While we prepare to release The Guide, we’ve been resurfacing many of our favorite spots and reminiscing on them all. As we head into the depths of the New York City winter, we’ve gathered a few locations that offer a true sense of escape. Below, you’ll find adventures ranging from across the globe to a quick flight away, and even in your backyard if you’re a New Yorker.
Getting out of your comfort zone and awakening your senses becomes even more important as the days grow shorter and being outside is more and more difficult. We hope the list below inspires you to dress up or pack up to step out of your comfort zone this winter.
Trade frosty sidewalks for swaying palm trees and the soothing embrace of the Pacific Ocean on the enchanting island of Maui. A perfect antidote to New York City’s cold, Maui offers golden beaches, lush landscapes, and the gentle rhythm of island life.
A must do in Maui is the Road to Hana. Rent a car and drive through tropical rainforests, waterfalls, and quaint villages, stopping at must-see spots like the Seven Sacred Pools and Wai’anapanapa State Park.
While the Road to Hana was undoubtedly a highlight of our Maui escape, the moments that linger most vividly in our memories include savouring fresh açaí bowls by the beach and marveling at the sunrise atop Haleakalā National Park. Each experience felt like a snapshot of paradise.
If you have the luxury of extending your Hawaiian adventure, a hop over to Oahu brings a new layer of magic. ATV rides through the iconic Kualoa Ranch transport you to a landscape that feels plucked straight from a Jurassic Park set, while the crystal-clear waters off the island’s shores offer snorkeling encounters straight out of a Disney film.
Hawaii’s islands each offer their own unique charm, but they all share the ability to whisk you away from the cold and immerse you in pure, sun-soaked bliss.
This might just be the easiest tropical vacation from New York City—and possibly the most enriching.
When we first booked a flight to Puerto Plata, just 30 minutes from the town of Cabarete, we didn’t expect to uncover all that we have. While offering a bit of culture shock to many Americans, the North Coast of the Dominican Republic is a true paradise.
Flights are often under $500 round-trip, and accommodations—whether Airbnbs, hotels, or rentals—are refreshingly affordable. Once you’re booked, the real magic lies in knowing where to go to find the hidden wonders of this coastline.
We’ve become completely hooked on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic. As we spend more time here, we’ll continue collecting, creating, and sharing experiences that we find most special in The Guide.
Here are a few of our favorite locations so far:
Just outside Cabarete, Encuentro is a vibrant community of local surfers, expats, and families living near one of the best surf beaches in the world. While water shoes are a must to navigate the reef, rocks, and sea urchins, the sandy stretches are breathtaking. It’s the perfect spot to watch professional and beginner surfers or finally try surfing yourself.
We’ve fallen in love with the team at Cabarete Surf Co. and their cat Maui.
Río San Juan is home to several beaches, but Playa Preciosa is one of our favorites. If you’re lucky, you might get the entire beach to yourself, just as we did.
Located right next to Playa Grande, you can have fresh fish and traditional Dominican food delivered directly to the beach. In the afternoon, the sun dips behind the cliffs, casting just the right amount of shade, making it easy to spend an entire day there.
Cascada Los Bueyes (Waterfall)
About an hour outside of Cabarete lies an incredible waterfall and swimming hole that requires a sturdy car with good suspension to access.
The coordinates are 19.575133, -70.399148 and we’ve added screenshots of the location on the map in the Full Gallery for clarity. Be sure to download an offline map and prepare for a bumpy ride but we assure you it’s worth the trip. Swimming in this serene spot is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Respect the local communities, do your research, and always prioritize safety.
This itinerary was released before the devastating wildfires in Southern California. Please view this post for some of the many ways to donate quickly, effectively, and securely.
Not many think of Malibu for a winter vacation, but with temperatures in the fifties to sixties throughout all of January, it’s a perfect cozy getaway if you enjoy breezy and crisp air. After a summer trip to Southern California in 2023, we’ve been dreaming of revisiting the coast during this time of year. Picture chunky sweaters, warm cups of coffee in hand, and peaceful walks along the beach or explorations through the Santa Monica Mountains or surrounding areas.
One of our favorite experiences in Malibu was horseback riding in the Santa Monica Mountains with High Horse Malibu—a must-do adventure if you’re in the area. If you choose to stay in LA, the Moxy DTLA is a fantastic hotel. If you strategically plan to miss traffic, it’s just a short drive from Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and adventures like High Horse Malibu.
For the full Southern California experience, check out our Southern California Itinerary, filled with accessible, relaxed, and spontaneous adventures that stretch the coastline from Coronado Island to Malibu.
If a big trip isn’t in the cards right now, don’t worry—there are plenty of places here in New York that can transport your senses for a night. Whether you’re sitting across from a loved one, a new date, or a close friend, we’re confident these spots will provide just the retreat you’re seeking.
The closest thing to Bali within the island of Manhattan. Wayan is notably the first authentic Indonesian restaurant in Lower Manhattan and is one of the only Indonesian restaurants in America featured on The Michelin Guide.
The restaurant, designed by David Rockwell, seamlessly weaves traditional elements – greenery, wood, and stones – into the space. The design is a tribute to the meditative spirit of the Ubud area and the menu blends Indonesian flavors with modern French influences. Experiencing the ambience and the award winning bites will surely transport you.
Explore Wayan’s Full Feature here.
Genesis House is NYC’s best kept secret: a unique concept with an authentic Korean tea room, restaurant, and library space. Genesis House is more than a restaurant, it is a sanctuary. Designed by Suh Architects, the space is a true work of art that honors traditional elements of Korean heritage while seamlessly matching the modern pulse of Seoul.
Within sloped wooden roofs and raised floors reminiscent of hanok architecture, the dining area is both introverted and open, reflecting the tranquility of ancient Korean villages. The transportative space complements the intellectual spirit of the dining experience, with a seasonal five-course tasting menu that honors a different Korean Dynasty.
One could hide away from the New York chill for an entire day here. Begin with tea, reading, and working within the space, completing the day with their dinner experience. You’ll leave feeling as if you’ve just returned from a retreat across the globe, completely recharged, without the jet lag, baggage claim, or the $100 Uber ride home from JFK.
Explore Genesis House’s Full Feature here.
Behind an unassuming exterior just off of Lexington in Midtown Manhattan, sits tán. Marked by peeks of greenery indoors, noticeable from the gray Midtown streets. Step inside however, and you’re transported to a fine dining experience in the heart of Tulúm and the Yucatán Peninsula.
An homage to coastal Mexican fare, tán adds a contemporary twist to classic dishes. Smoking cocktails, fresh ceviches and tender short ribs line intimate tables. After visiting TULUM this year, we can say this is the closest you’ll get to the Yucatan’s magic within the five boroughs.
Explore tán’s Full Feature here.
We hope you enjoyed these recommendations and that they’ve inspired you to step out of your comfort zone this season, especially if you’re itching to escape the cold. Whether you journey to these destinations or create your own adventures, we encourage you to make the most of each day and break free from familiar routines by trying something new—even if it’s exploring a new craft or activity at home.
If you’re looking for more places to explore, whether in New York or around the world, we’re always here to help. You can find all of our recommendations in The Guide or reach out to us directly via email or Instagram—the team is always happy to share personal advice and ideas to keep enriching your life.
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