Winter. Cold. Rain. Snow.
Many try the obvious strategy: escape to sun and warmth. Others embrace the enemy, dashing off to ski holidays and even north to Alaska or Canada's Yukon for winter antics such as as dog-sledding.
Here's five ideas for winter getaways: both hot and cold.
1. Winter Holidays: The Mayan Riviera -- south of Cancun
South of tourist mecca Cancun is a very different Mexico: with a sleepy town, lovely beaches, a coral reef, warm lagoons perfect for kid-friendly snorkeling, and a unique eco-archeological park.
The "Mayan Riviera" even qualifies for " edutravel" (educational vacationing) due to the wonderful Mayan ruins.
2. Winter Holidays: The US Virgin Islands
Just two hours southeast of Miami, US Virgin Island vacationsoffer a Caribbean experience that's still part of the US. Three distinct islands-- sleepy St. Croix, bustling St. Thomas, and eco-treat St. John-- serve up white-sand beaches, super snorkeling, a major National Park, colonial towns and forts, duty-free shops, and some novel ways to explore the underseas.
Read about Top 10 Things to do in the USVI, at TWKids. See also a review of the Westin St. John resort, very popular with families, and a fine launching point for exploring St. John's National Park (land and sea.)
Also on St. John, Maho Bay Campsoffers ecotourism right on the doorstep of the US Virgin Islands National Park, with white sand beaches, and lodging in comfortable tent-cottages. Built on platforms, these guest cottages are designed to be attractive and comfortable, with sleeping area, linens, kitchen utensils, propane stove, electric lights, etc. Rates are reasonable; water sports include kayaking, windsurfing, snorkeling and scuba diving. There's an outdoor restaurant, and a food store. , and kids stay free during off-season (May to November) Other lodging options are available too.
More Winter Holidays: Ski Holidays are for Everyone; North to Alaska; Europe Off-season.
