Snowbird destinations you should try

(NC) With another Canadian winter on the horizon, it’s time for retirees to figure out where they plan to go to escape the cold. While Florida and Arizona are ever-popular choices, there are many other sun-drenched destinations to choose from. So, whether you’re a senior looking for a months’-long escape, or simply seeking your next winter holiday spot, here are six alternatives to consider for all budgets and interests.

Budget-friendly destinations
Two locations to get away from the cold without breaking the bank:

• Cuba
  While you may think of Cuba as a place to go for all-inclusive beach holiday packages, the country is filled with history, culture and local foods like Ropa Vieja, the national dish of Cuba, or the namesake Cubano sandwich. Visiting slowly revitalizing Havana is like taking a trip back in time with American cars from the 1950s rolling down the streets past Spanish-inspired architecture.

• Mexico
  Take in the cultural and cosmopolitan centre of the country in the capital, Mexico City, lounge by warm-water beaches on the Atlantic or Gulf of Mexico coasts, or explore the country’s ancient heritage at countless Mayan sites spread across the country, including Tulum which now boasts its own newly-opened airport, which gives travellers easy access to the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula

Living the good life
If you have a bigger budget, these two spots are well-worth considering:

• Turks and Caicos
  Sample local conch delicacies, stroll along white, powder-fine beaches and snorkel among exotic fish in coral reefs just offshore. Once you’ve been, you won’t wonder why various Canadian politicians have tried to entice the locals to officially join our country as an eleventh province.

• Antigua
  Feeling adventurous? Hike through lush, tropical rainforests towards panoramic views from one of the island’s peaks. For a more leisurely time, lounge dockside or beachside enjoying a local rum drink and some freshly caught fish.

Adventure travel spots
Too spry to just sit around all day? These two island nations will keep you going:

• Costa Rica
  With Atlantic and Pacific Ocean coastlines, Costa Rica boasts every watersport imaginable. With one-quarter of the country protected as national parks, wildlife refuges and biological reserves, it’s also a nature-lover’s paradise. Get your heart racing as you zipline through the rainforest or viewing one of five active volcanoes.

• St. Lucia
  Water-lovers can swim, snorkel or scuba dive. Sail across the water to take in the views of lush volcanic peaks. Or trek along coastal or mountainside trails. Rejuvenate after your adventure at a mineral-springs spa before indulging in the island’s cuisine.

Find more information on these destinations and more at aircanadavacations.com.