Chase the Chill: 5 Dream Destinations to Soak up the Sun and Hit the Slopes this Winter

Chase the Chill: 5 Dream Destinations to Soak up the Sun and Hit the Slopes this Winter - Get Your Vitamin D in Dubai's Desert Dunes

With winter's chill setting in, many are dreaming of sunnier climes. For a unique twist, consider heading to Dubai, where you can soak up the desert sun by day and shred powdery slopes by night.

Dubai is an ultra-modern metropolis rising from the sands along the Persian Gulf coast. It's a city of futuristic skyscrapers, mega malls, over-the-top luxuries, and man-made islands. But just outside the city lies a vast expanse of rolling dunes, forming the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.

You can experience the majesty of this desert landscape on an overnight camel trek or dune buggy safari. As the sun dips low over the burnt orange dunes, enjoy a traditional Arabic meal at a desert camp. Sleep beneath the stars in a luxury tent, then rise at dawn to watch the fiery sunrise.

After soaking up Dubai's endless sunshine, hop a quick flight to Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort attached to the enormous Mall of the Emirates. At over 22,500 square meters, it's one of the largest snow parks on earth. Spend the day cruising down groomed runs, zipping through evergreen forests, and carving down black diamond mogul runs – all inside a tropical desert!

"Having grown up skiing the Alps, I never imagined I could hit the slopes in the Middle East," said Clara, a frequent visitor. "Ski Dubai is an incredible experience. You go from sweating in the desert sun to bundled up shredding down runs in a matter of hours."

With five slopes of varying difficulty, a quad lift, and chairlift, Ski Dubai has something for all abilities. Kids can snow tube, build snowmen, or learn to ski at the Snow School. Adults can race down the 400-meter run, jump on the giant airbag, or drink hot cocoa at St. Moritz Café.

Après ski, relax sore muscles in the heated pool or steam room at the Snow Park. Then wander the Mall of the Emirates, which stays open until midnight, for dinner or evening shopping.

"I loved starting my day camel trekking past Bedouin camps at sunrise, then ending it speeding down a black run as the mall closed," said Tim, an avid traveler. "It was such a unique experience – I really got my vitamin D in the desert and my ski legs on the slopes."

Chase the Chill: 5 Dream Destinations to Soak up the Sun and Hit the Slopes this Winter - Mix City Sights and Slope Fun in Innsbruck, Austria

Tucked amid the snow-capped peaks of the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck combines big city energy with small town charm. This hidden gem blends urban exploration with easy access to excellent skiing, delivering the best of both worlds.

"I absolutely loved Innsbruck's vibrant mix of cultures," said Anne, who spent a semester studying abroad there. "During the day, I'd wander the Old Town's narrow lanes and marvel at the Imperial Palace's gilded dome. At night, I'd join friends at a cozy mountain hut for live folk music."

By day, uncover Innsbruck's rich history and culture. The Altstadt (Old Town) features brightly painted medieval houses nestled below the Alps. Must-see sights include the Golden Roof, built for Emperor Maximilian I in 1500, and the Imperial Palace, which houses the city's most important art collection.

For stunning vistas, ride the funicular up to the Alpine Zoo on Mount Isel or see the Nordkette mountain range from above at the Seegrube viewing platform. Or visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds, a sparkling indoor theme park celebrating the iconic Austrian brand.

"I loved wandering the pedestrian streets, checking out shops and stopping for coffee and pastries along the way," said Lily, who studied for a summer in Innsbruck. "With the mountains always in view, it felt totally idyllic."

When ready to hit the slopes, Innsbruck offers nine nearby ski resorts less than an hour away. From the expert runs at Stubai Glacier to family-friendly options at Glungezer, choices abound.

"After class, we'd often head up to the Nordpark Cable Railway for night skiing under the stars," said Tom, a former student. "The floodlit runs were unreal - like floating through outer space."

For lively après ski, head to an alpine hut like Seegrube or Muttereralm. Sip beers or hot wine alongside locals and other powder hounds as regional bands perform. Or enjoy the buzzing restaurant and bar scene back in the city.

Chase the Chill: 5 Dream Destinations to Soak up the Sun and Hit the Slopes this Winter - Enjoy Buenos Aires Beaches by Day, Ski Bariloche by Night

With seemingly endless coastline along the Río de la Plata and easy access to the Andes, Buenos Aires offers the best of both worlds. During the day, lounge on sandy beaches dotted with colorful umbrellas. At night, head to nearby Bariloche for excellent skiing beneath the Southern Cross.

Just an hour flight away, Bariloche provides a taste of the Patagonian Andes. Set on the shores of glacial Lake Nahuel Huapi and surrounded by soaring peaks, it delivers stunning alpine scenery. Cerro Catedral ski resort offers over 7,500 acres of terrain accessed by 38 lifts. With a vertical drop of 1,530 meters (5,020 feet), it boasts one of the longest in South America.

“After relaxing at the beach, I’d hop a flight to Bariloche in the evening to hit the slopes at night,” said Paula, an avid traveler. “Skiing under the stars with the Milky Way overhead was an incredible experience.”

Night skiing at Cerro Catedral runs from 7:30 to 9:30 pm in July and August. Floodlights illuminate 14 kilometers of machine-groomed runs. With jaw-dropping views of the lake and Andes, it feels like a magical winter wonderland. The slopes stay lively as locals and visitors alike carve lines under the moonlight.

“Nothing compares to slicing through fresh corduroy as stars blanket the sky,” said Tomás, a Bariloche native. “With fewer crowds at night, you really feel like you have the mountain to yourself.”

For beginners, the green Cóndor and blue Ñandú runs on the Emilio Frey and Gato slopes offer mellow terrain. Intermediates can up the ante on steeper groomers like Águila and Halcón. Experts can tuck knee-deep powder on legendary off-piste zones like La Laguna. With options for all abilities across its sprawling ridgelines, Cerro Catedral truly has something for everyone.

Après ski continues well into the night in Bariloche's hopping pubs and breweries. The classic Patagonian lamb and hearty stews pair perfectly with local craft beers like Blest, Manush, and El Bolsón. Late nights bonding with fellow skiers and riders in a cozy mountain town provide the cherry on top of an epic day hitting the slopes.

“I'd spend all day working on my tan and swimming at the beach in Buenos Aires, then fly to Bariloche to continue the fun skiing under the stars,” said Marcos, an avid globetrotter. “It was the ultimate summer and winter combo that I'll never forget."

Chase the Chill: 5 Dream Destinations to Soak up the Sun and Hit the Slopes this Winter - Lap Up Luxury in Courchevel's Chic Chalets

Nestled high in the French Alps, Courchevel offers some of Europe's most luxurious and exclusive ski-in, ski-out accommodations. This world-renowned resort features a collection of opulent chalets and hotels that cater to the jet set from across the globe. For those seeking over-the-top indulgences on the slopes, Courchevel delivers bespoke luxury in a fairytale alpine setting.

"Staying in one of Courchevel's palatial chalets was an experience like no other," said Amelia, an avid skier who sampled the resort's high-end hospitality. "Everything was first class, from the 24/7 private chef to the Hermès bath products." With room rates starting at €20,000 in peak season, nightly prices at Courchevel's most exclusive chalets can rival a luxury cruise. For that princely sum, you're treated to pampering worthy of royalty. We're talking private butlers, helicopter airport transfers, daily yoga sessions, and infinity hot tubs overlooking snow-capped peaks.

"I loved sinking into the heated pool on our balcony, champagne in hand, while gazing at Mont Blanc," said Charles, who vacationed at Chalet Les Airelles. "The stargazing from the outdoor firepit was also sublime." No request is too big or small - if you desire beluga caviar and Dom Perignon upon arrival, or a live jazz trio for apres ski, your personal chef and butler will oblige. The chalets even offer 24/7 concierge service, should you fancy a helicopter jaunt to Geneva or tickets to the opera in Paris.

When not indulging at your chalet, hit Courchevel's legendary slopes. This massive ski area comprises four interconnected resort villages, offering access to over 600km of pistes. Cruise wide boulevards through snowy woods as you link runs from Courchevel 1300 to 1850. Or test your mettle on the steep mogul fields of La Saulire.

"While the skiing was phenomenal, what I loved most was coming 'home' to the chalet's five-star service and amenities after a long day on the mountain," said Olivia, who visited with family. "Our host catered to our every need - we were absolutely spoiled rotten." From childcare and massages to ski valets and private drivers, the lavish pampering never ends.

Chase the Chill: 5 Dream Destinations to Soak up the Sun and Hit the Slopes this Winter - Island Hop from Santorini Slopes to Mykonos Beaches

Santorini's stunning caldera overlooks sapphire waters, while Mykonos lures with legendary beaches and endless parties. Combining a ski trip to Santorini with sunny days frolicking by the sea in Mykonos provides the ultimate island-hopping adventure.

You can enjoy fresh tracks on Santorini's ski slopes in the morning, then catch a ferry to Mykonos for afternoon beach lounging. Spending half the day riding lifts with views of the volcanic crater for the perfect Instagram shot, then sipping sunset cocktails at Super Paradise Beach as the waves lap your toes delivers an unforgettable Greece experience.

"I'll never forget zipping down runs on Santorini with incredible views of the caldera and surrounding islets," said Lucy, an avid skier. "Then dancing the night away at Jackie O' Beach Club in Mykonos - it was an awesome combo."

At 2,800 feet, Santorini's Mount Profitis Ilias is the highest peak in the Cyclades. While not huge by European standards, the ski area here still offers over 7 miles of trails accessed by modern lifts. Groomed runs slice through rocky moonscapes with the deep blue caldera always in sight.

"The skiing was varied with steep pitches, rollers, and wide open cruisers," remarked pascal, who visited last March. "Being able to see the villages of Oia and Fira from the slopes was incredible."

Intermediates can cruise down long blue runs like Nea Kameni and Palia Kameni. Experts tackle the steeper faces of Profitis Ilias accessed via snowcat. At the end of the day, savor Greek meze and wines on the sunny patio at the mountain's Kamares Club.

After an action-packed morning of skiing, hop a 45-minute ferry to reach the famous beaches of Mykonos. Party town Super Paradise is world renowned, with beach bars like Jackie O' Beach Club hosting top DJs spinning beats. Watch the sunset at hip Nammos Restaurant sipping champagne on plush day beds. Or relax on Psarou Beach's soft white sands near billionaire yachts.

"I loved spending the morning ripping down slopes overlooking the deep blue Aegean, then sailing to Mykonos for beach parties that raged into the night," said Ava, a student who spent winter break island-hopping. "It let me experience the best of both worlds."

Chase the Chill: 5 Dream Destinations to Soak up the Sun and Hit the Slopes this Winter - Pair Prague's Fairytale Charms with Snow Fun in Špindlerův Mlýn

With its sprawling hilltop castle, charming Old Town squares, and ancient clock tower, Prague enchants visitors with a fairy tale cityscape. By coupling a few days exploring this storied capital with skiing in nearby Špindlerův Mlýn, you can experience both urban culture and alpine adventure.

Just a three hour drive from Prague, Špindlerův Mlýn serves as the gateway to Krkonoše National Park in the Czech Republic’s northeastern reaches. Surrounded by thick forests and rocky ridgelines, it's earned the nickname “Little Switzerland.” This charming mountain village feels worlds apart from busy Prague, with timbered chalets and cobblestoned plazas.

“After getting my fill of history and architecture in Prague, I couldn't wait to breathe the crisp, clean air in Špindlerův Mlýn,” remarked Lauren, an avid skier. “The cute shops and cafes had such an intimate, small-town vibe.”

With 43 miles of runs accessed by 23 lifts, Špindlerův Mlýn offers terrain for all abilities. Wide, groomed blues like Svatý Petr please less advanced riders. Experts can challenge themselves on trickier blacks like Paramo and Střecha. For stunning views of the surrounding peaks, hop the lift to the top of Mt. Svatý Petr.

“I’ll never forget looking out over the snow-covered Krkonoše range from the top of the mountain,” recalled Tyler, who visited with his family. “Then cruising down runs through quiet, ethereal forests dusted with snow.”

The ski area’s north-facing slopes get blasted with plenty of natural snow. Grooms stay velvety thanks to an extensive snowmaking system covering 74% of the trails. Night skiing on select routes like Promenádní and Javor offers a unique experience, with runs illuminated beneath the stars.

“We skied all day in perfect sunny conditions, then kept ripping turns under the lights late into the evening,” said James, who spent a week in Špindlerův Mlýn. “The mountain had a totally different feel at night but was just as fun.”

Après ski options run the gamut in Špindlerův Mlýn from buzzing bars like Happy Bar and Red Bull Bar to more laid-back spots like Boulevard Café and Restaurace Stromovka. Sip a hot mulled wine or regional beer while recounting the day's highlights. Then stroll the pedestrian plaza browsing shops and boutiques.

A world apart from Prague's wide squares and imposing castle, Špindlerův Mlýn's intimate streets exude small-town charm. But it's just a short drive back to the big city lights for more exploration. Spending a few days immersed in each locale provides the best of both worlds.

Chase the Chill: 5 Dream Destinations to Soak up the Sun and Hit the Slopes this Winter - Contrast Tokyo's Bright Lights with Niseko's Powder Slopes

Hopping from the flashing neon cityscape of Tokyo to the powdery backcountry slopes of Niseko provides an exhilarating study in contrasts. This adventure combines all the energy and excitement of Japan's massive capital with the tranquil snowscapes and tree-lined runs of its northern island.

"I loved exploring the non-stop action in Tokyo, then escaping to Niseko's quiet slopes surrounded by white-capped mountains," remarked Naomi, who spent a week in each locale. "It was an awesome mix of urban indulgences and outdoor winter fun."

Just a two hour flight from Tokyo, Niseko delivers over 500 inches of feather-light snow each year. Located on Japan's northern island of Hokkaido, it's famous for having some of the driest powder on earth. With over 400 marked runs and off-piste zones spanning four interconnected resorts, riders enjoy endless options to carve perfect corduroy and float through billowing backcountry snow.

"On a clear day, you get surreal panoramic views of the dormant volcano Mt. Yotei while slicing down runs," said Yuji, who makes regular pilgrimages from Tokyo to shred Niseko's slopes. "The backcountry terrain is legendary - I've never experienced anything like it."

From wide cruisers like the Skyline Trail to narrow chutes like Strawberry Fields, Niseko delivers terrain for all abilities. Hard chargers can play on cliff drops and rock faces in the famous off-piste area known as "the Gates." Beginners take it easy on gentle slopes like the lower Peak Run. At night, floodlit runs like Sunny Ride let you rip turns under the stars.

Off the slopes, Niseko exudes a charming mountain town vibe with its wood-faced hotels, cozy cafes, and local izakaya pubs. "After an epic day hitting jumps and tree lines beyond the ropes, we'd kick back at our favorite onsen," said Hideki, a lifelong Niseko fan. "Sore muscles soaked in hot mineral pools while snowflakes drifted down - pure bliss."

From the peaceful mountainscapes of Niseko blanketed in deep drifts, it's just a quick flight back to the 24/7 energy and flashing neon of Tokyo. Spend nights singling karaoke in Shinjuku's Golden Gai district or slurping steaming ramen at a tiny Shibuya stand.

Chase the Chill: 5 Dream Destinations to Soak up the Sun and Hit the Slopes this Winter - Relax in Queenstown, New Zealand's Adventure Capital

Tucked amid the soaring peaks of New Zealand's Southern Alps on the shores of glacier-fed Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown serves up equal parts adrenaline and relaxation. This charming resort town has earned a reputation as the adventure capital of the South Pacific. Yet with its laidback Kiwi vibe, it also beckons visitors to slow down and savor the natural wonders that surround them.

"After bungy jumping off a bridge or braving Class V rapids, I'd unwind with a leisurely sunset cruise on the lake," said Paige, who spent a semester abroad in Queenstown. "It was the perfect place to get my thrill-seeking fix, then chill out and appreciate the area's incredible beauty."

During the day, Queenstown delivers heart-pounding exploits from canyon swinging and zip lining to heli-skiing and paragliding. Push your limits tackling one of the world's steepest bike trails or navigating Shotover River's turbulent rafting. From jet boating to skydiving, options for adrenaline junkies abound.

Yet as evening falls, Queenstown transforms into a serene sanctuary nestled beneath the mountains' imposing bulk. Watch the sinking sun set Lake Wakatipu ablaze in vivid hues of orange and pink. Sip local pinot noir on a scenic dinner cruise as the lights of town twinkle to life. Rise early to photograph the sunrise's golden rays illuminating sawtooth ridgelines looming overhead.

"I loved conquering crazy adventures during the day, then unwinding afterward soaking in natural hot springs or strolling the waterfront," remarked Lauren, a student at the local university. "Queenstown lets you push boundaries by day, then restore your Zen at night."

Adjacent to town lies Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand's longest lake. Poplar-fringed beaches dotted with colorful sailboats beckon you to relax. Many opt to cycle or walk the easy lakeside trail from Frankton to Queenstown, taking time to soak up marvelous views. Seaplane and gondola rides deliver bird's-eye perspectives of this deep blue beauty carved by ancient glaciers.

Even in the heart of town, green space abounds for escaping the bustle. Stroll through Queenstown Gardens' lush oaks and monkey puzzle trees or the 1885 Edwardian architecture of the Kiwi & Birdlife Park. Meander back alleys to discover cozy cafes and bohemian shops. Follow woodland walking trails above town with panoramic vistas of the Remarkables Mountain Range's craggy spires.