Identifying hot winter destinations

Tropical climates, beaches and relaxation are calling me, but where can I now go without a passport? I want to plan a winter retreat, but I do not want the hassle of getting a passport at this time, what can I do? The solution is simple! You stay within the United States and go to Hawaii (too far?), Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands (St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John).

They all offer superb beaches, tropical forests and a laid back, relaxing lifestyle. Another common factor, for an easy/hassle-free holiday, is that the US dollar is used (no currency exchanges here), and English is the main language. What could make a vacation more enjoyable?

Hawaii is some distance from the East Coast and should be considered for a longer than seven day vacation. Each Hawaiian island has its own unique quality and ambiance. A visit to at least two or three is recommended to obtain a full picture of Hawaii, its people, landscape and culture. The beaches have been rated the best in the world for many years, and beach and water activities abound.

There are numerous opportunities to visit tropical rain forests, view waterfalls, experience the exotic fauna and flora of this exotic part of the USA.  Airfares, hotel rooms, car rentals, tours and cruises are at a historic low now. The best time to visit the Hawaiian Islands is Sept. to mid Dec. and again April to June. These are times when the crowds are gone, weather is great, prices are at their lowest, and there are hurricanes in the Caribbean (at least hurricanes are possible in the fall months). I was born and raised in Hawaii and have intimate knowledge of our USA island paradise.

Puerto Rico has a decidedly Spanish/Caribbean flavor, Spanish history, lovely beaches, a renowned rainforest (El Yunque), a dry forest, caves, and the possibility of viewing (at night) a luminescent water landscape.

These unusual bioluminescent creatures are a rare occurrence and are present in a few places near Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico is definitely closer in proximity to the East Coast, with some direct flights possible from the Washington DC area. There are frequent flights, and rates start under $300 for fall travel. This is a good destination for a quick trip, a week or a long weekend is possible.

The US Virgin Islands lie in the northern Caribbean, just east of Puerto Rico, and are also easily accessible by air from the major Washington DC airports. Airfares for travel this fall are just over $300 round trip, and a change of planes is required. 

St. Thomas, the most widely visited of the three islands, is mountainous, with tranquil waters that attract sailors, grand beaches for snorkeling, and it is a shopper’s paradise. St. Thomas has the largest selection of resorts, and with lots of competition the rates are plummeting.

St. John is known for its extensive National Park, and underwater preserve at Trunk Bay. Want to really escape the crowds? This is the place for you. With few hotels and condo units, and no direct air service (you fly into St. Thomas and take a ferry to St. John), you are in a haven for relaxation.

Your experience on St. Croix will lie somewhere between the tranquility of St. John and the action of St. Thomas. St. Croix has a lingering Danish flavor, a national underwater park off Buck Island (favored by snorkel enthusiasts), quiet beaches, water sports, and a casino.

All these USA, hot winter destinations, offer golf, tennis, numerous sightseeing possibilities, congenial people, in some cases lively nightlife, and a true adventure in the tropics.