaurant. You can reserve a limo and soak in the sights — hit those wine tastings and swanky clubs you couldn't get into without the proper ID last time.
3. Explore Pyramids Close to Home
Who says you have to travel to the tumultuous Middle East to see pyramids? You can book a trip to Campeche, Mexico, and explore ancient Mayan ruins. After you've had a blast exploring the mysteries of this vanished culture, you can unwind on the beach with an authentic margarita.
4. Take a Cross-Continental Train Ride
When you fly, most of your view consists of clouds. This sight grows old after awhile. If your work travels with you, or you enjoy extended time off, why not take a train trip across America? You can find tickets for a fraction of the price of an extra-room plane seat. You'll enjoy every station since you'll have a little while to soak in the local culture.
5. Spend a Week as a Cowboy
Remember the old comedy classic "Blazing Saddles?" You can book a stay at a dude ranch, or even take a working vacation as a cowboy. If you don't know how to ride, you will by the end of your journey. You'll make memories, even if your rear does get a little bit saddle-sore.
6. Swim With the Dolphins
Do you love everything aquatic? Why not book a getaway where you can swim with the dolphins and explore other marine life? You'll increase your lung capacity as you learn snorkeling skills, and you'll have an unforgettable experience to share.
7. Tour Haunted Irish Castles
Maybe you have a penchant for the otherworldly. If you've never met an ouija board you didn't like, take a tour of haunted Irish castles to delight your paranormal bone. Who knows? Perhaps you'll capture an eerie EVP that your ghost-hunting buddies stateside will practically die to recapture.
8. Recreate Bilbo Baggins' Journey
Are you an unabashed fantasy nerd? There's no better getaway than heading down south of the equator to New Zealand, where you can retrace the steps Bilbo Baggins took on his incredible journey in "The Hobbit." Maybe it's not Middle Earth — but it is where Peter Jackson filmed the famous trilogy. Winter in the Northern Hemisphere is summer down below, so the weather should prove pleasant.
Consider These Memorable Vacation Ideas
Vacationing is good for the body and the spirit. Make your next trip memorable with these ideas for nonstop fun.
Check out our USA trips including Yosemite, Joshua Tree, Zion, & Bryce Canyon National Parks.
