In the depths of Canadian winter, there’s no better time to head down south and bask in the warm glow of the sun on some of the Earth’s most beautiful beaches. Just a short flight from anywhere in Canada, the Caribbean is the perfect destination for a week-long or even long weekend getaway. Here are some of our favourite hot Caribbean destinations to escape cold Ottawa winters:
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Have every need catered at an all-inclusive resort. Sip piña coladas by the pool before scuba diving class, then enjoy buffet dining or a candle-lit dinner at a beachfront steakhouse. Take an excursion into the countryside and learn how some of the greatest delicacies on earth, like chocolate, tobacco, and coffee are grown and processed. Go parasailing or even test your mettle zip-lining through the exotic wilderness.
Exuma, Bahamas
Exuma lies directly on the Tropic of Cancer Rent a secluded cottage with beach access. Spend the day boating to a private island and relaxing on the beach, then return to a home-cooked meal of freshly caught fish. Plan your own itinerary and spend every day of your vacation living at your own pace. Go kayaking in sapphire blue water or try paddleboarding for the first time.
Puetro Vallarta, Mexico
While it’s not on the Caribbean Ocean, Puero Vallarta is a great destination for people who live in Western Canada. Rent a quiet house near the beach and enjoy town life at your own pace. Laze on the beach as the waves of the warm Pacific lap the sand, enjoy authentic home-made Mexican food, and adapt to the calm pace of life. Sandwiched between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this small but vibrant town has fun for every age group.
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Spend a romantic and adventurous week at an all-inclusive resort like Iberostar Grand Rose Hall. Participate in guided river rafting, or sail out and witness the underway beauty of the Caribbean on a snorkeling excursion. Unwind at night with entertainment provided by talented Reggae and Ska musicians. Practice your short game at one of five nearby world-class golf courses or even show your wild side with a whitewater rafting excursion.
Wherever you end up this winter, you’ll be living it up in the warm glow of the Sun and enjoying some time far, far away from the bitter cold of Canadian winter, even if only for a few days.
