For those seeking to escape the winter gloom, a sun-drenched beach holiday is often the go-to remedy. But more meaningful travel experiences are emerging, combining warmth with positive impact – from community-led tourism in the Maldives to pisco trails in Peru.
In the Maldives, the Horsburgh Atoll Tourism Alliance (HATA) offers a community-focused alternative to resort islands. On Goidhoo, Fehendhoo and Fulhadhoo, travellers can stay in island-owned guesthouses, with all proceeds supporting local communities and marine conservation. Visitors are also encouraged to take HATA's Conscious Traveler Pledge.
Peru's Rutas del Pisco, launched in 2025, invites travellers to explore the country's pisco-producing regions of Ica, Arequipa, Moquegua and Tacna via driving or cycling routes. The historic bars of Lima, especially the Gran Hotel Bolivar, add cultural depth, and a visit can be timed for National Pisco Sour Day on the first Saturday of February.
Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, reopened after Cyclone Ditwah, now includes Amba Yaalu – the country's first hotel entirely run by women. Overlooking Kandalama Reservoir, it offers guided village visits and night safaris, addressing gender imbalances in tourism where women hold fewer than 10% of jobs. Meanwhile, South Africa's green season (November to April) brings lush landscapes and excellent wildlife viewing. New sustainable lodges include the carbon-neutral Few & Far Lovhondo in Limpopo and Masaya's Camp in Greater Kruger National Park; conservation-focused Lalibela Wildlife Reserve in the Eastern Cape has more lions than game viewers.
Panama's Mariato district on the Pacific coast also offers a restorative dry-season escape, with turtle-rich beaches and fewer crowds. These destinations prove that winter getaways can be both restorative and responsible.
