3 Tempting Tropical Getaways to Book Now!

As winter starts to chill the air and landscapes turn brown and barren, the allure of a tropical vacation beckons with the power of a siren song. Soft breezes caressing powder-soft sands. The rustle of palms along crescent bays. Azure waters, lush scenery and endless sunshine. Who can resist it?

Here are three tropical getaways — from a cruise of Tahiti to a vacation in Hawaii to a walking tour of Vietnam and Cambodia — perfect for breaking winter’s nasty grip.

Tempting Tahiti

Papeete. Moorea. Bora Bora. The names roll off the tongue like whispers on the wind. What better way is there to sample these dreamy places than on a graceful sailing yacht with only 148 guests? Windstar Cruises’ seven-day itinerary, “Dreams of Tahiti,” takes you to one legendary island after another. With the trade winds filling the sails, you’ll glide by Moorea, the inspiration for South Pacific’s mystical Bali Hai; swim, snorkel, or dive in Bora Bora’s iconic crystal-clear lagoon; and relax on the pristine beaches of Papeete.

You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to explore lush rainforests; shop for black pearls and handmade crafts at island markets; try drift snorkeling among coral gardens; and experience the fascinating Polynesian culture — from tikis to taro to tiare flowers. Don’t miss the private Windstar beach party on one of Bora Bora’s tiny motus, followed by a kinetic fire-dancing performance.

All that’s left is trying to catch a glimpse of the elusive green flash before it melts into the horizon.

Heavenly Hawaii

Millions of tourists visit Hawaii every year seeking sand, sea, and endless sunshine. But which of the islands should you visit? Holiday Vacations answers that question with its 10-day tour, “Hawaii Three Island Holiday,” which showcases the best of Oahu, Kauai, and Maui. You’ll be embraced by the aloha spirit during this fun-filled itinerary.

On Oahu, visit such iconic highlights as Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial, the golden sands of Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head crater, the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, and vibrant downtown Honolulu. Then fly to Kauai, known as the Garden Isle for its lush tropical landscapes. Enjoy an open-air lunch at Kilohana Plantation, a historic landmark built by a sugar baron in 1935, followed by coffee at the Kauai Coffee Plantation, the country’s largest coffee grower. Stroll through the rainforest to Smith’s Fern Grotto. And thrill to a view of the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea Canyon, a massive gorge of red rock and brilliant-green vegetation. Then it’s on to Maui, nicknamed the Valley Isle for the many valleys carved into its mountain landscape. Stroll through Lahaina, a historic whaling port filled with shops and galleries. Lounge on luscious three-mile-long Ka’anapali Beach considered one of the world’s best, or go on a snorkel expedition. Cap off the trip with — what else? — a traditional luau and Polynesian music and dance show.

Captivating Caribbean

If you could design the perfect island itinerary it would look a lot like these. Ports of call would include tiny towns and hidden harbors known only to private yachts and small ships like Windstar’s. Schedules would allow for dropping the Watersports Platform in turquoise bays and raising sails on the way to your next island rendezvous. And the laid-back island vibe would continue on board with a mouthwatering Signature Onboard Barbecue by the pool.

Best of all, on every cruise there would be one day that was even more special than the rest, when you land on a secluded beach for Windstar’s Signature Beach Party, elaborate buffet and watersports included.

How to Explore by Cruise

Recognized by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler on the 2016 Gold List of Favorite Cruise Lines and by USA TODAY readers for Best Boutique Cruise Line, Windstar’s fleet of small luxury sailing ships and all-suite power yachts with 148 to 310 guests bring you closer to smaller ports and exclusive local experiences around the world. Visit windstarcruises.com or call 888-460-5098 for more information.

How to Explore on a Tour

Holiday Vacations is one of America’s most reputable tour companies, with more than 44 years of experience. As a nationwide provider of air, rail, motorcoach and cruise guided vacations to more than 65 destinations worldwide, their packages are inclusive of all airfare, fine hotels, meals and must-see attractions. Expert tour directors handle all travel details, assuring you a carefree and memorable vacation. Visit holidayvacations.com for more information.

For more travel experiences to Beautiful Places on Earth™ available from Xanterra Travel Collection® and its affiliated properties, visit xanterra.com/explore.