Image courtesy of Be Tulum
Wintertime is coming, and as the days get colder (and shorter), many of us begin to crave warmer weather. I’ve put together a list of new flight routes that give you quicker and easier access to sunny destinations from the US. Plus, I’ve highlighted some of my favorite hotels and resorts, noting which is best for romantic, family and wellness travel.
Plan ahead for your mid-winter break and connect with me to find the ideal spot for your warm-weather getaway.
Nonstop to Puerto Vallarta and Tulum
Image courtesy of The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort
A perennial favorite, Mexico beckons with its year-round warm temperatures and extensive variety of beachfront resorts. Plus, it’s an easy flight from a long list of major cities — and the list just got longer.
Alaska Airlines announced new nonstop flights from Kansas City to both Cancun and Puerto Vallarta starting in January 2025. And this year, United began service from Newark, NJ and Chicago to the recently opened Tulum Airport.
Tulum and Puerto Vallarta are home to laid-back beachfront resorts of all types, making these spots ideal for a mid-winter break. Offering more of a bohemian vibe, Tulum is where you can explore Mayan ruins and swim in crystal-clear cenotes. Puerto Vallarta has a lively mix of culture and activities, while Punta Mita provides a more exclusive experience with luxury resorts and world-class golf.
Here are some of our the top-booked hotels that are easily reachable from either Tulum or Puerto Vallarta’s airports.
Stay near Tulum
Image courtesy of Our Habitas Tulum
Be Tulum: This adults-only beachfront resort is more than just a sunny getaway. The wood and stone-clad suites and villas exude a rustic-chic vibe, and the Yäan Healing Sanctuary has a menu of wellness-focused spa treatments, as well as yoga classes and meditation sessions.
Fora Reserve perks include one bottle of mezcal per room and 10% off food and beverages.
Our Habitas Tulum: A sustainable, eco-friendly resort, this spot in Tulum emphasizes wellness and community experiences, making it an ideal choice for wellness travelers and couples looking for a laid-back, immersive experience.
Stay near Puerto Vallarta
Image courtesy of Susurros del Corazón
The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort: Boasting a gorgeous seaside location, the resort features private villas, two Jack Nicklaus golf courses and a pristine beach — an ideal option for both couples and families seeking high-end relaxation.
Marriott STARS perks when booked with Fora include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Susurros del Corazón, Auberge Resorts Collection (Punta Mita): This luxury resort has a mix of villas and suites, plus a full-service spa, multiple restaurants and a menu of activities — a great choice for couples and wellness travelers.
Fora Reserve perks include a $100 resort credit, a $45 breakfast credit, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta: Choose this resort for an all-inclusive experience situated on a secluded beach. The property has multiple dining options and a range of family-friendly amenities.
Hyatt Privé Perks include a resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hard-to-reach Caribbean islands
Image courtesy of Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort
Also a popular option for winter getaways, especially from the East Coast, the Caribbean promises mild temperatures and white-sand beaches. Several islands offer nonstop flight service, such as the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos, but some islands have been harder to reach, requiring connecting flights.
American Airlines has added a handful of new warm-weather routes, offering daily or weekly nonstop flights. Starting in early December, daily flights from Miami to La Romana, Dominican Republic will be available, as well as weekly from JFK to St. Lucia, and Charlotte to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
St. Lucia is perfect for visitors of all ages who love a mix of adventure and relaxation. Its stunning coast, Pitons (or peaks) and rainforests lend well to activities like hiking, snorkeling and even visiting a drive-in volcano.
On the other hand, the Grenadines are all about escaping the hustle of everyday life and unplugging in paradise. This chain of small islands is a haven for sailors, divers and anyone who values privacy and pristine beaches. Crystal-clear waters and an exclusive vibe set the scene for couples, honeymooners and wellness seekers looking for a quiet getaway.
And although not offering direct flights from the US mainland, Tradewind Aviation has begun new flights to the British Virgin Islands via San Juan, Puerto Rico. This means after a direct flight to San Juan, travelers can hop on a quick flight to reach Tortola, Virgin Gorda or Anguilla. Flights are seasonal, running from November through April.
Stay in St. Lucia
Images courtesy of Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort
Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort (St. Lucia): Set between St. Lucia's iconic Pitons, this gorgeous resort offers beachfront and hillside villas surrounded by rainforest. The vibe is peaceful and luxurious, making it a top choice for couples or wellness travelers looking for rejuvenation in a natural setting.
Fora perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Landings Resort and Spa (St. Lucia): Located on the shores of Rodney Bay, this mid-sized resort combines luxury with a laid-back Caribbean vibe. With a private marina and plenty of water sports, it's a great destination for families and couples who want some down time mixed with adventure.
Royalton Saint Lucia, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort: A sprawling, family-friendly resort in Cap Estate, Royalton has an energetic feel with multiple pools, restaurants and entertainment options. It’s well-suited for families looking for an all-inclusive experience that has something for all ages.
Stay in The Grenadines
Image courtesy of Mandarin Oriental, Canouan
Mandarin Oriental, Canouan (The Grenadines): This boutique property boasts sophisticated ocean-view suites, a private beach and an 18-hole golf course. The vibe is exclusive and tranquil, catering to couples and wellness travelers who appreciate privacy and top-tier service.
Mandarin Oriental Fan Club Perks include a $100 food & beverage credit, daily breakfast and an upgrade whenever possible.
Soho Beach House Canouan (The Grenadines): A chic retreat on Canouan Island, Soho Beach House feels like a blend of relaxed luxury and bohemian charm. With stylish rooms, several dining venues, and a private beach, it’s ideal for couples and wellness enthusiasts seeking a more curated experience.
Far-flung sunny destinations: Morocco & Brazil
For splurge warm-weather trips, a newcomer direct flight to Marrakech makes paradise a little more accessible. To get there, flights have historically connected through European cities like Madrid. But now, United is the only US carrier to offer nonstop flights from NYC to Marrakech, making the trip more appealing to those who want to avoid the hassle of a connection.
Marrakech is the ideal home base for exploring different regions in Morocco because it puts travelers within three hours of the coast (try Essaouira!), the Atlas Mountains and the desert. Within Marrakech, you can wander through the colorful souks, visit Bahia Palace and see the beautiful blooms at Jardin Majorelle.
A whole different option is to head south to Brazil. To savor Rio de Janeiro’s gorgeous beaches and vibrant culture, travelers in Dallas have a new nonstop option on American Airlines starting in late October running through March (New York’s JFK has seasonal routes also). These months are Rio’s summer season, offering warm temperatures perfect for basking on the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. Carnaval happens in February and is one of the world’s most iconic festivals, where you are surrounded by Rio’s lively culture, music and spectacular parades.
Stay in Marrakech
Image courtesy of Royal Mansour Marrakech
Selman Marrakech: This resort offers a blend of traditional Moroccan design and modern luxury, featuring a stunning equestrian center with Arabian horses. It’s well-suited for couples and wellness travelers looking for a peaceful experience.
Fora Reserve perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Royal Mansour Marrakech: A centrally located medina-within-a-medina that gives you a riad-esque experience with the amenities of a hotel.
Fora Perks include a $100 food & beverage credit, complimentary roundtrip private airport transfers, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
La Mamounia: This historic, iconic hotel is known for its beautiful gardens and stylish amenities. It’s perfect for couples who appreciate elegance and a sophisticated cultural atmosphere.
Fora perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Riad Sakkan: A boutique riad with a cozy, intimate vibe, this property offers personalized service and a central location in the Medina. This spot is ideal for couples who want a romantic Moroccan experience.
Fora perks include a 20€ hotel credit, an upgrade and extended checkout whenever possible.
The Oberoi Marrakech: A sprawling resort set in expansive gardens, Oberoi offers private villas with pools and a focus on wellness. It’s a great choice for couples and wellness travelers who want to unwind surrounded by luxury.
Fora perks include a complimentary massage for two guests, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Four Seasons Resort Marrakech: This modern resort has extensive facilities, including multiple pools, restaurants and a kids’ club. It’s ideal for families, as well as couples looking for a mix of relaxation and activity.
When you book Four Seasons with a me, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities. I will be pleased to give you more details.
Stay in Rio de Janeiro
Image courtesy of Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana: This luxury hotel located on the famous Copacabana Beach, offering stunning ocean views, a rooftop pool and multiple dining options — well-suited for couples and wellness travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and city life.
Accor Preferred by HERA perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Rio de Janeiro: An iconic property known for its historic charm and exceptional service, this hotel offers a grand pool, gourmet restaurants and a prime location on Copacabana Beach. This gem is ideal for couples and families who appreciate a mix of local culture and classic luxury.
Belmond Bellini Club perks include a resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro: Guests can expect contemporary design with a rooftop infinity pool overlooking Ipanema Beach, plus a renowned restaurant and personalized service. It’s perfect for couples looking for a stylish option just outside of Rio’s center.
Fora Perks include a complimentary massage for up to two guests, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Emiliano Rio: Couples will love this boutique hotel on Copacabana Beach, featuring minimalist design, a rooftop pool and a focus on wellness, such as spa treatments and yoga sessions.
Fora perks include a complimentary lunch or dinner for up to two guests, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Grand Hyatt Rio De Janeiro: This beachfront resort in the Barra da Tijuca neighborhood is an excellent choice for families and couples, with family-friendly activities, a spa and easy access to Rio’s attractions.
Hyatt Privé perks include a resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Connect with me to start planning your customized warm-weather getaway.