The Gryphon Gazette

By: Alexandra C. ‘28

Have you ever craved a warm vacation while being stuck in negative degree weather while the snow is hurling outside your window, blocking your driveway and forcing you to stay at home? If so, here are the top 5 best places to travel to during the cold holiday season. 

1. Sydney, Australia

    Sydney is known for its iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, along with its beautiful harbor, beaches and diversity. December through January are the best months to travel to Sydney because of the warm temperatures in the high 70s. Since Australia is located in the southern hemisphere, it will be summer there, which is the perfect time to get away from the rainy northern hemisphere. From the beautiful Bondi Beach, where you can surf, to the gorgeous botanical garden, where you can take a stroll or bike ride, this city has so much to offer.

2. Bahamas

The Bahamas is known for its beautiful white sand beaches and warm tropical weather to relax during the holidays. Temperatures remain in the low 80s during the months of December to January when it’s not too hot: the perfect escape from the cold. It’s also known for its majestic pink sand beaches, where you can swim with dolphins and cute little pigs. If you enjoy relaxing at the pool or beach, staring at the beautiful ocean and palm trees, the Bahamas is the place for you. 

3. Hawaii

Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches and rainforests. It’s volcanic landscapes encompass it’s vibrant and rich culture, including the “Aloha” spirit, hula dancing, and surfing. With its 8 main islands: Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and Hawaii (big island), there is so much to do, including hiking, and fun water activities like outrigger canoeing. You can go cliff jumping, snorkeling, paddle board or take a stop at the numerous food trucks. I would recommend either Wailea, Maui for it’s  many hotels, waterslides and pretty views, or Honolulu with its shopping centers and beautiful physical landscaping. With Hawaii’s warm and humid climate, it is a great location to visit all year, especially if you want to experience warmth during the winter months of December and January.

4. Cabo San Lucas

Cabo is known for its outstanding beaches, water activities, vibrant nightlife, and the iconic El Arco rock formation at Land’s End. You can snorkel, scuba dive, see different colored fish, and take hikes. From the rich marine ecosystems of the Sea of Cortés to the incredible beauty of its desert-like terrain, Los Cabos is the perfect place to visit and escape from reality. It truly is a paradise. It’s located at the southernmost tip of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico and is easily accessible from the United States. It is a perfect to go during the winter months with temperatures in the low 80s. 

5. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a rainforested country located in Central America with coastlines on the Pacific and Caribbean. With its capital in San Jose, Costa Rica is known for its rainforests, beaches, volcanoes in Fortuna, and its outdoor life, including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, zip lining, white water rafting, and much more. With its unique culture, biodiversity, and unique fauna, it sure is a place for anyone, whether you like to relax while staying at a luxury resort in Papagayo or hike and tube in one of the amazing rivers inland. The best time to go would be in April when temperatures are between 70°F to 80°F. 

Overall, Sydney, the Bahamas, Hawaii, Cabo, and Costa Rica have so much to offer any visitor. With its gorgeous weather, beaches, and fun excursions, these places would be perfect for any long breaks when you need to get away from the freezing cold, school, work, or just the constant stress.