Forget Paris, Rome, and the Florida Keys.  This year, try a vacation destination off the beaten tourist track!

Sunset over the Grand Canyon (photo credit Amanda Williams)

Road trips are to America what backpacking is to Europe — see a lot, spend a little. The key is to make it last as long as possible. So while the journey from Los Angeles to the Grand Canyon in Arizona takes only a few hours, don’t forget to stop at the mandatory dodgy diner along the way. Enjoy the relative peace and quiet during the tourist lull of winter.

A natural Mineral Spring in Karlovy Vary

Since the 1300’s, visitors have come to Karlovy Vary (Czech Republic), to revitalize in the city’s natural mineral springs. The water is said to release mental and bodily stress and ease metabolic disorders. Perfect for mid-winter blahs!

Beach meets ocean and sky in Punta Cana (photo credit Ivana Lamperova & Lynden Cotton)

With white sandy beaches, warm Caribbean breezes, and the rolling turquoise ocean, Paradise has never seemed so close as in Punta Cana. Rent a car and daytrip through the lush Dominican Republic countryside, glimpsing life in the small coastal fishing towns. All-inclusive resorts are the most budget-friendly way to enjoy a full beach vacation.

A bird's eye view of Salzburg, from the Hohensalzburg Fortress (photo credit Deborah Routt)
A stunning Alpine view from Hitler's bunker (photo credit Russell Kotara)

Although a popular place to ski, Salzburg (Austria) is less touristy in late winter months. Sightseeing gems include Mozart’s birth house, Sound of Music stops and Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest hideaway, located just across the border in Berchtesgaden, Germany.

A boat ride through Bruges via the canals, part of the River Dijver (photo credit Ivana Lamperova & Lynden Cotton)

Nicknamed the ‘Venice of the North’ because of the canals that run through the city, Bruges (Belgium) is a romantic reminder of Europe’s past. Visit this world heritage city full of art and culture during the winter months and save - Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday arrivals until March 16 get you an extra day on your trip gratis!

Inspired yet?

by Heather Routt