Rarely have the French had such a need to take a winter break. Despite the rise in the price of living (taxes, energy) and the anxiety-provoking international context (Syria, war in Ukraine), they are looking to escape. In the mountains when they seek to stay in France or abroad where they favor distant destinations such as Asia (Indonesia and Thailand are among the most popular trips as well as China and Korea). Without forgetting getaways in the sun, particularly in Mauritius which remains their favorite island. L’Express has selected the most cocooning and heavenly destinations.
Back in the capital, the Tokyo odyssey can be enjoyed from the OMO5 hotel, located in the authentic and booming Gotanda district.
/ © Hoshino Resorts
Japan in all its aspects
Having remained closed for a long time after the Covid crisis, Japan can once again enchant travelers with its unusual and exotic atmosphere. To get off the beaten track, head to the village of Okuhida, in Gifu Prefecture, for a stay at the Kai Hotel, which opened last September. A unique immersion in the heart of the mountains, in a setting combining the traditional design of the region with onsens, these relaxing hot springs that are beneficial for the skin. Back in the capital, the Tokyo odyssey can be enjoyed from the OMO5 hotel, located in the authentic and booming Gotanda district. Designed and equipped with a hanging garden, the establishment offers 188 rooms, all with a breathtaking view.
OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda, from €169 per night. Kai Okuhida, from €187 per night.
Argentina, adventure in the Andes
Kingdom of gauchos and fly fishermen, Patagonia is a destination with spectacular landscapes. After a stopover of a few days in Buenos Aires, time to discover its unique neighborhoods, cross the country towards the west to reach the Andes on the Chilean border. Imagined seventy years ago and located on the edge of Lake Nahuel Huapi – between mountains and forests – this exceptional address is an ideal spot for discovering the Los Arrayanes National Park and the Seven Lakes Route.
Correntoso Lake & River Hotel, from €323 per night.
In Buenos Aires, Casa Lucia hotel, from €323 per night.
A cruise in Australia and New Zealand
A twenty-hour flight from France, these two islands at the end of the world are a dream come true for travelers looking for adventure. To avoid adding to the fatigue of the long plane journey, Rivages du Monde offers a two-week cruise which allows you to enjoy a trip mixing urban explorations and nature discoveries, all aboard a comfortable, sized ship. human, renovated in 2022. Installed in one of the 184 cabins of 22 square meters, after boarding in Auckland and exploring the city, you will make your first stopover in Tauranga where the culture is revealed Maori.
Next comes Wellington and its numerous museums, then Kaikoura and its exceptional biodiversity, the opportunity to come across dolphins, seals and whales. Akaroa, Dunedin, Stewart Island and the crossing of Fiordland Park, with its majestic waterfalls, follow. A short flight will then allow you to reach Sydney for two full days to take the pulse of the city and relax on the very trendy Bondi beach.
Rivages du Monde offers a two-week cruise which allows you to enjoy a trip combining urban explorations and nature discoveries, all aboard a comfortable, human-sized ship, renovated in 2022.
/ © Dana Brown / Heritage Adventure
From €11,990, first departure from November 2 to 17, 2025. www.rivagesdumonde.fr
Vietnam from north to south
Historic cities, paradise islands, enchanting rice fields, the country has an infinite wealth of landscapes and discoveries. For a first trip, opt for a tour starting in Hanoi, the capital, where museums, lively streets and colonial architecture offer an exciting stroll. Then board a traditional wooden junk for Tu Long Bay, just as beautiful but less crowded than Ha Long Bay.
Along Bay, in northeastern Vietnam, is famous for its turquoise waters and thousands of islands
/ © Ammiengo /Unsplash
A short flight will then allow you to reach Hue, the former imperial capital, where you will stroll along the Perfume River. Then departure for Hoi An before ending the trip in Ho Chi Minh City. The economic heart of Vietnam, this megacity shines through the alliance between the colonial heritage and the creation of modern neighborhoods, to be explored, why not, aboard a Vespa.
From €3,600 per person for thirteen days. www.voyageursdumonde.fr
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