Winters in Canada can be freezing cold with periods of heavy snow. This may be a good time for Canadians to head somewhere tropical to escape the frigid cold and cure their winter woes.
Some travelers, on the other hand, like to embrace the cold by vacationing in snowy destinations. Whether you love winter or shy away from the cold, below you’ll find some fantastic destinations to quench your wintertime wanderlust.
1. Manila, Philippines
A bustling historic city with tons of Spanish colonial-style architecture, Manila is one of the best winter getaways in Southeast Asia. The city has become a trademark of Philippines tourism, boasting many interesting tourist spots including Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, Plaza de Roma, the Ocean Park, Baywalk, Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex, and Paco Park.
Manila has the third biggest shopping complex with a shopping mall in almost every block. The city’s mall culture beautifully reflects the Americanization of the Southeast Asian country.
If you are one of those people who don’t like snowfall but crave the peacefulness that comes with rain, Manila may be a great place to vacation in. The best time for visiting Manila is from January to March. You can book a direct flight from Vancouver to Manila via Cathay Pacific.
2. Nadi, Fiji
A charming city on the east coast of Fiji’s main island, Nadi boasts several modern and cultural attractions including Sri Siva Subramaniya, the Sleeping Giant orchid gardens, and Waqadra Botanical Gardens. The culturally diverse city is famous for its exquisite beaches, palm trees, relaxed atmosphere, azure waters, and super friendly locals.
If serenity is what you are looking for this winter, Fiji may be an ideal holiday destination. The city is the quietest during the months of January and February. The temperature remains pleasant and conducive to sightseeing during winter.
3. Denpasar, Indonesia
Denpasar is the capital city of the Indonesian province of Bali. Though the city may not be as famous as the south coast of Bali, Denpasar acts as the primary gateway to the island. It’s where you’ll find a perfect blend of Balinese culture and modernity with attractions like Cemara Beach, Le Mayeur Museum, Werdi Budaya Art Center, Shark Island, Sakenan Temple, Bajra Sandhi Monument, and Pasar Badung Market.
Despite being the largest city in Bali, Denpasar has a small-town ambience that’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat in winter. The city’s beaches act as an antidote the chilliest months of the year.
Denpasar, in January, is all about activities like shopping, exploring temples and cultural sites, and visiting art markets. It’s a great winter holiday destination for travelers who like spending time indoors.
4. Adelaide, Australia
Adelaide is South Australia’s capital city, famous for its diverse culinary scene, premium wine regions, arts festivals, and world-class museums. If you are visiting Adelaide in winter, you can look forward to fine dining experiences, the Winter Reds festival, vineyard tours, and Murray River cruises.
Visit Adelaide Hills, Clara Valley, and McLaren Vale to immerse yourself in Adelaide’s wine culture and taste some of the finest varieties of Australian wines. From unwinding on Glenelg Beach to exploring street art to shopping in Rundle Mall, there are tons of exciting things to do in Adelaide in winter. Canadians looking for a beach getaway in winter should head to Adelaide to escape the chill.
5. Prague
Prague, Czech Republic’s capital city, is one of the world’s best architecturally rich cities. Many different styles of architecture dominate the city, including Baroque, Renaissance, Gothic, and Art Nouveau. From medieval streets to world-class museums to baroque-style bridges, there’s so much to enchant you in this amazing city.
Some of the most famous tourist attractions in Prague include Charles Bridge, The National Museum, The Clementinum And The National Library, The Lennon Wall, Strahov Monastery, Dancing House, Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, and The Municipal House. Prague gets even more beautiful during winter as the entire city gets wrapped into a white, snowy blanket.
6. Athens, Greece
Athens, Europe’s historical capital, is one of the oldest cities of the world. Established among seven historic hills, Athens presents a marvelous combination of glorious history and urban innovation. The city’s archaeological ruins and contemporary infrastructure come together to reflect its rich history and modern personality.
If you are not a big fan of snow yet enjoy the wintry breezes, you should fly to Athens for a winter getaway. Though January is the coolest month in Athens, it’s the best time to discover ancient landmarks and explore stunning beaches. Cathay Pacific offers direct flights from Vancouver to Athens throughout the year.
7. Perth, Australia
Located at the junction of the Swan River and the southwest coast, Perth is the capital of Western Australia. The city features soft-sand beaches, picturesque parks, bustling art galleries, historic neighborhoods, halcyon local wineries, and unique varieties of flora and fauna.
The sun-soaked city has some of the mildest winters in the world and there are so many exciting things to look forward to around the city during winter. Beachside adventures like sailing, boating, fishing, and swimming are some of the popular things to do in Perch.
People who are not there for the beaches can spice up their winter getaway in Perth by exploring Elizabeth Quay, rolling through riverside rides, roasting marshmallows at Palace Cinema Raine Square, eating fresh produce at Perth City Farm, or cruising down the Swan River.
8. George Town, Penang, Malaysia
George Town is a culturally diverse capital of the Malaysian Island of Penang. It’s an architectural gem, featuring an impressive array of British colonial buildings, Chinese shophouses and mosques, modern skyscrapers, and shopping malls.
You’ll discover some of the best Malaysian street art in George Town. Located on the eastern edge of the Penang island, George Town offers a unique insight into Chinese history that blended with British colonial prowess over time.
Khoo Kongsi, Kek Lok Si Temple, Gurney Plaza, Penang Botanic Gardens, and Batu Ferringhi Beach are the most famous tourist destinations in George Town. Luckily for Canadians, winter is the best time to visit Penang as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing during that time.
