Ok, so February isn’t quite January level of winter blues, but it’s only marginally better. You may have given up on your New Year’s resolution, the Christmas turkey is long since forgotten and summer feels a long way away. This is why February is such a top month for international travel! US travelers can head south to warmer climes, with countries like Thailand and Spain’s Canary Islands offering better temperatures.
February also sees Valentines Day, with European breaks in Venice and elsewhere tempting couples across the United States. Here are our top recommendations for where to go in February on vacation.
Thailand
If you’re wondering where is warm in February then Southeast Asia could be just what you’re looking for. February is one of the best months to visit Thailand, with dry, sunny days, clear skies and warm temperatures of around 25 – 28°C (77 – 82°F). A beach break in Koh Samui or Phuket is the perfect way to escape the American winter, boasting tropical landscapes, turquoise water and a great range of luxury resorts. And Thailand’s cultural attractions are also on offer. The cooler temperatures up north are ideal for exploring the temples of Chiang Mai, and the annual Chiang Mai Flower Festival adds a burst of color to any trip up north.
Japan
It’s a month or two early to discover Japan’s famous cherry blossoms, which burst into life from late March to April. What February does offer travelers to Japan is excellent skiing opportunities in Niseko and elsewhere. It’s a great month for cultural sightseeing to admire Mount Fuji’s snowcapped peak, and the Sapporo Snow Festival on Hokkaido sees the whole city transformed into a world of ice sculptures, toboggan courses, snowball fighting and other winter based activities. In the major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, it’s cool but sunny, with average temperatures of around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), perfect for exploring temples and gardens before the spring and summer crowds descend.
Italy
Italy in February is still a way off its Mediterranean summer, with typical temperatures of around 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F). So, travelers to Europe will want to remember to wrap up warm. But for a romantic Valentines Day city break, Venice, Rome, Florence and Milan are all great options for February travel. Prices for flights and accommodation are much lower than in the summer months and visitors can stay warm by exploring the legendary Uffizi Gallery, the Sistine Chapel or St Mark’s Basilica. The cooler weather also makes proper Italian coffee far more appealing, and there’s something romantic about being able to see your breath on a magical gondola ride around Venice’s network of canals.
Hawaii, USA
If you’re wondering where to go in February without leaving the United States, then look no further than tropical Hawaii. The state’s warm climate makes it a popular option for domestic travelers seeking a sun tan and relaxation. Temperatures across all the islands in February average a pleasant 24°C to 27°C (75°F to 81°F), perfect for both beach holidays and adrenalin-fueled adventures such as hiking some of Hawaii’s rugged volcanic trails. February is also right in the middle of whale watching season in Hawaii, especially in Maui. Humpback whales and their calves can often be spotted on whale watching tours, before they head north to their summer feeding grounds off the coast of Alaska.
The Canary Islands, Spain
Whilst Italy, France, the UK and mainland Spain are still languishing in winter, it is possible to enjoy some European sun in February. Spain’s Canary Islands are located more than 1,400km south of the mainland, providing an excellent February winter sun destination in Europe. The average temperature in February across Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote is around 20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F), perfect for hiking amongst the volcanic landscapes of this island chain, or for holing up in an all-inclusive 5-star coastal resort. The choice is yours!
Deciding where to go on vacation in February can be tricky, but if it’s sunshine you’re after, then you need to head south. Sri Lanka and Vietnam are also great options, whilst back in Europe you can enjoy the Northern Lights in Iceland. It’s Carnival season in Brazil, so get yourself down to Rio de Janeiro if you wish to join the festivities.
