Escape Winter 2024 | Page 26

2025 Travel Resolutions

MARCH

Placencia , Belize You can get away from it all in Placencia . Located at the southern tip of the Placencia Peninsula in the southeastern corner of the country , this tranquil fishing village is flanked by a mangrove-lined lagoon on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other , giving you relaxing views in all directions . In town , you can admire the colorful murals and artwork along the 4,000-foot-long pedestrian-only main street . Or leave the village to spot whale sharks while snorkeling the southern barrier reef or howler monkeys while cruising down Monkey River .

APRIL

Kyoto , Japan Japan ’ s ancient imperial capital creates the impression of a centuries-old painting come to life . More than 2,000 temples and shrines can be found within its borders , along with transcendent gardens and ancient districts where geishas still walk on thick wooden sandals . Take the Philosopher ’ s Path to Ginkaku-ji , the luminous Temple of the Silver Pavilion , a retirement villa built by a shogun in 1482 . Or head up north to view the gold-leaf covered Golden Pavilion and the famed Zen rock garden at Ryoan-ji temple .

MAY

Cologne , Germany Of Germany ’ s 10 “ Magic Cities ” — so called because they offer an enticing blend of historical appeal , cultural vibrancy and delectable cuisine — Cologne stands out . As the oldest of the country ’ s metropolises , it ’ s home to a wealth of worthy attractions , from the Cologne Cathedral to the Chocolate Museum , as well as a very active art scene and one of
Placencia , Belize
Cologne , Germany
Kyoto , Japan
24 · ESCAPE Winter 2024