February may be the shortest month of the year, but it has a great many exciting travel destinations and things to do. For instance, when going from winter to spring in the northern part of the earth, some areas that are warm are cheaper and less congested. Ski resort areas also experience their highest level of visitors that are interested in winter sporting activities. Below is the list of some of the best destinations to visit in February.
Southeast Asia
Most of the SEA countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos have a good and favorable climate during February as it is not too hot but dry. The rainy season has been concluded but it is not the high season of tourism when many travelers flock making the prices high. This will be less so if one chooses to hit the popular beach areas during this time of the year. The cool and dry climate is also favorable for traveling around cities and temples during the day as well. Flights and hotels, notably, costs less in comparison to late September through to early November or early May to mid May. The tourists in search of warmth back home will appreciate walking in 85 degree Fahrenheit heat when the tourist crowds are still light.
Ski Resorts
For winter sport fans, the biggest ski destination of the year will be filled with snow in February including ski resort towns in the American West, Canada, Europe and Japan. In Colorado, Utah, Vermont, British Columbia and Swiss Alps, the resorts are generally good for skiing this month. Competitive cyclists and runners can compete with the spirit testing by attempting to conquer famous ski marathons such as the Vasaloppet in Sweden that is held on the first Sunday of February. As would be expected weekends and holidays will be crowded but if you want to ski midweek it will be less expensive and less crowded. After ski as those places will be crowded when the mountains close each afternoon too, bars and restaurants are also present.
New Zealand
February is summer in New Zealand, and therefore a perfect time for outdoor pursuits such as trekking, cycling, surfing, yachting and wine touring. North Island is warm, sub-tropical, ideal for beaches while South Island is cooler, more alpine. During summer, due to longer days, there is lush green trees and shrubs and wild flowers in full bloom. Tourists can easily drive from one region to another with various terrains such as forests, lakes, vineyards, geothermal zones, and fjords. February is also the time for Chinese New Year celebrations also Auckland Anniversary weekend with cultural performances, concerts and firework displays.
Carnival in Brazil
The Rio de Janeiro Carnival which is held annually culminating Lent every February is a round the clock street party with samba parades, music and dancing. People wear gorgeous outfits with energetic samba motifs, and the streets are filled with people having fun. The celebrations last for approximately one week leading up to Fat Tuesday. While it may not be everyone’s desire to wear costumes, it is possible to feel the energy in sidewalk restaurants and bars alone. Those who wish to participate should consider making reservations for a hotel several months in advance. Other nearby beaches such as Buzios or other tropical islands also make for less crowded places to retreat to.
Florida
Trade icy temperatures for Florida sunshine in February without worrying about summer tourism and humidity. This is the best time for families to visit Disney World and other Orlando parks since there will be no crowds and long lines. The 70 degree Fahrenheit is quite good for playing in the pool, golf course or even around springs. The Mardi Gras celebrations in Key West include festivals and parades where streets are filled with ornaments and costumes. The Daytona 500 also marks the opening of the speedway racing season during the final weekend of the month. The Sunshine State may not be at its warmest, but with lower prices and a lack of crowds, February is a great time to visit Florida.
Puerto Rico
February is also cheaper than visiting around New Years, essentially the very height of the high travel season in Puerto Rico. Temperatures range from 60 to 85 degree Fahrenheit and the beach is particularly good for sunbathing in the trendy Condado district of San Juan or the quiet town of Rincon. The winter dry season suggests less rain showers and opportunities to avoid cold weather in the U.S mainland. There is snorkeling, kayaking or paddleboarding in the blue waters of Puerto Rico and jungle trails with waterfall sights. It encourages tourists with colonial Spanish style buildings, rainforest and Afro Caribbean culture for different travellers interests.
Morocco
Morocco can be described as a combination of European, African and Middle Eastern country that is exotic yet familiar in the context of North Africa. February is another one of the best months to visit due to relatively warm daytime temperatures of around 60-70F and cooler nights. Take a tour of souks and narrow streets in medieval cities such as Fez and Marrakech that seem to have come out of the story of Arabian Nights. Ride camels or 4 wheel drive vehicles through parts of the vast desert and sleep in tents at an encampment of the indigenous people of North Africa. Tourists will also find it interesting to trek through the difficult terrains of Atlas Mountains, explore ancient ruins, and mosques.
Southern Africa
The African Safari season is particularly at its peak during the Fall months of February and March for southern African countries such as South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia. Reduced humidity and high temperatures push wildlife to the limited available water sources to drink, which makes for good game viewing. Tourists can easily locate the ‘Big Five’ which include the lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards and the rhinos within a single game drive. It can be everything from fancy overland lodges to do-it-yourself tent-overland driving holidays in famous parks such as Kruger National Park and Okavango Delta. Affordable and ideal for a safari, February comes with pleasant weather, making it one of the best months to tick Africa off your list.
That outlines some of the best places and things that make February a perfect month for tourism. This is due to the fact that winter is a cool season in the northern half of the world which results in small number of tourists and cheap prices while the southern half of the world enjoys warm weather. Skiing mountains, beach resorts, colourful festivals and grand wildlife safaris are some of the varied opportunities that are available to break the routine and combat winter blues. Some costs are still low in February to grab most offers that are still relatively cheap when compared to the spring and summer high seasons.
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What are the best warm destinations to visit in February?
Popular warm spots include the Caribbean, Mexico, and Southeast Asia, where temperatures are pleasant.
Are there any winter festivals or events in February?
Yes, destinations like Quebec City (Winter Carnival) and Venice (Carnival) host famous winter festivals.
Is February a good time for skiing?
Yes, February offers excellent skiing conditions in locations like Aspen, Colorado, and the Alps.
Where can I see the Northern Lights in February?
Iceland, Norway, and Alaska are great options for viewing the Northern Lights during this month.
What are some budget-friendly travel destinations in February?
Consider visiting Central America, Eastern Europe, or certain parts of Asia for affordable travel options.