Get Away From The Cold
Now that it's officially winter, many snowbirds are counting down the days until the holiday season is over so they can hide out in warmer climates. At this point in the year, it's probably too late to book a sun-soaked getaway before the snow and ice truly set in. However, there's always next year to look forward to!
1. Sicily
If you want to spend your winter enjoying good views, good wine, and good food, then Sicily is the place for you. While much of Europe is frozen over during the winter, Sicily enjoys warm and sunny weather. As a bonus, traveling during shoulder season means you'll miss the summer crowd crush.
2. Cape Town
Cape Town turns the cold temperatures of northern winter upside-down! Not only is Cape Town (and the rest of South Africa) much more hospitable than the states, but the exchange rate makes it easy to stretch your money out. Cape Town has less snowbird infrastructure than other cities on this list, but is still tourist-friendly.
kylefromthenorth™️ on Unsplash
3. Fairhope
Really, you can't go wrong anywhere along the coast, but Alabama has an unfortunate reputation as a hillbilly backwood that needs some much-needed PR. Just south of Mobile, Fairhope is one of the state's fastest-growing cities. Fairhope offers jaw-dropping coastal sunsets, mild winters, and a lovely local arts scene.
4. Ischia
Ischia might just be the most beautiful Italian city you've never heard of. A volcanic island in the Bay of Naples, Ischia offers thermal hot springs and stunning medieval architecture. There's no better place to give yourself over to utter relaxation.
5. Las Cruces
While Arizona is home to several sought-after snowbird destinations, neighboring New Mexico is full of untapped potential. Las Cruces, the state's second-largest city, has all the bustle and adobe charm of the southwest, but far fewer tourists. Nothing ruins a relaxing vacation like hordes of sneaker-clad tourists.
6. Guanajuato
Unsurprisingly, Mexico is a major hub for winter travel since it's cheap, convenient, and full of beautiful culture. Guanajuato, in central Mexico, is a gorgeous World Heritage city with beautiful colonial architecture and dry winter. As a bonus, it's extremely accessible to snowbirds with limited mobility.
7. Panama City
While Panama is relatively popular among long-time snowbirds, it's still relatively under the radar. With its' beautiful beaches and relatively low cost of living, we're not sure how long it will stay that way. Go now before it's flooded with tourists.
8. Auckland
New Zealand may be about as far away as you can get from the states, but we promise a visit is worth the long flight. While the Northern Hemisphere suffers through brutal winters, Auckland enjoys sunny summers. The climate is so nice you'll forget that it's February rather than July.
9. Corpus Christi
Texas is part of the "sun belt" that many snowbirds flock to as soon as the temperature hovers above freezing. However, Corpus Christi is woefully overlooked in favor of bigger cities. Perfectly situated on the Gulf Coast, Corpus Christi offers spectacular fishing and boating along with breathtaking views.
10. Victoria
Going to Canada to escape the cold may seem counterintuitive, but hear us out. Despite being farther north than Minneapolis, Victoria has a Mediterranean climate. Westerly winds and ocean breezes keep this coastal city more than 40° warmer than the nation's capital.
Now that we've covered some underrated snowbird destinations, let's look at a few classics you can't go wrong with!
1. Scottsdale
If you love golf, there's no better place to spend your summer than Scottsdale. Scottsdale (and the Tuscon) area is a snowbird classic for a reason. Not only is there wonderful gulf, but all that sunshine is sure to chase away even the nastiest case of the winter blues.
2. Key West
We could fill this section of the list with Floridian cities, but we're opting to show restraint. If you can't waste away in Margaritaville, enjoying the sun, sand, and lime-flavored desserts of Key West is pretty good compromise.
3. The Gold Coast
There's a reason they call Australia's southeast coast the Gold Coast, and it's not just because of all that pristine sand. The Gold Coast is a major moneymaker for both domestic and international tourism. If you've done Florida one too many times, why not head further south for the ultimate beach getaway?
4. Bali
Few destinations are as beloved as Bali. Indonesia's most famous island is an ocean playground—and an affordable one at that! However, that excellent exchange rate may mean you have to share this slice of paradise with more people than you planned for.
5. Phuket
Another classic snowbird destination, Phuket is an ideal winter destination if you plan on staying for several months. Not only is there excellent infrastructure, there are also some of the most beautiful beaches on the plate. If the crowds around Phuket prove to be too much, you could always take a trip to Chiang Mai.
6. Porto
Portugal is one of the fastest-growing destinations for both European and American snowbirds. Porto's low cost of living, stunning views, and mouthwatering wines bring crowds in year after year. If you don't mind some colder temperatures, think of Porto as your gateway to Europe.
7. Madeira
Speaking of Portugal, we couldn't make this list without mentioning Madeira! This autonomous archipelago is known for the contrast between its rugged volcanic landscape and eternal summer climate. Madeira has a sizeable snowbird/expat community, so you'll fit right in!
8. Cabo
As we said earlier, Mexico is one of the most accessible and affordable destinations for American snowbirds. If you're into aquatic activities, Cabo's seaside resorts simply cannot be beaten. While Cabo is an amazing destination, it can be crowded.
Christopher Kuzman on Unsplash
9. San José
Currently, Costa Rica has yet to be dethroned as Central America's go-to snowbird destination. Costa Rica's capital gets a lot of trouist traffic due to its educational museums and lush parks. Costa Rica has a huge snowbird community, so it won't be hard to make a few friends.
César Badilla Miranda on Unsplash
10. Malta
Malta is becoming increasingly popular for tourists, not just during the winter, but all year round. Malta has ancient history, mild weather, and cultural heritage unlike. As a bonus, English is the official language, so you needn't worry about any language barriers.
