Unless you've hibernated with the past month, maybe you have noticed that it's cold outside! Bitterly, freezing, icy cold. What better time than throughout the bleak midwinter to plan some slack to a warm paradise? It may be winter in Washington but in plenty of places, it's 80 degrees and sunny.
Rainforests and beaches make up the bulk of Costa Rica, a good looking Central American nation merely a 3.5-hour flight from Houston. Whether you enjoy hiking, surfing or simply relaxing, there is something for everyone. Up north, Arenal Volcano National Park can be a stand-out; this active volcano a major explosion in 1968 and possesses erupted consistently (with a smaller scale) since. On clear nights, you can view red and orange lava bursting in the volcano's smoking mouth.
Bordered by two major bodies of water, the Pacific Ocean along with the Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica has countless beautiful beaches to decide on among. hostels in laos Jaco, for the Pacific Coast, attracts a younger party crowd, while cruise lines generally visit Puntarenas. Escape the madness and head to Quepos, farther south but located next to the incredible Manuel Antonio National Park. One of Costa Rica's smallest national parks, it is also one of the most popular due to its incredible biodiversity of plants and animals.
Costa Rica is really a great escape for just about any budget, from cash-strapped students trying to find bargain hostels to people wanting all-inclusive resorts. At Arenal Volcano National Park, I recommend Arenal Observatory Lodge, that has miles of hiking trails, knowledgeable guides and an attractive setting overlooking both volcano and Lake Arenal. In Quepos, the Blue Banyan Inn is really a hidden paradise, having a warm family-friendly atmosphere and tranquil mountain setting.
Looking traveling farther afield? While it's winter throughout the northern hemisphere, it's mid-summer in the southern hemisphere. If you have a few weeks of vacation time built up, this might be the best time to visit Australia. Sydney's not the capital but could be the country's most bustling city. There are no shortage of activities: a world-class zoo, stunning beaches ideal for surfing, a captivating theatre scene and free public parks that invite wandering and exploring hours.
An easy trip from Sydney is Blue Mountains National Park. Take the train hostels in laos from Sydney's Central Station to Katoomba, and buy a ticket for any hop-on, <a href="http://De.pons.com/