4 Toasty and Cheap Travel Destinations for Retirees This Winter

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Retirement travel comes with plenty of advantages, as there is no longer any counting PTO days you have or figuring out which family member you can beg to babysit the kids. For those in good health and with the financial means, it’s the perfect time to check some places off the bucket list and enjoy unique experiences, including everything from hot springs to the Northern Lights.

Ready to escape the winter without overspending? Here are four awesome destinations perfect for soaking up some rays in the cold winter months without stretching your retirement budget.

Costa Rica

Looking to travel with your children and grandchildren this winter outside of the United States, but still stay a bit closer to home?

Costa Rica is ideal for a family getaway, as it is an affordable, vibrant destination packed with cultural experiences that cater to all ages. Many budget-friendly travel packages from Expedia offer all-inclusive stays at eco-lodges or resorts, often starting at $450, and include flights, accommodation and meals. These packages also typically cover activities like wildlife tours, nature hikes and excursions to world-class national parks, allowing everyone to enjoy the country’s rich biodiversity.

The country also boasts a year-round average temperature of 71.7°F, making winter in Costa Rica a perfect time to explore the country’s beaches, volcanoes, botanical gardens and rainforests without worrying about rain.

Explore More: 10 Vacations That Need To Be on Every Middle-Class Retiree’s Bucket List

Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi, Vietnam, is an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers looking for a rich cultural experience. Per Expedia, travel packages, including day trip visits to attractions like Hoan Kiem Lake, typically run between $700 and $1,200 per person for a week — and often include stays at budget-friendly hotels or guesthouses, plus city tours and transportation.

You can even custom-make your Vietnam vacation package from a low $345, and to make up for the long flight, you can treat yourself to a massage for as little as $10 to $20 for 60 minutes, or splurge on a premium experience for $50 to $100.

With temperatures between 60°F and 75°F, the winter months are ideal for visiting. Public transport costs around $0.29 per trip and accommodations average at $41 per night. With its mix of culture, history and affordability, Hanoi makes a perfect destination for a memorable, budget-friendly vacation.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is a top destination for retirees looking for relaxation and natural beauty, but also just to visit when their home state starts getting snowy. Landmarks such as Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge offer breathtaking views and memorable experiences, whether you’re hiking, taking photos or joining guided tours. 

Vacation packages that typically include stays at charming inns or resorts, meals and activities like hiking and Jeep tours start at around $355. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly stays starting at $100 per night to luxury resorts that can go up to $400 or more. January is especially attractive due to fewer crowds and lower rates.

With mild winter temperatures ranging from 55°F to 65°F, it’s the perfect time to explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy the arts scene or unwind at wellness retreats. Sedona’s combination of stunning landscapes, cultural attractions and a tranquil vibe makes it an ideal winter getaway.

The Caribbean

If lounging on sun-soaked beaches and island-hopping sounds like your kind of winter escape, a Caribbean cruise, which offers an ideal mix of relaxation and exploration, might be your ticket. A cruise is a hassle-free way to visit tropical destinations without worrying about the details. The price of cruise packages depends largely on the length of the cruise and the port of departure. 

Cruise packages normally range from $300 to $2,000 per person, covering everything from accommodation and meals to entertainment and excursions to spots like the Bahamas, Mexico, Jamaica and the Virgin Islands. This is a perfect way to get some less frigid fresh air. During the winter months, the weather stays warm and sunny, with temperatures between 75°F and 85°F — perfect for relaxing on beaches or taking part in fun onboard activities.

Accommodations, including meals and entertainment, are part of the package, with cabin prices averaging between $100 and $300 per night. A Caribbean cruise effortlessly blends relaxation with adventure, making it an excellent option for retirees seeking a stress-free winter getaway.

Caitlyn Moorhead contributed to the reporting for this article.

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