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Far and Away

Some people prefer staying put during the holidays to enjoy cozy nights by the fire, but for those of us with incurable wanderlust, winter means jet-setting into the wild or relaxing at our favorite bohemian beach oasis. This holiday season we are packing our passports and caftans and hitting the road. Whether it's exotic safaris in South Africa or mind-body relaxation in Bali, we've rounded up a list of legendary trips for every type of globetrotter. Read below before you book your trip.

For northern lights and a wild nightlife: Iceland

Regardless of whether you prefer quietly watching the northern lights or trekking across the rugged landscape, Iceland is the type of destination that never gets boring. The spa experiences alone make the flight worth it. From scuba diving between tectonic plates to diving into the famous Blue Lagoon, Iceland?s 20 hours of daylight provides the perfect excuse to keep the party going.

Courtesy of Instagram

For desert chic retreats: Oman

Get here while it?s still a relatively unpopulated gem ? Oman?s year-round sunshine and natural underground playgrounds (we mean caves) are soon to be become the Middle East's next hot spot. Stay at Hoota Cave, located near Jabal Shams mountain, for an intimate cave hotel experience or go desert glamping in style at Desert Nights Camp, an exclusive Bedouin-style resort miles into the vast, satiny smooth Wahiba Sands. Either way, make sure to shop the Mutrah Souq in Muscat.

Courtesy of Desert Nights Camp, TripAdvisor

For exotic safaris and a cool city scene: South Africa

South Africa?s location at the southern end of the world?s most celebrated continent provides for such diversity in its landscape and habitats that overstimulation is expected here. Cape Town, with its golden beaches and endless vineyards, is a quick drive away away from Shamwari Game Reserve where a luxurious Safari will have you seeking out the big five by day and sleeping luxuriously under the African stars at night.

Courtesy of Oprah's Instagram, erictheepicure.blogspot.com

For holistic wellness retreats and mind-body relaxation: Bali

Bali is more than a destination ? it?s a state of mind. Escape to this beyond zen island for the total mind body overhaul. The Balinese, known for their deep-rooted generosity and kindness, have made this Indonesian province a true utopia. Stay at Shambala Estate near Ubud, where you?ll do yoga, meet with Ayurvedic doctor and nutritionists, and have holistic, 360-degree approach massage therapies and beauty treatments. This is more than a vacation, it is the ultimate cure for the winter blues.

Courtesy of COMO Hotels

For boho beach lounging away from the crowds: Thailand

A short boat ride around the bend from the crowded and touristy Ao Nang, Krabi?s fairytale slice of paradise, Railay Beach, is surrounded by limestone crags, crystal blue waters, quaint paths (no cars, buses, or motorbikes here), and hotels hidden in the lush surroundings. The sunsets here are some of the most exquisite you?ll see in the world.This is the perfect place for a romantic getaway.