By M.C. Warford
Winter in Canada usually means it’s time to start packing your bags and head south. While the low Canadian dollar has made many Canadians rethink their holiday adventures in the sun, the truth is that there are still plenty of affordable destinations where you can leave winter behind. Here’s a look at eight of the best sun-seeker holidays for this winter. [Image credit: iStock.com/IakovKalinin]
Cuba has been a mainstay on the Canadian tourist circuit for decades now and for good reason. The loonie still goes far here – the island country is just a short flight away, and package deals are easy to come by. And there’s also the incredible array of history, culture, beaches, and stunning vistas on offer.
Yes, we know, the U.S. dollar is way higher than the loonie right now, but you can actually use that discrepancy to your advantage. Many of the tourist destinations in Florida that cater to Canadian snowbirds are now offering steep discounts to lure them back. If you want to find a great deal, now might be the time to head to the Sunshine State.
Thailand is certainly far away, which means that flights can be expensive, but once you land you’ll find that you have a tropical paradise that costs just a fraction of what you would spend in the U.S. or the Caribbean. Plus, the weather is always warm, the food is delicious, and the beaches are some of the most stunning in the world.
Australia is about as far from Canada as you can get, but keep in mind that when it’s winter up here it’s summer down under. If you have the time to spare, Australia offers a fabulous getaway, with some of the most beautiful beaches, fascinating wildlife, and jaw-dropping scenery anywhere in the world.
Mexico often gets portrayed in a poor light in the news, but the fact is that much of this country remains a safe and worthwhile visit for Canadians. The Canadian dollar still goes a long way here and you also have access to ancient cultures and traditions that you won’t find anywhere else.
Hawaii isn’t cheap or close (unless you live on the West Coast), but if you have the money to spare it is worth the visit. This archipelago in the Pacific is pretty much the textbook definition of paradise. From unique volcanic parks to excellent snorkelling, Hawaii offers sun-soaked adventures that are perfect for anybody.
That’s right, Peru! For some reason this South American country on the Pacific Coast doesn’t show up on the radars of most Canadians looking for a sun destination, which is odd because Peru offers some of the most incredible beaches, excellent surfing, and delicious food in the world. Plus, flights to Lima are affordable and the Canadian dollar goes very far here.
It’s summer in Brazil, and no country knows how to party quite like this one does. Brazil ticks all the boxes: it’s affordable, has the best beaches in the world, friendly locals, plenty of culture and history, and world-famous scenery. If you’re looking to get away this winter, Brazil may be the answer.
Winter isn’t much fun when the winds are howling, the snow is knee-deep, and the roads are icy. So why not pack you bags and head for some fun in the sun this season, where you can escape the cold and relax on a warm, sandy beach?
