Winter is often associated with cozy firesides and snow-covered slopes, but why not think outside the box for your next seasonal getaway? This winter, trade predictable plans for something extraordinary. From tropical escapes to icy expeditions, here are seven unexpected adventures that will make the cold months unforgettable.
Discover Puerto Rico’s vibrant winter wonders
Puerto Rico is the perfect destination if you’re seeking sunshine and culture this winter. Known for its warm weather and lively festivities, the island comes alive during the winter months. Some of the highlights are the Three Kings’ Day celebrations on Jan. 6 and the Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián in late January, when vibrant parades and street festivals bring communities together. This long-standing tradition is part of Puerto Rico’s reputation for having the world’s longest holiday season.
Beyond its cultural charm, Puerto Rico offers natural wonders like its famous bioluminescent bays. Mosquito Bay on Vieques and Laguna Grande in Fajardo are particularly stunning in winter when the glowing waters shine brightest. Kayaking through these sparkling lagoons is a magical experience you won’t forget.
Here’s a fun fact about Puerto Rico: Mosquito Bay in Vieques is the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world, certified by the Guinness World Record. Still, plan your kayaking trip to fall during a new moon phase to enjoy it at its brightest.
Experience free entertainment in the neon glow of Las Vegas
Las Vegas might not be the first place that comes to mind for a winter vacation, but its mild weather and year-round attractions make it a great escape. Even better, you can experience much of the city’s magic without spending a dime.
From the iconic Bellagio fountains to the dazzling Fremont Street Experience, there are dozens of free Las Vegas shows for a budget-friendly experience. Watch the Sphere’s giant digital art displays, enjoy a free circus performance at Circus Circus or explore the whimsical floral displays at the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, which take on a winter-themed design during the season. For something unique, visit the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign, which often features seasonal decor.
Las Vegas in winter also means smaller crowds and better deals on accommodations, leaving you more time and budget to enjoy its free and affordable offerings. It’s a refreshing take on a destination known for indulgence.
Discover Thailand’s winter charms
Trade snowy landscapes for Thailand’s lush greenery this winter. Thailand is a winter escape that combines rich culture, warm weather and stunning natural landscapes. While Northern Thailand offers cool, pleasant weather perfect for exploring lush forests and ancient temples, the southern regions boast tropical beaches with crystal-clear waters.
Visit Bangkok’s vibrant markets and ornate temples, where you can experience the city’s dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. For history buffs, the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya offer a glimpse into the country’s storied past. If relaxation is your goal, Thailand’s islands, such as Phuket and Ko Samui, provide idyllic settings for unwinding by the sea.
Winter is also a festival season in Thailand, with events like the Chinese New Year celebrations filling the streets with colorful parades and cultural performances. No matter where you go, Thailand offers diverse experiences making it a perfect destination for a winter getaway.
Embark on an Antarctic adventure
For the ultimate winter adventure, why not visit the coldest place on Earth? Antarctica is a bucket-list destination that few travelers consider, but those who do are rewarded with awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable experiences. Travelers can kayak between towering icebergs, spot penguin colonies and even step foot on glaciers. The untouched beauty of Antarctica is unlike anywhere else on the planet, offering a sense of isolation and wonder that’s hard to match.
Visiting Antarctica during its summer season, which corresponds to winter in the Northern Hemisphere, ensures more daylight hours and slightly milder temperatures. It’s an adventure that pushes boundaries and leaves you with stories to last a lifetime.
The best way to experience the continent is via an expedition ship with adventure companies like Intrepid Travel, Chimu Adventures, Quark Expeditions and more. However, Intrepid Travel reviews put it as one of the most reputable companies to consider when visiting the icy continent.
Marvel at the desert bloom in Chile’s Atacama region
Winter in the Northern Hemisphere is summer in South America, making Chile’s Atacama Desert an unexpected yet captivating destination. Known as the driest non-polar desert on Earth, the Atacama transforms into a colorful spectacle during rare desert blooms. This phenomenon occurs when rain brings dormant wildflowers to life, covering the arid landscape in vibrant hues.
Even without the bloom, the Atacama offers otherworldly landscapes and some of the best stargazing in the world. Many tours take visitors to the Valle de la Luna, with its lunar-like terrain, or to high-altitude geysers and salt flats teeming with flamingos. The desert’s unique beauty makes it a must visit for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Join the Québec Winter Carnival festivities
If you’re looking for a more traditional winter destination with a twist, Québec City’s Winter Carnival is a must-see. As one of the world’s largest and oldest winter festivals, it celebrates the season with a mix of fun and culture.
The carnival features ice canoeing races, elaborate snow sculptures and nighttime parades led by Bonhomme, the festival’s cheerful snowman mascot. Warm up with traditional Québécois dishes like poutine and tourtiere, or enjoy a glass of caribou, a hot mulled wine.
Québec City itself is a winter wonderland, with its cobblestone streets and historic architecture blanketed in snow. The Winter Carnival adds a festive energy, making it a standout destination for embracing the cold.
Discover Jordan’s Petra and Wadi Rum Without the Crowds
Winter is the perfect time to explore Jordan’s ancient wonders and desert landscapes. Cooler temperatures make hiking through Petra’s archaeological marvels far more comfortable than during the sweltering summer months. The Rose-Red City, carved into cliffs thousands of years ago, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Just a short drive from Petra, Wadi Rum offers a starkly beautiful desert experience. Known as the Valley of the Moon, this dramatic landscape of red dunes and towering rock formations has been the backdrop for countless films. Visitors can stay overnight in a Bedouin Camp, enjoy traditional meals and stargaze under some of the clearest skies in the Middle East. Jordan in winter offers an unparalleled combination of history, adventure and natural beauty — all without the overwhelming crowds of peak travel season.
Your next winter adventure awaits
From tropical beaches to icy landscapes and everything in between, these seven destinations offer a fresh perspective on winter travel. Whether you’re kayaking through glowing waters in Puerto Rico, marveling at free shows in Las Vegas or embarking on an Antarctic expedition, there’s something here to inspire every type of traveler. This winter, step outside the ordinary and embrace the unexpected — you might just discover your next favorite adventure.
Norbert Figueroa of GloboTreks is an architect and travel writer on a mission to visit all 195 nations recognized by the United Nations, and beyond. He shares his adventures and passion for travel, architecture and culture on his blog and social media.