Best Places to Travel in February

As we enter into the new year and with the busy holiday season behind us, many are looking to plan travel in the first few months of the year. February is a fantastic month to explore the world, offering a diverse array of destinations that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re in search of snowy landscapes, sunny beaches, or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone. 

Here are some of the best places to travel to in February.

Winter Escapes:

LAPLAND

Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, exploring the snowy wilderness, or delving into the traditions of the Sami people, a visit to Lapland promises memories that will last a lifetime. February offers long nights, which increase the chances of witnessing the aurora borealis, one of the most spectacular sights you can experience.

SWISS ALPS

Known for their world-class ski resorts, the Swiss Alps offer pristine snow and challenging slopes for both beginners and experienced skiers. After a day on the slopes, relax in a cozy chalet and enjoy the stunning mountain views.

Tropical Getaway:

MALDIVES

With its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and luxurious overwater bungalows, the Maldives is an ideal tropical getaway. Activities such as snorkeling, diving, and simply lounging on the beach make it a perfect destination for soaking up the sun. Perfect for a romantic getaway or a tranquil escape. 

Mild & Comfortable:

ROME, ITALY

Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in charming trattorias and take leisurely strolls through the ancient streets. Explore the city without the usual crowds of the warmer months. The Italian sunshine offers a delightful escape with mild and comfortable weather in February.

Unique Experiences:

TAIWAN

The Lantern Festival in February marks the end of the Lunar New Year celebrations and is a spectacular event to experience in Taiwan. Witness thousands of glowing lanterns, traditional performances, and savor delicious street food.

RIO DE JANEIRO

The city's famous Carnival in February is a mesmerizing spectacle featuring samba parades, street parties, and elaborate costumes. This is an experience like no other and is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

SOUTH AFRICA

In Cape Town, you can enjoy the stunning summer weather, ideal for exploring its iconic beaches, thriving arts scene, and outdoor adventures. Meanwhile, it's the off-peak season for the bush, making it an excellent opportunity to explore the country's incredible wildlife with more competitive safari rates. With its welcoming vibe and varied attractions, South Africa in February guarantees an unforgettable adventure. 

Regardless of whether you enjoy the excitement of snowy escapades, the tranquility of tropical shores, the warmth of mild weather, or the vibrancy of cultural festivals, the perfect February destination is waiting for you. 

Our team is here to assist you in planning your ideal adventure. Book with us, and you’ll enjoy exclusive benefits and VIP status on your bookings.

Creating Goals for the New Year

As we get closer to the end of one year and begin to step into a new one, the process of reflection and setting goals can feel a bit overwhelming. Perhaps the solution is reframing them to not point out something you lack or what’s “not good enough”, but instead simply make it about living with more intention. This simple act of recognizing what I desire out of life and then putting pen to paper has helped me do so much more than I would have thought possible years ago. Creating goals for the new year doesn’t have to be a daunting task.

Turn it into an event. Whether alone or with a partner or friends, pour yourself a glass of wine, light some candles, turn on some music, and start writing. Put it on your calendar like you would any other important event. Making it into something you’ll forward to, not something you have to check off your list, makes all the music.

The first step is to write down 50 goals and dreams that come to mind. Initially, jotting down 50 ideas may seem challenging, but the secret is to think outside the box. Include both the small pleasures and the grand aspirations. Think of this like a bucket list for life: what are 50 things you want to do over the course of your life, not just the upcoming year.

It can be as small as reading a certain number of books or as big as going to the moon! The objective is to get curious about what your heart desires and what things you want to do with your time. Think of it holistically in terms of what you want to accomplish in your career, health and wellness oriented, and personal development

Avoid editing as you write; don’t hold back. You might be surprised by where your thoughts take you! Once you’ve finished, go through the list and write the number 1, 3, 5, or 10 next to it. Is this something you want to accomplish in the next year, 3 years, 5 years, etc? Then you’ll re-categorize the list of goals based on the numbers.

Once you’ve subcategorized, you’ll be able to see if you’re more of a short-term or long-term thinker.  If most of your goals are in the 10-year time frame, think about how you can break them down into smaller one-year goals that can build off each other year after year. If I want to visit every continent in 10 years, what is one new continent I can visit next year? If most of your goals are in the next year, think about what you can realistically accomplish in one year. Start with those that are most important to you. We tend to overestimate what we can do in a year and underestimate what we can do in 10 years. 

After you’ve listed and categorized everything, keep a copy in a visible spot. Whether it’s saved in your notes app or placed on your desk, make sure you see it frequently. Check in with yourself every few weeks to see how you’re progressing. You can follow the same process during these check-ins: put it on your calendar and make it an event. It’s fun to see what you’ve been able to accomplish or what you may take off your list if it’s no longer of value to you. Putting pen to paper and setting timelines around when we want to achieve things, and then reaching those goals, is so powerful.

Goals, dreams, a checklist for life, you can title it however you please. Whatever you call it, I think it’s such a helpful way to be more intentional about how you spend your time here on earth. Have you ever made a list like this before?

My Favorite Day Trips from London

One of the best parts about visiting (or living in!) London is how easy it is to trade the city’s energy for rolling hills, seaside charm, or storybook villages. Some of England’s most unforgettable experiences lie just beyond London. Within an hour or two, you can wander honey-stone villages, step inside royal palaces, stroll along the seaside, or soak in Roman history, all easy day trips that add a whole new dimension to your time in the UK. Whichever type of day trip speaks to you, London is perfectly positioned for unforgettable day trips.

Here are seven of my favorite day trips from London:

The Cotswolds

If you’ve been dreaming of honey-colored stone cottages, flower-draped lanes, and cozy tearooms, the Cotswolds delivers all that and more. The region is made up of picture-perfect villages, including Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Castle Combe, each one more charming than the last. We’ve hosted two Atlas Adventures trips to the region, splitting our time between London and the Cotswolds.

By car: 2.5 hours
By train: 3.5 hours

Oxford & Blenheim Palace

Steeped in history and bursting with magnificent architecture, Oxford is a dream for culture lovers. Wander through medieval colleges, climb the University Church tower for panoramic views, or row along the River Cherwell in a classic punt. After you’ve had your fill, head over to explore Blenheim Palace, a grand UNESCO estate and birthplace of Winston Churchill.

By car: under 2 hours
By train: 2 hours

Highclere Castle

Step into the stately world of Downton Abbey at Highclere Castle, where England’s aristocratic past is brought to life. The stately home is just as impressive in person, with lavish rooms, sprawling grounds, and special exhibits about the real family behind the estate. After a tour, be sure to take an afternoon tea at their Coach House Tearoom.

By car: under 2 hours
By train: 1 hour plus a 15-minute taxi ride

Brighton

Brighton is artsy, vibrant, and a little quirky, in the best possible way. Spend your day browsing antiques at The Lanes, eating fish and chips on the pebbled beach, riding the amusements on the pier, or touring the wildly extravagant Royal Pavilion.

By car: 2 hours
By train: 1.5 - 2 hours

Windsor & Eton

Windsor has that magical blend of medieval charm and royal prestige. The highlight, of course, is Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. After touring the State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel, wander through Windsor’s cobbled streets. After you’ve explored Windsor, stroll across the bridge to Eton’s charming riverside lanes lined with historic shops and pubs.

By car: 1 hour
By train: 1 hour

Bath

Stroll through elegant Georgian streets and admire the natural hot springs and the Roman Baths. The city’s honey-colored stone and sweeping crescents make it one of England’s most beautiful historic destinations. For fans of Jane Austen, be sure to visit the dedicated center to the renowned writer who spent several years living and writing in Bath.

By car: 2.5 hours
By train: 1.5 hours

Hampton Court Palace

Just southwest of London, Hampton Court Palace is a treasure trove for Tudor history lovers. Explore Henry VIII’s kitchens, get lost in the famous hedge maze, and wander the elegant gardens stretching along the River Thames.

By car: 1 hour
By train: 1 hour

The beauty of London is how much there is to explore just outside its borders, little adventures that make your trip feel even richer. Get in touch with our team to start planning your perfect London trip, from seamless transport to curated experiences. We’re currently at capacity for the next few months, but reach out now to reserve your place on our 2026 calendar and begin dreaming together.