There are some winters where the cold temperatures and icy sidewalks seem to stretch on forever. Luckily though, if you’re looking for great deals and unique destinations to warm up your winter and get a break from the dreary weather, there are plenty to be found!

If you suffer from the winter blues and need a bit of sunshine and fresh air, you’re just a flight away from warmer weather and stimulating scenery to defrost a bit!

Tucson, Arizona

If you’re desperate for sunshine, Tucson boasts over 350 sunshine-filled days a year. Pair that with the fresh air of a scenic hike in Saguaro National Park, and you’ll be feeling renewed in no time!

Tucson is home to historic sites to explore and a few fabulous wellness retreats and spas if you need to take a break before catching some some sun to stimulate your senses! While the desert is known to get chilly at night, you can still enjoy a snow-free vacation while in Tucson — unless you want to hike in the Sonoran desert, which may get a dusting from time to time!

If you’re interested in learning more, check out How To Spend A Day In Tucson Arizona.

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Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is a popular destination for both Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day, with mild winters and quick access to the Georgia coast. With romantic historic homes and plenty of history to soak in, you can enjoy the city without the famously oppressive humidity of the summer months.

Walk amongst the oak trees dripping in Spanish moss and spend your time strolling the shops for uniquely southern experience. The city will awaken all of your senses, from the lush green squares and colorful historic homes to the sugary allure of freshly made pecan pralines along River Street. You’ll be warmed up with southern hospitality and milder winter temperatures than you’d find back home!

Interested in visiting Savannah? Read 7 Historic Places To Visit In Savannah, GA.

Palm Springs, California

There is a reason why Frank Sinatra loved Palm Springs and had his home there. Palm Springs is usually lovely and warm during the day, it’s a great destination for poolside lounging, and it’s possessed of natural desert beauty.

Located within driving distance of both San Diego and Los Angeles, you can also enjoy warmer temperatures in the city, or a galavant in nature if you venture out to Joshua Tree for some glamping. Though, be warned: if you’re hoping to enjoy the beaches of the California coast, the water of the Pacific is quite chilly year round!

If you’d like to learn more, check out Planning A Girls’ Weekend In Palm Springs.

Destin, Florida

If you’re looking for Carribean-esque beauty that can be found stateside, look no further than Destin, Florida. With white sand beaches and clear emerald water, this locale will shake the winter blues right out of you!

Enjoy warmer temperatures and lodging options in every price range. During your visit, you can enjoy the beach, or spend some time parasailing, spotting dolphins, or simply enjoying some fresh sea food caught from the Gulf.

Orlando, Florida

If you’ve caught cabin fever and feel frozen to the bone and desperately need to retreat somewhere warm, consider Orlando. If you love theme parks but feel the crowds and humidity are too much, the period between Christmas and Easter is a perfect time to beat the crowds and the heat.

With new attractions being added regularly to the Walt Disney World Resorts and Universal Studios, you can feel like a kid again without having to wait in long lines during the busy season.

Read more about beating the lines: The Best Times To Visit Walt Disney World.

Costa Rica

“Pura Vida,” or “pure life” in English, encapsulates the attitude of the beautiful country of Costa Rica. While you will surely be invigorated by the beautiful beaches of the nation, you’ll likely be engrossed by it’s flora and fauna as well.

While Costa Rica only takes up .03% of the earth’s surface, it houses nearly 6% of the world’s biodiversity, making it the perfect place to immerse yourself in to get lost in and explore. Plus, it’s got warmer temperatures, to boot!

Read more about this tropical paradise: 15 Things Everyone Should Do In Costa Rica.

The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a popular winter destination for tourists and cruise ships because of its natural beauty, warm weather, and easy access in the Caribbean. With plenty of spots to scuba and snorkel, natural and wildlife areas, and waterfalls a’plenty, it’s a great place to explore during winter.

Plus, winter is the dry season for the island, making it a great time to visit and get some sunshine without too much worry about rain ruining your vacation!

Havana, Cuba

Despite the many changes Cuba is seeing recently, it can still be a great destination for winter. Cuba is known for their formerly banned cigars, but the music, food and culture also make it worth a visit to pass the winter months. While you will need to take care to research and document your travel plans to allow for seamless travel from the United States, with a bit of planning a trip to Cuba, you can navigate any travel requirements.

If you want to see 1950’s cars roam the street and visit a country that seems locked in time while only being a stone’s throw from the mainland, Cuba might just be the destination you need. Warm up with some authentic ropa vieja (shreds of meat, onion, and peppers named after the colorful rags they resemble) with friend yuca root and be sure to try some plantains during your visit!

Read 7 Great Cuba Cruises Happening In 2019.

Cape Town, South Africa

People sometimes forget that for countries below the Equator, our winter is their spring and summer. If you’ve ever wanted to experience a safari to see big game, winter is the perfect time to do so — before the scorching heat sets in.

Just outside of Cape Town sits Aquila Private Game Reserve, where lions, hippos, leopards, elephants, and buffalo roam. Spring means the grounds are dotted with wildflowers and baby animals are being welcomed into the world, and can be spotted from afar. Better still are the grounds’ beautiful accommodations that allow you can explore in style.

Crete, Greece

While the beaches are a bit too chilly for sunbathing, you will still find plenty of lively color in the local architecture to warm up with in Crete! Get immersed in the rich history of Greece at the Palace of Knossos and the Ancient City of Phaistos.

The holidays are also the perfect time to score amazing deals on five-star hotels, with enough money left in your pocket to fill up on local fare that is so good you’ll forget winter entirely!

Whether you opt for a spa retreat in Tucson, Arizona or take a step back in time to visit Havana, Cuba, a little trip will make the snowy winter months a lot more enjoyable before the thaw! Happy travels!