Totorus

Photo credit by Tom Jenssen

Everyone starts to get that feeling in the winter time-the feeling to get away from work and the normal day to day routine. For this reason winter getaway trips are popular in the United States. You can find something to meet any of your winter trip goals. Do you want to go to Europe and see new territory? Do you want to play in the snow? How about a change of pace with a trip to a warm, tropical area? No matter what you are looking for, here are a few of the best getaways in each area.

For those who love to go on winter snow trips-think skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and lounging by the fire at the lodge, some of the top ski areas are in Colorado. Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge have been lauded as some of the best places to vacation in the wintertime. For those who do not want to spend as much money, Taos, New Mexico is a beautiful destination. The Taos Pueblo Indians still live in the area and maintain their cultural history. In addition to having a lot of history, Taos is a popular ski destination. Lake Tahoe, CA is also very reasonable for a winter getaway. You can get a lodge and ski tickets for one third of the price of what it would cost you in Aspen, CO. All of these are great destinations for those who like to play in the snow.

Many vacationers prefer to get hot over winter vacation. Sandals and Beaches resorts offer all-inclusive packages for couples only, and family trips, respectively. Going to an all-inclusive resort where you do not have to ever carry around money really takes the stress out of your vacation. Both Sandals and Beaches resorts have a lot of fun activities, great dining, and beautiful ocean views. For a winter getaway, you would do well to choose one of these resorts in the Caribbean.

A trip that many people do not think of is a way to get away from it all and still stay indoors and have a summer experience. Indoor Waterpark Hotels are becoming more and more popular in colder states. The Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark in Michigan has not only water activities, but other fun family activities as well. You never have to leave the hotel and go out in the cold to have a good time. The hotel also has a lot of places to eat. The Wisconsin Dells is another popular destination for people who want to stay and play all at one hotel.

Many of you have probably heard of the Mall of America, which is located in Bloomington, Minnesota. Did you know that in addition to it being the second largest mall in square footage in the United States, that it is the most visited mall in the world? This is a great winter getaway before the holidays. The mall has over 600 stores, a Theme Park for children, and over 20 restaurants. And when the new addition is complete, the mall will boast over 900 stores. You can have fun and get all of your holiday shopping completed in one weekend. If you can't find anything for that special someone in the Mall of America, you're probably out of luck in the shopping department. This mall has everything.

Surprisingly, Las Vegas, NV is one of the best winter getaways in December and January because it isn't very crowded. You can also get some of the best hotel deals during these two months. If you want to go to a place where you can gamble, shop, take in a show, and have great meals, Las Vegas is a great option.

All of these locations are great winter getaways. The key to having a successful vacation is planning ahead, as you can find excellent on-line deals when you book in advance. Wherever you choose, enjoy your winter getaway.