As the season starts to get colder and winter break approaches, it is a time to spend time with family and friends. Every year, when the time comes, it begs the question, “What should my family do this year for Christmas?” And the answer to that question is a winter vacation. For some people, winter break means going to places where the temperature is sub-zero while it may be a warm break for others. But whether it be in the tropical winters of Hawaii or a freezing cold journey to Rome, what better way is there to spend winter break? So whatever your preference may be, here are the top 7 destinations for winter break this year.

1. Hawaii- According to Travel US News, the big islands were ranked as the number one winter vacation spot in 2018. And it is not a surprise! Hawaii’s year-round sunny weather is not only ideal for surfing but for hiking and sightseeing. Visit Hawaii’s volcanoes such as Mauna Kea and explore nature’s wonders and avoid the summer crowds.

2. New Orleans- Another great place to travel this winter season is to New Orleans, in time for oyster season. Stop by at Casamento’s Restaurant, which is only opened in the winter, to enjoy the coldest oysters in town. Explore the bustling city and its livelihood this break!

3. Rome- Rome is an ideal destination where the weather rarely drops down to the single digits, perfect to get into the winter spirit. You can avoid the crowds that come with summer and enjoy the city in its chilling beauty. You can visit the Colosseum, the Vatican City, the Spanish Steps and many more places!

4. Cologne, Germany- According to Thrillist Travel, Cologne is the place to visit for anyone heavy with Christmas spirit. The city has seven main Christmas markets to stop by at and a Christmas tree so big that you can’t miss it in Cathedral Market. It definitely is a little colder but you can’t pass a place like Cologne up.

5. Japan- According to National Geographic, Japan has weeklong winter festivals such as Sapporo Snow festival or Sounkyo Hyobaku (Ice Waterfall) Festival. During the winter time, there is a chance to see snow monkeys and villages blanketed in white, soft snow. You can stop by at the Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival to warm up after all the winter fun.

6. Patagonia- The icy slopes located at the southern end of South America is a true winter wonderland. The milky, blue mountains and view is worth the long flight to the rural area. Patagonia is ideal to visit in the winter because many parks are closed during the summer months. You can visit Los Glaciares National Park where you can see the third largest ice cap in the world and sleep in a yurt by the water’s edge!

7. St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands- You can go to the United States Virgin Islands during the winter after hurricane season, while the water is still warm. Enjoy the iconic St. Thomas Lighted Boat Parade where the heart of Christmas spirit is! You can also visit Jazz by the Sea at Coral World Ocean Park!

<Eunice Kim/ Cypress HS 9th>