Why You Need to Book Your Next Winter Escape ASAP—and 6 Must-Visit Spots

Picture this: It’s a frigid February day and you’re scrolling through Instagram, where it seems like everyone you know is curled up at a ski lodge or photographing their pedicure on a beach. Instead of wallowing in the FOMO—why don't you join them?

You can have every intention of taking a winter vacay and then, well, life happens (and the holidays, and budget fluctuations, and crazy work schedules). And while it may be tempting to take your time and try to find a last-minute deal, that often means you're left at home when you'd rather be soaking up some much-needed self care.

We rounded up six destinations (and the hotel and spa options to match) for a choose-your-own-adventure.

To help you plan ahead, we teamed up with trivago to find some next-level options you can book, like, right now. That's because the handy search tool scours the internet for the best rates on the buzziest hotels, doing the heavy-lifting research for you. Keep reading for six destinations (and the hotel and spa options to match) for a choose-your-own-adventure.

Scroll down to check out six amazing retreat destinations, and the top hotels for every budget.

The ski trip: Aspen, CO

Snow is an entirely different story when it's less slushy sidewalk and more picturesque wonderland. And while jet-setters flock to Aspen for its world-class skiing, the charming town also features renowned restaurants (many high-end, get ready to feel like a baller), boutiques, and wilderness to explore via snowshoe or hiking boot. But really, no one would blame you if don’t do much more than chill by the fire with a matcha in hand.

Where to stay

The budget-friendly option: Inn at Aspen

The splurge: Hotel Jerome, an Auberge Resort

The beach expedition: Miami, FL

If you're on the east coast, the best part about shedding your sweater will be Miami's close proximity for a weekend escape. Get all of the bonuses of a tropical getaway by soaking up a dose of vitamin D on South Beach, then meander through the neighborhood to check out the gorgeous art deco architecture. Despite its reputation as a party city, Miami actually features a bevy of boutique fitness studios, spas, and juice bars for a total energy reboot.

Where to stay

The budget-friendly option: Dream South Beach

The splurge: SLS South Beach

The spa vacay: Palm Springs, CA

Chic mid-century modern hotels have made Palm Springs into a cool-kid destination, while the numerous spas take things to the next (chill) level. Pretend like you’re an old-school Hollywood star and duck into this California desert city for a weekend of self-care done right. In addition to booking spa services, also check out the healing mineral waters at the Desert Hot Springs, which is just a 15-minute drive outside of the city.

Where to stay

The budget-friendly option: The Saguaro Palm Springs

The splurge: L’Horizon Resort & Spa

The Mexican getaway: Los Cabos, Mexico

For west-coasters, Cabo offers exotic perks and it’s easy to get to (especially from Los Angeles). From super fresh seafood (hello, ceviche) to impressive farm-to-table fare, you get an array of healthy dining options all while soaking up quality beach-reading time. (Get ready to snap some gorgeous sunset shots.)

Where to stay

The budget-friendly option: El Encanto Inn

The splurge: One & Only Palmilla

The desert escape: Sedona, AZ

Want to score a lot of likes on the 'gram? Fill your feed with snaps from a hike in Red Rock State Park and watch them roll in. You can see these natural beauties from every angle in town—even when posted up at a much-touted wellness resort, enjoying a massage, or mid-yoga. 

Where to stay

The budget-friendly option: Wyndham Sedona

The splurge: Amara Resort and Spa

The hot spring reset: Iceland

Iceland has risen on everyone's must-visit list—especially when it comes to wellness. The Blue Lagoon is the country’s most popular hot spring (and totally worth checking out), but you should also consider touring the other surrounding natural springs and geothermal pools. BYO mud mask, and think of it as a bar crawl, but way more relaxing. And you can’t miss the awe-inspiring Northern Lights while you’re there.

Where to stay

The budget-friendly option: Hilton Reykjavik Nordica

The splurge: 101 Hotel

In partnership with trivago

Top photo: Stocksy