Nestled in southeastern Washington, the charming town of Walla Walla is a destination that combines rich history, award-winning wines, and an emerging culinary scene.

Just a hundred miles east of LA, there's always something going on in Palm Springs and the other cities of the Coachella Valley, nestled among the desert palm trees but with stunning views of the nearby snow-capped mountains. This trip was no exception.

Seeing as I had a break from work, I took it as an opportunity to visit a friend in Lynchburg, Virginia, whom I had not seen in over a year. While I was excited, I was also hesitant to leave the comfort of Seattle.

As the winter approaches, it's natural to crave the warm, cozy comfort of our homes. But for those willing to brave a bit of cold, Washington offers some of the best destination getaways for the season.

"It is common to see Queer partners walking hand in hand through the streets of the Old Town, sitting and smooching at a café, or staring romantically into each other's eyes over hot cafés con leche or a cold cerveza."

"And, if your curiosity gets the best of you, tuk-tuk operators are notorious for taking you directly to the red-light districts or naughty remote alleyways, where everything from ping-pong shows to other debauchery awaits."

"Whereas Seattle and vicinity is home to just over 4 million residents, Istanbul, with one quarter the space, crams in over 15 million. And somehow — well, it wasn't a big mystery: Grindr! — Afran and I found each other."

"Many locals casually joke that 'Taiwan is the 51st US state nobody knows about.'"

"Two birds, one stone."

"Winter camping is not an activity for those who enjoy cleanliness, but the mud was a small price to pay for the peace and adventure I found hidden among the Pacific Northwest woods."