by Tracey Davies
Is it possible to top up your Vitamin D levels without depleting your bank balance too much? Absolutely. We’ve compiled a list of sunny destinations that will appeal to anyone in a savings state of mind. Pack the suncream so you can avoid going ‘into the red’ in every sense.
Dubai
The crowned king of winter sun escapes, Dubai may be one of the richest places on the planet, but there’s plenty to do for a dirham. Sail across Dubai Creek in a traditional abra, spot powder pink flamingos at the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary or go for a night swim at Umm Suqeim Beach. And the dancing flumes of the Dubai Fountain are free for all. Weekend brunch is a Dubai institution and one of the best-value deals can be found at Cuisines at the Crowne Plaza Dubai Jumeirah.
Where to stay
Rove La Mer Beach on Jumeirah has a hip beachy vibe at a bargain price. And all rooms have sofa beds for extra heads.
Miami
With South Beach bringing the heat, nothing cures the winter blues like Miami. And while influencers driving gold-plated Benz might suggest it’s a playground for the rich, there are plenty of free kicks to be had, from yoga classes on Miami Beach to outdoor movies and concerts at the New World Center. Get around for gratis on the Miami Trolley and the Metromover or hop on a free walking tour of the Wynwood Art District or South Beach’s Art Deco architecture. And to save dollars on dining, Miami famously has the best food trucks in Florida.
Where to stay
South Beach Hotel offers free beach shuttles and chair reservations for guests.
St Lucia
Palm-fringed beaches, lush rainforests and the ever-dramatic twin peaks of the Pitons, St Lucia encapsulates the Caribbean idyll. The destination may be dreamy, but a St Lucia holiday needn’t cost big bucks. There are experiences that can be had for nothing, from parrot-spotting in the rainforest and snorkelling off Anse Chastanet beach to splashing in the waterfalls of Anse La Raye. Don’t miss the Gros Islet Jump Up, St Lucia’s Friday night street party where you can feast on fish fry, drink rum punch and dance to reggae for mere dollars.
Where to stay
Marigot Beach Club is a boutique resort that’s accessible by a free boat service.
Orlando
Orlando is like a huge sun-drenched playground, and a holiday here is the ultimate antidote to a grizzly winter. Aside from the theme parks, there are plenty of cheap thrills to be had. Forget hiring a car, as most theme park hotels offer complimentary shuttles. Or use the I-Ride trolley for a couple of dollars a day. Go shopping at Disney Springs, watch the street performers at Disney’s BoardWalk or dine out at Universal CityWalk. For a slice of Old Florida, visit Old Town Entertainment District and see the Friday Night Muscle Car Cruise for free.
Where to stay
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a retro base where guests get Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and Universal’s Volcano Bay™ (though you still have to buy tickets!).
Cancun
Sweeping down Mexico’s Yucatán coast, Cancun’s floury beaches are balm for the soul after a British winter. Zona Hotelera is a 13-mile stretch of glitzy hotels, bars and nightclubs, but Playa Delfines is one of the few free beaches on the strip. Margaritas and tacos are the diet du jour – pay in Mexican pesos to get more bang for your buck. Buses are the cheapest way to get around. Avoid pricey hotel excursions and take the ferry over to Isla Mujeres or visit the Mayan ruins under your own steam.
Where to stay
Dream Sands Cancun Resort & Spa offers an Unlimited Luxury all-inclusive deal, and golf-loving guests can bag discounted green fees.
