Winter is just around the corner and we are really hyped up for all winter rituals and seasonal trips. We live in the Arabian Gulf region and the winter is the time this area prospers and starts attracting tourists from all around the world. Although we definitely enjoy spending winter weekends in Dubai and between Oman mountains, we definitely have our eyes on global winter destinations to visit this year.

In this post we gathered a list of destinations for your next winter break that we hope you find inspiring!

Seoul, South Korea 

If you have always wanted to visit South Korea this is the time. Get your winter shopping going and possibly enjoy best warm cup of coffee ever. The city is quite unique and won’t disappoint (… if you plan well!). Another plus for this destination is that you don’t need to apply for a visa for most gulf countries nationals.

London, UK

A classic favorite! London is a year round popular destination but in the winter it gets a little extra fun. The Hyde Park Winter Wonderland (Nov. 22 – Jan. 6) gives you an excuse to visit London again. Winter wonderland festivals are common across the UK (Cardiff, Manchester, Yorkshire, Shropshire…) but the Hyde Park winter wonderland is the famous one among arabs.

Abisko, Sweden

Abisko is frequently featured on winter travel destinations because of the frequent appearances of the aurora borealis. The Aurora Sky Station in Abisko is open from November 29, 2018 until March 2019). Abisko offers other winter activities like dogsledding and ice climbing.

Pro Itinerary Tip: Go to London for the Winter Wonderland Festival then a book a round trip to Abisko for ~£90 only ?!

Auckland, New Zealand

If you are adventurous or like to visit somewhere new head to Auckland. The city is beautiful and full of activities and beaches. One unique natural phenomena to see is the Waitomo Caves‎, a must do for adventure seekers and nature lovers. You should also know that weather seasons in New Zealand are at opposite time to the Middle East. So Sep-Nov is Spring & Dec-Feb is gorgeous Summer. So if you did not get your Summer vacation or simply can’t get enough beach days, pack your swimwear and fly away.

Did I mention that you don’t even need a visa to visit New Zealand if you are from the gulf region countries ??

Shahdag, Azerbaijan

If you are a skiing person and bored with the Europe resorts, try Azerbaijan. It is becoming more and more popular every year. There are couple of resorts in the country but we love what we read on the Pik Palace Hotel, Shahdag. We personally can’t wait to visit.

Let us know in the comments below what is your favorite winter destination or if you need help planning your trip to any of the above.