The impending polar vortex is a sign that yes, we are in the thick of winter (also, global warming). Something else it means is that this might be the best time of the season to plan an escape from the malaise and cold weather.
At this time of the year (cuffing season, I believe they call it), if you’re looking to get away with your significant other, you’re likely either looking at completely escaping the frigid cold for somewhere warm or tropical or you’re looking to go somewhere where the winter time seems magical and picturesque rather than depressing.
In the spirit of last-ditch efforts at winter travels, these are some of the best locales, hotels, and resorts—both in the U.S. and abroad—for a getaway with your boo. These are places that are consistently ranked highly by TripAdvisor reviewers for their couple-friendly atmosphere. We’ve narrowed it down to only the ones that are oases for escape, even this time of the year.
Below, find 9 destinations that boast the best winter vacations for couples.
1. Key West, Florida
Key West is a great place for a winter getaway since the temperature (even in January and February) tends to sit around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. According to TripAdvisor, the highest rated couples resort in the country is here: H2O Suites. Besides being adults only, half of the rooms have their own private plunge pools—there’s also a communal rooftop pool. Plus, the resort is just a walk away from the main street.
If you and your partner are looking for something lusher, there’s the Gardens Hotel, which sits on an acre of wildlife, has daily wine tastings, and weekly outdoor jazz performances.
2. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is home to a slew of jaw-dropping Airbnbs, as well as three of the country’s 25 most romantic hotels. During the winter, beloved destinations, such as the Koheo House, a Renaissance mansion first built in 1892 in Savannah’s historic district, are often heavily discounted by up to 124 percent.
Another beautiful and charming option, should you decide on Savannah as your winter getaway spot, is the Gastonian. During the winter months, the hotel sees a dip in room rates. Other bonuses to the space include its private gardens and made-to-order complimentary breakfast. And lastly, if you’re looking for an experience that’s reminiscent of American Horror Story: Coven (I am), there’s the Hamilton-Turner Inn, which is a more modern, romantic take on classic Southern aesthetics.
3. Koh Tao, Thailand
An island in Thailand, Koh Tao is known for its striking beaches, lush greenery, and coral reefs. When it comes to finding a place to shack up with your partner, there’s no shortage of options. One of the best, however, is The Place Koh Tao, which has consistently ranked highly with travelers and couples and received numerous awards over the years.
The small resort has nine accommodations, all of which are private villas with their own infinity pools that are nestled seamlessly into the surrounding nature. The resort is also near one of the most pristine beaches on the island and is close enough to the main area should you decide to leave the pool.
4. Puerto Del Carmen, Spain
According to fanatic reviewers and happy customers, Peurto Del Carmen, a resort town on an island in the Southeast region of Spain, houses the world’s best couples getaway. The Lani Suites resort is beachfront with impeccable views of the ocean and a white color scheme that emits extreme serenity.
It caters to those 16 and older, has 25 rooms, and the resort was specifically designed to ensure each and every room has a breathtaking view of the ocean. Many of the rooms also have their own private hot tub. And should you somehow tire of poolside lounging and beach hangs, the island of Lanzarote is home to Timanfaya National Park, a mountainous park area made of volcanic soil for you and your S.O. to trek through.
5. Charleston, South Carolina
Another scenic locale for a couples getaway in the South is Charleston. Not only is the city a surprising mecca for vegetarians, but it’s also home to some of the best hotels in the United States.
In the heart of historic Charleston is the French Quarter Inn which TripAdvisor recently revealed to be its top hotel in the country for 2019. Starting at $220 a night, you can what sounds like one of the most relaxing getaways of your life. It starts with a champagne toast upon arrival and then includes a pillow menu (a real thing), which allows you to create your ideal sleep environment.
For a Charleston stay specifically geared towards couples, the Wentworth Mansion is a noted hotspot. The rooms are airy, full of natural light, with fresh flowers and high ceilings.
6. palm springs, California
California is essentially synonymous with woo-woo living and healthy hotspots, so if you need to narrow things down for your next trip with your partner (or partner in crime), make your way to balmy and sunny Palm Springs.
La Maison Hotel is as the name hints at, a resort that will make you feel more like you’re at the French Riviera than on the coastal United States. The boutique hotel is overrun with lush greenery, which allows for great outdoor activities like golfing and horseback riding, and of course—there’s a pool.
7. Chatham, Massachusetts
Although Cape Code is mostly associated with sun-filled getaways and summer Fridays, Chatham is a glorious place to visit in the winter when your urban dwelling means a lack of hygge and coziness. The Chatham Inn is especially known for being a top getaway in New England and is one of the most romantic places in the country, according to TripAdvisor. It’s also relatively affordable with rooms starting at $180 a night. So pack your aprés-ski apparel and get ready to cozy up by their rustic fireplace.
8. Knysna, South Africa
If you and your partner in crime are pining after hotter weather, you can literally escape the winter by heading south of the equator where it is currently summer. Try Knysa, South Africa, for starters. It houses the Villa Afrikana Guest Suites, which is one the 25 most romantic and couples-favored hotels in the world, according to TripAdvisor.
If you’re an avid golfer or the type of person for whom rest and relaxation also means being active, this hotel is surrounded by pristine golf courses with unobstructed views and access to the breathtaking Knysna Lagoons. The hotel also has a green certification meaning its run as consciously and eco-friendly as possible.
9. Sisters, Oregon
It’s easy to get into a rut and feel like you’re not as active or as unplugged as you’d like to be. When you find yourself in this situation, the FivePine Lodge in Sisters, Oregon is an ideal spot for a getaway with your BFF or partner. The lodge sits on 10 acres of secluded nature where you can partake in activities like mountain biking, fishing, hiking, and so much more. And to unwind from your active day, the lodge is home to an award-winning spa and each room has its own oversized hot tub.
Before you jet off, you really shouldn’t post a picture of your boarding pass but you should definitely check to see if your hotel has Orangetheory classes. Trust.
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