6 Winter Wanderlust Destinations
Winter wanderlust is in full effect, with TripAdvisor’s Seasonal Travel Index Results reporting that 67% of respondents plan to travel this season.
From a romantic warm-weather escape to Waikiki to an enchanting visit to see Japan’s earliest cherry blossoms, we have compiled six must-visit destinations around the globe that are sure to satisfy every type of traveler.
Hawaii
Halekulani
Swap snow boots for flip flops this season at award-winning luxury hotel Halekulani, where the temperatures (79°F average highs) are as warm and pleasant as the service. Embrace the winter wonderland of sun and surf with the property’s Art of Surfing experience, which goes beyond the basics and even provides the perfect board — curated and hand shaped for Waikiki.
Halepuna
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, lovebirds will enjoy a chic, warm-weather escape to luxury boutique hotel Halepuna. The property’s Suite Escape exclusive offer is the ideal pampering trip for two, featuring a romantic couples massage, pool cabana rental and complimentary admission to the Bishop Museum and the Honolulu Museum of Art.
Royal Hawaiian Center
Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit at Royal Hawaiian Center with two weeks of cultural activities, live entertainment and lots of good luck! The festivities kick off on Sunday, Jan. 22, with a spirited lion dance performance in The Royal Grove. On Saturday, Jan. 28, claim a hand-written blessing associated with the Lunar New Year written in Chinese calligraphy at The Royal Grove, then meet Miss Chinatown and her court for a fun photo opp.
New York City
The Knickerbocker
The Knickerbocker Hotel, located on the corner of Broadway and 42nd St, is the ideal home base for a city getaway. Whether it’s the popular bumper cars in Bryant Park, ice skating at Rockefeller Center or catching The Knick’s preferred Broadway partner “& Juliet,” The Knickerbocker is just steps away from all of the action. When it’s time to unwind, return to the comfort of The Knickerbocker and enjoy a drink at the St. Cloud Rooftop, overlooking the twinkling lights of the city. Perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day celebration or a trip with the whole family, The Knickerbocker is the (big apple!) core of a NYC retreat.
JAPAN
Halekulani Okinawa
Behold the earliest cherry blossoms of the season starting later this month! The island’s typical blooms are the deep-pink kanhizakura. Guests traveling to Halekulani Okinawa can enjoy a special Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea before heading off to Nago Central Park to experience the magnificent Sakura site with over 20,000 cherry blossom trees. What’s more, the milder temps this time of year make it an ideal time for sightseeing.
HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO
Experience the magic of a Kyoto winter at HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO. Located in the heart of the city, this luxurious 5-star hotel is the perfect destination for exploring all that this cultural hub has to offer. During the winter months, Kyoto is a wonderland of sparkling lights and festive celebrations, such as the Lanterns at Kifuje Shrine or the illuminated Hanatouro Bridge in Arashiyama. Guests can also jumpstart their journey to self-care by soaking in HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO’s natural spring water private onsen or indulging in a range of rejuvenating spa treatments. Whether warming up with a healing bath, or gazing at the Japanese Plum Blossoms, guests can experience the beauty and charm of Kyoto in the winter.
SWITZERLAND
Chenot Palace Weggis
For those looking to kick their New Year’s resolution into high-gear, Chenot Palace Weggis, the first-class medical spa facility, is designed to help eliminate toxins, boost energy, and jumpstart the journey to optimal health. In the Tea Lounge oasis or Lalique Library overlooking the Swiss Alps, guests will feel cozy exploring the property in plush robes, while partaking in a range of activities and treatments designed to support their detox journey. Chenot Palace Weggis’ team of experts will create a personalized plan to help guests achieve their 2023 resolutions. There is no greater time or place to reset and recharge!
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, but all opinions are my own.
