People from northern locales usually start dreaming about a tropical getaway sometime around Martin Luther King Day, if not sooner. Cold temperatures and nasty weather can make vacationing on a warm and sandy beach – the sound of waves lapping up against the shore – very appealing. For many, the costs of such a vacation might seem like a deal breaker. However, it doesn’t have to be. Here are just a few options affordable tropical destinations.

Cancun

Cancun is popular with North Americans who want a quick getaway to the tropics. This vacation destination, located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo,  has beautiful beaches and a tropical vibe. Cancun is a short flight from many cities in the U.S. and Canada, and the cost of lodging can range from affordable hotels to luxurious resorts. There are also many dining options that can run the gamut of prices. Given the short, and often affordable, flight and lodging options, Cancun can be a potential option for those who want an affordable vacation destination.

Ho Chi Minh City

Many Americans are unaware of the affordability of this Southeast Asian city in Vietnam. The most expensive part of this trip will likely be the flight, but one estimate indicates that the daily cost could be as low as $25 a day for food and lodging. Opting to visit Vietnam between December and April will likely bring better weather with the dry season, as well as lower costs for food and lodging.

Buenos Aires

The weather in Buenos Aires is quite temperate. It’s winter in Argentina when it’s summer in North America. Even though it’s winter in July, the temperatures are still in the 60- to 70-degree range. This would be a nice respite from the heat and humidity in the states and Canada.

Summer temperatures usually hover around the 80s, and this season takes place when the Northern Hemisphere is dealing with snow and ice. The Argentinian capital is also quite affordable, with the same study that estimated costs at $25 a day in Ho Chi Minh City estimating costs around $52 per day in Buenos Aires.

Traveling to a tropical location does not have to break the bank. There are many destinations with comfortable climates that also offer affordable food and lodging. Some also offer stunning beaches and great cultural scenes that can make your visit a great experience.