Adventure Destinations To Escape The Cold And Rain

If cold weather, snow and wind chills are not something you want to be around for, there are plenty of destinations you can escape to with warm weather and winter sun. What's stopping you from grabbing a small suitcase, packing a few swimsuits and light clothes, digging out your sunglasses, and heading out for a sunny adventure?

Costa Rica is a tropical paradise bursting with wildlife. Christopher Columbus named it the 'Rich Coast' when he discovered it in 1502. Home to 6 percent of the world's plant and animal species, many endemic, the country's rich biodiversity is extremely colorful. Go on a beautiful hike, filled with interesting plant life and scenery, to the Arenal Volcano, a dormant volcano that has continually decreased over the years.

This is a warm and gorgeous, adventurous honeymoon destination. It's truly paradise. Located in the heart of the South Pacific, Fiji is blessed with 333 tropical islands, according to Tourism Fiji. It's also famous for its luxurious private-islands, all-inclusive resorts, as well as top spas. Escape the cold and head to the white sand beaches and pristine, crystal-clear ocean waters ideal for diving and relaxation.

The winter months in Dubai boast the most comfortable climatic conditions of the year. The temperature is around 75°F compared to the summer months when the temperature gets to about 110°F. The city is one of the most lavish places in the world. Go shopping in the Dubai Mall, visit the Gold Souk, watch the world's largest dancing fountain – the Dubai Fountain, and catch spectacular views from the top of the world's tallest building – the Burj Khalifa.

Austin is absolutely beautiful any time of year and a perfect destination for people who love adventure. The city has warm weather nearly year-round, making recreational activities a favorite pastime for residents. The divine food alone is a reason to go there for a week. But you can engage in certain recreational activities as well, such as hiking and camping in the McKinney Falls, a 635-acre park with many trails. The nightlife doesn't take a break until 6 a.m. Authentic and contemporary honky-tonks offer live entertainment and innovative music. 

Breathtaking scenery worthy of the silver screen is just the first of the many reasons you need to visit to New Zealand. Adventure seekers will find Queenstown, which is particularly remarkable for its variety of thrilling activities. Bungee jump from the infamous Kawarau Bridge, skydive from 14,000 feet above the stunning landscape and white water raft the Shotover River—those are just some of the things that will get your heart pumping.

The gorgeous Caribbean island is just off the Venezuelan coast. It is famous for the vibrantly colored Dutch colonial architecture of its capital city, Willemstad. Not far – just about 40 miles –the island transforms into a rugged desert wilderness, covered with cacti, green iguanas, unique orchids and bromeliads. Visiting the Christoffel National Park is a must, but make sure you do it on horseback, by jeep safari, or on one of the eight hiking trails. The most advanced of them will take you to the 1,230-foot-tall summit.

Discover Bermuda's unspoiled paradise on foot. You'll be in awe of the secret turquoise bays, sea grottoes and pastel villages, colorful flowers, birds and fish, and even humpback whales. This self-guided walking holiday is new and it explores the quintessential island paradise of Bermuda, a sub-tropical gem. The oldest British colony, this tiny treasure trove is packed with history and natural beauty.

The Florida Keys are a coral cay archipelago of tropical islands. They form about 120 miles of the southernmost portion of the country between the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. With warm temperatures and sunny weather year-round, they Keys are the perfect destination for winter sun. Some adventurous things to do while you are there include scuba diving, snorkeling, skydiving, kayaking, and parasailing.

If you want to escape the crowds and still have a blast, consider Bonaire. Most of the 6,672-acre park – the entire coastline has been declared a marine sanctuary – is water. There is a no-anchoring policy, but the nearly 60 species of coral underneath are some of the most unspoiled in the world. The variety and scenery are unmatched in the region. Popular snorkeling sites include Karpata, Front Porch, and Captain Don's Reef.

This is one of the most dangerous islands in the world, with one of the scariest airports and runways on the planet as well. Still, a vacation there is a thrilling experience. Saba is the smallest of the Dutch Caribbean Islands and widely considered a top diving destination. Its unique offerings go far beyond what's beneath the water. Referred to as "The Unspoiled Queen," Saba is serene, charming, and home to an old-world village with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures such as trekking up Mount Scenery, a dormant volcano offering superb rainforest views. 

Bali, which is often called the Island of the Gods, attracts adventurous travelers with its seashores, mountains, and volcanoes. Begin your day early by cycling to Mt. Baur, then ascending to the top for a sunrise experience. From here, climb aboard an elephant for a jaunt into the jungle where you break for lunch. Tackle six miles of 33 class II and III rapids past rainforests, gorges, and rice paddies. Try kayaking, jungle trekking, paragliding, horseback riding, and sea walking.

This dollar-friendly adventure destination has much to offer. Visit the ancient city of Angkor Thom, learn about the country's tumultuous history, enjoy the beautiful untouched beaches, encounter wild animals in the lavish jungle, and eat delicious local food. Along the way you'll get to swim, sunbath, and snorkel. There are also boat tours that are readily available. 

This is a destination where the weather is always just right. The long summers from May to October can get quite hot, but the air remains dry and there are plenty of cool breezes to be caught by the sea. Thanks to its Mediterranean location clouds are uncommon and the island is veiled in sunlight nearly every day of the year. The best time to visit is October-December. Cyprus is home to breathtaking beaches, adventurous mountain trails and championship golf courses.

The wine, the tango, the fishing, the mountaineering, the nightlife, the architecture – the reasons to visit this beautiful country are endless. Buenos Aires is one of the world's most exhilarating capital cities, with astonishing art, captivating neighborhoods, and excellent food. Iguazu Falls should be on your bucket list. Hike the rugged terrain of Patagonia; take a day trip to Perito Moreno Glacier, a massive natural wonder known for its blunt drop and interesting shape and process of fractures. It has a front of 3 miles long and a height of over 200 feet above the level of the water.

Visit Rio for music, dance and more music and dance. See the world famous Ipanema Beach, make your way to the Christ the Redeemer statue, and set aside time for a night of drinks and Samba music. Explore Florianopolis, one of the coolest surf towns in the world. Dubbed "a haven from the crowds" of more central destinations, among other astounding amenities, the resort features private hikes that lead to secluded beaches accessible only by foot and serves as a recluse for activities like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and fishing, too.