Sun, Skiing, and Family Fun - Something for Everyone This Winter Season

(ARA) - Give the perfect gift this holiday season or anytime-- one that will leave you or that special someone de-thawed or revitalized -- a vacation at one of three top destinations will be the gift that keeps on giving throughout those long, dark winter months. Choose from a romantic winter getaway to the secluded and unplugged Caribbean island of Antigua, enjoy breathtaking scenery as you hit the slopes of Colorado, or find affordable family fun at Panama City Beach in sunny Florida!

Discover the Authentic, Unplugged Caribbean: Antigua

Vacationers looking to leave the icicles, sleet, and snow boots behind this winter season are heading to the translucent turquoise waters and sugary white sand beaches of Antigua. Located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, Antigua has been "off the beaten path" for many years, leaving the island lush, quiet and perfect for romance. Although Antigua is small and unplugged, it boasts international acclaim: world-renowned beaches, premier soft adventure opportunities, sensational resorts, and gourmet cuisine. Whether your idea of a vacation is cat-napping in a hammock, hiking a trail to a panoramic view, sailing around the island on a champagne cruise, or basking in the sun, Antigua provides the ideal Caribbean backdrop for those looking for some romance and relaxation.

The pristine, untouched beauty of this tropical paradise gives visitors a chance to escape from today's fast-paced, hectic world and return to a way of life that embraces an easy-going demeanor fused with natural island charm. From on-island weddings, to private honeymoon villas, to a weekend of ultimate privacy, the soothing trade-winds spread romance all over the island.

Antigua's uncrowded beaches, uncongested roadways and rolling hillsides set the stage, while visits to museums and historic sites, or indulging in spa services adds a touch of relaxing and restorative interest. For those who are invigorated by non-stop activity, day sails, hikes, off-road adventuring, swimming with the stingrays and eco-tours are just a few of the "must try" offerings to stimulate and refresh. Discover the perfect winter escape today at www.antigua-barbuda.org.

Colorado Welcomes Winter On and Off the Mountain: A Flurry of Activities Keep Colorado Cool

The first signs of winter arrived in Colorado, with steady snowfall and the opening of Loveland Ski Area and Arapahoe Basin. With snow continuing to fall in the high country, conditions are at their peak for winter travel pursuits. And, as the temperature drops, the state's signature outdoor activities heat up. A cool gift for the holidays!

Play in the Powder

Skiing and snowboarding are a way of life in Colorado and visitors will find Colorado Ski Country USA's (www.coloradoski.com) 25 mountain resorts offer various ways to experience this rich tradition. Along with the vertical challenges, visitors also can choose from 260 kilometers of groomed cross-country and snowshoe trails for all skill levels in the Winter Park-Fraser Valley (www.winterpark-info.com).

Ice is Nice

For more quality time in Colorado, take a spin on one of the state's outdoor ice skating rinks. Keystone Village (www.keystoneresort.com) features the largest, Zamboni-maintained rink in North America. Ice fishing provides another chance for anglers to cast their lines at the Blue Mesa Reservoir, near Gunnison-Crested Butte (www.gunnisoncrestedbutte.com). For a vertical ascent, try ice climbing at the Ouray Ice Park (www.ourayicepark.com), the first park in the world devoted to the sport of ice climbing.

Families Chill Together

Colorado offers memorable winter experiences for the entire family. For an exciting ride at Snowmass Ski Area, head to Krabloonik (www.krabloonik.com), the state's largest dog sled operation, home to 200 sled dogs, and a restaurant serving world-class cuisine. Children and adults will find tubing turned up a notch on Thrill Hill at Telluride Ski Resort (www.tellurideskiresort.com). Families also can soak up snowflakes in the world's largest hot springs pool at The Hot Springs Lodge (www.hotspringspool.com) in Glenwood Springs.

For complete information on planning your vacation to Colorado, including lodging, attractions and activities, log on to www.colorado.com or call 800-COLORADO for a free official state vacation guide.

Surf's Up, Rates Down in Panama City Beach, Florida

Panama City Beach, Fla., beckons with white-sand beaches, emerald-green waters and fall/winter savings of up to 70 percent on beachfront accommodations. The destination on the Gulf of Mexico ranked as a 2005 Top Ten Family Beach Destination in USA Today. With award-winning beaches and attractions, Panama City Beach teems with opportunities for affordable family fun. Here's a sampling:

Dr. Beach has called St. Andrews State Recreation Area the number 1 beach in America. Offering miles of silky white sand, the park provides excellent swimming and snorkeling in the Gulf's warm waters. Anglers appreciate the piers and deep-sea jetty, while hikers and bikers like the trails. The park is characterized by rolling, white dunes; woods; marshes, and abundant birds and other wildlife. Trails offer exceptional vantage points for spotting herons, ibis and an occasional alligator.

Gulf World Marine Park recently completed a $6.5 million expansion. Visitors go behind the scenes on Meet the Dolphins tours. They learn about marine mammals and conservation before getting into the water for a dolphin swim. At night, Dolphin Stadium is aglow for the spectacular "SplashMagic Laser Show."

ZooWorld Zoological & Botanical Park houses lions, tigers, and bears -- along with monkeys, alligators, camels, reptiles, exotic birds, orangutans and jaguars. The Tilghman Infant Care Facility provides up-close-and-personal views of baby animals born at ZooWorld, including endangered and threatened species.

Known for its subtropical climate, Panama City Beach enjoys an average temperature of 78 degrees and boasts sunshine an average of 320 days annually. For more information on the destination, including deep discounts on winter getaways and attractions, visit www.thebeachloversbeach.com or call 800-PCBEACH.

Courtesy of ARA Content