It’s that time of year again where the weather turns cold and we crave nothing more than a warm beverage, thick socks, and good company. But for some, the winter holidays are a time to flee from the cold and into the warm embrace of tropical southern climates. Though a tan in January is something to be envied, JustFly thinks that for the 2016 holiday season, travelers should set their sights on spending the holidays in Europe.

Dear JustFly: Why would I leave my cold home to go somewhere equally (if not more) cold? 

Good question, and JustFly has spent a lot of time thinking this one through. Oftentimes folks and snowbirds alike are singularly focused on escaping the cold, despite not knowing that in some parts of Europe temperatures can average comfortably at 16°C. For example, did you know that visitors in Malta can enjoy spring-like weather without the hassle of summer tourists? Imagine enjoying a picnic on the beach while overlooking the Mediterranean, totally undisturbed and lounging at your leisure. 

Dear JustFly: What does Europe have that the south doesn’t? 

This question is a little trickier to answer because it’s like comparing apples to oranges. Though Europe hosts an array of beautiful beaches in the summer, especially in the Mediterranean, once the weather turns cold tourists look to the tropics and the Caribbean for their sun fix. But during the holidays, resorts suffer from a common affliction known as the 3 O’s: they’re overcrowded, overwhelming and overpriced. 

The only way to avoid this affliction, according to JustFly, is to escape to Europe and see how the continent transforms itself from the months of November to April. Once the weather turns (relatively) colder, watch as towns, cities and metropolitan areas embrace the colder months with festivals, outdoor concerts and fairs, outdoor spas and activities, and of course the famous Christmas Markets. Europeans are the masters of entertaining themselves—and their guests—throughout the winter months. 

JustFly also thinks that this is the most opportune time to visit Europe as many countries distinct and seasonal traditions are in full swing. The German and Bavarian Christmas Markets are an experience in themselves. It’s easy to lose yourself in the fairytale-setting of the markets, as it invokes a sense of nostalgia from our youth. Allow yourself a gleeful moment of childlike euphoria as you marvel at the decorations, parades, and general festivities of the season.  

Dear JustFly: What can I actually do while I’m in Europe? 

The answer is more like what can’t you do! Enjoy the baths in Hungary, or visit authentic Nordic spas in Norway while watching the Northern Lights. Visit the best museums and monuments in Europe without the hassle of agitated and sweating tourists. Eat traditional winter meals like chimney cake, or try traditional Ukrainian Borscht. Go skiing in the Alps, or take a dip in the natural hot springs of Reykjavik. 

The opportunity to see Europe without the cluster of summer tourists is a highly appealing factor that JustFly thinks travelers are missing out on. Travelling is an adventure, and being out of your comfort zone is one of the benefits of being abroad. Try something new this holiday season! 

If you’re unsure about where to go, look up our JustFly Review page and see what others are saying about your destination! Join the conversation.