by Jenny Javitch, Founder of Global Game Plan

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If you live in a city that experiences a cold winter, then you may want to take every opportunity possible to leave town and head to a warm destination during the winter season. But if you’re not interested in lying on the beach or visiting one of the few states that offer warm weather during the winter months then maybe a cold weather trip is in store for you.

Although I live in the very cold state of Minnesota, I’m not a huge fan of winter or skiing (I’m the person who spends more time in the chalet than on the slopes); however, I still love outdoor experiences, even in cold weather. Some of my favorite travel memories from winter vacations are drinking Glühwein (German mulled wine) at a Christmas market in Munich, or exploring the Grand Canyon while it was snowing, roaming Iceland’s Golden Circle, soaking in the Norris Hot Springs in Montana, and dog sledding in Wisconsin--all of which I would highly recommend.

If you’re traveling in winter, the winter vacation ideas and tips in this article will help you plan and discover the best way to enjoy your cold weather vacation. If you would like Global Game Plan to curate a list of fun winter activities for your vacation, just get in touch!

1. Choose an awesome destination

Everything else on your trip will revolve around your destination, so put some time and thought into selecting a destination that will be awesome during winter.

You could take a cozy train ride, spend a snowy winter holiday in Europe, visit many of the U.S. National Parks or view some beautiful winter landscapes all over the world.

Discover more than 30 vacation ideas for winter travel by reading this article’s suggestions for the best cold weather travel destinations and the winter travel tips throughout this post. You can also check out Global Game Plan’s Pinterest board to start creating a list of exciting choices.

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2. Stay at a unique (and winter-friendly) place

Where you stay can have a big impact on your travel experience - choosing the right accommodation is important. Hotels near downtown are convenient if you want to use public transportation or explore on foot. If you’re a skier then you have lots of options for ski resorts in the United States and abro ad, including some fun-filled winter resorts in case some of your travel companions don’t ski. However, there are sooo many cool places (pun intended) that can add some magic for all types of winter travelers.

Warm winter lodges
An ice lodge, ice hotel or igloo in Scandinavia
Winter glamp ing in bubbles, domes or Harry Potter and astrology themed igl oos
Cozy Airbnb cabins or Airbnbs where you can see the Northern Lights – Read this article to help you find the best Airbnb for your vacation.

Related: Global Game Plan can help you search for a winter cabin rental! Contact us to get started.

3. Take advantage of activities that are only available during winter

As seasons change, so do the activities offered in your winter destination. Of course you’re not able to swim, kayak or sail on any of Minnesota’s 10,000 lakes during the winter but you can still have a great winter adventures by ice fishing, ice skating or playing ice hockey.

Take advantage of seasonal festivities by eating, drinking and shopping your way through Paris at Christmas, visiting Europe’s famous Christmas markets, attending a winter festival in the United States or Asia or viewing the Northern Lights. Winter holidays like New Year’s Eve or Valentine’s Day come only once per year so plan a special weekend with your significant other to celebrate. Add the Winter Olympics (which happens every four years) to your sports bucket list or have fun playing these alternative winter sports available all winter long.

Try a winter twist on one of your summer favorites – walk along a beach on a coastline that’s perfec t for cold weather (although swimming is not recommended), marvel at a frozen waterfall, avoid the frigid temperatures by swimming in an indoor waterpark or soak in an outdoor hot pool or hot springs.

Also, don’t forget to bring back the best souvenirs you can find so you can relive your travel memories after you return home!

Hire Global Game Plan for your winter travels!

4. Create (and enjoy) your own “Winter Wonderland” travel experience

Unless you’re a snowbird or you live in a location that always has warm weather, winter will be coming around for several months each year so enhance your trip by planning a “real-life” winter won derland.

Embrace the fact that it’s winter and turn what could be considered a disadvantage into an advantage.

Avoid tons of tourists and visit these 9 Perfectly Christmassy Eur opean Cities Without the Cr owds.
Experience the open road with the 10 Best Winter Road Trip Routes to Help You Embrace Cold-Weather Adventures (safety tips included)
Search high and low for where to find the world’s best hot chocolate or warm mulled cider and when you’ve exhausted your search, relax in an outdoor he ated pool with an amazing view.

If being outdoors is truly too cold for you at this time of year then check out the 75 best indoor places in America for fun or enjoy some virtual travel tours.

How to save money while traveling

5. Dress warmly and be prepared for the cold weather

Believe me, you will be much happier if you’re dressed appropriately for your winter travels (read: bring lots of gear and wear layers). Several years ago I made the mistake of visiting Europe in the winter without taking my winter boots. I was able to purchase some more layers at the local department store but it’s best to know (in advance) how to dress for the cold weather.

While being active outside, learn how to stay warm and safe during your cold weather activities. If you’re traveling out of the country, be prepared by purchasing medical travel insurance – you never know when you might need it.

You can find high-quality winter clothing and gear at REI, DICK’S Sportin g Goods, The North Face or Cot opa xi (my new favorite travel brand) – and don’t forget the ha nd and feet warmers. Bonus tip: Remember to bring along a portable cell phone charger on your vacation, as the battery can drain easily in cold weather.

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Global Game Plan would be happy to help you plan your next road trip, local outing or vacation rental search! When it's time, send us an email or schedule a free phone consultation to discuss it.

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5 Ways to Love Your Cold Weather Vacation