Snowbird On A Budget? 20 Cheap & Warm Destinations To Escape To This Winter
Take A Break From Winter For Less
Winter is long, dreary, and cold, so why endure all of it if you can get away? You might think it's not in your budget, but there are so many places where you can stretch your dollar and have a fantastic escape. Here are 20 cheap and warm destinations to escape to this winter.
1. Jamaica
Jamaica has long been flocked to by northerners looking to defrost without breaking the bank. It's known for its picturesque beaches, lush mountains, and rum-tasting. Stick to the less touristy places for a more authentic and affordable experience.
2. Colombia
Known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Colombia is another popular destination for snowbirds. Despite becoming a favorite tourist destination, it has managed to stay inexpensive with one week in the historic seaside town of Cartagena still only costing around $300 per person.
Ricardo Gomez Angel on Unsplash
3. India
For the more adventurous snowbird with a little more time, India is a perfect destination. If it's beaches you're after, check out Goa, a coastal town with Portuguese colonial architecture. Living costs here are more expensive than the rest of India but still relatively cheap for Westerners.
4. Cuba
The land of old cars, striking historic architecture, amazing beaches, and Mojitos is still extremely accessible cost-wise. You can find stays here for as little as $20 a night.
5. Mexico
Always a favorite destination for Northerners, Mexico offers stunning beaches, diverse metropolitan areas, and impressive archaeological sites. Although some coastal destinations like Cancun have become expensive, there are some better-kept secrets like the surfing village of Sayulita that still offer budget-friendly experiences.
6. Ecuador
When most people decide to go to South America, they automatically head to Peru or Argentina, but Ecuador offers a similar experience for a fraction of the price. Enjoy the wonders of the Galapagos Islands, take a hike on a volcano, or visit a heritage site in one of the town centers.
7. Vietnam
In Vietnam, you can have the best of both worlds, from relaxing on a pristine beach to experiencing a vibrant culture in a bustling metropolis. Although it's become a sought-after tourist destination, it still only costs around $400 for a week of nonstop sightseeing, including transportation, food, and accommodation.
8. Thailand
Thailand offers a beautiful blend of majestic temples, serene landscapes, and lively city centers. Not quite a secret anymore, Thailand has become rather touristy, but if you're a smart traveler, you can have a memorable vacation without spending more than $500 per week.
9. South Carolina
It may not be the tropical vacation you had in mind, but if you want a unique experience right in your own backyard, head to South Carolina.
Charleston will surprise you with its unique architecture, food, culture, and low prices. Plus, it's relatively warm year-round.
Photo by Cody Silver on Unsplash
10. Nicaragua
Another underrated Central American nation is Nicaragua. Rife with colonial sites, beautiful natural wonders, and gorgeous beaches, this country is an uncrowded but impressive spot. What’s more, the cost of living here is 1.5 times less than the global average.
11. Portugal
If it's Europe you're after, look no further than Portugal. If you're looking to spend as little as possible, skip the capital, Lisbon, and opt for the fishing village of Porto. Better yet, get off the beaten path and go to Setúbal, where you'll find a similar laid-back atmosphere and historic town center for less.
Photo by Nick Karvounis on Unsplash
12. Puerto Rico
This Caribbean island is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforest, and mountainous terrain. The people here are friendly and have a vibrant culture. Plus, the cost of living here is over 10% cheaper than in the rest of the US.
Photo by Thomas Isbister on Unsplash
13. Florida
If you're looking for a beach vacation, it turns out you don't have to go very far. Skip expensive Miami and head to Fort Lauderdale for sun and sand that won't cost an arm and a leg.
14. Turkey
Turkey is a country straddling Europe and Asia. It was ruled by many different empires over its long history, and influences from each are apparent in the country's stupendous architecture.
Although you can spend a lot on a luxurious trip here, you can also get by easily on about $50 a day.
15. South Africa
South Africa sits at the southernmost tip of Africa. It boasts glorious mountain ranges that give way to a clear blue ocean bordered by soft white sands, vibrant metropolises, and abundant wildlife all for the low price of $25 to $70 a day.
16. Malaysia
Another South Asian coastal country, Malaysia is known for its sprawling mountains, turquoise waters, and diverse cities. A hundred dollars can get you a ten-night stay in a hostel. Food, fuel, and transportation are also cheap, but note that alcohol is rare and costly.
17. Sri Lanka
Aside from the price of the airfare and length of travel, Sri Lanka is a highly accessible country that can cost as low as $300 a week to visit. It's known for its rolling green hills, opulent temples, beautiful, warm beaches, and unique cultural heritage.
Hendrik Cornelissen on Unsplash
18. Italy
Sure, going to Rome and Venice might cost you a fortune, but there are plenty of lesser-known places that offer a more authentic Italian experience for much less. If it's warmth on a budget you're after, head to Puglia or Sicily.
19. Chile
Another overlooked South American country, Chile, is a long, narrow country on the western edge of the continent.
It's known for such natural wonders as the picturesque Valley of the Moon and Cape Horn, and the energetic major city of Santiago. You can easily visit this country on a budget of $40 to $60 a day.
20. Spain
The major cities of Barcelona and Madrid might be out of your price range, but Granada, Canary Islands, and Seville are bound to fit the bill. You can get by on a budget of around $600 a week in these places.
