France is experiencing an unusually mild winter, which has led to low snowfall in ski areas across the country.

One affected ski area is Le Mourtis, in the Pyrenees mountains of southern France. The lack of snow has forced the holiday village to temporarily close its ski runs—at the height of the winter season. Local restaurants and hotels are seeing fewer visitors. People who do come to the area are seeking to do other things besides skiing. Warmer temperatures have made hiking one of the most popular activities. Recent daytime temperatures at Le Mourtis have reached 10 degrees Celsius. Some hikers even removed winter clothing while making their way across mountain areas containing very little snow.

“Skiing? No one today can guarantee it,” said hotel operator Gillaizeau. He has been making money by renting out two-wheeled motorcycles to help visitors in the area have fun. The scooters can be ridden down grassy mountains. They come with equipment made for riding on snow, but Gillaizeau has attached bicycle wheels instead. His ski rental equipment remains untouched. He says he has had to reduce the hours of some workers and expects business losses during the season to drop as much as 15 percent.

Many people in the area believe the latest winter is more than just a bad year. The last time France experienced such a mild December and January was in 1900, French weather officials say. Christelle Robert is an official with Meteo-France, the country’s national weather service. She told Reuters that mild winters and less snow seem to be a clear sign of global warming.

Scientists have predicted a continued rise in world temperatures. People connected to the area’s ski industry are considering a future with much less snow. If such weather continues, ski resorts around 1,600 meters above sea level will be so warm that they will not even be able to use artificial snow because it will melt.

With Christmas just around the corner, cities across the United States are transforming into enchanting winter wonderlands in preparation for season. If you are looking to add some holiday spirit to your next vacation, these destinations are a great option!

Branson, MO

Known as one of the most family-friendly vacation destinations in the country, Branson, MO also comes to life around the holidays. Boasting some of the most fun and memorable holiday celebrations, this Ozarks hub is filled with Christmas activities the whole family can enjoy. Most of the popular shows have Christmas-themed evenings beginning in November, so don’t miss out on Dolly Parton’s Stampede Branson, the Haygoods, Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza, or the Christmas on the Trail Chuckwagon Dinner Show!

Nashville, TN

Music City is also a fantastic destination for a Christmas celebration. Nashville, TN is home to so many different ways to celebrate the holidays. If you are looking for a way to see the city on your vacation, embark upon the Nashville Christmas Lights Tour where you can see the city in its holiday splendor. As well as sightseeing tours, guests can visit classic Nashville attractions for a unique holiday adventure. See all of the memorabilia at the Country Music Hall of Fame. You can create unforgettable memories while experiencing the cheer of the holidays in this southern city.

Orlando, FL

For snowbirds, the cold winter months mean travel to warmer destinations. Christmas time is no different, and Orlando, FL is filled with things to entertain and help you celebrate even during the holiday season. Those who want to take in the best theme park experiences will not be disappointed as Disney World, Universal, and SeaWorld, are all open during the holidays. There are also plenty of outdoor activities still available.

Birthdays are especially important to the very young and the very old. On their birthdays, people receive birthday cards and birthday presents from their family and friends. Children’s cards often have a large number on them showing how old they are. Cards for adults have pictures of flowers or scenery, or humorous or rude cartoons. Inside there is usually a simple greeting, such as “Happy Birthday” or “Many Happy Returns of the Day.”

In the US, children who have their birthdays during the school year take a cake to school and have a small party with their classmates. In Britain, children sometimes get Bumped (lifted off the ground horizontally and put down again sharply) by their friends.

In the US, the 16th birthday is called sweet 16. It is the age at which a person can get a US driver’s license, and some wealthier parents give their children a car as a present. At 18, in Britain and in the US, young people become adults and many have a big party. In most parts of the US, 21 is the age at which people can drink alcohol legally.

In Britain, people celebrate 21st birthday less. Many adults dislike getting older and a few lie about their age. But in general older people are now much more willing to tell others their age. You may see a sign by the side of a road saying: “Dave Ell is 40 today!”, put there by Dave’s friends. At about 65, people retire, and those who have reached this age are called senior citizens. Few people live to be 100, so a 100th birthday is very special. In Britain, people reaching this age may receive cards containing a printed message from the Queen.