Escape Winter's Frozen Grip: 5 Warm-Weather Vacations

Have the thoughts of the mundane winter routine and fast approaching chilly temperatures got you down? If catching some rays on a sun-drenched white sand beach sounds far more appealing than shoveling your driveway and scraping ice off your car, grab your Ray-Bans and let Auto Europe help you start planning a tropical getaway!

While some travelers flock to the Alps to zip down frozen slopes and partake in a powder-filled mountain ski excursions, Auto Europe realizes not everyone has their heart set on defrosting in front of a roaring fire after a long day of sight-seeing in frigid temperatures. So, we've put together a list of our favorite warm-weather destinations.

Amalfi Coast The cities of Naples and Salerno are arguably some of the most gorgeous places in the entire world, and the Amalfi Coast's scenic sorcery has bumped it to the top of our list. Strategically balanced over the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Amalfi Coast makes for the perfect winter getaway, and although you may not be able to lounge by the pool every day, with such fabulous scenery we doubt you'll mind. Drive your car rental along the mountainous roadways that are lined with citrus and olive groves and see the famed wineries that are scattered throughout the landscape. As you're driving, look out onto the sea and revel in the beauty of your surroundings, as the sea is dotted with hues of reds, whites and blues of local fishing boats.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Experience history before it happens on the luxurious beaches of Rio de Janeiro. Situated between azure seas and forest-clad mountains, Rio's bustling streets are filled with superb restaurants and fabulous nightlife opportunities. Synonymous with the girl from Ipanema, lively Carnival celebrations, and dramatic views from Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Mountain, Rio de Janeiro is also a city of abundant museums and incredible architecture that must be discovered from the driver's seat of a rental car in order to be appreciated to the fullest extent.

Sydney, Australia Chilly conditions in the Northern Hemisphere mean pleasantly temperate days Down Under! Pick up your car rental at the Kingsford-Smith Airport in downtown Sydney, and experience everything this vibrant city has to offer. Beneath the shallow waters of coastal Australia is a world marked by colorful reefs swarming with parrot fish, butterfly fish, sea turtles, sting rays and a kaleidoscope of other exotic marine species, making dive sites along the Great Barrier Reef some of the best in the world. Back on land, drive a little over an hour outside of Sydney to take in the serenity of the country's Blue Mountain region. Brimming with densely forested peaks, lush gardens and a myriad of hiking trails, this section of Australia is not to be missed.

French Riviera The French Riviera, otherwise known as the Cote d'Azur, is a sun-soaked stretch of coastline hugging the Mediterranean Sea in the southeastern corner of France that can best be explored by rental car. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the region's sandy beaches and rugged shoreline, and make note of the shimmering sea as it laps against the waterlines of sun-bleached yachts. The allure of both nature and culture are abundant in this region, and driving this route will prove to be every bit as glamorous as you've heard. Venture to the lavish cities of Cannes, Nice, and St. Tropez, and spend some time visiting world renowned museums and historic sites by day, while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of champagne soaked beach parties by night.

Barcelona, Spain Escape subzero temperatures and head to the picturesque city of Barcelona this winter for a truly one of a kind experience. The city itself tends to feel a bit dream-like, which seems fitting since much of the city's architecture was designed by famed Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi, and renowned artist Salvador Dali also spent a considerable amount of time here. Nestled in the heart of the city, Barcelona's Old Town is a network of small neighborhoods, full of old-world charm, linked by narrow, winding streets where the past and modernity intertwine seamlessly. Rent a car in Barcelona and see firsthand how this city is a living legacy of culture, and be sure to save some time to casually sip sangria at a sidewalk cafe while watching vivacious street performers practice their craft.

There are a multitude of other stunning locales that are all worthy of a visit, from the intriguing Greek Isles to the relaxing islands of the Caribbean. However you are planning on escaping winter's icy grip this season, Auto Europe can help get you there. Contact us toll-free at 1-888-223-5555 today to start planning your warm-weather getaway!