The so-called holiday season is just the beginning of winter. The D.C. days might start getting the tiniest bit longer by Dec. 22, but that's not going to warm anything up. Instead, it's time to hunker down for the coldest season, with us till the groundhog says otherwise – or March 21 at the latest.
Some couldn't be happier. It's time to ski and snowboard. It's time to deck the halls and hit those New Year's Eve parties – not to mention Mardi Gras. Or, turn the situation on its head and hit the Southern Hemisphere, basking in summer. Just a couple hours south, actually, sunny shores can still be found.
This season, while keeping an eye out for the ski bunnies, Metro Weekly is also looking at the sun-kissed desert destinations of Palm Springs, Calif., and Las Vegas, where things just keep getting gayer. And the unstoppable Chi Chi LaRue, just back from London, shares why she adores those cities in the sand.
Check out the winter calendar a world of seasonal wonder, and also take a word of warning when it comes to making travel plans during blizzard season.
Desert Diamonds
Las Vegas and Palm Springs roll out the pink carpet this winter
Snow Hope
Even if 2013 doesn't bring back the powder, parties abound
Don't Miss the Boat
Winter weather can torpedo the best-laid plans
Jet Set: Winter with Chi Chi Larue
Winter Travel 2012-2013
Calendar of Events
Winter Worldwide, Summer Down South
...more