Hot And Cold – Icy and Sunny Travel Destinations

For most people, a holiday involves getting away from everyday life and doing something different. Many long for a trip to a warm and sunny destination full of beaches and refreshing cocktails. For others, a holiday is the chance to hone their skills on a snowboard. Whatever the season and your personal interests, there is the perfect holiday out there waiting for you.

Feeling Hot!

Maldives: Luxury in the Indian Ocean

If you like your holidays to include plenty of luxury and pampering, then the Maldives will be the perfect destination. There are more than 1,100 islands that make up the nation, and many are home to little more than a private resort. The weather is always warm, the beach is stunning and you can enjoy a slower pace of life on this dream getaway in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

Maui, Hawaii: Charming Beaches and Culture

Many travellers searching for a beach in Hawaii head to the bustling Waikiki on Oahu, but Maui offers a quieter option free from crowds. There are abandoned plantations, charming fishing villages, remote rainforest and stunning beaches. You might choose to go snorkelling, watch whales on an early-morning boat tour out at sea, or even rent a kayak to explore the coastline from a new angle.

Phuket, Thailand: Affordable Asian Paradise

One of the best reasons to take an extended beach vacation to Phuket this holiday season is because of how much you save on accommodation and activities. You can find great deals on a hotel in Phuket last minute or a few months in advance depending on the time of year. If you want to have a more comfortable stay, you can stay at one of the many luxury resorts offering spacious suites. The island offers plenty of attractions, but the real appeal is the warm climate, the staggering number of beaches and the beautiful scenery.

Keep Your Cool

Hokkaido, Japan: Snowy Peaks and Hot Springs

Asia may not be the first place you think of for incredible snowy winters, but many places in Japan offer exceptional locations for skiing and snowboarding. In Hokkaido, there is no question that winter is the season for outdoor activity. Lift tickets at places like the Tomamu Alpha Resort are reasonably priced, and there are many accommodation choices nearby that range from lavish suites at Japanese resorts to affordable apartments available for short-term rent. What really sets Hokkaido apart, however, is what you can do off the slopes. Hot springs offer a place to get warm thanks to geothermal underground water that is brought to the surface, and a number of spas will pamper you for a price after a pleasant soak in the springs. Hokkaido is also home to a full ice village sculpted from blocks of ice, and you can drink at the ice bar or even tour the inside of a church made entirely from ice.

Telluride, Colorado: Skiing, Culture and Nightlife

While there are dozens of places where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the mountains of Colorado, Telluride is a top pick for those who also want a full après-ski experience each night. The gondola service and frequent buses mean that driving is not necessary, and there is an annual independent film festival that sets the artistic tone for the resort. At night, enjoy nightlife, creative cocktails and progressive international fare at one of the many restaurants, lounges and bars in Telluride.

St. Moritz, Switzerland: Breathtaking Scenery

If picturesque views are what you desire most, then St. Moritz is a top winter destination. More than 5,000 feet above sea level, St. Moritz is surrounded by snow-capped peaks throughout the year. During the winter, it becomes a chic location for a chilly getaway. Despite the snow, there is still more than 320 days of sunshine each year. The surrounding area is home to more than 200 miles of groomed trails ideal for skiing and snowboarding.

Whether you are travelling abroad to a hot or cold destination, enjoy peace of mind by purchasing cheap travel insurance online first. From skiing in the Alps to surfing in Hawaii, having that protection keeps you secure. Each of these trips would be an amazing getaway, and it’s up to you whether you’d prefer to warm up or cool down.

Image courtesy of jramirezviera on Flickr