6 Best International Vacation Destinations for Retirees This Winter
Written by
Sarah Sharkey
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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Winter is right around the corner. For many retirees, the return of colder weather means it’s time for a trip to somewhere warmer. But where to go? Luckily, there’s no shortage of international vacation destinations with plenty of sunshine for retirees to potentially explore without breaking the budget.
Explore some destinations as you map out your own winter escape today.
1. Greece
Retirees looking to immerse themselves in a culture rich in both history and modern traditions will find a lot to love in Greece. Depending on your preferences, you might start your journey in Athens to get lost in the beauty of an ancient empire before heading to one of the many beautiful islands dotting the Aegean Sea.
While the winter is in the off-season in Greece, there are still many things to explore. Celebrity Cruises noted winter shopping, fewer crowds and cooler days as a few highlights of Greece during the winter.
Plus, when visiting Greece, you might be surprised by the sheer affordability of the place. You can easily find accommodations for less than $100 per night, according to Budget Your Trip, especially in the winter off-season. Additionally, food costs are relatively low, which can make for an affordable culinary adventure.
2. Spain
Southern Spain offers a mild Mediterranean winter, which could be a reprieve from the cold for many retirees seeking an international escape. It’s possible to find hotels for under $200 per night, according to Budget Your Trip. With exceptional public transportation options and affordable accommodation options, southern Spain might be the perfect winter destination for retirees.
When visiting Spain, be prepared to enjoy a slightly different pace. Generally, you’ll find wonderful tapas and paella options. But dinner is often served a bit later than visiting Americans might expect.
3. Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s bountiful nature offers a potential escape into an outdoor adventure balanced with plenty of opportunities for relaxation. In terms of costs, travelers can expect to spend an average of $138 a day, per Budget Your Trip.
With Costa Rica’s comfortable temperatures during the winter, you can expect to find warm days to soak up the sun. While relaxing on a beach is always a pleasant option, you can also check out the rainforest and volcanoes as potential adventures to add to your itinerary.
4. Mexico
For American retirees seeking an international getaway, Mexico often offers an exotic choice without a painfully long plane ride. In Mexico, you can find beautiful cities, like Cozumel, which offers coral reef snorkeling and relaxing beaches.
According to Travel U.S. News, December through February is a very popular time to visit Cozumel. Travelers may want to avoid Christmas and New Year’s, though, as prices could be higher.
Per Budget Your Trip, the average traveler spends about $121 in Cozumel per day. But if you are seeking a more “done for you” experience, consider checking out cruise options because Cozumel is a popular spot for many cruise lines.
5. Thailand
For retirees looking to explore a bit farther, Thailand represents an interesting opportunity this winter. According to Travel + Leisure, travelers will likely get the best weather in Thailand from November through March.
Although the plane ride is a bit of a hurdle, once you arrive, you’ll find an affordable destination packed with new experiences. You can easily find hotels for less than $100 per night, per Budget Your Trip.
Chiang Mai is one budget-friendly option, which offers plenty of sights and cultural experiences. For example, you can explore the many temples and markets scattered throughout the city without breaking the bank.
6. Dominican Republic
If you are seeking a Caribbean escape this winter, the Dominican Republic could be a great option. The island is about a two-hour plane ride from Miami and about four hours from New York. After a potentially short plane ride, you can immediately begin soaking up the sun at one of the country’s numerous beaches.
Many tourists opt to stay in Punta Cana, where travelers spend an average of $168 per day, according to Budget Your Trip. In addition to beach lounging, you can find plenty of outdoor activities to do, like surfing, hiking and golf, to enhance your vacation experience.
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