VENICE, ITALY
While there’s certainly something to be said for visiting Venice in the summer, the city is arguably at its most festive in February. The Carnival of Venice, which takes place during the first two weeks of the month, is a storied tradition that dates back to the 12th century, bringing together locals and visitors for masquerade balls, dancing in Piazza San Marco, and costumes that put Halloween to shame. Book a room at Baglioni Hotel Luna and the property will do all the planning for you – from helping guests choose a costume at the famed Atelier Flavia to arranging an evening at one of three authentic Venetian Masquerade experiences on property.
GALLE, SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka has experienced a major tourism boom of late, establishing itself as a must-visit destination for luxury travelers. And the city that tops everyone’s list? Galle. A UNESCO World Heritage Site with balmy climates, rich history, and one of the country’s top hotels (Amangalla), Galle is ideal for those in search of an off-the-beaten-path trip that’s also safe and accessible. (It’s just a two hour drive from Colombo.) Explore the Old Town by foot and be sure to stop at The Orchid House, one of the area’s best places for souvenirs (shopkeepers will even make you a cup of tea while you browse.)
SINGAPORE
Though Singapore has a well-deserved reputation for its oppressively hot climate, you’ll find that in February, the temperatures and humidity are quite mild (by Singapore standards). A few can’t-miss things to do while you’re in town: the lush Singapore Botanic Gardens, late night eats at Chomp Chomp Hawker Center (an authentic open-air food court), a visit to The National Gallery (which houses Southeast Asia’s largest collection of modern art), shopping at the fantastically curated boutique Edit Lifestyle. You’ll also want to toss back a Singapore Sling or two. The country’s national drink was invented in 1915 at Raffles, which is closed for renovations until the second half of the year, but you’ll find it on bar menus all over the city. For accommodations, check out The St. Regis Singapore, The Fullerton Bay Hotel, and Capella Singapore.
PARK CITY, UTAH
Avid skiers should consider heading to Park City in February, just after the holidays and post-Sundance rush. The former silver mining town has managed to maintain its intimate ski village feel – even though it now boasts the country’s largest ski resort. Flights are easy to come by since Park City is just a 35-minute drive from Salt Lake City International Airport, and the area caters to pretty much everyone: couples, families, groups of friends, and even non-skiers. Traditionalists will feel at home at the legendary Stein Eriksen Lodge or Montage Deer Valley (which is decidedly more modern.) For those who prefer something smaller and boutique, there’s the charming Washington School House, located a block from Main Street.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA
If “Mardis Gras in New Orleans” is on your bucket list, now’s the time to cross it off. This year marks the 300th anniversary (or tri-centennial) of the Big Easy, which means NoLa is bound to be as vibrant as ever during the two-week-long celebration which culminates on Fat Tuesday on February 13th this year.There are still rooms available for last-minute travelers but you’ll want to book soon. Check the just-opened Ace Hotel in the Warehouse District or Windsor Court in the French Quarter. While you’re in town, don’t miss iconic spots like Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop (one of the oldest bars in the country) and Commander’s Palace in the Garden District (home to the infamous “25 cent martini” brunch.)
NAPLES, FLORIDA
The sunny seaside city has officially made its post-Hurricane Irma comeback – and Naples is arguably better now than ever. In February, the area will play host to the 39th Annual Naples National Art Festival, which lures some of the country’s top artists to Cambier Park the weekend of February 24th and 25th. Beyond the art, there’s also phenomenal shopping (check out Marissa Collections in the historic district) as well as golf (head to Tiburón Golf Club) and dining (try Bleu Provence for chic décor and French cuisine.) Top hotels in the area include The Ritz Carlton, Inn on Fifth, and Naples Grande Beach resort (which is known for it’s buzzy lobby lounge happy hour.)
