Winter is here! While it may seem easy to relax in the comfort of a cozy home with a lit fire, the truth is all round the northern hemisphere, winter is one of those times when the beauty of some cities shines through. There are many places to explore – from traditional ski resorts to hot arctic springs to seeing the snow monkeys. The list is endless. Here are a few unique places that you’ll want to visit this winter.
Whistler, Canada
Known as one of the most popular ski resorts in the world, Whistler is located in the Canadian province of British Colombia. It attracts over 2 million visitors every year and is known for its cold and snowy winters.
China
The Dong Zai Festival, also known as the “arrival of winter” is a famous celebration to mark the start of the winter solstice. This festival is often characterized by the lighting of lanterns and celebration of a successful harvest during the year.
Aberdeen, Scotland
The Scottish tradition of welcoming in the winter solstice has been going on for over 150 years in Scotland. The fireball show is a must see that involves large balls of fire being swung around to celebrate another year.
Tallinn, Estonia
Popular for being one of the oldest medieval towns in Estonia, the little town of Tallin is known to be extremely beautiful during winter.
Yellowstone National Park, USA
The Yellowstone National Park in the USA is a perfect place for animal lovers. From bison to bears, elks, wolves and antelope, the Yellowstone Park is perfect for those travelers who still want to feel a connection with animals when they travel.
Lapland, Finland
Encompassing the northern areas of Sweden and stretching across to Sweden and Norway, Lapland is known for its dark and cold winters. This is the perfect time to see the Aurora Borealis or go on a husky safari through some of the snow covered landscapes.
New York City, USA
From a snow covered central Park, to open air ice skating rinks to the Rockefeller Tree at Christmas and the ball drop on New Year’s Eve, a winter vacation here will leave you with the fondest of memories of the city that never sleeps.
Frankfurt, Germany
Nothing beats a German Christmas filled with mulled wine and gingerbread. Frankfurt is best known for holding one of the oldest Christmas Market in the country right in front of the Town Hall.
Jigokudani Monkey Park, Japan
The Jigokudani Monkey Park has some of the most unique residents – Japanese macaques which are also known as snow monkeys. The park is known for the steaming hot springs in which the monkeys bathe, leaving them with a red face.
Bruges, Belgium
From cobbled alleyways to frozen canals to beautiful architecture, Bruges is one of the most stunning Belgium cities during the winter months. Whilst December is better known for the bustling Christmas markets, January and February is better to visit when the city quietens down. This is the perfect time to wander around frozen canals and snow covered castles.