Planning a winter trip? Consider northerly destinations like New York City, Boston, Chicago, and Montreal for lower prices, fewer crowds, and shorter lines.

Planning a trip this winter? Yes, it’s tempting to look for sunny spots where you can lie on a beach or play golf. But some of my favorite winter vacations have been to northerly destinations at their coldest, darkest times of year. I don’t ski, so I’m not looking for powder. But I have seen northern lights in Alaska, explored an ice cave in Iceland, and stood outdoors in 20-degree weather watching migrating cranes in Nebraska. I’ve been to Detroit in December, Canada for Christmas, Finland in February. And I’ve taken visitors around my hometown, New York City, in January, when holiday crowds are gone and prices are lower.

Here are some tips and ideas for planning a trip in the depths of winter.

CITIES

There’s a reason New York City runs Restaurant Week prix fixe menus and 2-for-1 Broadway specials Jan. 16 to Feb. 4: It’s a way to drum up business at a slow time of year. Hotels and theater tickets also dip in price in January and February. Plus, you can get reservations that are otherwise impossible to score, and popular attractions have fewer crowds and shorter lines.

Weather can be mild on a sunny day in January in Manhattan, but bitter cold and snow are not unusual. While city streets are no fun to navigate covered in slush, consider that most of your time will be spent indoors visiting museums, seeing shows, shopping and eating your way around town.

Similar price-and-crowd patterns hold true for other northerly cities like Boston, Chicago and Montreal, though all three are typically colder and snowier than New York. So check forecasts, wear warm and waterproof boots, and save a bundle — on airfare, too — compared to trips in May or October.

NORTHERN LIGHTS

The northern lights flare on an 11-year cycle and 2024 is near the peak of that cycle. Of course, there are no guarantees you will see the aurora borealis, but at least this is a good year to try. Iceland, Alaska, and northern parts of Scandinavia and Canada are all good places for viewing, but do your research on weather data for cloud cover in specific destinations. You can’t see northern lights in cloudy skies.

When my son was 9, we flew to Fairbanks, Alaska, in February, checked out the ice-carving festival (this year, Feb. 17-March 31), then headed 60 miles north to Chena Hot Springs. The resort is its own little world; there’s no town, no cell service, limited Wi-Fi; and meals served with produce from greenhouses. We visited the resort’s ice museum, went dog sledding and snowmobiling, soaked in a geothermally heated outdoor pool, and yes, we saw the aurora.

City lights make it hard to see the northern lights, but on a recent trip to Reykjavik, Iceland, my husband and I simply drove our rental car to a waterfront walkway where people gather nightly to search the skies. The view there faces away from the city, and our detour paid off: We saw the aurora, albeit briefly.

SAUNAS AND ICE CAVES

Any trip you plan hoping to catch the northern lights should include other adventures. In Finland, you’ll want to visit Helsinki’s cozy cafes, plus Market Square and Old Market Hall, and, of course, saunas. Loyly Sauna is perched on the Baltic Sea, so dare to take a cold plunge in the icy waters while you’re there.

Just outside Helsinki, you can meet and feed reindeer at Nuuksio National Park, but for a real adventure, head north to Lapland and book a reindeer safari. While I haven’t done this, it appeals to my winter-loving soul: ice floating in Finland’s Oravi channel, dressed in a special “drysuit.”

Iceland is famous for its outdoor pools, heated by geothermal hot springs. (The famous Blue Lagoon is closed due to a nearby volcano, but authorities say the eruption’s impact is localized and that tourism and air travel elsewhere is unaffected.) I took a dip in the geothermal pool at the Secret Lagoon while driving Iceland’s famed Golden Circle route, which also includes Thingvellir National Park, Geysir (which is actually a field of geysers), and the stunning Gullfoss waterfall.

The highlight of our Iceland trip, though, was exploring an ice cave in Vatnajokull National Park. You must be accompanied by a registered guide, and it’s not an expedition for the faint of heart. Crampons attached to your boots give you the necessary traction to walk down a flight of stairs carved from sheer ice, and you spend an hour walking underground around a magical — but claustrophobic — frozen canal with walls of blue ice and icicle ceilings.

The cave was part of a two-day tour we took of the country’s South Coast that included otherworldly landscapes including glaciers, volcanoes, black-sand beaches and lagoons full of icebergs.

WESTERN WILDLIFE

Many national parks in the northern U.S. close roads, lodges and other facilities in winter. But winter visitors to Yellowstone can stay in Old Faithful Snow Lodge or Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and enjoy guided tours by snowmobile, snow coach, snowshoe or cross-country ski. It’s easier to see wolves in winter in Yellowstone than in summer; you might also see bison, elk, otters and other wildlife.

Birdwatching, too, can be a cold-weather pursuit. I took a chilly trip to Nebraska to see the sandhill crane migration. That’s when a half-million migrating birds stop to feed in the fields around the Platte River near the city of Kearney. The migration starts mid-February but peaks in mid-March. Guided tours are offered, but it’s also easy to access public viewing sites in Gibbon, Alda and Fort Kearny State Park.

WEATHER, CLOTHING AND PACKING

Temperatures vary tremendously in northern destinations, so do your homework. Winter temperatures in Reykjavik average in the 30s, comparable to New York, but elsewhere in Iceland, roads can suddenly be shut down by winter storms. Also, plan your days strategically based on sunrise and sunset. When my husband and I visited Iceland in late November, we left our hotel in total darkness at 8 a.m. to get to our first stop on the Golden Circle by 10 a.m., when the sun was finally visible.

Remember the old adage: There’s no such thing as bad weather — just bad clothing. For Iceland, all I needed to stay warm was a fleece under my parka. But for Fairbanks and Chena, I borrowed a full-body ski suit and bought used boots on eBay guaranteed for below-zero weather. By the way, N-95 or cloth masks from your pandemic supplies are a good way to keep faces warm in icy winds. I regretted not bringing waterproof gloves to Iceland; it didn’t rain, but railings and ropes along steep paths were often wet with icy condensation.

One final tip: Long pants and thick socks take up more room in luggage than shorts and T-shirts. To conserve space, wear your boots on the plane. Pack everything else in plastic compression bags; you won’t believe how much less room your clothes take up once you seal those bags and squeeze the air out.

If you’ve done your fair share of summer travelling, you’ll know that it’s not always the glamorous affair we had once envisioned it to be. Long haul flights, airport lines at security, and the general fuss of travelling in the heat can make it feel anything but stylish. But the one way in which we can combat this lack lustre experience and bring a touch of much needed luxury to our travelling plans? Through our wardrobe.

When picking out what to wear when you travel, comfort is no doubt the number one priority—but in a new era of elevated basics, travel capsule outfits and refined minimalism, comfort can go hand in hand with style more easily than ever. With a focus on high-quality fabrics and comfortable cuts, Vogue has pulled together the ultimate summer outfit inspiration for the most stylish travel looks ahead of your next trip.

Below, 15 warm weather-appropriate and easy travel outfit ideas to wear in 2024.

15 summer travel outfit ideas to try in 2023

1. A blue button up

A high-quality blue button up shirt is a staple in any wardrobe, but particularly for a traveller’s one. Toting the line between stylish and chic whilst also being comfortable and light, this kind of type can be worn solo or easily layered—a classic all-rounder, this is an ideal way to stay comfortable and look classy while you travel.

2. A pair of white tailored trousers

White tailored-anything is an instant outfit elevator, so perhaps opt for a pair of white tailored trousers when you travel. With the right material blend and cut, these bottoms can look incredibly sophisticated yet be endlessly comfortable to fly with or rush around the airport in. Pair these pants with quite literally any top and pair of shoes, and you’ll instantly have made your fit that much more stylish.

3. A pair of tailored shorts

Speaking of tailored pants, if you’re facing warm weather when you travel, a pair of tailored shorts will do just as well. Long shorts, and jorts, are having quite the moment this season, and a well-cut pair with sophisticated pleats and waistband are both fashion-forward and easy to move around in.

4. A woollen vest or tank top

When you’re travelling, sometimes all you really feel like throwing on is a basic tank top. Why not level it up by opting for a woollen or wool-blend vest or tank instead? A point of difference in any basic tank and trousers combo, as well as a lot more cosy and comfortable, this can be a great option for those wanting a more luxurious look.

5. An oversized plaid jumper

Oversized anything is a travelling godsend, giving you room to move and space to breathe—but a high-quality, vibrant oversized jumper is as stylishly comfortable as it gets. With your travel fits containing mostly neutrals and basics, this is a good way to inject some colour and pattern into your travel look, as well as keeping you warm on the plane.

6. A knitted set

A matching set is an incredibly easy and chic way to make a casual outfit instantly look more intentional and put together—and a knitted one will make you feel like you’re walking around in comfortable pj’s, whilst also looking effortlessly stylish. A win-win.

7. A pair of stylish tracksuit pants

The perennial tracksuit is an airport classic, but in the interest of making your airport lounging fit that much more modish, we suggest going for a more elevated pair based on finer materials and sharper lines.

8. A pair of on-trend sneakers

Comfortable footwear when travelling is a non-negotiable, but that doesn’t have to preclude style. In fact, a pair of cool sneakers is one of the most stylish, and functional, items you can have in your travelling wardrobe and one should never be without them.

9. A simple yet elegant dress

Sometimes all you need when waltzing around the airport is a light, elegant dress. Opt for a piece that drapes and hangs away from the body for comfort, and consider something with subtle embellishments, like a one-shoulder or pleats, for a bit of no-fuss flair. Going for a lighter hue or shade is also going to make this a much more daytime travelling friendly option.

10. A grey mini skirt

Facing some hot weather at the airport, terminal or port? Stay cool with a sleek, refined grey mini skirt. Easy to style and a great basic to have anyway, this kind of mini looks professional and elevated without you even having to try.

11. A linen suit set

Of course, linen is going to be your best, fashionable-friend when you’re on the move. Lightweight and breathable, the practical benefits of travelling in linen are endless. Elevate this fabric choice by opting for a full on suit set, making your fabric choice more refined and elegant.

12. A woollen dress

Nothing says “glamorous high-flyer” than a high-quality wool blend dress. Cosy and chic, this kind of dress provides the best of both a jumper and an elevated dress, and is the perfect way to stay stylish while travelling in cooler weather.

13. A pair of wide leg trousers

As much as a straight leg pair of trousers is in, so is the billowing wide-leg trouser on the other end of the spectrum. Comfortable and voluminous, these kinds of pants provide a soft silhouette, ease of movement and when paired with the right t-shirt and sandals, can look very chic.

14. A tailored blazer

If you thought that a blazer couldn’t make for a good travelling jacket, think again. A good, high-quality, tailored blazer is not only going to feel as smooth as silk, but it’s going to make any basic outfit that much more stylish. With a good blazer in hand, even jeans and a tank can be runway (and airport) worthy.

15. A suit vest

If the weather isn’t lending itself to a full on suit, try a more summery variation by incorporating a suit vest. As easy to wear as a tank top but far more sophisticated, this little top number when paired with tailored pants or shorts is going to look instantly classy.

At the mercy of the sweet and hilly Indian Ocean, the Maldives Islands have been sculpted and molded. It is one of the most beautiful tropical places in the world. From the dusty beaches of the northern atolls to the terrestrial marine huts and fishing villages of the southern islands. The whole nation is scattered in the turquoise waters of the Indian subcontinent offering a lot of places to visit in the Maldives

Most visitors will land in the electrifying city of Male, an island, spice markets, and large mosques. Whereas, others are quick to take the plane or boats and head to the sparkling private bays of the resort of their choice. Where infinity pools and huts on stilts are the norms.

More recently, new local guesthouses and the discovery of the waves have started to transform the Maldives from a honeymoon place. To a destination for surfing, adventure, and hiking: paradise is now open to everyone. Here is our list of the best places to visit in the Maldives:

1. Male

Full of scooters, Indian cars, and bazaars full of spices and coconut, the capital of the Maldives atolls, the city of Male, has the frenetic feeling of a crowded place in a slot too small for all this.

Although it is rarely visited (most travelers pass through the city by seaplane which takes you directly to its tourist center. The city is full of an island on the North Male Atoll. It manages to integrate fascinating panoramas into its streets though, such as the 17th-century Friday Mosque and the Golden-Tip Islamic Center.

The male market is another necessity, just be sure to improve your bargaining skills. Hence, make it popular amongst the places to visit in the Maldives

2. Hulhumale Island

Located just in front of the crystal clear waters of the capital city of Male. The island of Hulhumale is growing and developing forever as more and more land should house the city’s sprawling urban tentacles. It is also home to the Velana international airport, which is the main airport to most of these beautiful islands.

Hulhumale is a lovely place. It has a beautiful, albeit artificial, beach in its eastern paradise, a cluster of green neighborhoods, a glass-covered mosque, and scheduled walks on the Indian Ocean. That is why it is noted in the list of best places to visit in the Maldives

3. Maafushi

Maafushi may not have luxurious luxury resorts and opulent 5-star hotels unlike many of its closest siblings. But, it’s a very charming place. Sadly the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami devastated it. But, the place has been busy rebuilding its salt fishing docks and industrial sailors’ huts over the past decade.

One thing that helped was opening up local pension rights, making Maafushi one of the best destinations on the island for budget travelers. Of course, beautiful beaches lined with palm trees, waves, and a handful of cozy little cafes on the shore can be heavens you always expected.

4. Utheemu

The northernmost of all the island chains of the Maldives, located at the northern end of the Haa Alif atoll, the magnificent Utheemu site holds a special place in the history of this archipelago nation. This is because it was once the home of the revered Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu, the chief who is known for chasing the Portuguese invaders from the islands in the late 16th century.

Of course, there are the usual waves and the sparkling white sands, but these are marked by historical sites such as Utheemu Ganduvaru, which is the magnificent wooden palace where the respected leader grew up.

5. Feydhoo

In the nineteenth century, the people who lived between tree-lined streets and narrow apartment buildings were the inhabitants of the nearby island of Gan (more on that later). When the British arrived before the Second World War, Gan was transformed into an airbase and the inhabitants were sent to live on the next island of the Seenu atoll.

It was Feydhoo, who today is a beautiful picture of life in the Maldives. Let’s go and stroll the winding paths and sample fish curries with the locals – the welcome is always warm.

6. Maradhoo

Attached to the aforementioned hip of Feydhoo by a coastal causeway that extends just above the coral shores of the Seenu atoll, Maradhoo is an important link in the island chain beginning with Gan in the east.

Long and lean, it advances into the Indian Ocean like a finger delimited by narrow fronts on the beach and coconut groves. Like Feydhoo, the locals are relaxed and charming and the cuisine is spicy and rich in seafood. Make sure to walk along Link Road and stroll through the palm-lined cafes and sandwich shops.

7. Island of Veligandu

Romantic sunsets glow red and yellow on the Indian Ocean; cocktails clink in the resort’s luxurious bar; Sea kayaks sway on the turquoise coast and crystal clear waves roll gently from the inland lagoon.

Welcome to the beautiful island of Veligandu, which has long been claimed as one of the best destinations for couples in the Maldives. Honeymoon and honeymoon are the order of the day on this long, thin finger of land on the northern edge of the Ari atoll, and there are many luxurious oceanfront villas and suites to match.

8. Banana cliff

Many travelers heading to the Maldives will come for one thing: diving. And there is no better place to put snorkeling gear and wetsuits in the country than in Banana Reef. This fruit-shaped line of multi-colored corals and sandbanks bordered by algae is found underwater between the islands of the North Male Atoll. It is served by countless vendors, who make excursions to discover striped snappers and bulbous sponges, reef sharks, and barracudas that gather here.

9. Thulusdhoo Island

It is the spirit of the salty Caribbean that seems to lead to the island of Thulusdhoo. Widely unknown, this place of male atolls is surrounded by vast areas of sand from which hundreds of trunks of bulbous coconut palms sprout.

The beaches are wonderful by nature. And, the locals love to lean on their fishing boats which occasionally vanish to find an excellent fish barbecue. All this fits perfectly with the other hobby of Thulusdhoo: surfing. On the left look for the fun reels that turn into barrels near Villingilimathi Huraa.

10. Fuvahmulah

Fuvahmulah promises something slightly different from the rest of the Maldives atolls. To begin with, this place on the Indian Ocean map doesn’t have any close neighbors and occupies its atoll. It is also dotted with occasional inland lakes, which is rare on this plain. Meanwhile, the booming sandbanks on the famous Banging Beach create crashing rollers and a refreshing spray of salt (a break from the usual relaxing lagoons), and proximity to the Earth’s equator means wet weather all year round.

11. Alimatha Island

Perched on the eastern tip of the Maldives, on the famous Felidhe Atoll, Alimatha is a large tourist island. That offers luxury cabins, stretches of pristine and unspoiled beaches. And, above all, some of the most famous dive sites. The complex that covers the island can often be seen as full of diving enthusiasts. The ones who come to look for the beautiful coral forests and dams that surround the coasts. These are full of jackfish, moray eels and are known for their high visibility and popular night dive packages.

12. Hithadhoo

Large (for at least Maldives) and very populated is this subsection of the city of Addu in the former Seenu atoll. It is accessible on the same roads connecting Gan to Maradhoo.

At its southern end, the place has mangroves, swamps, and shrubs. Whereas, the north side of the island is full of cafes and bakeries. And sometimes a series of minarets that arise from the local mosques. More than anything else, Hithadhoo exudes a fascinating and lively atmosphere. One that is difficult to discover in another part of the country full of seaside resorts

13. Kuredu

Kuredu is the self-proclaimed gem of the Lhaviyani Atoll. Moreover, it has its headquarters in the far north of the Maldives archipelago. A boomerang-shaped island is completely covered by a single complex. With its rustic bamboo huts and rows of these ubiquitous water bungalows with terraces on the waves.

The whole place is surrounded by its private strip of powdery sand. As it is considered one of the most advanced diving and snorkeling destinations in the country. Strong currents and high waves often make manta rays and tropical schools visible. Kuredu also houses a 9-hole golf course.

14. Gan

Gan is primarily known for its airport. Also, which is the second-largest airport in the Maldives. It is a famous former airbase for the British Air Force during World War 2. Today the island has lost its former military importance due to tourism. As it is slowly increasing to become one of the most famous places in the Addu Atoll.

It’s not just the accessibility (thanks to the airport) that attracts the crowd. As Gan has small earthy fishing restaurants and small expanses of shiny sand that are usually completely free of visitors. Enjoyable.

15. Kunfunadhoo Island

If you are looking for the legendary luxury and romance of the Maldives. The opulent resort of Kunfunadhoo Island is unlikely to disappoint. It is continually hailed as the most forgiving place to stay in the country. Visitors enter through a large wooden room with a thatched roof hidden in the coconut woods. From there, head to the cocktail terraces that rise on stilts over the jungle. Or to the beaches where candles flicker in the sensual sea breeze.

Are you gearing up for an exciting road trip adventure? Before you start filling your suitcase with the usual suspects, consider making room for a versatile and often underestimated piece of clothing: the maxi skirt. Trust me, it’s a game-changer that can elevate your road trip experience in ways you might not have imagined.

The beauty of a maxi skirt lies in its adaptability. It’s not just a stylish fashion statement; it’s a functional addition to your travel wardrobe that can help you stay comfortable and prepared for various situations during your road trip. Here are some compelling reasons why packing a maxi skirt is essential for your upcoming journey:

Comfort and Breathability: Road trips can be long and unpredictable, so comfort is key. Maxi skirts are made from lightweight, breathable materials like cotton or linen, ensuring you stay comfortable even on hot and humid days. Unlike tight-fitting jeans or shorts, maxi skirts allow your skin to breathe, preventing discomfort caused by sweat and friction.

Easy Movement: Whether you’re exploring hiking trails, strolling through charming towns, or simply stretching your legs during pit stops, a maxi skirt offers unrestricted movement. It won’t constrict your legs like jeans or shorts might, making it perfect for active travellers.

Versatility: A maxi skirt is incredibly versatile. You can dress it up or down depending on your activities and the places you’ll visit. Pair it with a simple tank top and sandals for a casual day out, or dress it up with a blouse and some accessories for a more formal evening look. One well-chosen maxi skirt can serve multiple purposes throughout your journey.

Protection from the Sun: Exposure to the sun can be quite intense during a road trip, especially if you’re visiting sunny destinations. A maxi skirt provides extra coverage for your legs, helping to shield them from harmful UV rays. Additionally, it can be a lifesaver if you accidentally forget to apply sunscreen to your legs.

Temperature Regulation: Weather conditions can change rapidly during a road trip, so it’s crucial to be prepared. A maxi skirt is perfect for layering. You can easily add or remove leggings or tights underneath to adjust to cooler temperatures. This adaptability ensures you’re ready for any weather that comes your way.

Effortless Packing: Maxi skirts are incredibly space-efficient in your suitcase. They take up minimal room and are resistant to wrinkles, which means you won’t have to spend precious time ironing them during your trip. Just fold them neatly, and they’ll be ready to wear whenever you need them.

Quick and Easy Bathroom Stops: One of the underrated advantages of maxi skirts is their convenience during bathroom breaks. Unlike jumpsuits or rompers that require complete removal, a maxi skirt allows for easy access, making pit stops a breeze. You won’t have to worry about fumbling with complicated clothing when nature calls.

Stylish and Versatile: Maxi skirts come in a wide range of styles, patterns, and colours, so you can find one that suits your personal taste and complements your existing wardrobe. Whether you prefer bohemian prints, solid colours, or something in between, there’s a maxi skirt for everyone.

Day-to-Night Transition: Road trips often involve a mix of activities, from sightseeing during the day to enjoying dinner and nightlife in the evening. With a maxi skirt, you can effortlessly transition from daytime exploration to nighttime elegance by changing your top and accessories, saving you from carrying multiple outfits.

Cultural Sensitivity: If your road trip includes visits to cultural or religious sites, it’s essential to respect local dress codes. Some places may require modest attire, such as covering your legs. Having a maxi skirt on hand ensures you’re prepared to explore and appreciate these unique destinations without any issues.

In conclusion, when planning your next road trip adventure, don’t underestimate the power of a maxi skirt. Its comfort, versatility, and adaptability make it an essential addition to your travel wardrobe. Whether you’re traversing scenic routes, exploring charming towns, or embarking on outdoor adventures, a maxi skirt will keep you comfortable and stylish throughout your journey. So, make sure to pack one and experience the convenience and benefits it brings to your road trip escapade. Happy travels!