{"id":656760,"date":"2025-11-07T22:19:02","date_gmt":"2025-11-07T22:19:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/?p=656760"},"modified":"2025-11-08T16:22:02","modified_gmt":"2025-11-08T16:22:02","slug":"20-of-the-best-places-to-visit-in-january-usa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/20-of-the-best-places-to-visit-in-january-usa\/","title":{"rendered":"19 Amazing Places to Visit in January USA"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-[20px] text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5 overflow-x-auto whitespace-pre-wrap\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"aa86bb6d-f6db-4afc-b645-de1190b42f50\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p>While January is often seen as a quiet month, I\u2019ve found it to be one of the best times for an unforgettable U.S. getaway. After living in the country for many years and exploring it during this season, here are my favorite places to visit &#8211; from magical snowy escapes to warm and sunny retreats&#8230;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>1. Breckenridge, Colorado<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-769327\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Breckenridge-Colorado.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Breckenridge, Colorado\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Breckenridge-Colorado.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Breckenridge-Colorado.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Breckenridge-Colorado.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Breckenridge-Colorado.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778922\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778922\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Breckenridge-sign-in-the-winter-1.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Breckenridge-sign-in-the-winter-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Breckenridge-sign-in-the-winter-1.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Breckenridge-sign-in-the-winter-1.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Breckenridge-sign-in-the-winter-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C725&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"725\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Breckenridge-sign-in-the-winter-1.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Breckenridge-sign-in-the-winter-1.jpg?resize=640%2C453&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Breckenridge-sign-in-the-winter-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C708&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Breckenridge-sign-in-the-winter-1.jpg?resize=768%2C544&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778922 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"A photo of the Breckenridge welcome sign in the winter\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778922\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My welcome to a snowy Breckenridge!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"p1\">This historic mountain town was pure magic this month \u2014 peak ski season brought fresh powder, snow-dusted streets, and a festive, winter-wonderland vibe. Main Street sparkled with lights, cozy apr\u00e8s-ski bars buzzed, and it felt like the ultimate snowy escape in the Rockies.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I flew into Denver International Airport (DEN), drove 1 hour 45 minutes, and savored seven incredible days in this beautiful spot. I timed my trip for both the enchanting <a href=\"https:\/\/gobreck.com\/event\/international-snow-sculpture-championships\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">International Snow Sculpture Championships<\/a> and the lively <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/BigBeers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Big Beers, Belgians &amp; Barleywine Festival<\/a>. Between carving runs on lively Peak 8, warming up by the fire at the quirky <a href=\"https:\/\/thegoldpansaloon.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gold Pan Saloon<\/a>, and indulging in multiple Roasted Toasted Almond Lattes at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ClintsBakery\/?locale=en_GB\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Clint\u2019s Bakery &amp; Coffee House<\/a>, it was a flawless slice of winter heaven!<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong>Location:<\/strong> Summit County, Colorado, Northwest | <strong>Vibe:<\/strong> cozy mountain retreat | <strong>Avg temp:<\/strong> \u22122 \u00b0C to \u22121 \u00b0C<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/breckenridge-550-village.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAMo7AFCDGJyZWNrZW5yaWRnZUgJWANoUIgBAZgBCbgBB8gBDNgBAegBAfgBAogCAagCA7gC_NX4uQbAAgHSAiRjNWU5NTYzNy1mN2JkLTRjZTAtOWEwMC0yNGMxOTJjYTU4YzXYAgXgAgE&amp;sid=25425c0c991cecf6c7018bc25ca17568&amp;all_sr_blocks=34133312_402126488_2_2_0&amp;checkin=2025-01-19&amp;checkout=2025-01-22&amp;dest_id=20017156&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=6&amp;highlighted_blocks=34133312_402126488_2_2_0&amp;hpos=6&amp;matching_block_id=34133312_402126488_2_2_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=34133312_402126488_2_2_0__145734&amp;srepoch=1732127653&amp;srpvid=68cd8274dae102d6&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Hotel Alpenrock Breckenridge<\/a>, I loved its Ski-In\/Ski-Out access, sipping a smoky maple bourbon by the stone fireplace at The Boot Saloon, and watching <em data-start=\"284\" data-end=\"310\">The Grand Budapest Hotel<\/em> in their private movie theater!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>2. Palm Desert, California<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778926\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778926\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Palm-Trees-in-Palm-Desert.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Palm-Trees-in-Palm-Desert.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Palm-Trees-in-Palm-Desert.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Palm-Trees-in-Palm-Desert.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Palm-Trees-in-Palm-Desert.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"768\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Palm-Trees-in-Palm-Desert.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Palm-Trees-in-Palm-Desert.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Palm-Trees-in-Palm-Desert.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-Palm-Trees-in-Palm-Desert.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"wp-image-778926 size-full sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Palm Trees in a Palm Desert with blue sky\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778926\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My shot of Palm Trees in a Palm Desert &#8211; the sky was a brilliant blue in January!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_768618\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-768618\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Palm-Springs-California-Motel.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Palm-Springs-California-Motel.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Palm-Springs-California-Motel.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Palm-Springs-California-Motel.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Palm-Springs-California-Motel.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Palm-Springs-California-Motel.jpg?resize=1024%2C680&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"680\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Palm-Springs-California-Motel.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Palm-Springs-California-Motel.jpg?resize=640%2C425&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Palm-Springs-California-Motel.jpg?resize=1000%2C664&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Palm-Springs-California-Motel.jpg?resize=768%2C510&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Palm-Springs-California-Motel.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-768618 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Palm Springs, California Motel\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-768618\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My shot of Palm Springs, California Motel &#8211; I loved the retro styled resorts here!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p data-start=\"55\" data-end=\"233\">January was the perfect month to swap gray skies for desert sun \u2014 warm days, clear blue skies, and no summer crowds made it ideal for outdoor adventures, and soaking up some much-needed vitamin D. I made sure to time my trip with the star-studded <a href=\"https:\/\/www.psfilmfest.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Palm Springs International Film Festival<\/a> and the buzzing weekly <a href=\"https:\/\/villagefest.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">VillageFest night market<\/a> brimming with colorful crafts, local art, tasty bites, and lively music.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"529\">I drove two hours from Los Angeles and basked in a perfect week of relaxation and fun &#8211; hiking the switchback-filled Bump and Grind Trail via the clockwise loop, shopping along boutique-filled El Paseo (the boho&nbsp;Daisy Blue Boutique was my favorite!), and floating blissfully at the zen-like <a href=\"https:\/\/desertserenityfloat.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Desert Serenity Float &amp; Spa<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"529\"><strong>Location:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Palm+Desert,+CA,+USA\/@33.7406323,-116.4464037,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x80dafc2ef2a5c237:0x2eb9468f86af4675!8m2!3d33.7222445!4d-116.3744556!16zL20vMHIzdGI?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Southern California<\/a>, Southwest USA | <strong>Vibe:<\/strong> stylish desert escape | <strong>Avg temp:<\/strong> 19\u00b0C to 22\u00b0C<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the creative 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/paseo-autograph-collection.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAMo7AFCC3BhbG0tZGVzZXJ0SAlYA2hQiAEBmAEJuAEHyAEM2AEB6AEB-AECiAIBqAIDuALD4vi5BsACAdICJDJmM2UzMWZkLWRlZGEtNDA5NS04ZjZmLWY4NzgyYzAzMTVmM9gCBeACAQ&amp;sid=25425c0c991cecf6c7018bc25ca17568&amp;all_sr_blocks=266429803_105746514_0_2_0&amp;checkin=2025-01-21&amp;checkout=2025-01-24&amp;dest_id=20015054&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=3&amp;highlighted_blocks=266429803_105746514_0_2_0&amp;hpos=3&amp;matching_block_id=266429803_105746514_0_2_0&amp;nflt=class%3D4%3Bht_id%3D204&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=266429803_105746514_0_2_0__101844&amp;srepoch=1732129431&amp;srpvid=54b485681086071c&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Hotel Paseo<\/a> &#8211; it was awesome savoring a prickly pear margarita in a red striped chair outside my retro 1950s Airstream Suite while a faint orange blossom scent filled the air!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>3. Zion National Park, Utah<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778930\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778930\" style=\"width: 2019px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778930\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Zion-National-Park-scaled.jpg?resize=1200%2C852&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Zion National Park scenery\" width=\"1200\" height=\"852\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Zion-National-Park-scaled.jpg?w=2029&amp;ssl=1 2029w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Zion-National-Park-scaled.jpg?resize=640%2C454&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Zion-National-Park-scaled.jpg?resize=1000%2C710&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Zion-National-Park-scaled.jpg?resize=768%2C545&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Zion-National-Park-scaled.jpg?resize=1536%2C1090&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Zion-National-Park-scaled.jpg?w=2028&amp;ssl=1 2028w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778930\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My snapshot of Zion National Park &#8211; the scenery here was jaw-dropping!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_769331\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-769331\" style=\"width: 990px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-769331 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Zion-National-Park.jpg?resize=1000%2C649&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Zion National Park winter roads\" width=\"1000\" height=\"649\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Zion-National-Park.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Zion-National-Park.jpg?resize=640%2C415&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Zion-National-Park.jpg?resize=768%2C498&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Zion-National-Park.jpg?resize=150%2C97&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-769331\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Zion National Park winter roads in January!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p data-start=\"56\" data-end=\"275\">I discovered that during the middle of this month, Zion National Park had turned into a serene, snow-dusted wonderland \u2014 cool temperatures made the park very atmospheric and the scenery even more special. It was great to have easier parking (although weekends still got fairly busy) and being able to skip the shuttle system, which made exploring feel much more adventurous.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"375\" data-end=\"698\">I drove 2.5 hours northeast from <a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/travel\/top-18-cool-unusual-hotels-las-vegas\/\">Las Vegas<\/a> and relished five peaceful, unhurried days at the Insta-worthy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.uk\/Virgin-Hotels-Zion-Wildflower.h50918133.Hotel-Information?chkin=2025-10-13&amp;chkout=2025-10-14&amp;x_pwa=1&amp;rfrr=HSR&amp;pwa_ts=1759156772394&amp;referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jby51ay9Ib3RlbC1TZWFyY2g%3D&amp;useRewards=false&amp;rm1=a2&amp;regionId=184036&amp;destination=Zion%20National%20Park%2C%20Springdale%2C%20Utah%2C%20United%20States%20of%20America&amp;destType=MARKET&amp;latLong=37.298203%2C-113.026298&amp;sort=RECOMMENDED&amp;top_dp=180&amp;top_cur=GBP&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw3OjGBhDYARIsADd-uX5FmcrkxXxsjPOga1VL8ziwT0JWjFF4G33T3Q7roIu0ehQgkTcipswaAlgaEALw_wcB&amp;semcid=UK.UB.GOOGLE.LM-c-EN.HOTEL&amp;semdtl=a111858818758.b1116775346273.g1kwd-44636161.e1c.m1Cj0KCQjw3OjGBhDYARIsADd-uX5FmcrkxXxsjPOga1VL8ziwT0JWjFF4G33T3Q7roIu0ehQgkTcipswaAlgaEALw_wcB.r157ac8be187dd7526abf9ad4fb085ae869d04b110e2d81164c9c0785b63be261e.c1.j11007065.k1.d1617900328600.h1e.i1.l1.n1.o1.p1.q1.s1zion%20national%20park%20lodging.t1.x1.f1.u1.v1.w1&amp;userIntent=&amp;selectedRoomType=325962901&amp;selectedRatePlan=399722023&amp;searchId=bf327b49-d65d-4b66-ab4b-3cb044425d27\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Zion Wildflower Resort<\/a>. I tackled the bucket-list worthy Watchman Trail in crisp winter air, and cruised along the jaw-dropping Zion Canyon Drive. I also captured peaceful photos at the towering Court of the Patriarchs and the iconic Canyon Junction Bridge, I just had to prepare well with layered clothing, waterproof boots, and a pair of Kahtoola microspikes!<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"375\" data-end=\"698\"><strong>Location:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Zion+National+Park\/@37.3220921,-113.0432349,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x80caead08844f8d9:0x7c2e3a15aa3656f5!8m2!3d37.2982022!4d-113.0263005!16zL20vMDE2MjZ4?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTAyNi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Southwest Utah<\/a>, Western USA&nbsp;| <strong>Vibe:<\/strong> peaceful red rock canyon landscapes | <strong>Avg temp:<\/strong> 8\u00b0C to 13\u00b0C<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Driving out to the oasis-like Emerald Pools &#8211; the chilly winter air and low golden sun made the red cliffs glow!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>4. Big Sky, Montana<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778933\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778933\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Big-Sky-Montana-in-winter.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Big-Sky-Montana-in-winter.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Big-Sky-Montana-in-winter.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Big-Sky-Montana-in-winter.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Big-Sky-Montana-in-winter.jpg?resize=1024%2C527&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"527\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Big-Sky-Montana-in-winter.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Big-Sky-Montana-in-winter.jpg?resize=640%2C329&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Big-Sky-Montana-in-winter.jpg?resize=1000%2C515&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Big-Sky-Montana-in-winter.jpg?resize=768%2C395&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778933 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Big Sky ski resort slope in Montana in winter\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778933\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My shot of Big Sky Montana &#8211; the winter scenery was breathtaking!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 [--thread-content-margin:--spacing(4)] @[37rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(6)] @[72rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(16)] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:32rem] @[34rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @[64rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto flex max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"cadb2189-d348-4fa6-8ee7-0ab666ac05bf\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778934\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778934\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Madison-Range-in-Big-Sky-in-January.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Madison-Range-in-Big-Sky-in-January.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Madison-Range-in-Big-Sky-in-January.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Madison-Range-in-Big-Sky-in-January.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Madison-Range-in-Big-Sky-in-January.jpg?resize=1024%2C700&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"700\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Madison-Range-in-Big-Sky-in-January.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Madison-Range-in-Big-Sky-in-January.jpg?resize=640%2C438&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Madison-Range-in-Big-Sky-in-January.jpg?resize=1000%2C684&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Madison-Range-in-Big-Sky-in-January.jpg?resize=768%2C525&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778934 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Madison Range in Big Sky in January\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778934\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My IG gallery snap of Madison Range in Big Sky &#8211; it looked spectacular in January<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"p1\">This month turned Big Sky into a real-life snow globe \u2014 with powdery peaks, frosted pines, and quiet trails all coming together to create a quintessential winter wonderland. I discovered fresh layers of snow, cozy apr\u00e8s-ski spots, unique outdoor adventures galore, breathtaking Madison Range views and quieter slopes compared to the more well-known nearby resorts.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I flew into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), drove an hour south, and basked in five snow-covered days at the rustic-chic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/village-center.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-10CAso7AFCDnZpbGxhZ2UtY2VudGVySAlYA2hQiAEBmAEzuAEHyAEM2AED6AEB-AEBiAIBqAIBuAKs_6PEBsACAdICJDBiM2NhYzg1LTM4NjktNGY5MS1iMzEzLTE2M2NjNWQ3Nzk3Y9gCAeACAQ&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;age=0&amp;checkin=2025-11-03&amp;checkout=2025-11-04&amp;dest_id=20076120&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;hpos=1&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;soh=1&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753808827&amp;srpvid=95ff78563b8b0182&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;#no_availability_msg\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Big Sky Resort Village Center<\/a> for New Year. I skied at exhilarating <span class=\"s1\">Liberty Bowl<\/span>, snowshoed at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/lone-mountain-ranch.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-10CAso7AFCE2xvbmUtbW91bnRhaW4tcmFuY2hICVgDaFCIAQGYATO4AQfIAQzYAQPoAQH4AQGIAgGoAgG4AsDK68YGwAIB0gIkZGEzNjVkNGQtMmRkZS00M2JhLWE5ZWQtMmU2MmRmYTZmMWE42AIB4AIB&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;age=0&amp;checkin=2025-10-17&amp;checkout=2025-10-18&amp;dest_id=20076120&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=1&amp;hapos=1&amp;hpos=1&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_age=0&amp;req_children=1&amp;room1=A%2CA%2C0&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;soh=1&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1759176005&amp;srpvid=c84b8ca0d3fd0467&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;#no_availability_msg\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Lone Mountain Ranch,<\/a> joined a Mimosa-filled New Year\u2019s brunch at Montage Big Sky, and took a winter wildlife tour into Yellowstone \u2014 wrapping up each evening with apr\u00e8s-ski Lone Peak Hot Toddy at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/explore\/locations\/526250082\/everetts-8800\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Everett\u2019s 8800<\/a> and cozy fireside lounging.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"478\" data-end=\"774\"><strong>Location:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Big+Sky,+MT,+USA\/@45.2552001,-111.4309244,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x53500e65fd372c35:0x95f8713baa8b2bca!8m2!3d45.2617806!4d-111.3080244!16s%2Fm%2F0201l3w?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Southwest Montana<\/a>, Western USA&nbsp;| <strong>Vibe:<\/strong> Powder-filled alpine hideaway | <strong>Avg temp:<\/strong> \u22124 \u00b0C to \u22123 \u00b0C&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Trying on a glitzy fringed suede jacket and a hot pink stetson at the funky Rhinestone Cowgirl boutique &#8211; I loved seeing rhinestone sparkle everywhere I looked!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>5. Miami, Florida<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778937\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778937\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.jpg?resize=1024%2C615&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"615\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.jpg?resize=640%2C384&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.jpg?resize=1000%2C601&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.jpg?resize=768%2C461&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778937 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My snap of Avalon Hotel in Miami\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778937\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My snap of Avalon Hotel in Miami &#8211; it was such a vibe!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778939\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778939\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"768\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778939 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Ocean Drive in Miami Beach at night\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778939\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photograph of Ocean Drive in Miami Beach at night &#8211; I loved the Art Deco architecture!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"p1\">This month actually turned out to be my favorite time to visit Miami \u2014 warm, sunny days were perfect for beach lounging and alfresco dining, without the heavy humidity or hurricane worries. South Beach was blissfully free of spring-break crowds, hotels offered great off-season rates, and the city buzzed with events such as the <a href=\"https:\/\/sobejazzfestival.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">South Beach Jazz Festival<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/artdecoweekend.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Art Deco Weekend<\/a>, and the quirky <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kingmangostrut.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">King Mango Strut Parade<\/a> in Coconut Grove.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I flew into Miami International Airport (MIA) and reveled in a week of palm-fringed perfection, basking in seven hours of sunshine a day \u2014 lazing on the golden sands of South Beach, wandering the pastel Art Deco Historic District, exploring mural-dotted Little Havana and Wynwood Walls, and dining alfresco at the relaxed <a href=\"https:\/\/frontporchoceandrive.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Front Porch Caf\u00e9<\/a> along Ocean Drive.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Location:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Miami,+FL,+USA\/@25.782414,-80.2253934,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88d9b0a20ec8c111:0xff96f271ddad4f65!8m2!3d25.7616798!4d-80.1917902!16zL20vMGYydjA?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTAyNi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Southeast Florida<\/a>, Coastal USA&nbsp;| <strong>Vibe:<\/strong> cool beach city | <strong>Avg temp:<\/strong>&nbsp;18\u00b0C to 24\u00b0C<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the funky 4-star boutique <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/pelican.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAMYBCjsATieA0gJWANoUIgBAZgBCbgBB8gBDNgBAegBAfgBAogCAagCA7gC0OX4uQbAAgHSAiQ3ZjhjYWU2NS0xMjgxLTQ2MDctOTM2OS1lZDQ0ZDI3OGZmYjPYAgXgAgE&amp;sid=25425c0c991cecf6c7018bc25ca17568&amp;all_sr_blocks=5908611_88759398_2_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-01-21&amp;checkout=2025-01-24&amp;dest_id=20023182&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=5908611_88759398_2_0_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=5908611_88759398_2_0_0&amp;nflt=class%3D4%3Bht_id%3D204&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=5908611_88759398_2_0_0__74431&amp;srepoch=1732129508&amp;srpvid=eaf0862a09430108&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Pelican Hotel<\/a> &#8211; mixing a smoky Mezcal Negroni in my zebra-print suite and sipping it as Ocean Drive\u2019s neon lights flickered outside felt like the ultimate Miami moment!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>6. Hunting Island, South Carolina<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-657883 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Hunting-Island-State-Park.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Hunting Island State Park, South Carolina\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Hunting-Island-State-Park.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Hunting-Island-State-Park.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Hunting-Island-State-Park.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Hunting-Island-State-Park.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Hunting-Island-State-Park.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-653577 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Hunting-Island-State-Park.jpg?resize=1000%2C669&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Hunting Island State Park\" width=\"1000\" height=\"669\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Hunting-Island-State-Park.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Hunting-Island-State-Park.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Hunting-Island-State-Park.jpg?resize=768%2C514&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Hunting-Island-State-Park.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"78\" data-end=\"322\">I took a winter break here and loved the peaceful beaches, mild weather, and quiet trails with migratory birds, dolphin sightings, and atmospheric coastal views. There was also cheaper stays and no summer crowds which made it feel like I had the island to myself!<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"522\" data-end=\"772\">I flew into Savannah\/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), drove 1.5 hours, stayed at the charming 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/rhett-house.en-gb.html?aid=303948&amp;label=beaufort-ERhE3MbNAXvfYhePJAWCTwS394156191757%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-11674005343%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Yf5EcukO1MOGLSSAuId8ToA&amp;sid=1ee678e17c65697104706743b8efa91d&amp;dest_id=20115521&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=9&amp;hpos=9&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753809758&amp;srpvid=9b6326ef445b6baa64ae1d773672982d&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Rhett House<\/a>, and timed my visit for the&nbsp;fun New Year&#8217;s Day <a href=\"https:\/\/www.friendsofhuntingisland.org\/event-details\/the-pelican-plunge-2025\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pelican Plunge<\/a> at Hunting Island State Park. I spent the rest of my days beachcombing, climbing the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse, and spotting wildlife along the family-friendly Marsh Boardwalk Trail. I have to mention though that I found the ocean far too chilly for swimming this month, though it was perfect for long beach walks!<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"522\" data-end=\"772\"><strong>Location:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Hunting+Island\/@32.3650467,-80.4545612,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88fc3ffab2bfd525:0x7ee3adb7b8e7189f!8m2!3d32.3585481!4d-80.4521216!16zL20vMDQ2cXp4?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTAyNi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lowcountry<\/a>, Southeastern USA| <strong>Vibe:<\/strong> serene island retreat | <strong>Avg temp: <\/strong>14\u00b0C to 18\u00b0C<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>After climbing the 167 spiral steps of the black-and-white striped Hunting Island Lighthouse, I was greeted by salty sea air and panoramic views of driftwood beaches and untouched barrier islands stretching into the Atlantic!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>7. Heavenly Mountain Resort, California<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-671037 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Heavenly-Mountain-Ski-Resort.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Heavenly Mountain ski resort\" width=\"1000\" height=\"750\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Heavenly-Mountain-Ski-Resort.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Heavenly-Mountain-Ski-Resort.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Heavenly-Mountain-Ski-Resort.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Heavenly-Mountain-Ski-Resort.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Heavenly-Ski-Resort.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Heavenly-Ski-Resort.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Heavenly-Ski-Resort.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Heavenly-Ski-Resort.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Heavenly-Ski-Resort.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"750\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Heavenly-Ski-Resort.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Heavenly-Ski-Resort.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Heavenly-Ski-Resort.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Heavenly-Ski-Resort.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-769338 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Heavenly Ski Resort\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I found that Heavenly Mountain Resort more than lived up to its name this month \u2014 deep powder, bluebird skies, sparkling lake views, and lively apr\u00e8s-ski gave it just the right mix of wild days and lively nights. Post-holiday skiing was ideal with a solid snow base and fresh falls, and I even managed to catch the family-friendly <a href=\"https:\/\/tahoe.com\/listings\/annual-events\/heavenly-holidays-new-years-eve-celebration\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Heavenly Holidays New Year\u2019s Celebration<\/a> with sparkling fireworks and live music galore!<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I flew into Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), drove an hour, and spent an idyllic week at the cozy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/the-elet.en-gb.html?aid=376619&amp;label=heavenly-ski-resort-09m7i9wyVmhOFPm6oo%2ANfgS589457264833%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-4271938867%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9YfebvPBbIhsADWsIhdoUSik&amp;sid=1ee678e17c65697104706743b8efa91d&amp;dest_id=15800&amp;dest_type=landmark&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=9&amp;hpos=9&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753810319&amp;srpvid=f0df7b3cb9ea0a6e&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Elet Hotel<\/a>. I spent my days skiing the panoramic Ridge and Skyline Trails, riding the very Instagrammable Heavenly Gondola to its lookout deck, tubing at Adventure Peak, and my nights soaking up live acoustic sets and wood-fired pizza in buzzing Heavenly Village.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Location: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Heavenly+Mountain+Resort\/@38.9287152,-119.9076902,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x80999044afd5ad6b:0x81f85ee0ddf8ee98!8m2!3d38.9287152!4d-119.9051153!16zL20vMDFrXzVt?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTAyNi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">California-Nevada Border<\/a>, Western USA| <strong>Vibe:<\/strong> atmospheric bluebird ski resort | <strong>Avg temp:<\/strong> \u22126 \u00b0C to 0 \u00b0C<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">Partying with the locals at the <a href=\"https:\/\/tahoetopia.com\/event\/unbuckle-apr-s-party\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Unbuckle Apr\u00e8s Ski bash<\/a> \u2014 live DJs, retro ski-wear clad go-go dancers, and frosty Slope Slider cocktails kept the vibe electric at 9,150 feet!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>8. The Golden Isles, Georgia<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778943\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778943\" style=\"width: 949px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Driftwood-Beach-on-Jekyll-Island-1.webp 959w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Driftwood-Beach-on-Jekyll-Island-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Driftwood-Beach-on-Jekyll-Island-1.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 959px) 100vw, 959px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Driftwood-Beach-on-Jekyll-Island-1.jpg?resize=959%2C493&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"493\" width=\"959\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Driftwood-Beach-on-Jekyll-Island-1.jpg?w=959&amp;ssl=1 959w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Driftwood-Beach-on-Jekyll-Island-1.jpg?resize=640%2C329&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Driftwood-Beach-on-Jekyll-Island-1.jpg?resize=768%2C395&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 959px) 100vw, 959px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778943 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778943\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photograph of Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island &#8211; it had a haunting beauty!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778944\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778944\" style=\"width: 949px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Jekyll-Island-Beach-Village.webp 959w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Jekyll-Island-Beach-Village.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Jekyll-Island-Beach-Village.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 959px) 100vw, 959px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Jekyll-Island-Beach-Village.jpg?resize=959%2C588&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"588\" width=\"959\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Jekyll-Island-Beach-Village.jpg?w=959&amp;ssl=1 959w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Jekyll-Island-Beach-Village.jpg?resize=640%2C392&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Jekyll-Island-Beach-Village.jpg?resize=768%2C471&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 959px) 100vw, 959px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778944 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My snap of Jekyll Island Beach Village\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778944\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My snap of Jekyll Island Beach Village &#8211; I saw the sun and blue skies in January!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p data-start=\"102\" data-end=\"369\">The off-peak season proved to be an excellent time to explore this historic port city and its picturesque barrier islands. Mild winter weather and clear blue skies made beach walks, dolphin and bird spotting, and wandering under ancient moss-draped oaks (although it wasn&#8217;t warm enough to swim) just dreamy. With no crowds and discounted stays, it felt wonderfully peaceful, and I even got to join in the charming <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jekyllisland.com\/signature-events\/island-treasures\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Jekyll Island Treasures glass orb hunt<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I flew into Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK) and kicked back for four days at the 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/jekyll-island.en-gb.html?aid=303948&amp;label=jekyll-island-us-aDU0W%2AKIhLmCASECn9uQRgS432603036875%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap15%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-185362656%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Yf5EcukO1MOGLSSAuId8ToA&amp;sid=1ee678e17c65697104706743b8efa91d&amp;dest_id=900049275&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=2&amp;hpos=2&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753812850&amp;srpvid=1505ce0b6e3ad219ceb7c76bf5c46caa&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jekyll Island Club Resort<\/a>, wandering Jekyll\u2019s tranquil beaches (Driftwood Beach above was my favorite!), biking beneath Spanish moss on St. Simons, and exploring Brunswick\u2019s shrimp boats and quaint historic streets.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"371\" data-end=\"564\"><strong>Location: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Brunswick,+GA,+USA\/@31.153577,-81.6914254,11z\/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x88e4d79431178069:0x369d98c7938de95e!8m2!3d31.1510919!4d-81.4878157!16zL20vMHJ3cTY?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Southeast Georgia Coast<\/a>, Southern USA| <strong>Vibe:<\/strong> Historic coastal region | <strong>Avg temp: <\/strong>8\u00b0C to 16\u00b0C&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Watching <em data-start=\"41\" data-end=\"58\">Steel Magnolias<\/em> at the historic Ritz Theatre in Old Town Brunswick, I loved the art deco lights, velvet red seats, and the cool 1940s-style ticket booth!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>9. Payette National Forest, Idaho<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-657885 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Payette-National-Forest.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Payette National Forest Idaho in January\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Payette-National-Forest.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Payette-National-Forest.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Payette-National-Forest.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Payette-National-Forest.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Payette-National-Forest.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778947\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778947\" style=\"width: 2038px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778947\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Payette-National-Forest-in-winter.jpg?resize=1200%2C675&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"A snowy Payette National Forest in winter\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Payette-National-Forest-in-winter.jpg?w=2048&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Payette-National-Forest-in-winter.jpg?resize=640%2C360&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Payette-National-Forest-in-winter.jpg?resize=1000%2C563&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Payette-National-Forest-in-winter.jpg?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Payette-National-Forest-in-winter.jpg?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778947\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My snap of Payette National Forest in winter &#8211; the scenery was magical on my January!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"p1\">This vast wilderness completely wowed me in winter \u2014 the snow-covered landscapes transformed it into an otherworldly wonderland for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, with the crisp mountain air and peaceful solitude making it feel like a true escape!<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I flew into Boise Airport, drove three hours north, and spent a snow-blanketed week at the forest-edge <a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.com.tw\/en\/Tamarack-Hotels-Third-Street-Inn.h18723036.Hotel-Information\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Third Street Inn<\/a>, perfectly timed for the parade-packed <a href=\"https:\/\/visitmccall.org\/events\/winter-carnival\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">McCall Winter Carnival<\/a>, which featured giant snow sculptures and fireworks. I also squeezed in snowshoeing the designated quiet trails of Ponderosa State Park, soaking in the mineral-rich main pool at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.co.uk\/Attraction_Review-g35434-d1097315-Reviews-Gold_Fork_Hot_Springs-Donnelly_Idaho.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gold Fork Hot Springs<\/a> and enjoying, art galleries, and quirky craft breweries \u2014 my favorite was the cool, industrial-chic Broken Horn Brewing!<\/p>\n<p><strong>Location: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Payette+National+Forest\/@45.0927625,-115.7721772,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x54a659e630979ba1:0xf6c57ac86a94e6f6!8m2!3d45.0927587!4d-115.7696023!16zL20vMDhjeWRm?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">West-Central<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/top-15-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-idaho\/\">Idaho<\/a>, Pacific Northwest USA| <strong>Vibe:<\/strong> Quiet wilderness escape | <strong>Avg temp:<\/strong> \u22125 \u00b0C to 3\u00b0C&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Learning about the area\u2019s rich history and native tribes at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/PayetteCountyMuseum\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Payette County Museum<\/a> &#8211; I loved the timeworn school desks, delicate vintage clothing, and the fragile, yellowing report cards written in careful script!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>10. Kailua Kona, Big Island, Hawaii<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-671043 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Kailua-Kona-Hawaii.jpg?resize=1000%2C562&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Kailua Kona, Hawaii\" width=\"1000\" height=\"562\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Kailua-Kona-Hawaii.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Kailua-Kona-Hawaii.jpg?resize=640%2C360&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Kailua-Kona-Hawaii.jpg?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Kailua-Kona-Hawaii.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-657887 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Kailua-Kona.jpg?resize=1000%2C599&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Kailua Kona Hawaii - best winter January locations\" width=\"1000\" height=\"599\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Kailua-Kona.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Kailua-Kona.jpg?resize=640%2C383&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Kailua-Kona.jpg?resize=768%2C460&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Since summer here (<a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/20-best-places-to-visit-in-june-in-the-usa\/\">June<\/a> to <a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/20-of-the-best-places-to-visit-in-october-usa\/\">October<\/a>) can be sweltering, I chose to visit this month instead \u2014 and it was a perfect decision! Warm, dry weather and some of the sunniest days in the country made it ideal for soaking up much-needed Vitamin D. It also fell within peak humpback whale season (<a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/20-best-places-to-visit-in-november-in-the-usa\/\">November<\/a>\u2013<a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/21-of-the-best-places-to-visit-in-april-in-the-usa\/\">April<\/a>), though I sadly didn\u2019t spot any, and coincided with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.konaboys.com\/spotlight\/kona-surf-film-festival-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Kona Surf Film Festival<\/a>, featuring ocean-inspired films and live music.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I flew into Kona International Airport (KOA) and spent ten sun-soaked days snorkeling with manta rays at Keauhou Bay, lounging on Magic Sands Beach with sugar-dusted malasadas in hand, touring the interesting Greenwell coffee farm, and exploring the lava-rock-lined Pu\u02bbuhonua o H\u014dnaunau National Historical Park.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Location: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Kailua-Kona,+HI,+USA\/@19.6644743,-156.0379292,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x79540eb26a91b401:0x7911d83882da5a7!8m2!3d19.6419129!4d-155.9962255!16zL20vMHJfZzA?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">West Coast,<\/a> Big Island, Pacific USA |<strong>Vibe:<\/strong> Sunny tropical paradise | <strong>Avg temp: <\/strong>20\u00b0C to 27\u00b0C<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the unique 4-star boutique <a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.uk\/Kailua-Kona-Hotels-PACIFIC-19-Kona.h82982538.Hotel-Information?chkin=2025-01-05&amp;chkout=2025-01-06&amp;x_pwa=1&amp;rfrr=HSR&amp;pwa_ts=1736022807644&amp;referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jby51ay9Ib3RlbC1TZWFyY2g%3D&amp;useRewards=false&amp;rm1=a2&amp;regionId=1879&amp;destination=Kailua-Kona%2C+Hawaii%2C+United+States+of+America&amp;destType=MARKET&amp;neighborhoodId=6294721&amp;selected=82982538&amp;latLong=52.0494%2C-0.7919&amp;sort=RECOMMENDED&amp;top_dp=225&amp;top_cur=GBP&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiA1eO7BhATEiwAm0Ee-BbtFL6MTVuPnVXFziryEmYGZK8WxFdyuuHfQoVaOVpQ1B8BgqzmXRoCd2AQAvD_BwE&amp;mctc=10&amp;userIntent=&amp;selectedRoomType=325355371&amp;selectedRatePlan=397799306&amp;searchId=369f4b90-e52f-4bdd-a84e-117f2c7f98ec&amp;pdpImageUrls=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F83000000%2F82990000%2F82982600%2F82982538%2F22f8e84a.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D598%26ra%3Dfit%2Chttps%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F83000000%2F82990000%2F82982600%2F82982538%2F9f5e8326.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D297%26ra%3Dfit%2Chttps%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F83000000%2F82990000%2F82982600%2F82982538%2Ff73032c0.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D297%26ra%3Dfit%2Chttps%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F83000000%2F82990000%2F82982600%2F82982538%2F64572708.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D297%26ra%3Dfit&amp;propertyName=PACIFIC+19+Kona\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">PACIFIC 19 Kona<\/a> &#8211; I especially loved the in-room Macrobar stocked with canned Mai Tai, Raw Elements organic sunblock, and local treats such as the addictive taro chips and chocolate macadamia nuts!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>11. Alta and Snowbird, Utah<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-657861 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Alta-Utah.jpg?resize=1000%2C669&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Alta, Utah - best places to visit in the USA\" width=\"1000\" height=\"669\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Alta-Utah.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Alta-Utah.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Alta-Utah.jpg?resize=768%2C514&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Alta-Utah.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-657880 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Snowbird-Utah.jpg?resize=1000%2C652&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Snowbird, Utah in January\" width=\"1000\" height=\"652\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Snowbird-Utah.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Snowbird-Utah.jpg?resize=640%2C417&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Snowbird-Utah.jpg?resize=768%2C501&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"113\" data-end=\"370\">This was a seriously Insta-worthy month to visit these two neighboring ski resorts \u2013 the snow at Alta and Snowbird was at its deepest and driest, so just right for skiing and snowboarding legendary runs framed by dramatic Wasatch peaks, with lighter post-holiday crowds and incredible alpine views. I was even lucky to catch the spectacular <a href=\"https:\/\/www.alta.com\/events\/torchlight-parade\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Torchlight Parade and New Year\u2019s Day fireworks<\/a> lighting up the slopes!<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"585\" data-end=\"841\">I flew into Salt Lake City International Airport, drove 45 minutes, and spent five wonderful days at the impressive 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.uk\/Sandy-Hotels-The-Cliff-Lodge-And-Spa.h794334.Hotel-Information?chkin=2025-10-13&amp;chkout=2025-10-14&amp;x_pwa=1&amp;rfrr=HSR&amp;pwa_ts=1759171975539&amp;referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jby51ay9Ib3RlbC1TZWFyY2g%3D&amp;useRewards=false&amp;rm1=a2&amp;regionId=6663&amp;destination=Sandy%2C%20Utah%2C%20United%20States%20of%20America&amp;destType=MARKET&amp;selected=794334&amp;latLong=40.58078%2C-111.872177&amp;sort=RECOMMENDED&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw3OjGBhDYARIsADd-uX7W6tLIqihud3NPAgZj0Fko6_qEfTIxPv9whkC-beKopt1zbvVCPO8aAhAHEALw_wcB&amp;semcid=UK.UB.GOOGLE.PT-c-EN.HOTEL&amp;semdtl=a115307851038.b1135803140531.g1kwd-8614674907.e1c.m1Cj0KCQjw3OjGBhDYARIsADd-uX7W6tLIqihud3NPAgZj0Fko6_qEfTIxPv9whkC-beKopt1zbvVCPO8aAhAHEALw_wcB.r138a878238b027fc2f3c068797ebdff943d6325450af53148dd6b7ae7fb5e255d.c1.j11007065.k1.d1722157947757.h1e.i1.l1.n1.o1.p1.q1.s1the%20cliff%20lodge%20spa.t1.x1.f1.u1.v1.w1&amp;userIntent=&amp;searchId=7fc781d5-272b-43b2-a516-bf9ca318217b\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cliff Lodge and Spa<\/a>. I skied at the thrilling High Rustler at Alta, rode the glass-walled Aerial Tram to the remote-feeling Hidden Peak and gazed at jaw-dropping views, and enjoyed a warm apr\u00e8s-ski <span class=\"s1\">Sitzmark Cider <\/span>at the lively <a href=\"https:\/\/www.alta.com\/food-and-drink\/sitzmark-club\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Alta Lodge Sitzmark Club<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"585\" data-end=\"841\"><strong>Location: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Alta,+UT,+USA\/@40.5791007,-111.6441957,14z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x875270e1f7f74419:0x8adbd40109fad83d!8m2!3d40.5888394!4d-111.6379793!16s%2Fm%2F0219tfw?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wasatch Mountain<\/a>s, Northern Utah, Western USA |<strong>Vibe:<\/strong> High-altitude ski mecca | <strong>Avg temp: <\/strong>-9\u00b0C to -1\u00b0C<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Soaking in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowbird.com\/lodging-amenities\/the-cliff-spa\/spa-overview\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cliff Spa<\/a>\u2019s glass-walled pool after a day on the slopes \u2014 the Great Salt Lake salt scrub (which used mineral-rich salts harvested straight from the lake) left my skin tingling as I watched the snowy Wasatch peaks glowing pink at sunset!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>12. White Sands National Park, New Mexico<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-651506 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/White-Sands-National-Monument.jpg?resize=1000%2C659&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"White Sands National Monument\" width=\"1000\" height=\"659\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/White-Sands-National-Monument.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/White-Sands-National-Monument.jpg?resize=640%2C422&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/White-Sands-National-Monument.jpg?resize=768%2C506&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-671046 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/White-Sands-National-Monument-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C484&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"White Sands National Monument, Mexico\" width=\"1000\" height=\"484\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/White-Sands-National-Monument-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/White-Sands-National-Monument-1.jpg?resize=640%2C310&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/White-Sands-National-Monument-1.jpg?resize=768%2C372&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/White-Sands-National-Monument-1.jpg?resize=150%2C73&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">It was incredible to explore this surreal landscape of wave-like white gypsum dunes in winter \u2014 cooler temperatures made hiking and sledding comfortable, and the low-angle light created stunning sunsets and photo ops. With few tourists and great hotel deals, it felt wonderfully peaceful. I even joined the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/tularosabasinmuseumofhistory\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tularosa Basin Museum History Talks<\/a> to hear local stories and see fascinating regional artifacts.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I flew into El Paso International Airport, drove 1.5 hours, and spent a short break at the quirky <a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.uk\/Alamogordo-Hotels-The-Classic-Desert-Aire-Hotel.h16510.Hotel-Information?chkin=2025-10-13&amp;chkout=2025-10-14&amp;x_pwa=1&amp;rfrr=HSR&amp;pwa_ts=1759171906482&amp;referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jby51ay9Ib3RlbC1TZWFyY2g%3D&amp;useRewards=false&amp;rm1=a2&amp;regionId=6054974&amp;destination=Alamogordo%2C%20New%20Mexico%2C%20United%20States%20of%20America&amp;destType=MARKET&amp;selected=16510&amp;latLong=32.899533%2C-105.960265&amp;sort=RECOMMENDED&amp;top_dp=80&amp;top_cur=GBP&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw3OjGBhDYARIsADd-uX4Oim27zn7qTeaAwVBjSHrT690msoNzXDDjTNAS1DbN9bEHzNhzJokaArI8EALw_wcB&amp;semcid=UK.UB.GOOGLE.PT-c-EN.HOTEL&amp;semdtl=a115307892282.b1127011807781.g1kwd-1203086635678.e1c.m1Cj0KCQjw3OjGBhDYARIsADd-uX4Oim27zn7qTeaAwVBjSHrT690msoNzXDDjTNAS1DbN9bEHzNhzJokaArI8EALw_wcB.r1ba0840f3e9cbb0743ca3cf41d303720aa712a77abc74166f8c85d968f5b3e786.c1.j11007065.k1.d1650454237073.h1e.i1.l1.n1.o1.p1.q1.s1the%20classic%20desert%20aire%20hotel.t1.x1.f1.u1.v1.w1&amp;userIntent=&amp;selectedRoomType=314071436&amp;selectedRatePlan=381941190&amp;searchId=6bfabc2c-0c78-41ac-bbf4-5e9b15e7e9ad\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Classic Desert Aire Hotel<\/a>. I tackled the Dune Life Nature Trail, went sledding down the soft gypsum dunes, and joined a very photogenic hour-long ranger-led sunset walk. The nights were very cold though, so I was glad I\u2019d packed warm clothes!<\/p>\n<p><strong>Location: <\/strong>Southern <a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/top-15-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-new-mexico\/\">New Mexico<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/White+Sands+National+Park\/@32.7672967,-106.4746491,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x86e06303071072f3:0x36d1188767bf20c3!8m2!3d32.7872403!4d-106.3256816!16zL20vMDF3c19y?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Southwest USA<\/a>|<strong>Vibe:<\/strong> Dreamlike desert escape| <strong>Avg temp: <\/strong>4\u00b0C to 13\u00b0C&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Catching a winter sunset \u2014 the golden light spilled across the rolling white dunes while the wind whispered over the sand, and the whole place glowed in peaceful silence!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>13. Death Valley, California<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-646638 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Death-Valley-California.jpg?resize=1000%2C537&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Death Valley with Moon\" width=\"1000\" height=\"537\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Death-Valley-California.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Death-Valley-California.jpg?resize=640%2C344&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Death-Valley-California.jpg?resize=768%2C412&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-671049 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Death-Valley-California.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Death Valley Salt Flats\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Death-Valley-California.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Death-Valley-California.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Death-Valley-California.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Death-Valley-California.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Death-Valley-California.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Death-Valley-California.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"104\" data-end=\"331\">Death Valley is one of the hottest places on Earth, so I visited for a winter break when the weather was mild and perfect for exploring. Clear skies, colorful sunsets, and peaceful, crowd-free desert landscapes made it all very worthwhile and unforgettable.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"333\" data-end=\"530\">I joined a quirky <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/deva\/planyourvisit\/ranger-programs.htm#:~:text=Ranger%2Dled%20Programs,-Park%20rangers%20have&amp;text=Daily%20programs%20are%20offered%20December,including%20special%20events%20and%20programs.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Furnace Creek Visitor Center ranger program<\/a> with guided walks on the park\u2019s unique geology and wildlife, then spent five days based at the charming 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/the-ranch-at-death-valley-death-valley.en-gb.html?aid=311076&amp;label=the-ranch-at-death-valley-death-valley-ZP3ngjjUzjpvUO5yUsAp%2AwS409946294058%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-356718146833%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9YVcLb15uXY9d4aFGjQ5ByA0&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;age=0&amp;all_sr_blocks=452029301_0_2_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-08-27&amp;checkout=2025-08-28&amp;dest_id=20013639&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=452029301_0_2_0_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=452029301_0_2_0_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=452029301_0_2_0_0__13169&amp;srepoch=1753813716&amp;srpvid=5dde81e8d84c00e5&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Ranch at Death Valley<\/a>. I walked the salt flats at the otherworldly Badwater Basin and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, watched a breathtaking sunrise at Zabriskie Point, drove the rainbow-hued Artist\u2019s Palette route, and hiked the striking Golden Canyon.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"333\" data-end=\"530\"><strong>Location: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Death+Valley,+CA,+USA\/@36.5822031,-118.090088,8z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x80c739a21e8fffb1:0x1c897383d723dd25!8m2!3d36.5322649!4d-116.9325408!16zL20vMGNtbHM?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mojave Desert<\/a>, Eastern California, Southwest USA |<strong>Vibe: <\/strong>Surreal desert landscape | <strong>Avg temp: <\/strong>7\u00b0C to 19\u00b0C<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">I was amazed to see tiny pupfish dart through Salt Creek\u2019s shimmering pools &#8211; it felt very surreal to see life thriving in water saltier than the ocean, surrounded by the vast silence of the desert!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>14. San Diego, California<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778950\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778950\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-IG-snap-of-Shelter-Island-Marina-in-San-Diego.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-IG-snap-of-Shelter-Island-Marina-in-San-Diego.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-IG-snap-of-Shelter-Island-Marina-in-San-Diego.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-IG-snap-of-Shelter-Island-Marina-in-San-Diego.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-IG-snap-of-Shelter-Island-Marina-in-San-Diego.jpg?resize=1024%2C680&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"680\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-IG-snap-of-Shelter-Island-Marina-in-San-Diego.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-IG-snap-of-Shelter-Island-Marina-in-San-Diego.jpg?resize=640%2C425&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-IG-snap-of-Shelter-Island-Marina-in-San-Diego.jpg?resize=1000%2C664&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-IG-snap-of-Shelter-Island-Marina-in-San-Diego.jpg?resize=768%2C510&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778950 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My IG snap of Shelter Island Marina in San Diego\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778950\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My IG snap of Shelter Island Marina in San Diego &#8211; it was very atmospheric at sunset!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778951\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778951\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-shot-of-downtown-San-Diegos-skyline.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-shot-of-downtown-San-Diegos-skyline.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-shot-of-downtown-San-Diegos-skyline.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-shot-of-downtown-San-Diegos-skyline.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-shot-of-downtown-San-Diegos-skyline.jpg?resize=1024%2C680&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"680\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-shot-of-downtown-San-Diegos-skyline.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-shot-of-downtown-San-Diegos-skyline.jpg?resize=640%2C425&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-shot-of-downtown-San-Diegos-skyline.jpg?resize=1000%2C664&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-shot-of-downtown-San-Diegos-skyline.jpg?resize=768%2C510&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778951 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My shot of downtown San Diego\u2019s skyline\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778951\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My shot of downtown San Diego\u2019s skyline &#8211; it looked very peaceful from Harbor Island!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p data-start=\"95\" data-end=\"346\">Last year I headed to this laid-back coastal city in the off-peak season, drawn by its year-round Mediterranean-like climate and sunny skies. The mild weather made it a fine setting for long beach walks, exploring without the hassle of the summer crowds, and even enjoying outdoor dining on the warmer days.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"516\" data-end=\"790\">I drove three hours down the Pacific Coast Highway from LA and spent a sunny week at the trendy 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/the-pearl.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAMYBCjsATjyA0gJWANoUIgBAZgBCbgBB8gBDNgBAegBAfgBAogCAagCA7gCpO_4uQbAAgHSAiQwYmE4ZWMzOC04YWY5LTQyMjktODIxNC05YmJjMmEyYmZmOTPYAgXgAgE&amp;sid=25425c0c991cecf6c7018bc25ca17568&amp;all_sr_blocks=18117501_373792716_0_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-01-27&amp;checkout=2025-01-28&amp;dest_id=20015725&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=5&amp;highlighted_blocks=18117501_373792716_0_0_0&amp;hpos=5&amp;matching_block_id=18117501_373792716_0_0_0&amp;nflt=ht_id%3D206%3Bht_id%3D204%3Bclass%3D4&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=18117501_373792716_0_0_0__15861&amp;srepoch=1732130753&amp;srpvid=52528893ec400001&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Pearl Hotel<\/a>, where I mostly lazed by the palm-fringed pool with strawberry-tequilas. Although I did get to join the lively Martin Luther King Jr. Parade, spot migrating gray whales off Mission Bay, and relax on the quiet sands of La Jolla Shores (though it was too cool to swim). I have to admit, some beach bars and attractions had scaled things down for the off-season, but the calmer pace suited me just fine.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"516\" data-end=\"790\"><strong>Location: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/San+Diego,+CA,+USA\/@32.8244879,-117.10776,10z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x80d9530fad921e4b:0xd3a21fdfd15df79!8m2!3d32.715738!4d-117.1610838!16zL20vMDcxdnI?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTAyNi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Southern California Coast,<\/a> Southwest USA&nbsp;|<strong>Vibe: <\/strong>Laid-back coastal city&nbsp;| <strong>Avg temp: <\/strong>10\u00b0C to 19\u00b0C<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"516\" data-end=\"790\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Visiting the Old Town and dining on homemade charred polbano pepper corn dough quesadillas at the traditional but quirky <a href=\"https:\/\/www.elagave.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">El Agave Restaurant &amp; Tequileria<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>15. South Padre Island and Port Isabel, Texas<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-657893 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/South-Padre-Island-Texas.jpg?resize=1000%2C598&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"South Padre Island Texas\" width=\"1000\" height=\"598\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/South-Padre-Island-Texas.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/South-Padre-Island-Texas.jpg?resize=640%2C383&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/South-Padre-Island-Texas.jpg?resize=768%2C459&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-657894 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Isabel.jpg?resize=1000%2C664&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Port Isabel Texas\" width=\"1000\" height=\"664\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Isabel.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Isabel.jpg?resize=640%2C425&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Isabel.jpg?resize=768%2C510&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Isabel.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Since summers are scorching and spring brings crowds, I opted for a winter trip to this laid-back Gulf Coast getaway instead. Mild temperatures at both South Padre Island and Port Isabel made it ideal for long beach walks, dolphin cruises without the spring-break chaos, and soaking up the calm coastal vibe \u2014 and I also managed to score great off-season deals!<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I flew into Brownsville\/South Padre Island International Airport, drove 45 minutes, and spent five peaceful days unwinding on beautiful South Padre Island Beach, spotting dolphins on a breezy Sea Ranch Marina cruise, exploring the bird-filled Laguna Madre Nature Trail and browsing the South Padre Island Market Days, a fun seasonal indoor marketplace filled with cute local crafts and coastal charm!<\/p>\n<p><strong>Location: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/South+Padre+Island,+TX+78597,+USA\/@26.1127971,-97.2092008,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x866fa99bb46fadef:0x4d5bb25cc3dbb322!8m2!3d26.1118401!4d-97.1681257!16s%2Fm%2F01187m7x?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Southern Gulf Coast,<\/a> Texas, South-Central USA |<strong>Vibe: <\/strong>Mild-weather beach retreat&nbsp;| <strong>Avg temp: <\/strong>11\u00b0C to 20\u00b0C<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the fun 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/the-pearl-south-padre.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-521825_dev-desktop_los-1_bw-83_dow-Monday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-public_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-10_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250825_ppt-_lp-2826_r-15687764859729056291&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;all_sr_blocks=52182505_338843544_2_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-08-25&amp;checkout=2025-08-26&amp;dest_id=20131560&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=52182505_338843544_2_0_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=52182505_338843544_2_0_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=52182505_338843544_2_0_0__19137&amp;srepoch=1748961372&amp;srpvid=d8bd66ab2b0a0732&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Margaritaville Beach Resort<\/a> &#8211; it was awesome to sip on a creamy, dessert-like Banana Breeze cocktail at the Fins Up Beach Bar, as I dug my toes into the warm sand while a local guitarist played under the tiki lights!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>16. Moosehead Lake, Maine<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Moosehead-Lake-in-Maine.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Moosehead-Lake-in-Maine.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Moosehead-Lake-in-Maine.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Moosehead-Lake-in-Maine.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Moosehead-Lake-in-Maine.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Moosehead-Lake-in-Maine.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Moosehead-Lake-in-Maine.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Moosehead-Lake-in-Maine.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Moosehead-Lake-in-Maine.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-769342 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Moosehead Lake in Maine\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"88\" data-end=\"400\">On my January trip to New England\u2019s largest lake, I found an almost unearthly peaceful winter wonderland of snow-covered forests and a huge frozen lake \u2014 perfect for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and even spotting moose in a quiet, crowd-free setting.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"402\" data-end=\"696\">I flew into Bangor International Airport, drove two hours north, and based myself here for a unique winter escape. I skied and snowshoed the X-country Ski Loop Trail&nbsp;at the remote-feeling <a href=\"https:\/\/www.maine.gov\/dacf\/parks\/trail_activities\/lilybay_trail_conditions.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lily Bay State Park<\/a>, cozied up by the real fire at the rustic <a href=\"https:\/\/lodgeatmooseheadlake.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lodge at Moosehead Lake<\/a>, then stargazed under beautifully clear skies &#8211; I even tried to spot the Northern Lights, although sadly I didn&#8217;t manage to see them on my trip!<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"402\" data-end=\"696\"><strong>Location: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Moosehead+Lake\/@45.6721222,-69.9965057,10z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x4cba7e8df7d96357:0x4378ed74aaaee465!8m2!3d45.655049!4d-69.6506172!16zL20vMDM1NG1k?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">North-Central Maine,<\/a> Northeast USA |<strong>Vibe: <\/strong>Peaceful frozen lake&nbsp;| <strong>Avg temp:<\/strong>-7\u00b0C to -2\u00b0C<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">Cozying by a crackling log fire in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/lilys-pad.en-gb.html?aid=314919&amp;label=moosehead-lake-CN2PWB3IBDkN5aXIv5zcDAS675446634643%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-21616328559%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9YfOICo1LOVmejEBpLq7NOGI&amp;sid=1ee678e17c65697104706743b8efa91d&amp;dest_id=64389&amp;dest_type=landmark&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=3&amp;hpos=3&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753813213&amp;srpvid=dd9880e8ace80a99&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;#map_closed\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Lily\u2019s Pad<\/a>, then waking up to the sweet scent of wild blueberry pancakes sizzling in a cast-iron skillet over the campfire by the misty lake\u2019s edge \u2014 pure bliss!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>17. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-671058 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Dry-Tortugas-National-Park.jpg?resize=1000%2C668&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Dry Tortugas National Park\" width=\"1000\" height=\"668\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Dry-Tortugas-National-Park.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Dry-Tortugas-National-Park.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Dry-Tortugas-National-Park.jpg?resize=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Dry-Tortugas-National-Park.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Dry-Tortugas-National-Park.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Dry-Tortugas-National-Park.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"98\" data-end=\"352\">I headed to this remote 100-square-mile marine sanctuary in search of winter sun, and the dry season (<a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/20-best-places-to-visit-in-november-in-the-usa\/\">November<\/a>\u2013<a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/20-best-places-to-visit-in-march-in-the-usa\/\">March<\/a>) was perfect \u2014 no rain fell during my stay at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/drto\/index.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dry Tortugas National Park<\/a>, the humidity was low, and it was warm enough to swim and snorkel without the summer crowds. The calm seas also made the 2.5-hour ferry ride from Key West smooth and scenic.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"98\" data-end=\"352\">After a luxe stay at the stylish <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/santa-maria-suites-resort.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-59131_dev-desktop_los-1_bw-29_dow-Wednesday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-public_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-10_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250827_ppt-_lp-2826_r-9630281210048750015&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;all_sr_blocks=5913105_184338070_2_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-08-27&amp;checkout=2025-08-28&amp;dest_id=59131&amp;dest_type=hotel&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=5913105_184338070_2_0_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=5913105_184338070_2_0_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=5913105_184338070_2_0_0__43763&amp;srepoch=1753809317&amp;srpvid=03ce79509fe208f4&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Santa Maria Suites Resort<\/a>, I went full contrast with two nights of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/drto\/planyourvisit\/camping.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">remote camping<\/a> &#8211; the ultimate switch-up! I snorkeled around the&nbsp;moat wall of Fort Jefferson, explored the massive brick walls and moat of historic Fort Jefferson, lounged on the white sands of the tropical Garden Key, and spotted gorgeous brown noddies and pelicans.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"354\" data-end=\"556\"><strong>Location: <\/strong>Remote Florida Keys, Southeast USA&nbsp;|<strong>Vibe: <\/strong>Tropical marine park&nbsp;| <strong>Avg temp: <\/strong>18\u00b0C to 24\u00b0C<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Snorkeling at the Moat Wall and South Coaling Dock Ruins, I glided past coral-crusted pilings and brick arches as parrotfish, angelfish, and barracudas darted through the eerie old fort remains!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>18. Tucson, Arizona<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-671061 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Tucson-Arizona.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Tucson Arizona\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Tucson-Arizona.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Tucson-Arizona.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Tucson-Arizona.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Tucson-Arizona.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Tucson-Arizona.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Tucson-Arizona.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778954\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778954\" style=\"width: 1945px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photograph-of-Tucson.webp 1955w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photograph-of-Tucson.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photograph-of-Tucson.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photograph-of-Tucson.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photograph-of-Tucson.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photograph-of-Tucson.jpg?resize=1200%2C779&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"779\" width=\"1200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photograph-of-Tucson.jpg?w=1955&amp;ssl=1 1955w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photograph-of-Tucson.jpg?resize=640%2C415&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photograph-of-Tucson.jpg?resize=1000%2C649&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photograph-of-Tucson.jpg?resize=768%2C499&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photograph-of-Tucson.jpg?resize=1536%2C997&amp;ssl=1 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778954 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photograph of Tucson\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778954\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photograph of Tucson &#8211; it was fine and sunny in January!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p data-start=\"109\" data-end=\"305\">Since summer in this arty Sonoran Desert city can hit 38\u201343\u00b0C, I decided on visiting during this month when the sunny 21\u00b0C days were tailor-made for hiking, exploring, and soaking up the Southwestern vibe without the heat. I managed to catch both the <a href=\"https:\/\/tucsonjazzfestival.org\/?utm_source=gmb&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=gmbg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tucson Jazz Festival<\/a>\u2019s world-class performances, the fun <a href=\"https:\/\/hotelcongress.com\/calendar\/signature-events\/dillinger-days\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dillinger Days<\/a> with vintage cars and reenactments.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"109\" data-end=\"305\">I flew into Tucson International Airport (TUS), spent five sunny days at the funky 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/the-eddy-tucson-tapestry-collection-by-hilton.en-gb.html?aid=303948&amp;label=tucson-nEoy4VLYRY4Tw19UG8PcfgS421811458249%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1140%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-245972751%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Yf5EcukO1MOGLSSAuId8ToA&amp;sid=1ee678e17c65697104706743b8efa91d&amp;dest_id=20007417&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=7&amp;hpos=7&amp;nflt=ht_id%3D206%3Bclass%3D4%3Bht_id%3D204&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753808925&amp;srpvid=ae5f650d49a3558d6cc0b116056d7a40&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Eddy Hotel<\/a>, explored the historic Presidio District and lively Fourth Avenue, hiked among towering cacti on the Valley View Overlook Trail&nbsp; in Saguaro National Park, and admired the city\u2019s adobe-walled Spanish Colonial and Mexican architecture. I just found that even in January, afternoons got warm under direct sun \u2014 so I made sure I brought plenty of water for hikes!<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"109\" data-end=\"305\"><strong>Location: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Tucson,+AZ,+USA\/@32.1560939,-111.0486173,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x86d665410b2ced2b:0x73c32d384d16c715!8m2!3d32.2539787!4d-110.9741769!16zL20vMGZyMHQ?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sonoran Desert<\/a>, Southern Arizona, Southwest USA&nbsp;|<strong>Vibe: <\/strong>Sunny desert city| <strong>Avg temp: <\/strong>7\u00b0C to 21\u00b0C&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Taking an underground tour of <a href=\"https:\/\/azstateparks.com\/kartchner\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Kartchner Caverns State Park<\/a> &#8211; I breathed in the damp, mineral-rich air while passing stalagmites, soda straws, and flowstone that looked like melting wax.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>19. Fairbanks, Alaska<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-657902 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Fairbanks-Alaska.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Fairbanks, Alaska in January\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Fairbanks-Alaska.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Fairbanks-Alaska.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Fairbanks-Alaska.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Fairbanks-Alaska.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Fairbanks-Alaska.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-769343\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Fairbanks-Alaska-Snowy-Trees.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Fairbanks Alaska Snowy Trees\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Fairbanks-Alaska-Snowy-Trees.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Fairbanks-Alaska-Snowy-Trees.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Fairbanks-Alaska-Snowy-Trees.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Fairbanks-Alaska-Snowy-Trees.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I timed my visit to this northern Alaskan city for January to experience a true Arctic winter \u2014 magical Northern Lights, snowy adventures, and serene wilderness beneath starry skies. With fewer tourists, I found awesome&nbsp;deals on flights, hotels, and tours, and I loved the long, slow sunrises and sunsets that painted the sky in shades of orange, pink, and blue \u2014 perfect for photography and peaceful moments.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I flew into Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) and spent a week at the Insta-worthy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/wilding-hotels-fairbanks.en-gb.html?aid=303948&amp;label=fairbanks-RPQi990mfb%2AZtPZOC64G_gS393123147043%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap125%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-615551326%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Yf5EcukO1MOGLSSAuId8ToA&amp;sid=1ee678e17c65697104706743b8efa91d&amp;dest_id=20005153&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;hpos=1&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753815193&amp;srpvid=1a281342a4539fb5c844a6ec07a464d7&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Wilding Hotel Fairbanks<\/a>, soaking up its stylish cabin aesthetic! I watched the Northern Lights dance over Creamer\u2019s Field in the evening, went on a thrilling tour with Fairbanks Snow Sleighers, took warming&nbsp; dips in the 41\u00b0C mineral-rich Chena Hot Springs, and admired dazzling ice sculptures at the magical Ice Art Park. Daylight hours were very short though, but I planned activities around the limited light.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Location: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Fairbanks,+AK,+USA\/@64.8284192,-147.8338065,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5132454f67fd65a9:0xb3d805e009fef73a!8m2!3d64.8400511!4d-147.7199757!16zL20vMHFmNXA?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Interior Alaska<\/a>, Far North USA&nbsp;|<strong>Vibe: <\/strong>Arctic adventure hub| <strong>Avg temp: <\/strong>-23\u00b0C to -16\u00b0C<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>At the <a href=\"https:\/\/icemuseum.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Fairbanks Ice Museum<\/a>, I watched sculptors chip and chisel in the icy chill as they transformed blocks of ice into dragons, delicate swans, and even full-sized thrones.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>Author\u2019s Travel Note:<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I\u2019ve spent 12+ years traveling across the US in every season, staying in the most interesting hotels I can find and seeking out the kinds of soulful, memorable experiences that don\u2019t always show up in guidebooks. All of the places and stays mentioned here were personally visited and self-funded, so everything shared comes from direct, first-hand experience.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>While January is often seen as a quiet month, I\u2019ve found it to be one of the best times for an unforgettable U.S. getaway. After living in the country for several years and exploring it during this season, here are my favorite places to visit &#8211; from magical snowy escapes to warm and sunny retreats&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":657905,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[1632,7],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-656760","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-beautifulplaces","category-north-america","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Best-places-to-visit-in-the-USA-in-January.jpg?fit=1000%2C667&ssl=1","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/656760","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=656760"}],"version-history":[{"count":159,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/656760\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":779521,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/656760\/revisions\/779521"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/657905"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=656760"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=656760"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=656760"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}