The 1st picture - Sunny skies and warm climes may be pleasant, but for truly unforgettable travel experiences, consider a winter getaway. Witness a dazzling aurora borealis, hike to the remote reaches of Tibet, or try one of these other ideas for adventurers and chill seekers.

The 2nd picture - St. Petersburg, Russia - Russian winters are infamously bitter, but they also inspired such masterpieces as "War and Peace" and the much-beloved "Nutcracker" ballet. Indulge your inner artist at the breathtaking Hermitage Museum and Winter Palace, which houses one of the world's largest collections of Western art.

The 3rd picture - Fairbanks, Alaska - The famous aurora borealis is such a draw in Fairbanks that "auroriums" ?heated cabins from which the lightshow can be viewed ?have sprung up. Conditions for the northern lights are ideal between January and March. The Fairbanks CVB estimates that visitors should plan on staying three nights for an 80% chance of witnessing it.

The 4th picture - Tibet, China - Tourists traditionally shy away from Tibet during the chilly winter months, but a journey to the "Roof of the World" isn't about following the herd. Besides, the weather, while far from balmy, is warmer than you'd expect, with winter temperatures in the warmer cities (including Lhasa) averaging about 30캟 and even reaching highs of 60캟.

The 5th picture - Jukkasj?vi, Sweden - Better known as the location of the original Ice Hotel, this tiny town has become a favorite tourist spot in the 17 years since the hotel's inception. Every spring the entire hotel melts and has to be rebuilt from scratch. You'll find an FAQ covering topics such as how to stay warm in below-zero temperatures and details of the restroom facilities at the hotel's official site.

The last picture - London, UK - If you're looking for an icy thrill year-round, head for the Ice Bar in London's Picadilly Circus. Patrons can drink Absolut and other signature drinks from glasses made of ice transported all the way from the Torne River in Jukkasj?vi. Warm up at Below Zero, the adjacent restaurant, which is actually kept at normal room temperature.