Fall’s chilly breezes and bright autumn colors are a treat that never lasts. Before you know it, the trees are bare and winter’s here in full force with freezing temps and gray days. If that doesn’t have you dreaming of warmer days already, memories of last year’s polar vortex surely will. But that’s why you should consider planning your winter holiday now. Get ahead of the curve and book yourself a getaway so while the rest of your friends and coworkers are slogging through icy rain and slush, you’ll be with your family on soft sand beaches miles away. But the real question isn’t whether to book, but where to book?

We’ve rounded up five of our top vacation spots to inspire you to take the leap this winter and go on the escape you deserve.

Even if you love your annual winter trip to the Caribbean, there’s a chance you’ve never been to Grenada, and that’s a pity. Known as Spice Island thanks to its large export of nutmeg, it’s also a tiny, beachy paradise. While the shores are heavenly, don’t skip a trip inland where you can visit working plantations or see Annandale Falls, a picturesque waterfall tucked away in a dreamy grotto.

If you’re going to get away, you might as well really get away and head to Thailand, which is at its loveliest in winter. Temps can soar and there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to escape the humidity, but it’s the dry season so you should be able to avoid tropical downpours in favor of gorgeous rays sparkling on clear blue waters. Stretch out on beautiful Lamai Beach, framed by green hills in the distance, just remember to bring an umbrella to protect yourself from the sun! With plenty of luxury resorts in the area, you can always skip the beach and just lounge on a glamorous poolside instead!

When you’re ready for sun and fun, but want something more active than just lounging around on the beach, then it’s time to head to Costa Rica. There’s no better value for wild jungle adventures and there’s no better spot in Costa Rica than the Alajuela Province. This area near the central part of the country is home to the Arenal Volcano and Arenal Volcano National Park. That’s nearly 800 square miles of vibrant, verdant wilderness chock full of white-face capuchin monkeys, beautiful birds, and even jaguars.

The coastline that stretches from Cancún to past Tulum is some of the most beautiful in all of Mexico. It’s dotted with upscale resorts perfectly suited for everything from a romantic getaway to a girl’s trip to a family vacation. Whatever the reason, these beaches are more than just a strip of sand. You’ll also find scenic ruins and breathtaking cenotes that’ll fill your Instagram followers with envy.

Not every wintry vacay needs to be an international adventure, which is why we recommend a quick and easy jaunt to Miami. No, there’s no theme park for the kids, but that doesn’t mean it’s not perfectly family friendly. Spend a morning strolling past the Wynwood Walls, home to some of Miami’s most striking graffiti art, or get away from the city and book an Everglades airboat tour. Of course, there are plenty of beaches, too, with Bill Baggs Cape State Park being one of our favorites thanks to its historic lighthouse and scenic backdrop.

To start planning your next trip to one of these destinations or any other place on Earth, get in touch with our experienced agents at Windy City Travel. We make booking travel simple, and our know-how ensures you an incredible value on everything from flights and lodging to unforgettable experiences.