It’s officially December. In Canada, and other countries in the upper northern hemisphere, that means each day’s sunlight is less then the day before, it’s about to get EXTREMELY cold, and travellers and their families are thinking about their winter season travel plans.
For many, the standard ‘all inclusive’ vacation at a resort is the go to. Relax on the beach or by the pool, sip a few drinks and work on nothing but your tan. Paradise.
But Backpack With Brock isn’t all about sitting around doing nothing (although that can be incredible in it’s own right). Inject some adventure and energy into your trip. I’m not saying you need to spend your entire vacation climbing mountains, but why not blend excitement and relaxation by heading somewhere unique this winter.
The list below is a mix of places and ideas for making your winter season travel plans different from your neighbors and to keep things affordable. We’re still in a recession after all!
Cartagena, Colombia
Okay, you might be thinking – strange start Brock. Colombia has had a bit of a bad rap in the past. But, when I visited this coastal city last winter I was stunned at how beautiful, safe and tourist friendly it was. From the old quater to the nearby Totuma mud volcano and beautiful Playa Blanca beach – Cartagena, Colombia has it going on. The flight to get there might be slightly more expensive but once you arrive, food and entertainment are pretty budget.
Be Flexible: Book Late
If you have a specific place you want to spend your holiday, then this might not be the best option for you. However, if it’s more about the adventure and saving money, don’t be afraid to confirm your winter season travel plans last minute. You can go into a travel agent or use a website that offers flights and packages for individual or family holidays. Often if there are many tickets or spaces left for a specific flight they’ll chop down down the price to simply get rid of them. If you are willing to stay flexible and fly somewhere random on a whim, you can save some mega cash not to mention winning major ‘adventurous’ points.
Southern Spain
It’s sunny! It’s hot! It’s Spain! What more do you need? If you want to practice your Spanish or eat incredible food all day long, hop on the next flight to say, Malaga, and check out any of the countless villages and communities along the coast. Not only will it be inexpensive once you’re there, but there is enough culture and passion in Spain to keep you occupied your entire trip. And as for the eats – give my video on Spanish food a watch…you might gain a pound or two. It’s that delicious.
Vietnam
This option might cost you a bit more then the other options listed here, but if you have some extra cash to burn – go to Vietnam! From enjoyably chaotic Hanoi, to the beaches of Nha Trang and the peacefulness of Halong Bay, there’s a little something for everyone. With it’s French influence, Vietnamese food is mouth watering and once you get there, you’ll be stunned at how far your cash will go. During my stay throughout Vietnam, $10 a day would get me a private room, 3 solid meals a day and a litre of beer. Yes, it’s cheap. For more ideas, check out my Hoi An blog post.
Ask Around
How’s the saying go again? ‘Seek and you shall find’? Take some time to chat up those around you, hop on some online forums and see where others have been or where they recommend for some sunny season travel. Maybe they have a secret villa they love to visit, a cheap resort or perhaps even a place somewhere you can stay. A bit of research and a few questions can go a long way. Heck, the blogosphere alone is dripping with ideas like the ones in this post. You won’t have to hunt long.
It’s very easy to get caught up in the same routine when it comes to winter season travel. With only a smidgen of effort you can not only mix things up, but blend adventure with relaxation. This winter, I challenge you to try some place you wouldn’t have considered before. You might be surprised with what happens.
Do you have any winter season travel plans? What unique place would you suggest travellers visit?
