If your family is anything like mine, you love the start of winter. That first snowfall is magical, and the thrill of warm soup and hot chocolate has not yet worn off.

Fast forward to January.

You’re all freezing, your kids have lost one mitten out of each of three sets and your front yard snowman is looking kind of gray. Even worse, you have at least a couple more months to go.

But you don’t have to take the cold lying down. January’s a great time to travel. Fares are low because kids are back in school, and everyone’s back at work after the holidays. The airports aren’t crowded, and parts of the country (believe it or not) are sunny and bright.

Make a new year’s resolution to get the family together and take off for warmer climates like these.

San Diego

Lots of people don’t realize how just how charming a town San Diego can be. Home to three Homewood Suites (complete with healthy breakfast options, all the better to keep those New Year’s resolutions), this southern California town also has one of the best zoos in the country. Kids and parents alike will get a huge kick out of SeaWorld and LegoLand, plus the 70 miles of white sand beaches for which San Diego is famous.

Ft. Lauderdale

Ft. Lauderdale has shed its spring break image and is now known for being one of the friendliest family destinations around. The “Venice of the Americas” (with tons of man-made canals) boasts one of the best duck tours we’ve tried, passing by homes of the rich and famous and ending just across the street from one of the prettiest beaches in town. The excellent Museum of Discovery and Science has the largest coral reef in captivity, plus an 11,000-feet nature trail and a space exhibit. At Butterfly World, nature lovers can check out over 10,000 butterflies and tropical birds. A don’t miss? Jaxson’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor, which is known for its kitschy, throwback style and its creamy homemade frozen treats.

San Antonio

Remember the Alamo! San Antonio’s famous monument is open to the public, but you’ll also want to check out the Riverwalk, a bustling commercial area with shops and restaurants (as well as a conveniently located Homewood Suites) along a lovely waterway. Don’t miss the Mexican food at Mi Tierra or the opportunity to tour the city’s missions. An outdoor market offers must-have Texas souvenirs, including ten-gallon hats.

Orlando and Anaheim

If you’re looking to avoid lines and maximize your rides on Space Mountain, January is considered the best month to visit Disney parks. After the holidays, most families with kids are back to the school routine, so January is also a great time to save money. Luckily, Homewood Suites has convenient properties outside Disney World and Disneyland – both offer shuttles to the parks, as well as to other local attractions. Put on your Mickey ears and have some fun!