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6 Incredible Places for a Winter Vacation (and why you need to book a trip immediately!)

In the words of everyone’s favorite TV show, ‘winter is coming’, which means that it’s time to book your winter getaway! It’s easy to pick the first sun spot that comes to mind and grab an all-inclusive package, but we think it’s time to head off the beaten path. Adventure to one of these winter escapes and embrace with cold weather and snowy terrain for a magical wonderland holiday!

Here are six incredible winter vacation destinations that will make you want to book a ticket immediately:

Winter Vacation Destination #1: Yellowknife, Canada

Winter Vacation Destinations: Yellowknife, Canada
Winter Vacation Destinations: Yellowknife, Canada

Toronto, Vancouver or Montreal are usually the top tourist spots but during winter, why not *really* experience the Great White North and trek to Yellowknife in the Northern Territories?

Winter Vacation Destinations: Yellowknife, Canada
Winter Vacation Destinations: Yellowknife, Canada

Why should you go: Yellowknife offers up stunning views of the northern lights, charming views of forests while you snowshoe and exhilarating dog-sledding experiences. You can even try your hand at ice fishing- a quintessential Northern Canada activity!

Check out this three-day Northern Lights Tour in Yellowknife, Canada 

Winter Vacation Destination #2: Rovaniemi, Finland

Winter Vacation Destinations: Rovaniemi, Finland
Winter Vacation Destinations: Rovaniemi, Finland

Step back in time and immerse yourself in quaint Rovaniemi, Finland. Admire the rustic architecture in a picturesque, storybook setting. Pack your warmest and coziest winter coat, layer up and embark on a getaway during the holiday season.

Winter Vacation Destinations: Rovaniemi, Finland
Winter Vacation Destinations: Rovaniemi, Finland

Why you should go: As if the views weren’t good enough, legend has it that Rovaniemi is the hometown of Santa Claus himself! Travelers can enjoy a guided tour of this fairy tale inspired town, head out on a day tour to Sweden on a massive ice-breaker cruise or even witness the northern lights.

Check out this Northern Lights Day Tour and Reindeer Sleigh Ride

Winter Vacation Destination #3: Seoul, Korea

Winter Vacation Destination: Seoul, Korea
Winter Vacation Destination: Seoul, Korea (image via Rene Adamos, flickr)

As snow blankets the streets of Seoul, the action doesn’t slow down! Seoul makes for an excellent winter vacation destination because you can easily venture out on a day trip to the countryside, use public transit to get to a ski resort or even just enjoy the winter sights within the city.

Winter Vacation Destination: Seoul, Korea
Winter Vacation Destination: Seoul, Korea

Why you should go: Leave Seoul and in just a few hours you can find yourself at Nami Island, strolling the tree-line footpaths. Or, in Petite France, a France-inspired village with quirky museums and vibrant architecture. Choose to shred the slopes at one of the very conveniently located ski resorts just outside of Seoul or opt to stay in the city and witness the brilliant lights decorating parks.

Check out the Day Tour from Seoul: Nami Island and Petite France or Vivaldi Park Skiing Experience in Seoul

Winter Vacation Destination #4: Okinawa, Japan

Winter Vacation Destination: Okinawa, Japan
Winter Vacation Destination: Okinawa, Japan

Okinawa isn’t exactly a typical winter vacation destination which is what makes it the perfect location for a holiday. Not only is the weather quite mild, but there are there awesome winter-specific activities and you won’t be fighting with other tourists for views at popular attractions.

Things to do in Okinawa During Winter: Whale Watching
Winter Vacation Destination: Okinawa, Japan (image via Alain Garcia Bariel, flickr)

Why you should go: Only in winter can you see the migrating humpback whales heading to Kerama Islands. During the winter, the water averages a comfortable 24°C so you’re able to snorkel and dive and discover a stunning underwater world.

Check out this Half-Day Tour from Okinawa: Naha Whale Watching

Winter Vacation Destination #5: Munich, Germany

Winter Vacation Destination: Munich
Winter Vacation Destination: Munich, Germany (image via James, flickr)

Spend Christmas in Munich, Germany this year. The old buildings, enchanting laneways filled with whimsical shops and cafes and illuminated markets will make for a magical winter holiday.

Winter Vacation Destination: Munich
Winter Vacation Destination: Munich, Germany (image via Heather Cowper, flickr)

Why you should go: Munich is home to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Meander through the town square’s market and find your way to stalls selling delicious treats like the traditional glühwein (mulled wine). Eat your way through Munich’s Christmas market like a true German!

Check out this Munich Christmas Market Tour

Winter Vacation Destination #6: Abisko, Sweden

Winter Vacation Destination: Abisko
Winter Vacation Destination: Abisko, Sweden

Abisko, Sweden is one of the best locations for viewing the northern lights. Surrounded by a rustic landscape, camp out in a tent or chalet and take in the colorful light show at night.

Winter Vacation Destination: Abisko, Sweden
Winter Vacation Destination: Abisko, Sweden

Why you should go: Get back to basics and cook up BBQ in a rural cabin. Travelers can walk along Abisko’s river canyon or hop on a snowmobile to take in the sights. Head to Auror Sky and take a chairlift up to the mountaintop.

Check out this Northern Lights Driving Tour in Abisko, Sweden

 

Whether you’re chasing after the northern lights or looking to catch a glimpse of exotic whales, these spots have you covered. For the ‘coolest’ holiday this winter season, ‘chill’ out at one of these 6 incredible winter vacation destinations.

Looking for travel inspiration this winter? Head over here:

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