I’ve always loved the mountains and snowy winters, my family and I get plenty of snow where we live, and every year we look forward to skiing and playing in the snow with the kids. It’s a wonderful season, but this year, I’m craving something different. Come January, I want to swap the cold for sun, sea, and sand, and I’m on the hunt for the perfect beach getaway.

I’m looking for an international destination with stunning coastlines and plenty of beaches to explore. Ideally, I want to unwind with a refreshing martini by the shore, soak in some sunshine, and maybe even meet new people and experience a bit of local culture. At the same time, I’m hoping to avoid places that are overly crowded or tourist-packed, finding a quiet spot to relax is important to me.

I’ve heard amazing things about Bali and the Maldives, and they’re definitely on my radar. But I’m keeping an open mind and would love to hear about other beautiful beach destinations that fit this vibe. Somewhere where I can spend 4-5 days enjoying not just the sand and sea but also some fun activities like snorkeling, jet skiing, or parasailing. While budget isn’t a strict limit, I’m not looking for something outrageously expensive either, a nice balance between value and comfort would be perfect.

If you’ve been to any great beach spots that fit this description, I’d really appreciate your insights. Are there particular areas, clubs, or resorts that you’d recommend or suggest avoiding? Speaking of accommodations, do you think it’s better to stay in a resort for the full experience or try an Airbnb for something more local and personal? I’m also excited to try some authentic local cuisines while I’m there because the food is a big part of the travel experience for me.

Fingers crossed for some good luck with planning, and, of course, plenty of sunshine and tanning! Looking forward to hearing your favorite beach escapes and tips for making the most of a winter sun holiday.