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2024 has just begun, and what better way to start the year than with a trip? It's time to escape the cold and book one of the best tropical getaways this month.

Booking a last minute trip can seem pricy, but if you do it right, there are a ton of tropical getaways for cheap! Thanks to our best friend, Skyscanner, we've been able to round up the best tropical getaways for you in the upcoming weeks, and the prices are as cheap as ever.

Grab your sunscreen and bathing suit, because these places will allow you to soak up the sun, without soaking up your Christmas bonus.

Best Tropical Getaways Destination #1: Puerto Rico

One of the best tropical getaways is our local island to the south, Puerto Rico.

January has beautifully pleasant temperatures, and is perfect for any kind of traveler! Whether you want to explore the best beaches in Puerto Rico, visit the only rainforest in the US, or go zip lining through the jungle, we know you'll fall in love with all that Puerto Rico has to offer.

Since it's part of the US it's a no-frills type of trip- no currency exchange, no passport needed, and a quick flight for one of the easiest and best tropical getaways.

Flights to San Juan from $40:

• Atlanta to San Juan: $51
• Boston to San Juan: $56
• Chicago to San Juan: $55
• Detroit to San Juan: $69
• Houston to San Juan: $61
• Las Vegas to San Juan: $97
• Los Angeles to San Juan: $98
• Miami to San Juan: $40
• New York to San Juan: $62

Flights to Aguadilla:

• Atlanta to Aguadilla: $84
• Fort Lauderdale to Aguadilla: $83
• Minneapolis to Aguadilla: $80
• New York to Aguadilla: $105
• Orlando to Aguadilla: $78
• Philadelphia to Aguadilla: $73
• Washington DC to Aguadilla: $99

Where to Stay in Puerto Rico

San Juan is a great place to base yourself if it's your first time in Puerto Rico. We also love road tripping Puerto Rico and staying in different areas. Some of the other great places to stay are Aguadilla, Fajardo, Ponce, Cabo Rojo, Rincon, and the islands of Vieques and Culebra.

Here's a map of the different places to stay around Puerto Rico:

Getting Around Puerto Rico

If you are looking for a short tropical getaway for cheap, we would suggest just sticking to one area and getting around by walking, local buses, and Uber. If you have more time or want to explore a ton, then we highly suggest you to rent a car in Puerto Rico.

Search for activities in Puerto Rico:

Best Tropical Getaways Destination #2: El Salvador

El Salvador is one of the most underrated countries in Central America, and definitely one of the best tropical getaways for cheap.

Experience black sand beaches, stunning waterfalls, geothermal springs, and some epic volcanoes. El Salvador is perfect for the adventure lover, and one of the best destinations for budget travelers who want authentic experiences.

Some of our favorite experiences in El Salvador include surfing in El Tunco, hiking Siete Cascadas, exploring La Ruta de las Flores, trekking a volcano in Santa Ana, and swimming in a hot spring waterfall. There's endless fun in El Salvador, it's really affordable, and it's super safe!

Flights to San Salvador from $36:

• Atlanta to San Salvador: $47
• Chicago to San Salvador: $65
• Detroit to San Salvador: $57
• Houston to San Salvador: $36
• Las Vegas to San Salvador: $70
• Miami to San Salvador: $48
• New Orleans to San Salvador: $58
• New York to San Salvador: $68
• Orlando to San Salvador: $56
• San Francisco to San Salvador: $68
• Washington DC to San Salvador: $64

Where to Stay in El Salvador

San Salvador is the capital, and a great place to base yourself if you're looking for a weekend getaway. However, the other areas of El Salvador have so much more to offer! Some of our favorite places to stay that aren't too far away are El Tunco, Santa Ana, and Juayua which can all easily be reached by bus.

Favorite Hotels in El Salvador

Here are a few great places we recommend staying while in El Salvador:

• Lagarza Hostel: a chic hostel overlooking a black sand beach with both private and shared options
• Hotel Juayua: beautiful hotel with volcano views and a pool perfect for exploring La Ruta de las Flores
• Mandala Eco Villas: sustainable beachside villas
• Mizata by Anti Resort: a beautiful boutique resort on the beach

Getting Around El Salvador

If you plan on just staying a few days in one area, then you can certainly rely on public transportation which is super cheap. If you want to explore more and see hidden gems, then we highly suggest renting a car in El Salvador.

Search for popular activities in El Salvador:

Best Tropical Getaways Destination #3: Guatemala

Guatemala is the new up and coming destination, and its natural beauty is why travelers have started to flock there. 

Roam the quaint streets of Antigua, take a boat out on Lake Atitlan, and witness an active volcano. There is the perfect amount of adventure and low key activities available in Guatemala, just right outside the capital.

Flights to Guatemala from $35:

• Atlanta to Guatemala City: $64
• Chicago to Guatemala City: $66
• Detroit to Guatemala City: $70
• Houston to Guatemala City: $35
• Las Vegas to Guatemala City: $78
• Los Angeles to Guatemala City: $58
• Miami to Guatemala City: $50
• New Orleans to Guatemala City: $71
• New York to Guatemala City: $64
• Orlando to Guatemala City: $65
• Washington DC to Guatemala City: $66

Where to Stay in Guatemala

All flights fly into Guatemala City. However, you can go ahead and skip the capital and go straight to Antigua! This charming town is just an hour away, and perfect for a quick getaway. If you're planning on spending several days, we highly suggest heading to Lake Atitlan to stay a couple of nights as well.

Hotel Recommendations in Antigua

• Yellow House Hostel B&B: the nicest option for super budget friendly accommodation
• Selina Antigua: boutique chain hostel with both private and shared options
• Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo: boutique hotel with a pool and its own museum
• Meson Panza Verde: boutique hotel that feels like a mini castle and has yoga classes
• Hotel Boutique Los Pasos & Spa: boutique hotel with a beautiful garden and spa

Hotel Recommendations in Lake Atitlan

• Pink House: an extremely affordable A-frame
• Selina Atitlan: incredible boutique hostel chain with both shared and private options
• Eagle's Nest: stunning hotel on the lake with yoga classes
• Tzampoc Resort: beautiful resort facing the volcano with an infinity pool

Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!

Getting Around Guatemala

Guatemala has some pretty crazy public transportation, and although not the most comfortable, it is certainly something worth experiencing a time or two. If you have just a few days you can stick to the "chicken buses", but if you want to explore more, then renting a car from the airport will be your best choice.

Look for activities in Guatemala:

Best Tropical Getaways Destination #4: Aruba

Fight the winter blues and fly to "one happy island", also known as Aruba. With crystal clear waters and white sands, Aruba is one of the best tropical getaways for those that want a relaxing beach vacation. 

Explore Arikok national park, swim in natural pools, and visit the famous beach with beautiful flamingos. This Caribbean island is the perfect place for those that want one of the best tropical getaways.

Photo by Lex Melony on Unsplash

Flights to Aruba from $35:

• Atlanta to Oranjestad: $80
• Boston to Oranjestad: $89
• Chicago to Oranjestad: $86
• Detroit to Oranjestad: $100
• Houston to Oranjestad: $73
• Miami to Oranjestad: $94
• New York to Oranjestad: $77
• Orlando to Oranjestad: $79
• Washington DC to Oranjestad: $91

Where to Stay in Aruba

The most popular place to stay is at Eagle Beach, but the island is so small that you can easily stay at a variety of beaches if you have a car. If you want to be the most well-connected and have a more local experience, we suggest staying in Oranjested, which is the capital.

Hotel Suggestions in Aruba

• Magical Garden: the most affordable accommodation option
• Palmita Hostel: a great option for solo or budget travelers located in the capital
• The Palm Leaf Apartments: beautiful apartments with a pool
• Boardwalk Boutique Hotel: one of the nicest hotels in Aruba, located right on the beach (for those who can afford to splurge)

How to Get Around Aruba

The best way to get around Aruba is to rent a car at the Oranjestad Airport. The cheapest is to get around by public buses that are strategically placed around the island for the major tourist hotspots. Alternatively, you could take an ATV tour or rely on other tours to experience different areas of the island.

Here are some activities you can book in Aruba:

Best Tropical Getaways Destination #5: Colombia

There's a common misconception that the best tropical getaways are all in the Caribbean. Well, South America isn't all that far, and Colombia is pretty much just as close as many of the Caribbean islands!

Colombia is cheap, colorful, and has the best coffee in the world. Cartagena is vibrant and has incredible beaches and rich culture. Head up the coast a bit and you'll find Santa Marta, which is super green and perfect for those that want a bit more adventure in their trip.

If you're not interested in beaches and want a trip full of history and color, then you can head to Medellin, known for its eternal spring (pleasant and sunny weather year-round), making a trip to Guatape, an adorable rainbow painted town with the striking Piedra del Peñol. Whatever you choose though, we know you won't regret choosing Colombia for your cheap tropical getaway.

Flights to Cartagena from $57:

• Atlanta to Cartagena: $80
• Boston to Cartagena: $89
• Chicago to Cartagena: $86
• Fort Lauderdale to Cartagena: $57
• Houston to Cartagena: $73
• Miami to Cartagena: $94
• New York to Cartagena: $77
• Orlando to Cartagena: $79
• Washington DC to Cartagena: $91

Flights to Medellin from $77:

• Atlanta to Medellin: $98
• Boston to Medellin: $103
• Chicago to Medellin: $105
• Fort Lauderdale to Medellin: $77
• Houston to Medellin: $99
• Miami to Medellin: $85
• New York to Medellin: $110
• Orlando to Medellin: $99
• Washington DC to Medellin: $109

Flights to Barranquilla from $65:

• Atlanta to Barranquilla: $99
• Charlotte to Barranquilla: $94
• Fort Lauderdale to Barranquilla: $80
• Miami to Barranquilla: $65

Where to Stay in Colombia

If you plan on going to Cartagena, we suggest staying in Ciudad Amarilla, which is the historic center. You can also spend a night at Playa Blanca, or the iconic Casa del Agua. Other places you can stay are Santa Marta or Minca, which are just up the coast from Cartagena.

If you are flying into Medellin, we suggest you to stay in El Poblado, and to check out the cool resorts in Guatape for a night or two.

Hotels Recommendations in and near Cartagena:

• New Casa Dora: an affordable option for Getsemani
• Selina Cartagena: boutique hostel with both shared and private rooms
• Lunala Hotel Boutique: beautiful boutique hotel with a. rooftop pool
• El Casa en el Agua: a giant floating hostel

Hotels Recommendations in Medellin:

• Parceros Med Hostel: basic shared accommodation with a rooftop (super affordable)
• Nakúa: Stay + Work: beautiful and centrally located hotel ideal for digital nomads
• Elcielo Hotel & Restaurant: stunning boutique hotel with bar and rooftop with a pool
• Medallo House Parque Lleras con Piscina poblado provenza: an epic house for big groups that has several rooms and a pool

Hotels Recommendations in Guatape:

• Nomada Hotel Guatape: super affordable and nice shared accommodation ideal for digital nomads
• La Madriguera: quiet boutique hotel with excellent views
• Hotel Mansion: beautiful property with great views and a nice pool
• Bethel Lozana Guatape: Glamping experience with a unique jungle feel and a spa
• Bosko: one of the most impressive Glamping sites

How to Get Around in Colombia

Colombia has a variety of pubic transportation that you can use, which is the most budget-friendly option. We recommend you to rent a car in Colombia to be able to explore more effectively, but to do so as soon as you can so prices don't skyrocket.

You can also easily get around by taxi, which is cheaper than Uber. If you choose to do this though, make sure to read our article about taking taxis in Colombia.

Book your activities around Colombia:

Best Tropical Getaways Destination #6: US Virgin Islands

If you're looking for the best tropical getaways without leaving the country, then the US Virgin Islands are the perfect choice!

St Thomas, St John, and St Croix are all beautiful islands located in the Caribbean which are perfect for a relaxing beach vacation. All just boat rides away from one another, you can simply fly to St Thomas and take ferries around exploring all the incredible places that each island has to offer, without having to bring your passport or go through customs.

Flights to St Thomas from $55:

• Atlanta to Charlotte Amalie: $85
• Boston to Charlotte Amalie: $95
• Chicago to Charlotte Amalie: $94
• Detroit to Charlotte Amalie: $84
• Fort Lauderdale to Charlotte Amalie: $55
• Houston to Charlotte Amalie: $88
• Miami to Charlotte Amalie: $93
• New York to Charlotte Amalie: $85
• Orlando to Charlotte Amalie: $85
• Washington DC to Charlotte Amalie: $100

Where to Stay in the USVI

The easiest place to base yourself in the US Virgin Islands is in the capital of St Thomas, which is Charlotte Amalie. This is perfect for those that want to be well connected, and have a lot of options for activities. If you're looking for one of the best tropical getaways to relax, then you can opt for one of the hotels on St John or St Croix.

Hotels in St Thomas

• Galleon House Hotel: the most affordable option, located in the capital
• The Mafolie Hotel: nice mid-range option with a rooftop pool
• The Pink Palm Hotel: adults-only boutique hotel with great views and a pool
• St Thomas B&B Sailboat: a unique option to stay on a boat with water activities

Hotels in St John

• Lovango Resort & Beach Club: an exclusive resort on the beach, and one of the only accommodation options (a luxury stay)

Hotels in St Croix

• Bungalows on the Bay: beachfront accommodations with a pool
• The Waves at Cane Bay: beautiful beachfront hotel

How to Get Around the US Virgin Islands

To get around St Thomas there are public buses you can take or taxis. If you'd like to explore the island to its fullest without limitations, then we suggest you to rent a car from the airport. If you are looking to go from island to island, you will need to take a ferry from the port in Charlotte Amalie.

Here are some activities you can do while in the USVI:

Best Tropical Getaways Destination #7: Saint Maarten

St Maarten is such a unique island in the Caribbean because it is half French and half dutch. With a mix of European and Caribbean influence, this tiny island has so much to offer in such little space.

You can have a relaxing tropical getaway for cheap sailing on catamarans, snorkeling in paradise waters, and watching planes flying over Maho beach. If you are in search of more adventure you can rent ATVs to explore the island, go zip lining, or hike to the top of the island for epic views.

Flights to St Maarten from $53:

• Atlanta to Philipsburg: $64
• Boston to Philipsburg: $90
• Chicago to Philipsburg: $85
• Detroit to Philipsburg: $90
• Fort Lauderdale to Philipsburg: $53
• Miami to Philipsburg: $94
• New York to Philipsburg: $85
• Orlando to Philipsburg: $86
• Washington DC to Philipsburg: $83

Where to Stay in St Maarten

The most popular areas to stay are along the beaches on the French side of the island. We also think Philipsburg and Marigot are both great options for those that want to have good access to transportation, activities, and plenty of restaurants and shops.

Hotel Recommendations in St Maarten

• Divine Rest: an affordable option in Philipsburg
• S/Y Phoenix: a unique experience on a sailboat
• The Morgan Resort Spa & Village: beautiful resort on the beach
• Gorgeous Beachfront 4th Floor Condo: apartment with great views and a pool

How to Get Around St Maarten

The most fun way to get around St Maarten is by ATV. This is the best option if you have a short stay and want to explore the island extensively. If you are staying for a longer period of time then you can definitely rely on public buses, which is the most affordable option.

Here are some popular activities to book in St Maarten:

Best Tropical Getaways Destination #8: Yucatan Peninsula

If you're looking for the best tropical getaways for cheap then the Yucatan Peninsula truly is the place to be! You can decide between Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or one of the nearby islands like Isla de Mujeres, Holbox, or Cozumel. There are honestly endless options for incredible tropical vacations around the Yucatan Peninsula.

We're not talking big all-inclusive resorts- we're talking amazing getaways that will make you fall in love with the real Mexico.

With $1-2 street food, cheap hotels, and a variety of activities, the Yucatan Peninsula is perfect for any type of traveler. Luxury travelers can stay in the boho chic area of Tulum, adventure travelers can explore the cenotes, and history buffs can take a trip to Chichen Itza. There is so much to do, that you really need to check out some of our other Mexican travel guides about this incredible area.

Flights to the Yucatan Peninsula from $71:

• Atlanta to Cancun: $83
• Charlotte to Cancun: $78
• Chicago to Cancun: $73
• Denver to Cancun: $73
• Fort Lauderdale to Cancun: $73
• Houston to Cancun: $71
• Las Vegas to Cancun: $95
• Miami to Cancun: $93
• Minneapolis to Cancun: $96
• New York to Cancun: $101
• Orlando to Cancun: $74
• Washington DC to Cancun: $81

Where to Stay in the Yucatan Peninsula

There are so many incredible places to stay along the Yucatan Peninsula, which is why we actually have an entire article dedicated to it. Check it out to see which is the best area for you!

How to Get Around the Yucatan Peninsula

Our favorite way to explore the Yucatan Peninsula is by renting a car in Cancun. This way you can experience various areas without having to lose time on public transportation. However, if you're looking for a short and relaxing tropical getaway for cheap, then you can simply rely on the public transportation or taxis within the area you decide to stay.

Book your experiences around the Yucatan Peninsula:

Best Tropical Getaways Destination #9: Dominican Republic

Once only visited for its all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana, travelers are starting to realize that there is so much more to the Dominican Republic than just beaches.

The island of the Dominican Republic is huge, and has the perfect blend of relaxing Caribbean beaches, and adventure activities like waterfall hikes and jungle zip lines. It also has a few of airports to fly into, as well as a variety of fun itineraries that you can do depending on the amount of time you're able to travel.

Due to the number of airports, you can actually look at flying back from whatever airport has the best prices for your itinerary and plan from there!

Flights to the the Dominican Republic from $71:

• Atlanta to Punta Cana: $97
• Atlanta to Santo Domingo: $91
• Charlotte to Punta Cana: $102
• Chicago to Punta Cana: $79
• Cleveland to Punta Cana: $98
• Fort Lauderdale to Punta Cana: $84
• Fort Lauderdale to Santiago: $85
• Fort Lauderdale to Santo Domingo: $81
• Houston to Punta Cana: $112
• Houston to Santo Domingo: $101
• Miami to Punta Cana: $111
• Miami to Santo Domingo: $82
• Minneapolis to Punta Cana: $113
• Nashville to Santo Domingo: $101
• New Orleans to Santo Domingo: $92
• New York to Punta Cana: $115
• New York to Santo Domingo: $105
• Orlando to Punta Cana: $85
• Orlando to Santo Domingo: $81
• Philadelphia to Punta Cana: $100
• Philadelphia to Santo Domingo: $93
• Tampa to Punta Cana: $95
• Tampa to Santiago: $102
• Tampa to Santo Domingo: $92
• Washington DC to Punta Cana: $104

Where to Stay in the Dominican Republic

The most popular place to stay in the Dominican Republic is Punta Cana, but some other great areas to explore are La Romana, Santo Domingo, and the south east of the island (which has the best beaches). There are a ton of great places you can find along the coast for the best tropical getaways in the Dominican Republic.

Recommended Hotels Around the Dominican Republic

• Saman Boutique Hotel: a beautiful boutique hotel with a pool in Las Terrenas
• El Valle Lodge: a stunning lodge with a pool in the jungle near Samana
• Glamping EcoLodge Cueva De Las Aguilas: a unique Glamping experience right on the beach in Pedernales
• El Beaterio Casa Museo: a beautiful convent remodeled from the 16th century in the heart of Santo Domingo's old town
• Casas del XVI: one of the most beautiful hotels in Santo Domingo with a garden, pool, and breakfast included
• Hodelpa Nicolás de Ovando: one of the most popular hotels in Santo Domingo which was luxuriously renovated from a historic building

Getting Around the Dominican Republic

If you're going for a short and relaxing getaway, then you can rely on taxis or local buses. If you are having a logner stay and want to explore different areas of the island though, then it will definitely be worth it to rent a car in the Dominican Republic.

Fun activities to do in the Dominican Republic:

Best Tropical Getaways Destination #10: The Bahamas

The Bahamas has always been listed as one of the best tropical getaways. This is because of its close proximity to the US, and the stunning archipelago of islands that it has to offer. You can even take a ferry from Miami to Bimini, Bahamas for a quick weekend trip if you'd like!

The most popular (and easiest island to reach by flight) is Nassau, but you can easily reach many of the other islands by boat, so don't limit yourself to just staying in Nassau!

Flights to the Bahamas from $71:

• Atlanta to Nassau: $100
• Fort Lauderdale to Nassau: $81
• Ithaca, NY to Nassau: $87
• Miami to Nassau: $71
• New York to Nassau: $97
• Orlando to Nassau: $83
• Providence to Nassau: $92
• Richmond to Nassau: $99
• Tampa to Nassau: $101
• Washington DC to Nassau: $91

Where to Stay in the Bahamas

The most convenient and affordable place to stay in the Bahamas is Nassau or Bimini. However, there are also plenty of amazing islands, particularly Exuma that we recommend!

Recommended Hotels in Nassau

• Hillcrest: one of the most affordable options
• Elegant Marble Suite #6: an affordable but beautiful apartment
• British Colonial Nassau: an elegant boutique hotel in the heart of Nassau
• SLS at Baha Mar: one of the most popular resorts in Nassau, right on the beach
• Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas: an adults-only all-inclusive resort on Paradise Island

Recommended Hotels in Exuma

• Fishtails Palms: the most affordable option
• Kahari Resort: a beautiful beachside resort

Getting Around the Bahamas

If you're looking for the best tropical getaways with a relaxing stay, you'll probably just want to stick to one island. Most islands have public buses you can take, or taxis are also available. If you are looking for a longer stay, you can take ferries to get from one island to the next, charter a boat, or take a domestic flight.

Here are some popular activities around the Bahamas:

Best Tropical Getaways Destination #11: Costa Rica

Costa Rica has become the most expensive country in Central America, and unfortunately isn't quite as cheap as it used to be. However, there are so many cool places in Costa Rica that are off-the-beaten-path that are super affordable, and less crowded than those on the typical tourist path.

This country has a ton to offer including beautiful beaches, lush forests, hot springs, and thrilling adventure activities. It's a great place for those that want a bit of everything, and can cater to a variety of traveler types.

Flights to the Costa Rica from $63:

• Atlanta to San Jose: $76
• Chicago to San Jose: $86
• Denver to San Jose: $81
• Fort Lauderdale to San Jose: $63
• Houston to San Jose: $75
• Las Vegas to San Jose: $85
• Nashville to San Jose: $87
• New York to San Jose: $98
• Orlando to San Jose: $81
• Washington DC to San Jose: $83

Where to Stay in Costa Rica

If you're flying into San Jose, we personally think the best area to visit is Puerto Viejo. However, if you have a longer amount of time and want to explore all over, you can either base yourself in San Jose and do day trips, or you can stay in other areas such as La Fortuna, Monteverde, or the Papagayo Peninsula.

Recommended Hotels in Puerto Viejo

• Rocking J's: a super affordable and convenient option with hammocks and camping 
• Selina Puerto Viejo: a boutique hostel with both shared and private options
• Finca Chica Lodge & Villas: cozy cabins in the jungle
• Saranda Boutique Hotel: a chic hotel with great design and a pool
• Namu Garden Hotel & Spa: a 5-star hotel with an incredible pool and spa

Recommended Hotels in San Jose

• Costa Rica Backpackers: a cool budget-friendly hostel with a pool
• Selina San Jose: a boutique hostel with both shared and private options
• Hotel Grano de Oro: a beautiful luxury hotel with a famous restaurant
• Amon Mansion: an 8-bedroom mansion that fits 12 guests

Getting Around Costa Rica

If you're on a budget, you can pretty easily get around by bus in Costa Rica. If you are looking to really explore a bit more off-the-beaten-path then we would recommend you to rent a car in San Jose.

Here are some popular tours you can sign up for in Costa Rica: 

Best Tropical Getaways Destination #12: Nicaragua

If you're looking for the adventure from Costa Rica and the natural beauty of El Salvador, then Nicaragua is the right place for you. One of the most underrated countries that's out there, Nicaragua has a ton to offer for tourists, and for a fraction of the price of some of the nearby countries.

Ride around Ometepe Island by scooter, go sand boarding down a volcano, and attend the biggest Sunday Funday in Central America by pool party hopping all day.

Nicaragua offers cliffside villas for budget-friendly prices, has incredible food, and some of the friendliest people we have ever met. Typically flight prices aren't this cheap, making it one of the best tropical getaways you can take advantage of this January.

Flights to Managua from $40:

• Atlanta to Managua: $69
• Boston to Managua: $65
• Chicago to Managua: $63
• Detroit to Managua: $83
• Fort Lauderdale to Managua: $40
• Houston to Managua: $71
• Los Angeles to Managua: $92
• Miami to Managua: $51
• New York to Managua: $74
• Orlando to Managua: $80

Where to Stay in Nicaragua

While most flights go to Managua, the best parts of Nicaragua are in other areas of the country. The good thing though, is that the country really isn't that big! We highly suggest going to San Juan del Sur, Ometepe Island, Granada, & Leon.

Recommended Hotels in Nicaragua

• Hostal Los Chamos: super affordable hostel right next to the beach in San Juan del Sur
• Selina Maderas: a boutique hostel with both private and shared options in San Juan del Sur
• Selina Granada: a boutique hostel with both private and shared options in Granada
• Hush Maderas: a really cool hotel with an infinity pool and great food in San Juan del Sur
• La Urraca Loca Hostel: a beautiful hostel in Ometepe that is super affordable
• Hotel Colonial Granada: a stunning boutique hotel with a pool in Granada
• Casa de Arcos: private villa with a pool in Granada

Getting Around Nicaragua

You can cheaply get around Nicaragua by bus, and within towns themselves you may have to get taxis to certain areas. If you can though, we highly recommend renting a car. This way you can use it to get to whatever area of the country you decide to base yourself, as well as explore all of the cool places off-the-beaten-path.

Here are some fun activities to sign up for around Nicaragua:

Best Tropical Getaways Destination #13: Jamaica

Jamaica is another one of the best tropical getaways, as it's a big island with much more to offer than just its stunning beaches.

Swim in the turquoise waters of the Blue Hole, visit Dunns River falls, go zip lining in the jungle, and eat all of the Jamaican patties and jerk chicken you can. If you experience Jamaica like a local, it can be much more affordable and enjoyable than sticking to the typical big hotel chains.

Flights to Jamaica from $78:

• Atlanta to Montego Bay: $88
• Atlanta to Kington: $92
• Boston to Montego Bay: $106
• Charlotte to Montego Bay: $97
• Cleveland to Montego Bay: $95
• Columbus to Montego Bay: $98
• Detroit to Montego Bay: $95
• Fort Lauderdale to Montego Bay: $78
• Fort Lauderdale to Kingston: $85
• Nashville to Montego Bay: $100
• Nashville to Kingston: $105
• New York to Montego Bay: $99
• New York to Kingston: $105
• Miami to Montego Bay: $81
• Orlando to Montego Bay: $78
• Philadelphia to Montego Bay: $87
• Pittsburgh to Montego Bay: $90
• Washington DC to Montego Bay: $102

Where to Stay in Jamaica

The most popular places to stay in Jamaica are Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril. If you'd like to have more of a cultural trip, you can stay in Kingston, which is the capital.

Recommended Hotels in Jamaica

• Half Moon: a prestigious hotel in Montego Bay where many celebrities have stayed at
• Jamaica Inn: a family run hotel with a beachfront spa
• The Caves: a cliffside couples resort in Negril
• Sandals Royal Caribbean: an all-inclusive resort of over the water bungalows in a heart shape

Getting Around Jamaica

Jamaica is a rather large island, so it really depends how much of it you'd like to explore. If you're looking for one of the tropical getaways for cheap, then you may just want to stay in one area. Kingston and Montego Bay both have public buses, and in the other areas you'll have to use taxis.

If you are planning on exploring more extensively in Jamaica or staying in multiple areas, then it will definitely be worth it to rent a car.

Here are some popular activities you can book around Jamaica:

Best Tropical Getaways Destination #14: A Caribbean Cruise

We were both working on a cruise ship, and can definitely confirm that the cheapest month to cruise is in January! Prices drop significantly the first few weeks after the new year, and it's the perfect opportunity for one of the easiest and best tropical getaways.

There is no shortage of Caribbean cruises in the winter, and cruise lines fight for the crowds in January with their incredibly low offers. What's even better, is that depending on where you're from, you may not even have to fly at all!

Meals, shows, and everything is included, so you can relax with your budget and not have to think about taking out your wallet each day. Cruises are also perfect for the family, as they are super safe, and have activities suited for all ages.

January is typically the least traveled month, but it has some of the best deals! We absolutely love traveling to start off the new year fresh, and taking advantage of these tropical getaways for cheap prices.

We hope you get to choose one of the best tropical getaways to escape the cold this January- and if you can't- don't worry. There are also plenty of great deals for the next few months as well. 

If you need help planning your dream trip, we're also here to help! As travel experts, we are always on the hunt for the best deals, and the most authentic experiences. Just email us for you free consultation, and we'll start planning your trip today!

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