Dreaming of a sun-drenched escape? A Valentine's getaway on the cards? Look no further. These are the most fabulous destinations to visit in February 2022.
It's
It'sofficial: we've made it through what feels like the longest
month of the year. Hasta la vista, January - you won't be missed. But, while 2022 is well
and truly underway, we can't help but find ourselves stuck in
something of a cosy winter rut: nuzzling up with a mug of hot
chocolate, reaching for the biscuit tin and binge-watching Netflix's latest extravaganza.
Yes, it's far too premature to start throwing the "summer" word
about, but we can get ready for spring, right? And there's no
better way to celebrate the reopening of borders than by shaking up
your go-slow evening routine and heading off on a spontaneous
adventure this February. Read on for our favourite destinations for
a February vacay.
The coolest destinations to visit in February 2022
Laos
Often overlooked in favour of its neighbours, Laos promises an
equally intriguing dose of culture, plus leafy vistas as far as the
eye can see - think mountains, palm trees and the verdant Mekong
Delta. When not on a jungle trek, immerse yourself in centuries-old
temples in the colourful villages and towns scattered across the
countryside.
Accra
Ghana
Western Africa has become a hub for creative enterprises and
artist communities, marrying tradition with innovation, as seen in
Ghana's capital of Accra. Chaotic and colourful, it's home to
plenty of bustling markets featuring the work produced by artist
cooperatives. Looking for a more serene pace? The city allows easy
access to the picturesque fishing communities stretched out along
the coast. We love the idyllic Meet Me There Eco Lodge in
Dzita.
Aspen
Colorado
This picture-book resort offers some of the chicest skiing, the
best après-ski and the finest dining in North America. Those who can't resist a bit of
retail therapy can enjoy the high-end boutiques and salons in the
downtown area, while the Wheeler Opera House, built in the region's
silver-mining heyday, and Wheeler-Stallard House, a local history
museum set in a 19th-century building, are both well worth a
visit.
Greenland
If you've ticked Iceland's glaciers off your list, there are
many reasons to make Greenland your next Nordic escape. Often
billed as the "final frontier of travel", the world's largest
island is now serviced by several airlines and offers travellers
much more than just dog-sledding experiences and the Northern
Lights. Visit its capital for a thriving creative scene.
Jackson Hole
Wyoming, US
Jackson Hole's rugged terrain is "inspiring", according to ski
champion Caroline Gleich, and well suited for seasoned skiers and
snowboarders. Snow junkies looking for something a little different
will not be disappointed. Don't forget your GoPro.
Belize
With over 185 miles of reef, including the iconic Blue Hole,
Belize is one of the best places to dive in the world - if you've
always wanted to get your PADI qualification, this is the place to
do it. Alternatively, head inland to visit some of the many Mayan
ruins, or climb to the top of the ancient temple Caracol in the
lush tropical rainforest for some spectacular views.
Florence
Italy
Florence is a city that embodies "dolce far niente", or pleasure
for pleasure's sake. Food is at the heart of everything here, so
feast on the softest bread, creamiest pasta and heartiest meat
dishes before walking it off with some sightseeing - and doing it
all again come dinner time.
Lima
Peru
Do you need more of an excuse to visit when three of the top 50
best restaurants in the world are in Lima? Following a gastronomic
stopover in Peru's up-and-coming capital - where you'll also find
beautiful colonial architecture - head out of the city to Cusco, Arequipa or Machu Picchu.
Amman
Jordan
If you're looking for a desert escape before being hit by the
summer months, but have already been to Joshua Tree, hit up Amman for a dose of archaeological
ruins, vintage finds in souks, and houmous that isn't from the
local supermarket. Not to mention, the Jordanian capital is only a
five-hour flight from London, making this city a feasible
destination for a long weekend post-Valentine's Day.
Valencia
Spain
The birthplace of paella, this Mediterranean darling is a
hotspot for great eats, wild nightlife and architecture ranging
from the ancient to the ultra-modern. We adore Valencia for its
supercharged Spanish culture, which makes it feel like a complete
change of pace from Barcelona and Madrid.
Curaçao
Caribbean
The Lesser Antilles island of Curaçao is a lively medley of
Dutch-Caribbean culture that couldn't feel further away from the
spring breaker-infested beaches of many of its tropical
counterparts. Days are split between exploring the untouched caves
and coral reefs of Klein Curaçao and popping between museums and
art galleries in the town's rainbow-hued centre.
Puerto Escondido
Mexico
It's no wonder that, with a name meaning "hidden port", this
corner of southern Mexico is a well-kept secret among locals.
Quietly preserving its reputation as a secluded escape on Oaxaca's
Emerald Coast, Puerto Escondido's secret beaches with golden sands
and crashing waves have rendered the region one of the world's best
surfing destinations. Those less confident tackling the waves can
head for La Punta or Playa Carrizalillo to swim in turquoise waters
and sip on freshly cracked coconuts. While there are no direct
flights from outside of Mexico, those willing to make the trip are
rewarded with the area's chilled, easy-going vibe and welcomed with
some of Oaxaca's best cuisine. Be sure to make a trip to Laguna de
Manialtepec, a bioluminescent lagoon nearby. Summer is the rainy
season, while Christmas and Easter holidays can be a bit busier.
Visit between January and May to have Puerto Escondido all to
yourself.
Guyana
South America
One of South America's smallest countries, Guyana remains South
America's best-kept secret. But as the continent's only
English-speaking country complete with vast coastal plains,
towering mountains, arid savannahs and expansive rainforests, the
country's immense diversity deserves recognition among those
seeking a culture-filled retreat. Visit Georgetown to immerse
yourself in a toe-tapping music scene, colourful architecture and
vibrant culinary hotspots, or head inland to explore "The Land of
Many Waters" through cascading waterfalls and vast rivers streaming
through verdant landscapes. Come in February for the Mashramani
festival, Guyana's anniversary of becoming a republic, when parades
float down streets, dancers strut through the neighbourhood and
steel drum bands play until sundown.
Menton
France
Though Menton sits on the Italian border, it oozes French Riviera chic, with its Skittles-coloured
houses dotted along the city's serene stretch of coastline. It
wasn't until the 19th century that the area was recognised as
anything other than a sleepy fishing village, but when European
aristocracy moved in, it soon became synonymous with its own brand
of sophisticated seaside glamour. Craving some vitamin D? This
place is perfectly positioned within a valley, which makes for a
pretty unique microclimate. Expect mild temperatures even in winter
and tropical blooms year-round, along with lush lemon trees and
orange and olive groves aplenty.
Aarau
Switzerland
Seen the sights of Geneva and Zurich? Head to Aarau, a tiny town
in the north of Switzerland that's packed with a surprisingly large
number of castles and museums. Art lovers won't want to miss the
Aargauer Kunsthaus museum. Those who prefer to
discover a destination through its architecture should take a
stroll through its old town, looking up to spot the intricate and
colourful gables, the majority of which date back to the 16th
century. A pair of binoculars wouldn't go amiss here.
Phetchaburi
Thailand
Phetchaburi, meaning "city of diamonds", is located 105km
south-west of Bangkok. Home to great swatches of national park and
emerald-green rainforests, it is also known for its population of
around 250 elephants. Days are best spent exploring the city's many
Buddhist temples and caves, sampling street-food specialities as
you go. Set aside a day to visit mountain cave temple Tham Khao
Luang - one of the area's most treasured gems.