Here are some winter travel tips to explore unique destinations, events, and traditions that bring cultures to life, From the warm beaches of St. Maarten to the frosty beauty of Quebec, don’t miss these unmissable experiences to add to your travel itinerary.
Miami Unlocked: Open House Miami (February 28 – March 2, 2025)
Miami, a city known for its vibrant culture and stunning architecture, opens its doors once again for Open House Miami 2025. This three-day festival offers more than 100 curated experiences across over 20 neighborhoods, showcasing the city’s design, culture, and community.
Organized by The Miami Center for Architecture and Design, Open House Miami provides behind-the-scenes access to iconic spaces like the Frost Museum of Science, American Airlines Arena, and the Museum of Graffiti. New highlights this year include exclusive tours of The Kampong—a hidden tropical oasis designed by renowned architect Max Strang.
“Open House Miami is an invitation to celebrate our city’s built environment in a transparent and community-focused way,” says David Whitaker, CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Plan your visit at Open House Miami.
St. Maarten’s Year-Round Island Adventures
St. Maarten is a destination I hold close to my heart, having visited in 2022 and shared my reflections in this article. The island’s cultural vibrancy and breathtaking landscapes make it the ultimate Caribbean getaway. Here are just a few of the standout events happening in 2025:
- St. Maarten Heineken Regatta (March 6-9): Experience thrilling boat races by day and electrifying beach concerts by night. Learn more at Heineken Regatta.
- SXM Music Festival (March 12-16): Dance the night away at one of the Caribbean’s most epic beach parties. Get tickets.
- St. Maarten Carnival (April 21-May 5): A colorful celebration of calypso, soca, and reggae music, complete with dazzling parades and local food. Visit St. Maarten Carnival.
- St. Maarten Flavors (November): A month-long culinary event showcasing the island’s diverse gastronomy.
St. Maarten and St. Martin offer two distinct experiences: the Dutch side brims with lively beaches and nightlife, while the French side exudes a European charm with gourmet cuisine and quaint villages. Did you know the island’s dual identity is reflected even in its spelling?
A New Spotlight: Ladyface Mountain Film Festival (February 6-8, 2025)
In the serene Conejo Valley, California, the Ladyface Mountain Film Festival celebrates storytelling, creativity, and community. This inaugural event features inspiring documentaries, including:
- Opening Film by National Geographic
- Closing Film by HBO
Nestled in Agoura Hills, this festival aims to connect people through the art of documentary filmmaking while celebrating the region’s natural beauty. Learn more at Ladyface Film Festival.
Raise a Glass at Barcelona Wine Week (February 3-5, 2025)
Barcelona takes center stage as the world’s wine experts gather for Barcelona Wine Week 2025. This trade show highlights Spanish wines and their rich heritage, including tastings of pre-phylloxera vines, centuries old. Notable activities include:
- Sessions on adapting vineyards to climate change
- Tastings of iconic wines from Rías Baixas, Rioja, and Terra Alta
- A focus on women in wine with “Her Signature Wines” and the inaugural Isabel Mijares Awards
Visitors can explore over 1,100 exhibitors and attend the first International Wine Tourism Forum. For tickets and details, visit Barcelona Wine Week.
Bonjour Ice Sculptures: A Winter Wonderland in Quebec
Quebec’s winter magic comes alive with the return of the Bonjour Ice Sculptures, now featuring four locations:
- Le Massif de Charlevoix: Located at the entrance to the La Bouchard trail, this sculpture is a testament to the natural beauty of the region.
- Tremblant: A family-friendly venue in Place Saint-Bernard.
- Bromont: Set in the Eastern Townships.
- Carnaval de Québec: A new addition for 2025, coinciding with the famous winter carnival.
Visitors are encouraged to take photos with these stunning sculptures and share them using #BonjourQuebec. Plan your Quebec winter escape at Bonjour Québec and explore Le Massif’s year-round offerings at Le Massif de Charlevoix.
Explore, Celebrate, and Connect
Whether you’re drawn to the sunny shores of St. Maarten, the architectural marvels of Miami, or the frosty charm of Quebec, this winter offers incredible opportunities to explore, celebrate, and connect with the world’s most unique destinations. Pack your bags and start planning your next adventure today!
