Tired of layering in winter gear, shoveling snow from the driveway, and spending the evening in darkness? Winter blues, aka seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a real thing. Thankfully, you don’t need to spend the entire season in hibernation as there are plenty of spots around the world that offer warm weather and sunshine this time of the year. Head to these stunning destinations this winter for a change in mood and a well-deserved escape.
THE ST. REGIS BAL HARBOUR RESORT, MIAMI
Deep blue Atlantic waters and expansive white sand beaches, a bustling nightlife, and extravagant shopping make Miami an ideal close-to-home destination whenever you need a little sun and sand. For the ultimate luxury, stay at one of the balcony suites at the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort. Indulge with a Blue Diamond facial at the Spa and signature Afternoon Tea at La Gourmandise. Nap at one of the Oceanfront Day Villas, partake in a bespoke diamond jewelry design experience at the De Beers store in the lobby, and enjoy a globally inspired, 7-course dinner—perfectly paired with wines—at St. Regis Wine Vault.
SHERATON MAUI RESORT & SPA, MAUI
With 10,000+ humpback whales migrating to Maui's warm waters each winter, Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa is the prime location for whale watching. It offers unrivaled views overlooking the pristine blue ʻAuʻau channel. This area becomes the most protected humpback whale playground in Hawaii, comically also known as “whale soup.” When you book their Kohola in Kaanapali package, a portion of proceeds go to the Whale Trust, a nonprofit that supports marine research and education programs around Maui and throughout the Pacific Ocean. So kick back and relax with some binoculars!
KIMPTON SEAFIRE RESORT + SPA, GRAND CAYMAN
With a gorgeous Moroccan-inspired spa, native botanical gardens, two ocean-view pools, three signature restaurants, and direct access to the famous Seven Mile Beach, you will have little reason to step outside the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa. If you enjoy reading vintage books by the sea, this is the place for you. The resort’s new Library by the Sea cocktail lounge is the first of its kind on Grand Cayman, offering guests a collection of narrative-driven drinkable stories, inspired by works of beloved literature, music, art, and film. Sip on cocktails concocted with 3D printers served at a bar made with reclaimed wood from the airport, and appreciate a restored, hand-made catboat hanging from the ceiling.
TIERRA MAGNIFICA RESORT, COSTA RICA
Nosara is a small, quaint town located on the western coast of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, in what is considered one of the rare Blue Zones in the world that support longevity and good health. Here, you can experience “pura vida” at the family-owned-and-operated Tierra Magnifica Resort. Check in to a 1,500-square-foot master suite and enjoy spectacular views of the bay and forests speckled with tropical birds and howler monkeys. With morning yoga, waterfall hikes, locally sourced nourishing breakfasts, and relaxing time by the pool, you will find your mind and body completely rested. And when you want to explore the town, Nosara offers beautiful beaches, lush green canopies, and some of the best waves in the world for surfing.
FOUR SEASONS RESORT MAURITIUS AT ANAHITA, MAURITIUS
Once you step inside your private villa with a plunge pool and unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean, your winter blues are sure to wash away. The African island of Mauritius is best known for its year-round moderate climate, endless sandy beaches, and friendly hospitality. The 64-acre Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita is the perfect spot to indulge yourself in boundless pleasures of swimming, snorkeling, wellness, golf, and dining. Get a spa treatment in an overwater suite situated along lagoons and tropical gardens, and exercise with a professional boxer at the fitness center.
