Five snow-free winter destinations to escape the cold

It’s that time of year again, when winter wonderlands dominate Earth’s topography and snowfall quietly turns nature’s canvas white. Hot cocoa is always at arm’s reach in Hungary, while Denmark turns to moments of hygge for slow, cosy winters. Elsewhere in Gstaad, chalets straight out of fairytales beckon couples looking for a quiet escape, and Nordic villages begin to bask in the dancing lights of the aurora borealis. Ski resorts are in full swing as the peaks turn pristine, while indoors, evenings by the fireplace turn into midnight musings with muled wine.

Even so, if stalactites, layers of thermals, and frostbite aren’t your idea of a perfect winter vacay, head to one of these destinations instead. No one wants flight cancellations on the brink of a good holiday, or poor visibility to dampen spirits. Take your pick from tropical escapes, sun-kissed beaches, historical cities, and luxury vacations, away from snowed-in days. 

Belize

Clear waters, lush jungles, ancient Maya cities and wildlife spotting, everything that’s the antithesis of winter. This nation on the eastern coast of Central America has all that, and more. Dry weather and warm temperatures make for blissful beach days, where snorkelling with sea turtles and exploring a UNESCO-protected barrier reef (also the world’s second largest) await. Any trip here is, of course, incomplete without visiting the striking Great Blue Hole, an underwater sinkhole that’s a diver’s dream! For cultural immersion, witness the rarely performed traditional Maya Deer Dance at San Antonio village. Winter in Belize brings with it the Grand Ball, celebrated since the 1900s, where waltz, foxtrot, and quadrille are performed. Whilst here, don’t forget to sip on some local Rum Popo, a tropical take on eggnog and relish black fruitcake, all infused with Belizean rum.

Udaipur

The City of Lakes is a doorway to the region’s renowned cultural legacy. Palaces, museums, forts, and marketplaces will whet your cultural appetite. A boat ride at sunset across Lake Pichola is customary to enjoy the nip in the air and be rewarded with picturesque views of the City Palace and Jag Mandir. Next, catch the Dharohar show at Bagore Ki Haveli—an erstwhile royal residence—featuring folk dances and puppet shows. For wildlife lovers, there’s the Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, home to hyenas, nilgai, panthers, wild boars, jackals, and more. Don’t forget to indulge in the local culinary gems, including ghewar, laal maas, and dal baati churma, to dine like royalty!

Maldives

The dry weather in the Maldives is particularly ideal for a warm winter escape. Expect clear skies and dreamy waters. It is that time of year when properties step it up at their overwater villas, especially in Soneva Fushi. You can enjoy snorkelling amidst manta rays, sign up for whale submarine rides, and fish and dine at a private island, among other things. For wellness seekers, many resorts offer sunrise yoga by the beach, followed by a healthy farm-to-table breakfast. Pro tip: pick your property based on your cohort. Some are ideal for romantic getaways, while others are family-friendly.

Singapore

The fun here begins at the Changi airport itself, with something for everyone from the Butterfly Garden to retro arcade machines at the entertainment corner, fine dining at The Jewel and a lot more! In the city itself, Orchard Road is a must-visit for retail therapy, alongside hopping across nostalgic cafés, heritage shops and second-hand bookstores. The Night Safari is spectacular for families looking for a little thrill, while Sentosa is perfect for water babies (don’t forget to swim with pink dolphins while you’re there!). Marina Bay, of course, is a bucket-list spot and totally worth the hype, as is the Merlion photograph. Luxury lovers must visit Marina Bay Sands for a dip in the infinity pool and shimmery skyline views beyond twilight. Home to Michelin-star restaurants and with a vibrant street food scene, this city really does have it all.

Sicily

Skip the summer rush and head to this southern Italian island during winter instead. Widely known as the “toe” of the “Italian boot”, visitors love it as it stands as an anomaly within the rest of snowy Europe in December. Mild weather and fewer crowds, with the view of snowy Mt. Etna in the distance to keep you at the threshold of a white winter, sans the chill and layered clothes. The largest Mediterranean island has lots to offer, from traditional festivals like Festa Della Santa Lucia to celebrate the winter solstice and roasted chestnuts to munch on while exploring the region on foot. Meanwhile, make the most of the crisp air with visits to historical sites like the Valley of Temples (without summer crowds) on foot. Be sure to try the wintry goods too, all infused with a local touch, such as buccellato, liqueur-infused cassata and more!

Lead image: Courtesy St Regis Vommuli Island

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