Under the Radar Winter Destinations Abroad

Whether you’re into bundling up to visit winter wonderlands or heading to places to escape the snow and cold, winter is a fantastic time to travel abroad – and we have six under the radar destinations to recommend.

Travelers can leverage holiday time off to stretch their vacation time. And off-season means smaller crowds, quieter attractions and often better travel deals that can take some stress off the wallet.

Under the Radar Winter Destinations: Loreto, Mexico

While more popular Mexico destinations like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta tend to see more tourists, Loreto in Baja California Sur on the Sea of Cortez is virtually an unexplored paradise.

The airport is small, so getting through customs and immigration is unbelievably easy. Winter brings clear skies and mild temperatures that range in the mid-70s. Because Loreto is more secluded than many other popular Mexico destinations, visitors find less crowds and plenty of room to relax and spread out. Winter is also prime whale watching season with humpbacks and grey whales migrating the coast of Mexico from December through March.

If you’re into warmer temperatures, stunning beaches, outdoor activities and eco-tourism, Loreto is a perfect winter destination to ward off the chill.

Koh Samui, Thailand

While Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, Koh Samui is half the size and less developed but still offers breathtaking landscapes, idyllic beaches and quiet fishing villages.

Compared to Phuket, Koh Samui offers more boutique hotels and wellness retreats with less visitors. Its charming interior villages, coconut farms, small markets and friendly locals add to the exotic and low-key tropical vibe. Those who love exploring real nature will find jungles with waterfalls, secret gardens and marine parks like Ang Thong perfect for snorkeling and kayaking.

Winter offers plenty of sunshine with average temperatures around 84-89°F with moderately high humidity and warm waters.

Portugal

For travelers looking for a European getaway, winter is a surprisingly great time to visit Portugal – as many believe it’s one of Europe’s best destinations this time of year.

Winter brings mild temperatures to coastal cities like Lisbon and Porto while the Algarve sports spring-like weather with plenty of sunshine and bluebird skies. There are far fewer tourists this time of year and as a result, visitors will find less to no lines at all at the country’s most popular attractions. Destinations like Sintra, Belém and the Douro Valley feel peaceful instead of jam-packed.

Off-season prices are another impressive perk with better flight deals, cheaper hotels and easier access to oceanfront accommodations. Winter also brings stronger swells, making Portugal a top surfing destination with giant waves, consistent breaks and winter surf camps.

Québec City, Québec

Considered one of the best winter destinations in the world, Québec City appears like something out of a storybook. Cobblestone streets are covered in fresh snow; historic buildings glow with warm lighting and clippity-clop horsedrawn carriages add to the magical feel. While some cities merely endure winter, Québec City embraces it.

Though winter brings colder temperatures (18-23 °F), visitors who bundle up can enjoy tobogganing, ice skating, winter markets, street parties, ice palaces, dogsledding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

The city is incredibly photogenic and romantic, and like a European village at Christmastime, Québec City exudes enchantment and a fairytale feel.

The Czech Republic

Combining old-world charm, festive culture, dramatic snow scenery and great value, the Czech Republic offers all the allure without the high price tags of visiting destinations like Austria or Germany during the winter season.

Cities like Prague, Český Krumlov, and Telč look almost spellbinding with their Gothic spires, medieval bridges, snow on its red rooftops, and lantern-lit streets all adding to the warm, inviting ambience. Winter also adds drama to Prague and Karlštejn Castles and those into winter sports can take to the slopes for skiing, along with show-shoeing and hiking trails.

Depending on the region, winter temperatures can range from 27°F–37°F but if you dress warm, you’ll find weather cold enough for snow and winter beauty and more budget-friendly accommodations, all without the teeming crowds.

Colmar, France

If you’ve ever dreamed of heading to a magical small town in the winter, put Colmar, France on your to-visit list. A village brimming with beautiful canals and colorful half-timbered houses, the second you step foot in this romantic destination you’ll feel like you’re starring in your own personal Disney film, as Colmar is the Alsace’s fairytale town.

Colmar’s Christmas market is lovely and other ways to explore the town past the Christmas season is strolling the cobblestone streets of scenic Little Venice, taking some gorgeous pictures, gaping in awe at the gingerbread-house buildings and indulging in the romantic vibes.

The small town is situated in the Rhine Valley, which provides shelter and keeps winters slightly milder than the surrounding Alsace. Daytime temperatures hover around 37.4- 42.8 °F with light to moderate snowfall, which only adds to the magical character.

This article originally appeared in TravelPulse.

Contact My Journey Begins Travel to book winter vacations to under the radar destinations!