7 Cheap Vacation Destinations to Escape the Cold Weather

There's something fairytale-like about the wintertime, when glittery snowflakes tumble from the sky and cocoa simmers by the crackling fire.

And then there are the not-so-magical marks of the season, such as ruthless winds, slippery sidewalks and soggy boots.

After the novelty of earmuffs fades and the taste of hot toddies sours, you can flee winter woes with a vacation to a warm-weather destination. You'll find hundreds of spots around the world where the sun is shining, and the weather is balmy, even as your hometown grows dark, and temperatures plunge.

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A tropical getaway can be surprisingly affordable with a few rounds of crafty flight-searching and the right destination in mind. The world abounds with sun-drenched countries where you can eat, sleep and adventure on the cheap. If you're aching for a break from shoveling and shivering, book a trip to one of these seven affordable warm-weather vacation destinations.

1. Cartagena, Colombia. During all four seasons, Cartagena enjoys impossibly blue skies and temperatures in the mid-80s. Meander down the cobbled streets of the Old Town, beneath colorful balconies, and quench your thirst with a coconut from a beckoning vendor. For less than $25, you can book a daytrip to the nearby Playa Blanca or Islas del Rosario, where the sand sparkles and colorful fish roam.

Average temperature between November and February: 81 degrees Fahrenheit

2. The Samana Peninsula, Dominican Republic. The Samana Peninsula will seem worlds away from the frozen land you fled. Instead of bare branches, you'll find bunches of fresh coconuts on swaying palm trees. In place of banks of grimy snow, you'll see banks of impossibly white sand. You won't spy snowplows, but you will spot whale boats whizzing alongside giant humpbacks. And instead of empty ice cream shops, you'll encounter charming beachfront eateries, buzzing nightclubs and hotels of all price ranges.

Average temperature between November and February: 77 degrees Fahrenheit

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3. La Paz, Mexico. Translating to "the peace" in Spanish, this name suits La Paz well. In this laid-back town, Pacenos (La Paz locals) stroll down quiet streets beside the calm, crystalline sea. A beach-side boardwalk runs alongside quirky shops and top-notch restaurants, where you can sample mouth-wateringly fresh fish tacos and ceviche.

Average temperature between November and February: 75 degrees Fahrenheit

4. Las Vegas, Nevada. With hundreds of flashy hotels and world-class restaurants competing for your business, Las Vegas is one of the most affordable U.S. winter escapes. During the winter and fall months, rooms at three-star hotels go for as low as $20 a night. Moreover, Vegas quiets during the winter off-season, so you can explore museums, theaters and attractions without the crowds.

Average temperature between November and February: 60 degrees Fahrenheit

5. Panama City, Panama. Often overlooked as a Central American vacation spot, Panama City surprises with its humming city streets, hopping nightlife and superb skyline. And whenever you hanker for a break from the city, rainforests and cheerful beaches are a brief bus ride away. You'll also have the opportunity to glimpse the Panama Canal, the historic waterway constructed to connect the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

Average temperature between November and February: 80 degrees Fahrenheit

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6. Miami, Florida. In addition to rich culture and a buzzing nightlife, Miami boasts one of the warmest winters in Florida. While famous for glitzy beach resorts and glamorous parties, Miami is not without its share of free fun and affordable accommodation. It costs nothing to stroll past the enchanting historic buildings of the Art Deco District, or to marvel at the striking monuments in Little Havana. Skip the overpriced South Beach restaurants and duck into local Cuban joints, where you'll find authentic treats for as little as $1.50.

Average temperature between November and February: 70 degrees Fahrenheit

7. Chiang Mai, Thailand. You might wince when you look up flight tickets to Chang Mai, which typically run upwards of $1,000. Happily, you can often save hundreds on airfare by flying into Bangkok and catching an internal flight or bus to your final destination. Once you do make it to Chiang Mai, you'll find some of the best bargains on unforgettable food and comfortable accommodation in the world. You'll also have the rare opportunity to travel via motorbike to breathtaking rainforests, roaring waterfalls, simmering hot springs and sleepy Thai villages.

Average temperature between November and February: 70 degrees Fahrenheit

Maria Lalonde honed her deal-hunting skills while traveling through South America and Southeast Asia, combing colorful local markets for unique finds. Her love of blogging and thirst for deals brought her to Offers.com, where she blogs about savings tips.