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Got a case of wanderlust, but not sure where to go? With the entirety of the world at your digital disposal—well, more or less—narrowing down on one destination can be an overwhelming undertaking. As the majority of us find ourselves in the throes of winter, escaping to a locale that is abundant in sun, sand, and blue-green waters seems to come top of mind. On the other end of the spectrum, cozying up in a chic chalet in front of a roaring fire is the sort of picturesque getaway we can really get on board with.
Whether your travels are dictated by cultural milestones, culinary adventures, or outdoor experiences, finding a destination that caters to your idea of R&R is crucial. To help you navigate the stormy waters of vacation-planning, we compiled a shortlist of the destinations worth traveling to in the month ahead.
Park City, Utah
If you just can’t get enough of the winter scene, head to Park City to relish in the stunning mountain views and ski culture. You will find yourself among the 40,000 people who flock to the locale each year in celebration of the Sundance Film Festival. While you will only be making it to the tail end of it—the 10-day festival lasts from January 24 to February 3—you will still have plenty of time to mix and mingle with creatives from all walks of life and take in a film or two as well.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is a destination on the brink of a major design revival, which in turn, has impacted the city’s booming food and wine scene. Adventure-seekers and design enthusiasts will head to the South African capital to take advantage of the last few moments of summer. Take to the Winelands, most of which are set against breathtaking mountainscapes, and indulge in the locale’s impressive array of natural wines. Delaire Graff Estate boasts some seriously captivating views. Cap the trip off with a jaunt to the beach or opt for a wild safari for an unforgettable summer in the middle of February.
Need inspo on where to stay? We’ve got our eye on this spot—spanning ocean vistas included.
Hong Kong
We can’t think of a better way to greet the Lunar New Year than by standing atop one of the highest bars in the world and watching the incredible firework extravaganza that will ensue. Treat yourself to a night at The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong and celebrate the new year like the best of them—dinner at the hotel’s two-star Michelin restaurant Tin Lung Heen goes without saying.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
February is officially carnival season. Rio Carnival 2019 is upon us, and with that comes vibrant street parties, parades, and festivities that extend way into the wee hours of the morning. The Rio Samba Parade is one of the most renowned shows and involves a beautifully orchestrated procession complete with captivating ensembles, extravagant floats, and more. Take part in the local culture, head to the famed beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, and indulge in the eclectically inspired cuisine and equally enticing street food scene.
The Maldives
Dreaming of the ultimate beach getaway? It doesn’t get any more idyllic than the Maldives—a string of islands located off the southern coast of Sri Lanka. While the high season typically flows from December to March, book a trip for the tail end of the range to beat the crowds. Although, you won’t really have to worry about that in your private bungalow.
Palm Springs, California
If you’re seeking a warm-weather destination sans having to leave the country, sun-kissed California is the place to be. There is no better time to head into the desert than in February, and we’ve got Palm Springs on our minds. Right in time for Modernism Week (which lasts from February 14 to February 24), this one’s an opportunity to take in all the sun and design your heart could ever desire. Book a stay at the iconic Parker Palm Springs, spend your days wandering the town’s famed vintage and antique shops, and end your evenings perched around a campfire under the star-lit desert sky.
India
Embark on an unforgettable river cruise down India’s Ganges river and take in the stunning sights of the famed destinations that are dotted along the coast. India’s Golden Triangle & the Sacred Ganges cruise is a 13-day experience, from New Delhi to Kolkata, where you will have the chance to take in the Taj Mahal at sunrise and get lost in the colors of the “Pink City” of Jaipur. This one’s for the dreamers.