From smart locks to portable power strips, here’s our guide to ensuring your winter travels are not only adventurous but also tech-savvy.
07.11.2023 - 21:47 / travelpulse.com / Laurie Baratti
Daylight savings time has ended, marking the inescapable approach of the winter months. Some look forward to snowy days and a chill in the air, while others start searching for a way to wait them out in sunnier climes.
And, this coming winter promises to be a particularly cold one for most of the country, with the Old Farmer’s Almanac predicting above-average snowfall and lower-than-usual temperatures across much of the United States.
To help Americans maximize their enjoyment of winter trips, WalletHub combed through the data to identify the nation’s most budget-friendly destinations that are also among the easiest to get to.
To come up with a list of the best getaway spots for the winter of 2023-24, WalletHub took 69 of the most populous metropolitan areas in the U.S., classifying them as either “cold” or “warm” winter destinations. Those that have, over the past 50 years, recorded average temperatures below 46 degrees in December were classed as “cold”, while those with average December temps above 57 degrees were labelled “warm”.
In each of these groups, the metros were compared based on six key dimensions: travel costs and hassles, local costs, attractions, weather, activities, and safety. And, under those classifications, the cities were then ranked across 37 relevant metrics and graded on a 100-point scale. Once all factors were scored, it combined them to create an overall ranking of best warm-weather and cold-weather destinations for winter travel.
A family enjoying ski vacation during winter (photo via manonallard / Getty Images)
Best Winter Vacation Destinations for Warm-Weather Lovers:
Las Vegas, Nevada (Photo Credit: Air Canada)
Best Winter Vacation Destinations for Cold-Weather Lovers:
The complete rankings and detailed breakdowns across the key dimensions considered can be viewed here.
Atlanta, Georgia skyline. (Photo via SeanPavonePhoto/iStock/Getty Images Plus)
“Compared with other rankings that focus on each destination’s scenic quality, this report focuses primarily on the cost and convenience of traveling to each location as well as its affordability,” according to WalletHub’s report. “It also ensures that the number of attractions and variety of activities in each destination will keep everyone busy and entertained throughout the trip.”
A few of WalletHub’s experts rounded out the report by offering their tips for successful winter travels, including advice for saving money on flights, hotels and car rentals, and logistical “do’s” and “don’ts”.
David Miles, a retired Executive Professor in Residence at Northern Arizona University’s College of Business: Hospitality Management, cautions travelers to take a lesson from last year’s winter travel woes. “The biggest one to avoid is counting
From smart locks to portable power strips, here’s our guide to ensuring your winter travels are not only adventurous but also tech-savvy.
Valencia, hosting this exceptional event for the third consecutive year, reaffirmed its position as a leading force in innovative tourism.
One of the biggest impediments to recovery so far has been a lack of airline capacity and competition. Conditions are gradually improving, which is expected to benefit travellers as the year progresses, but the concern remains regarding the lack of available seats on services between Australia and Europe, via the Middle East.
As the holidays approach, it can be difficult to think of fun activities that all the family will enjoy.
Crafters know that time flies while they’re working on their creations. So what could be a better – or more productive – way to pass the time on a long road trip or flight than with a DIY project?
A new report from travel intelligence company Airlines Reporting Corp. (ARC) revealed that total air ticket sales by U.S. travel agencies hit $7.2 billion in October, a two-percent dip when compared with sales in October 2022. Despite this nominal reduction, the total number of passenger trips taken last month rose four percent to to 21.7 million, supported by a five percent uptick in U.S. domestic air travel.
The hotel industry is gearing up for a robust holiday season and enjoying an optimistic outlook amid the final months of 2023. This rosy picture can be largely attributed to a recent boost in business travel, as well as a persistent preference among both corporate and leisure travelers to opt for hotel accommodations.
Megève has everything an alpine destination needs and more — 150 ski slopes, cozy chalets, Michelin-starred restaurants, and abundant sunshine. Go for a hike to enjoy panoramic views of Mont Blanc or indulge in a delicious hot chocolate in Megève’s quaint village center; the possibilities are endless. Mountain enthusiasts can enjoy 445 kilometers of pistes and those who like to move at a slower pace can indulge in a spa treatment or enjoy some warming fondue. There’s something here for everyone, especially at Four Seasons Megèvewhere you can ski-in and ski-out for a snow-filled day of sports or just unwind in their heated outdoor pool while enjoying striking mountain views.
With the majestic domes of the Royal Pavilion as its backdrop – lit in magical neon colours if you go after dark – this real ice rink is a popular highlight of Brighton’s yuletide offering, and the only one in the UK powered by renewable energy. Families are warmly welcomed, with penguin skate aids available for £5 and a beginners’ rink where young skaters can safely build confidence on the ice. Rinkside, a covered bar and café and outdoor terraced areas offer mulled wine, mince pies, cakes, snacks and a decent children’s menu – and a great place to sit and watch if you don’t want to risk the ice yourself.Adults and children aged 12 and over £18, concessions £15, 12 and under £14, royalpavilionicerink.co.uk; family room, B&B, from £179, queenshotelbrighton.com
Travelers face two reasonable responses to the prospect of a long, cold winter: embrace the chill and seek out the most spectacular winter destinations, or follow the warmth – wherever you can find it.
This is part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2024—find more travel inspiration here.
When cold weather hits, you need outerwear that will stand up to chilly temperatures. The best winter coats for women keep you warm, look chic no matter what you're wearing, and are as packable as possible. Deciding on the best option for you depends on where you're headed, what the current climate is, and your personal style.