Not everyone likes winter. Of course, sunny summer days are pleasant, but even though during the winter the days get shorter, the evenings get darker and the temperatures cooler, it doesn’t mean that the winter months can’t be equally pleasant – here are 10 cities to favor of this theory.
1. New York, USA
Some people argue that New York is even more beautiful when it’s cold: the party spirit invades the city, the skating rinks open, and while already spectacular, the view of the Empire State Building becomes truly magical when the city is covered with snow. Plus, winter is low season for the Big Apple (except Christmas weeks of course): the winter months are less crowded with tourists and sidewalks, shops and attractions are more accessible – again by New York standards. obviously
2. Berlin, Germany
With an endless string of Christmas markets filled with stalls selling steaming cups of Glühwein, treats like gingerbread houses and the scent of German sausages filling the air, winter will become your favorite season. However, even after December, the capital of Germany is the champion of the winter season. When it snows, Tiergarten park becomes a magical winter wonderland and snowball fights are held in the city, all accompanied by live music and DJ sets.
3. London, UK
There is something absolutely “British” about walking through Hyde Park with the grass covered in frost and the clouds of your breath forming in front of you. Full of historical sites, but also destinations for a sprawl of shopping, London is an extraordinary city all year round. However, during the winter the mist from the cozy, dimly lit cafes, tiny pubs and cozy restaurants spills over the streets and people rush in, wrapped in thick woolen scarves.
4. Sydney, Australia
If you can’t give up the summer sun or are simply a staunch winter season hater, you don’t have to stay in the Northern Hemisphere when the cold arrives. Avoid the freezing weather by spending your holidays in Sydney – a city that has an average temperature of 27 ° C.
You will have the opportunity to work on your tan on the beach, become a professional surfer, visit tourist destinations and enjoy the local nightlife. And what’s the best part? There’s no need to wear a coat – just make sure you’ve brought your flip flops with you!
5. Dublin, Ireland
Let’s face it, Ireland will never have the reputation of being a country with good weather and blinding sun, but winter cannot bring down the indestructible and contagious spirit of the Irish: in Dublin the freezing temperature outside was long contrasted with habit and spending time all together in the cozy and warm taverns and pubs that fill the streets, for a beer and good live music. An Irish singer, a guitar and a friendly crowd can battle all the cold in the air.
6. San Diego, USA
Sure, the classic concept of Christmas doesn’t involve surfing, paddle boarding, or golf, but I don’t see why it shouldn’t – and those visiting San Diego agree how. It’s easier to find your corner of golden sand when the rest of the world is spending their time in the mountains for a classic white week. Why worry about winter and spend it hidden under layers of chunky sweaters when you might be heading out to relax in the sun?
7. Chamonix, France
For many, winter and skiing are one and the same. Let’s be honest, the coolest thing to do when it snows is to walk down the mountain with fresh snow for a good companion and then be rewarded with a cup of delicious hot chocolate with cream. The scenery is absolutely spectacular: being able to keep your eyes on the track while surrounded by the beautiful French Alps is very difficult – including the famous Mont Blanc.
8. Prague, Czech Republic
Pack the heaviest jacket you have because Prague is definitely not known for being the hottest city in the world, especially during the winter months, but it is definitely known for its charm and partying. The spectacular skyline and the charismatic Baroque architecture of the “city of a hundred towers” rise throughout the territory and the city offers many events and festivals: the Christmas markets fill the streets during the month of December, the skies are filled with colors thanks to the spectacular New Year’s fireworks; and during the months of February and March, the local inhabitants greet the winter with the colorful masks of the Bohemian Carnival.
9. Reykjavik, Iceland
You’ll have to bring more than one jacket with you this time – I recommend gloves, chunky sweaters made by your grandmother and that thick pair of socks you swore never to wear but love in secret. And your costume too. Are you surprised? No, that’s not a mistake: after you’ve packed yourself up to explore the spectacular volcanic lands, active geysers and vast Icelandic glaciers, you’ll want to take a dip in the warm waters of the country’s natural hot springs, before admiring one of the most beautiful natural spectacles in the world – the Northern Lights.
10. Havana, Cuba
While in Europe you wouldn’t dare take a dip in the icy winter waters of the sea, undressing in a bikini on the tropical Caribbean coast is something else entirely. Change your habits and explore Havana’s picturesque streets where you can spot classic vintage cars, savor fresh seafood on palm-lined beaches, and dance salsa all night on a dance floor. Then, swap skis for scuba diving off the Cuban coast to explore the colorful underwater world and stunning coral reefs that surround the country.
Now all you have to do is choose your next destination and pack your bags And while you are in the city of your dreams combine business with pleasure: taking a language course abroad will give you the opportunity to acquire new skills, immerse yourself fully into the local culture and make friends with people from all over the world.
