Here are the Top 10 Destinations Americans Are Headed To This Winter:

As winter settles in, travelers are choosing between sun-soaked beaches and magical snowy escapes. Here are 10 international destinations that we see Americans are booking for winter 2025, each with more reasons than ever to pack your bags and “Get out of Dodge” 

 10. Dubai – Where futuristic architecture meets desert landscapes, Dubai is winter luxury at its finest. Ride camels across golden dunes in the morning, shop designer boutiques and gold souks in the afternoon, then dine atop the world’s tallest building at night. Pleasant winter temperatures make it perfect for exploring. It’s an opulent, high-energy escape that feels like stepping into tomorrow. My favorite places to visit are the Burj Khalifa as the tallest building in the world and Burj Al Arab—the 6 star hotel shaped like a sail. Both represent the bold vision and innovation that make Dubai truly extraordinary. Dubai is one of my favorite destinations that allows me to dream big dreams.

 9. South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania – South Africa’s warm, dry season makes it ideal for safari adventures and coastal escapes. In Kruger National Park, spot lions, elephants, and giraffes in their natural habitat, then continue to Cape Town for its dramatic Table Mountain views and vibrant culinary scene. With its mix of wildlife, beaches, and culture, South Africa offers one of the most diverse winter vacations imaginable. I also love Kenya and Tanzania for a more primitive feel of the Massai Mara and the Great Migration. 

 8. Australia & New Zealand – When it’s winter in the U.S., it’s summertime Down Under — the ideal time to pack your flip-flops and throw a shrimp on the barbie! In Australia, you can surf Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, or sip bold Shiraz in the Barossa Valley. Hop across the Tasman Sea to New Zealand, where alpine peaks, serene fjords, and endless trails await. Together, these two destinations deliver the perfect mix of wild adventure by day and world-class dining and wine under the Southern Cross by night. In my humble opinion, you need to spend a minimum of three weeks down under and the only way to survive the 17 hour flight is to save up your pennies and travel by business class. 

 7. Vietnam – This one might be a stretch for many Midwesterners, but I think it is the hidden gem of Southeast Asia. Vietnam blends ancient culture, stunning coastline, and mouthwatering cuisine into one unforgettable journey. Winter brings cooler, drier weather. My favorites include wandering Hanoi’s bustling old quarter, cruising through the limestone peaks of Ha Long Bay, or strolling under lantern-lit skies in charming Hoi An. Food lovers will be in heaven amid the street markets and world-class restaurants. I am not a fun and sun guy but those that are will fall in love with the beaches of Da Nang and Phu Quoc, which offer warm waters and endless white sand.

 6. Hawaii – I couldn’t put together a list of winter destinations without mentioning Hawaii. With its year-round warm weather, lush landscapes, and of course it’s welcoming aloha spirit, Hawaii remains the ultimate U.S. escape from winter’s chill. Each island has its own personality. Maui’s golden beaches and scenic drives along the Hana Highway in a convertible is memorable. The Big Island’s volcanic wonders and Kauai’s emerald cliffs all offer different and unique experiences. Whether you’re snorkeling with sea turtles, attending a sunset luau, or simply relaxing with a Mai Tai in hand, Hawaii delivers that perfect blend of tropical paradise and easy accessibility. And best of all, no passport required.

5. Iceland – This one will surprise my friends who only want to get away from the cold and sit on a warm beach. But Iceland turns into a dramatic wonderland when winter arrives. People from all over the world chase the Northern Lights across vast star-filled skies of Iceland. There is something magical about exploring frozen waterfalls and blue ice caves, or soaking in steaming geothermal lagoons while snow falls around you. And if you like to “Cozy Up” Reykjavik offers cozy cafés and a vibrant food scene, while guided tours make it easy to venture into volcanoes and glaciers. For travelers seeking nature’s raw beauty, Iceland delivers unforgettable winter magic.

4. Southern Europe – Winter is the secret season in Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece. With smaller crowds, travelers can savor tapas in Barcelona, stroll the Alfama district in Lisbon, wander Rome’s ancient ruins, or visit sun-kissed Greek islands at a relaxed pace. Mild Mediterranean weather means outdoor cafés and scenic coastal walks are still in play, and airfares this winter are less than half price compared to those found during the summer. It’s culture baby, plus cuisine, and history without the summer crush. Even though I list southern Europe #4 on the winter getaway list it is always #1 on my personal list. 

3. Costa Rica – Costa Rica is no longer the secret it was ten years ago — today, it’s gone mainstream, and for good reason. This lush Central American paradise perfectly blends adventure and relaxation. Mornings might begin with the calls of howler monkeys echoing through the rainforest, followed by ziplining above the canopy or spotting toucans and sloths in the treetops. As the day winds down, you can sink your toes into the sand and watch the sun melt into the Pacific. Eco-lodges and wellness retreats emphasize sustainability, and the warm, dry season from December to April makes winter the ideal time to hike volcanoes, explore national parks, or soak in a natural hot spring.

2. Mexico – Mexico has slipped from my #1 to #2 this year, but it still reigns as the all-inclusive capital of the world. From the sparkling Riviera Maya to lively Cancun and chic Los Cabos, Mexico continues to deliver unbeatable value — low prices, cheap flights, and even nonstop options that can have you on the beach by noon the same day you depart. Beyond the palm-fringed shores lie gourmet dining, ancient Mayan ruins, and world-class snorkeling and diving. Easy to reach, easy to love, and endlessly relaxing, Mexico remains the go-to winter escape for millions of Americans seeking sun, sand, and simplicity.

1. Caribbean Islands – My top five Caribbean getaways that include Jamaica’s reggae vibe, the Dominican Republic’s white-sand beaches, the turquoise waters of Turks & Caicos, the Bahamas — and my cousins Roger and Nancy saying Anguilla is the best of the best. These are the sun-lover’s paradises of winter. Whether you prefer a private villa, a luxury resort, or the rhythm of island nightlife, the Caribbean offers endless choices. With crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling or sailing and direct flights from dozens of U.S. airports, it’s a convenient winter escape that feels a world away. The only downside is that for many Caribbean islands, it often takes a full day to fly there and another to get home — so that “weeklong” vacation can quickly become just five days of relaxation and two days of travel. 

Now it is your turn to tell us your list of your top winter getaways. CLICK HERE and comment your favorite winter destinations.