09 Nov Best Winter Destinations for 2016-2017

In your search for cheap winter vacations, you find yourself surprised at the number of alternate solutions. Hotels in popular destinations like Colorado, Canada, or even spots across the pond like Switzerland are infamous for inflating prices during peak seasons, leaving those with a tight budget with limited options. However, you only need to think outside the box to make your dream winter vacation a reality without breaking the bank.

Luckily, resort rentals present a good opportunity to find inexpensive accommodations without sacrificing luxury. The last minute deals we feature in our inventory are sometimes as low as $35 per night. To help you out, we’ve collected some of the best winter destinations for the upcoming season!

1. French Alps

Your dream European ski retreat is not as far-fetched as you might think. Super-luxurious resorts high in the mountains of Switzerland and Austria may end up costing thousands of dollars, but you can find a similar experience among the French Alps. Ski areas like La Plagne and St. Francois Longchamp provide some of the best slopes in France, and that signature European charm will be right outside your door!

2. Ireland

Some of the Emerald Isle’s most popular spots, like Dublin, light up during the winter. Holiday celebrations are abundant at the end of December, including the Christmas celebration, which often lasts through the first week of January. December 26th marks St. Stephen’s Day, when travelers will be delighted to find parades, feasts and plenty of strong Irish pints to go around.

3. Puerto Rico

The tropical paradise of this U.S. territory encourages year-round travel, but the sights, sun, and sounds of Puerto Rico can be just what you need to cure the winter blues. San Juan offers an incredible dose of culture and cuisine, while more laid back travelers may prefer the impeccable beaches of Dorado. Either way, with irresistible tropical drinks, famous Caribbean eateries, and more sun than you could ever hope for, Puerto Rico is a constant on any list of best winter destinations.

4. Whistler, BC

High up in the Canadian Rockies, Whistler brings all the quaint charm of an Alpine ski town to North America. With a countless amount of skiable terrain and a picturesque downtown area to explore, there is truly something for everyone. Additionally, since the Whistler-Blackcomb ski area is merging with Vail Resorts, many resort-wide upgrades and improvements are in the works for the upcoming season, making now the time to visit Whistler!

5. Playa del Carmen, MX

For those who love Cancun but don’t enjoy the spring break lifestyle that seems to linger all year, Playa del Carmen brings the best of the Yucatan to you. Long stretches of beach accompany endless opportunities to snorkel, scuba, or surf through the famous clear waters. Within the beautiful Riviera Maya, you’ll find additional peace and relaxation in Tulum, and in the deep jungles of the Yucatan.

6. Queenstown, NZ

Hiding in the corner of the globe, New Zealand offers a world of natural beauty and majesty rivaled only by a few other places in the world. Winter in the Northern Hemisphere means it is summer in New Zealand, and the South Island enclave of Queenstown comes to life. A center for the arts and culture, Queenstown also boasts a number of opportunities to explore the wilderness of the South Island, which have remained largely untouched by humans. Nature and sports lovers will be able to create the perfect winter getaways, guaranteed.