Ora Cook is a coach, blogger, and inspirational speaker devoted to helping women restore their confidence and fulfill their purpose. She encourages women to travel for therapeutic and recreational purposes and offers the knowledge they need to do so. You can read more of Ora’s writings at www.oracook.com.
Even though I live in the great state of New York where temperatures can drop as low as 5 degrees, I do not enjoy winter weather – AT ALL. So, when I travel during the winter month I do my best to escape the cold and head to warmer climates. If you’re like me and seek solace in warmer temperatures, these locations will warm your body plus provide fun.
Barbados
The white sand and calm blue water make Barbados one of my favorite islands. And it’s just a five-hour flight away from New York. There are over 30 beaches to either soak up the sun or indulge in water sports.

If you can lure yourself away from the beach, visit Harrison’s Cave or Barbados Wildlife Reserve where you can swim with the turtles. End your day by touring the rum factories and taste test to your heart’s content. But regardless of what you do, don’t leave the island without eating their famous flying fish. It’s the best fish I have ever eaten.
You can find package deals starting at $1000.
Punta Cana
Punta Cana is the site of my most memorable vacations to date. It is the largest resort area in the Dominican Republic. Bavaro is the beach that runs along the Punta Cana coastline and the water is inviting.

You can choose from accommodations that cater to couples only or families and friends. All the resorts in Punta Cana are all-inclusive which includes the specialty restaurants.
The average cost to stay at the Bavaro Princess All Suites and Resorts, a four-star all-inclusive resort, for five nights and six days is $1500.
Cruising
Did you decide that the entire family could use a break from the cold? Then one of the most economical forms of escape is a cruise. Meals and entertainment are included in the cost except for the drinks and the specialty restaurants. Don’t forget to take advantage of their childcare services to ensure you really have a break.

Norwegian has several cruises leaving from New York and Miami between January and April. Prices start at $429 per person depending on your cabin, destination, and duration of the cruise.
Arizona
Want to enjoy the warmth but don’t want to leave the States? A visit to Arizona should do the trick since the temperature there can reach up to 113 degrees.

Besides the Grand Canyon, you can enjoy the Colorado River and Arizona’s four deserts. Flights to Arizona can range from $250 to $360 with hotels starting at $90 per night.
Las Vegas
The warmth of Las Vegas makes it a perfect winter escape. There are other things to do in Vegas besides gambling on the casino strip and enjoying the musical entertainment. It’s home to two famous museums: Guinness World of Records and Las Vegas Art Museum.

You can also take advantage of the Red Rock Canyon and Lake Mead National Recreation as both are located right outside of the city.
Rates for hotels off the main strip can start at $50. Airfare can range around $300 making Las Vegas a great budget vacation.

Stay in touch! Subscribe to our newsletter or like us on Facebook.