5 Budget Friendly Sunny Destinations For Your Winter Escape

Sunset over the beach in Ao Nang, Thailand

Winter is harsh. Snow, freezing temperatures, more snow.     Your skin gets dry and cracked and you catch at least one     of those awful colds. Everyone seems to go into hibernation   mode. To me, the silver lining is my annual winter vacation    getaway. Whether it’s on a beach or to another snow-filled    destination, getaways are a good way to get you through the  winter blues.

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Here are top choices for affordable sunny destinations.
 
Cuba
As inexpensive goes, Cuba is definitely one of the top destinations. Affordable flights from Canada are easily found and the all-inclusive resorts make your overall spending very low. The weather is also best during the harsher, longer months of winter, from February to April. There is an abundance of gorgeous beaches and something to do for everyone. From visiting Havana, hiking through caves, boating and snorkelling or diving, or simply relaxing on the beach, you will find something for every taste!

Beach Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

​Dominican Republic
Much like Cuba, Dominican Republic has affordable flights, great all-inclusive resorts and amazing weather! Look for resorts with lots of restaurant choices and enjoy the different cuisines they offer. And when it comes to activities, there is definitely no shortage! Rent a surfboard or a sea-doo, or take a snorkelling or diving tour, and spend the day in the ocean. You can also go on some awesome catamaran tours and swim in natural pools, see starfish and enjoy some drinks and dancing! The resorts all have great activity directors on site that make sure all their guests are enjoying themselves. Participate in the activities and have fun!
 
Mexico
If you’re looking for great nightlife and wonderful adventures, Mexico might just be your next stop! Boasting a variety of all-inclusive resorts and regular hotels and accommodations, it has tons of activities for all types of travelers. Stay on your resort the entire week or go see the Mayan architecture, ruins and pyramids, visit one of their historical sites, or take a dive in the warm waters to experience the reefs and sea life. And don’t forget to stuff yourself with delicious authentic Mexican food!
 
Costa Rica
Looking for a bit more adventure? Try Costa Rica! WestJet now offers direct flights to Liberia from Toronto and Calgary! Keep an eye open to take advantage of one of their seat sales and indulge in a Costa Rican adventure.
 
Road trips through this country are incredible, however be very careful if you are renting a car to research thoroughly the rental agency. It is very common in Costa Rica that tourists are quoted a certain price only to find out that it doubles (or more!) when you add insurance. Check out TripAdvisor before making your booking to ensure that other travelers have had good experiences dealing with the company. However, affordable accommodations, cheap food and awesome organized tours make this a very easy trip to plan, even without a car. Hike through the jungle and take some surfing lessons. And don’t miss out on the volcanoes, caves, hot springs and zip lines that are all the rage in this country. Pura Vida!
 
Thailand
The flight is long, but your stay is incredibly cheap and worth it if you’re leaving for an extended period. I would recommend a minimum stay of three weeks to enjoy this country to it’s fullest and to not get too overwhelmed by the jetlag. There is so much diversity in Thailand that you will find activities for anyone and everyone. Whether you’re looking for a party, a relaxing beach vacation, an adrenaline rush, or a cultural experience, you will find it here. And for the foodie in your group, it will be beyond expectations! (Try the mango beer at Peeps Thai Eatery, it’s delicious!) 

Sunset over palm trees in Koh Samui, Thailand

​In the end, no matter where your travels take you, warm sunny weather always helps get you through a bad case of the winter blues. No matter your budget, there is a destination for you. Check out our blog “22 Ways To Save Money For Travel” for tips on how to save up what you need for your trip. Please, be a bit greedy once in a while and take the time for yourself! We only live once, let’s enjoy it! Happy travels!
 
J&C