It can be really difficult finding a great beach vacation destination in the winter months. If you are looking to spend your winters this year getting a tan or frolicking in the sand, then this guide might help you find just the right vacation spots:
Hawaii
Hawaii is the perennial winter vacation favorite. This US state has some of the best beaches in the world, and weather that is fantastic the year round.
In the past when tourists were a little less demanding, all it took to satisfy a hotel or resort’s patrons was a large enough swimming pool. However, in this age of the finicky tourist, resorts and hotels have to compete for space out in the open water to provide their patrons with the best water activities.
Thus, when it comes to a great experience for the discerning traveler, one recommendation is the Grand Waillea Resort & Spa. With luxuries like the 5000 square foot Hibiscus pool, and the 26000 square foot Canyon Activity pool, you can be sure you’ll have a good time with your family or that special someone this winter.
The Hawaii Islands might be over congested with tourists, but this spot alone is a reason to make that trek to the land of sun and sand.
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic has had a stodgy reputation with tourists so far, and has been trying hard to repair it. With destinations like the Club Med Punta Cana, this tiny country is doing a great job of reaching out to the tourists and making them comfortable. Set in a beautiful tropical environment, this location is a feast for the eyes and the senses. It offers all the perks and facilities that a good beach destination must have, along with a special focus on caring for families.
U.S. Virgin Islands
Besides Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands are the other big winter destination for American tourists. As compared to Hawaii, however, the Virgin Islands haven’t yet been over exploited for commercial purposes.
The Virgin Islands National Park is a great destination in these islands to spend some time with your family. With guest cottages built on high platforms, you can be assured of a great view from the comfort of your bed.
Bahamas
This destination really shines when it comes to water sports. With options for sports such as kayaking, wind surfing, snorkeling or scuba diving, you can sure that your winter vacation will definitely be an adventurous one.
Any island in the Caribbean is worthy of a vacation jaunt. The Bahamas, however, stands out among all the Caribbean nations.
A great place to stay in the Bahamas is the Atlantis Resort which has such unique features like a marine habitat that houses over 50,000 sea creatures, Mayan temple water slides, and a variety of other water rides. This resort is already famous among tourists for the crystal clear water along its beaches, and for the exceptional service and great food that make it a definite addition to your to-do list this winter.
You won’t be disappointed if you head to one of these great winter beach vacation destinations!
Things to Do Around Home this Winter if You Have to Stay Home!
The winter months can sometimes be a challenge when it comes to keeping the family busy, entertained and happy. Here are just a few tips of things to do around home while you’re waiting for that great winter beach vacation!
Museums/Galleries/Aquariums/Planetarium
Winter is the perfect time to check out that local sight seeing destination you’ve been meaning to visit. It doesn’t have to be anything extraordinary. In fact, a whimsical trip to the local vacuum cleaner museum may actually prove to be more entertaining than more traditional museums.
Concerts/Shows
No, you don’t have to endure a loud rock concert. Check out the local venues for upcoming concerts.
Ice Skating/Roller Skating
Local malls or Shopping Centers typically host an outdoor ice skating rink each winter. Don’t worry too much about the cold, you’ll warm up quickly after a few laps. If you absolutely detest cold weather, opt to go to an indoor skating rink instead and brush up on your old roller blading skills.
Bowling
Be sure to find coupons for your local bowling alley. The perfect place to let out a bit of friendly family competition. Don’t worry about how to keep score – most places are computerized by now.
Volunteer
Help prepare or serve meals at the local homeless shelter. If you don’t know where to go, just visit any local church (even if you don’t go to that church). They will be more than happy to let you know where help would be appreciated.
Wish upon a Shooting Star
Okay, so you’re only going to your own backyard, but plan it big. Make your favorite snacks, have plenty of hot water for hot tea or cocoa, roast marshmallows if you build a backyard campfire, and above all else, bundle up!
Pick a Restaraunt
If you don’t eat out much, or if you only eat out for convenience (no one feels like cooking), try something different and actually plan on going somewhere special. I was surprised at how many of my children’s friends have never been to a Japanese restaurant (where they cook in front of you) or have never made their own pizza at a restaurant (call around, some restaurants will allow kids to go in the back and make their own master pizzas. I would imagine there is a lot of liability with this, so I’m not sure how common this is).
Don’t let that cold weather force your family to be housebound this winter. There are some great places to go – far away or close to home – to help your family get rid of those winter humdrums.
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