Posts Tagged ‘Hawaiian Islands’

Best Winter Vacations in the United States

Best Winter Vacations in the United States

Winter comes along and everyone is all cozy at home trying their best to stay warm. But what better time to go on a family vacation or even alone when things are quiet and unhurried. In the United States, you can either go to a place that is colder than where you stay or warmer if you so desire.

Let’s check out the places that are considered warmer first:

The Hawaiian Islands: These islands need no introduction. They are the very epitome of the holiday lifestyle with sun, sand and surf everywhere all through the year. Not to mention the clear waters that surround these numerous islands and are ripe for swimming, scuba diving and surfing. Imagine spending your winter lying on a beach in your shorts or bikini instead of being bunched up in bundles of warm clothing. This is the life and everyone’s invited! Hawaii has many islands which offer something special by itself. You could either take a tour of these islands or stay at one resort and soak in the good life leisurely.

Other more obvious choices for warmer climes in the winter months are the beaches of Florida where you could visit the Florida Keys, Laguna Beach in California and also other places like Lousiana where you’ll find the Grand Isle located in the Gulf of Mexico. Galveston Island in Texas is also noted for its galleries, antique shops and much more. You will also find waterparks, themed museums and historical buildings which are a delight to explore. Those interested in marine history will also find this place fascinating.

Now that we’ve covered a few of the warm places, lets plunge right into the cold and fun-to-be places in America:

Cold Places to Vacation in the United States during Winter

Since we’re talking cold places to vacation in winter, we have a huge variety of places to choose from. You should choose your vacation spot based on what you are planning to do once you get there. While the young crowd would find physical activities like skiing, hiking and what not, the older among you would just like to lay back with friends and family and enjoy the hospitality that a comfortable lodge or inn can afford you along with the great amenities that come with it.

Almost every state in the United States has ski resorts but you need to go to an exceptional location if you want some unforgettable memories.

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Maui: A True Paradise on Earth

The allure of Maui entices travelers like few other places on earth. As the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui is a tropical paradise that tempts visitors with awe-inspiring natural beauty. An exploration of Maui uncovers activities to interest all visitors.

The gentle semi-tropical climate of Maui results in little temperature variation throughout the year. High temperatures on Maui range from the mid 70s to the mid 80s, and lows range from the mid 60s to the mid 70s.

Lightweight clothing, swimsuits and a sweater or jacket for evening are perfect for a Maui vacation. Attire on Maui is generally casual, although attending a luau may call for men to wear a tropical shirt and women to dress in a muumuu or colorful sundress. During summer, daylight lasts for nearly 13 hours.

In 1843 King Kamehameha the Great named the Maui village of Lahaina the capital of his kingdom. Lahaina, once known as the whaling capital of the world, now offers Maui visitors an exciting mixture of both old and new. Visitors can rest under the shade of the Banyan Tree planted in 1873, walk through the Old Courthouse, or wander through small shops featuring Maui souvenirs, gifts, clothing and more.

Visitors can expect to enjoy relaxing days on the beautiful Maui beaches. In addition to the common sand beaches, Maui offers black sand beaches and red sand beaches. From sunbathing to surfing to snorkeling, the beaches of Maui offer something for everyone.

The natural beauty of Maui extends beyond the beaches to the lush mountains. Halekala National Park on Maui has been ranked a top national park by Consumer Reports for good reason. The park offers 32 miles of marked hiking trails.

The stunning sunrise view from the summit is popular among Maui tourists. The temperatures at the summit are cold; during the winter months a dusting of snow is not uncommon so warm dress is required. A visit to the summit provides a dramatic demonstration of the diversity of Maui.

Outdoor enthusiasts find Maui offers plenty of activities. In addition to hiking, Maui visitors can enjoy biking, kayaking and hang gliding. All offer the benefit of up-close viewing of the beauty of Maui.

Golfers will find delight in 17 Maui golf courses. Golf is referred to as Maui’s favorite sport. Courses on Maui are set on gorgeous lagoons, volcanic slopes, and in rainforests. Golf is a year-round sport on Maui with major professional events held during the winter months.

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