6 Affordable Island and Beach Vacations to Take This Holiday Season

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Fall has arrived and plans for winter getaways are getting ready. Although many Americans return home to visit family during the holidays, others envision the perfect tropical getaway. Hey, if you can afford it, why not do both a family trip and a escape to a sweet destination?

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There are so many sites and travel options out there that planning a simple trip to beat the winter blues can easily become overwhelming. Moreover, there is such a range of costs. A trip to say, an island in the Maldives or the Seychelles is probably not in the budget of the average American – yet these idyllic getaways are still marketed like crazy.

So where can you go to get out of the dodging in the colder months and soak up the sun? GOBankingRates consulted travel experts to get their thoughts on the best beaches and islands for a winter getaway that won’t break the bank.

12ee12/Getty Images/iStockphoto

12ee12/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Palawan, Philippines

“Although Palawan is a bit more expensive than other islands in the Philippines, you can still have an amazing vacation on this island for just $50 a day,” said Lena Mrowka, the travel blogger behind Not another backpacker.

“This cost includes activities such as island-hopping tours and transportation to the best beaches on the island.”

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Gang Liu / Shutterstock.com

Gang Liu / Shutterstock.com

St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

“While there are expensive all-inclusive and upscale resorts on St. Thomas, there are also budget hotels and affordable vacation rentals to suit all budgets,” said Brodi Cole, owner of the family travel site . Our quirky life.

“Excluding flights, one could easily spend less than $50 per person per day on the island and have a great winter vacation.”

garytog / iStock.com

garytog / iStock.com

Cartagena, Colombia

“When it comes to places to stay in Cartagena and its neighboring islands like Providencia, you can get luxury accommodations for as low as $137 a night, offering the best value for unique, upscale experiences. “said Julia Carter, the director of Craft trip.

“On average, you can expect to spend as little as $30 per day per person on daily expenses such as basic food and activities, with meals averaging around $6 and transportation costing as little as $5. dollars a day.”

posztos / Shutterstock.com

posztos / Shutterstock.com

Riviera Maya, Mexico

“Travelers can expect to spend an average of $175 per day for solo travelers or $300 per day for couples, depending on your vacation style,” said Playa del Carmen-based travel blogger Allison Sicking. in Mexico. Viva La Travelista.

“In addition to being affordable, the Riviera Maya offers countless options for relaxation and adventure. From scenic beaches and visiting ancient Mayan ruins, to water sports and ecotourism, there are for all types of travelers to Riviera Maya.”

rodclementphotography/Getty Images/iStockphoto

rodclementphotography/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Golden Isles of Georgia, USA

“This group of islands just off the coast of Georgia includes St. Simons Island, Little St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island and Sea Island,” traveler Amar Hussain said. adventurer, lecturer and entrepreneur from the seven continents who founded the trip. to place Only Wanderlust.

“A double room for 2 costs as little as $67 per night at some St. Simons Island motels and inns. A cheap meal will set you back $10-12 for a main meal.”

Chad Zuber / Shutterstock.com

Chad Zuber / Shutterstock.com

Porto Rico

“Puerto Rico is the most amazing island to visit from the United States in winter.” said Josh Band, a full-time traveler who runs the site A backpacker’s world.

“I would say it costs around $100-150 a day, prices are similar to the US, so budget like you would for a trip to the US. The great thing about Puerto Rico is that the Flights are so cheap in December.”

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 6 Affordable Island and Beach Vacations to Take This Holiday Season

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