Please start off the article with something connecting it to the current vacations – the summer is almost over and the next big Vacation is during the Winter break. Provide info for some great locations, both for skiing and for swimming (a mix of destinations for people who like different things).
 
The summer is almost over and so are the long, lazy days of summer vacations. Still, you don’t have to wait too long for the next big vacations, as the winter break is only a few months away.
 
Now is in fact the best time to plan where you will go during the winter break, as the best deals are still available and all options are still open to you. Whether you want to escape the winter cold or on the contrary, to enjoy the snow and the specific of the season, the following destinations are truly among the best for winter vacations.
 
Lake Tahoe
 
While gorgeous in summer, it’s in winter that Lake Tahoe becomes awe-inspiring, with snowy mountains, majestic views, crisp air and a location that allows you to benefit from the best of both California and Nevada. Take the scenic chairlifts or go hiking along the trails to discover the alpine paradise of Lake Tahoe and don’t forget to enjoy the beauty of the Eagle Falls waterfall in Emerald Bay.
 
Go skiing or practice other winter sports in the beautiful surroundings. Explore the Wild West towns in the area and in the evening enjoy the good food of California’s restaurants or the thrill of Nevada’s casinos.
 
Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt
 
If winter sports are not your choice and it’s sunny, warm weather and white sand beaches that you would want for your winter break, then the Sharm el Sheikh resort by the Red Sea in Egypt is one of the best places to go. The warm, dry climate and the picturesque, rather romantic scenery of clear waters, white sand beaches and the Mount Sinai will likely make you forget about the cold of winter.
 
Swimming in the waters of the Red Sea is in itself a different experience, as you will be able to observe directly beautiful coral reefs and even swim along a wide variety of fish. In fact, among the activities that you can enjoy at Sharm el Sheikh, scuba diving and snorkelling are often mentioned on top of the list, precisely because of the beauty and variety of marine life there. Other activities include paragliding, jet skiing and water-skiing.
 
Alabama’s Gulf Coast
 
Another option for a swimming winter break that might be closer to home is Alabama’s Gulf Coast. The clear, emerald waters of the gulf, together with white sand beaches and tranquil atmosphere can offer the perfect place to relax and forget about the cold and snow. While there are less opportunities for water sports than at Sharm el Sheikh, there are still plenty of things to do: go swimming, of course, play golf on one of the championship golf courses, enjoy deep-see fishing, explore the wildlife trails and experience the great dining options offered by the many restaurants in the area.
 
Lapland, Finland
 
For a winter break that truly focuses on the season, Lapland in Finland offers some truly unique attractions and something interesting for every age and interest. Families might want to go to the town of Kemi where the world’s largest snow castle can be found. There are several skiing resorts, such as the tranquil Saariselka and the more lively Levi. In addition, you can also explore the area with a snow-mobile or go and see huskies and reindeer. The temperatures are normally extremely low, so be sure to pack accordingly.
 
Vienna
 
If it’s neither swimming nor winter sports and landscapes that you are after, but culture, glamour and an aristocratic atmosphere, then Vienna is certainly the best destination for your winter break. Winter is the season of the famous viennese balls and vacations in Vienna at such time of the year will be wrapped in music and dance, great architecture, culture at its best, indulging cakes and friendly coffee houses.
 
Visit the town and explore its palaces and parks, go to a ball and dance the waltz, enjoy the beautiful art collections of the various viennese museums and relax at a coffee house with a tasty cake and reading the newspaper (the best places offer a choice of international newspapers).