5 Affordable Places To Visit in the Caribbean After the Holiday Season

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Are you looking to ditch the cold, dry weather and head somewhere warm (and budget-conscious) after the holidays? The holidays can be a stressful time, from planning four-course meals for family members to running in circles trying to attend every gathering.

If you’ve had your eyes on the Caribbean for a post-holiday vacation, here are affordable places to visit.

Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands are one of the most scenic destinations in the Caribbean, offering picture-perfect shorelines and the well-known Seven Mile Beach. Flight prices to the Cayman Islands typically drop after the holiday season, meaning you can score a roundtrip flight for around $250 to $350 from major U.S. cities. Add the Cayman Islands to your list of places to visit after the holidays.

“The Cayman Islands offer a perfect blend of relaxation, natural beauty and budget-friendly options,” said Rosa Harris, director of tourism for the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism. “Traveling during the off-peak season, such as January through March, can broaden visitors’ options on deals for accommodations and activities.

“Transportation on the island is easy and cost-effective with options such as taxis and local buses,” Harris added. “For attractions, many of the Cayman Islands’ highlights like snorkeling at Stingray City or exploring the Crystal Caves are reasonably priced (ranging from $30 to $80 per person).”

Dominican Republic (Punta Cana)

The Dominican Republic is another popular destination, with warm water, soft sand and various outdoor activities. Punta Cana is filled with all-inclusive resorts, meaning you can snag a deal after the holidays. Even with Punta Cana’s busy season being from December to February, many resorts offer early booking discounts and promotions, helping you save money. Prices per night at an all-inclusive can range from $88 to $548, giving you flexibility to work around your budget. 

“The Dominican Republic is probably the best bang for your buck location in the Caribbean for all-inclusive resorts,” said Will Lee, travel agent with Chima Travel. “You can find resort stays for as low as $80 a night, with transportation costs being just as low.

“Most resorts have options to purchase excursions and tours. Not sure what to do? You can take a catamaran and sail the Caribbean. You can visit Bavaro beach for a classic white sand Caribbean beach. If you are looking for something more adventurous, check out the local Cenotes or caves,” Lee added.

Curaçao 

Curaçao is one of the ABC islands, alongside Aruba and Bonaire. Curaçao resides just outside of the hurricane belt, meaning the weather is pleasant and calm. Visiting this destination after the holidays can unlock cost savings. Hotels range from $100 to $300 per night, while food and drinks range from $10 to $30 per meal. Plan to spend $100 to $500 per day. Whether you’re a beachgoer, snorkeler or diver, Curaçao is a top Caribbean location for you to visit without breaking the bank. 

Isla Barú

Isla Barú is filled with nature, wildlife and mesmerizing beaches. If you love water sports, Isla Barú is the spot for you. Jet skiing, snorkeling and diving are popular attractions in this Caribbean location. Depending on your activities, a one-week stay can range from $500 to $1,500 per person, making it affordable for any budget. Similarly, a roundtrip flight to Isla Barú is inexpensive, starting at $171.

While Isla Barú offers a warm climate year-round, the winter months are the dry season, bringing sunny skies and perfect beach weather. This makes it an ideal time to visit and experience everything Isa Barú has to offer. Travelers staying at the Sofitel Barú can easily access the resort through direct flights to Cartagena from major U.S. cities, followed by a short catamaran transfer to the island. If you’re ready for expansive nature and endless water activities, check out Isla Barú.

Saint Lucia 

Saint Lucia is home to the Pitons, Morne Coubaril Historical Adventure Park, Pigeon Island National Landmark and many more attractions. After the holidays, Saint Lucia enters its busy season with minimal rain, less humidity and ample sunshine. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t find a great deal on a vacation. Budget-friendly vacations start at $1,000 per week. If you’re looking for a luxurious retreat, the price can range from $1,500 to $3,000. 

Which Caribbean destination is calling your name? A post-holiday vacation might be exactly what you need, especially if you live in a colder climate. 

_{Editor’s note: Rates and availability may vary depending on location.}

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