5 destinations retirees should avoid this winter

From snowy ski adventures to white sandy beaches, retirees have the freedom to explore numerous options on their winter getaways. But not all holiday destinations are the same. Some are too expensive, some are difficult to get to, and some are just too cold, even for those who stay active and enjoy winter sports in retirement.

Read more: 6 US cities where you can still enjoy a luxury vacation on the cheap

Find out: 9 Things You Must Do to Grow Your Wealth in 2025

GOBankingRates spoke to travel experts to find out which destinations retirees should avoid this winter — and where they should go instead.

New York City, New York

A new study from The Perfect Rug ranked New York City, New York as the fifth worst city in the U.S. to live in during the winter. Lots of snow, unpredictable weather and high cost of living make the city that never sleeps a less than ideal place to rest this winter. The same challenges that burden residents also make New York undesirable to tourists during the coldest months of the year.

And if you want to visit classic traditions like the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree or Macy’s holiday window displays, you’ll pay top dollar this time of year.

“Although the city offers many attractions, it poses significant financial burdens during peak season due to excessive lodging costs, transportation costs and increased entrance fees to popular attractions,” said Billy Rhyne, luxury travel expert and founder of Horseshoe Ridge RV Resort in Texas.

Rhyne recommended Round Rock, Texas as an alternative.

“Retirees can enjoy everything from scenic landscapes to charming small-town hospitality, without the excessive costs associated with high-profile, busy destinations,” he said.

Discover more: The 6 best insider tips for middle-class families in the Caribbean

Santa Monica, California

Even though the Left Coast may have a warmer climate, experts say it can be just as expensive as New York. Jess Rodley, booking manager at Andorra Escapes, warned against Santa Monica, California, as a vacation destination.

“The weather is nice and there are lots of entertainment options, but the city is notorious for its expensive lifestyle,” she said. “Although going to the beach is free, restaurants and attractions can add up quickly.”

To get there, visitors also often fly through Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which Frommers ranked as the third worst airport in the United States.

Hawaii

Hawaii is another expensive tourist destination in the US for retirees who want to escape the snow and instead want beautiful beaches and luxurious living. However, according to Rodley, this luxury comes at a price.

“Flights will be outrageous,” she said.

Google Flights listed prices between $520 and $1,050 this December, and as high as $550 in January. Land transportation is also expensive, Rodley said. So if you want to explore, you may need to add a few hundred dollars more to your travel budget.

“Once you’re there,” she continued, “everything from the food to the tours is designed to stretch your wallet…even the cheaper meals easily top $30 per person, and activities like luaus or guided tours cost hundreds of dollars.”

Aspen, Colo

During the winter months, prices in Aspen, Colorado skyrocket as the city is considered one of the best ski resorts in the United States

“For a basic hotel you’ll have to pay $400 a night, plus expensive lift tickets if you want to hit the slopes,” Bodley warned. “If you feel like staying in a cozy lodge or luxury hotel, expect to spend even more.”

Aside from the high prices, the slopes in Aspen are more crowded than you’d expect. Transport by land can be dangerous as the roads are icy. And of course, when flying to snowy cities, there is always the risk of flight delays and cancellations.

Iceland

Although the famous Northern Lights shone in the skies over the US this year, tourists are still flocking to Iceland to see the natural phenomena and enjoy the Christmas spirit in a festive, albeit cold, atmosphere. Sarah Donaldson, senior travel claims analyst at Fast Cover Travel Insurance, said the destination has become particularly popular with older travelers in recent years.

“Unfortunately,” she said, “the increase in tourists has made visits significantly more expensive, as the country’s central bank advocates for tourist caps and new taxes on foreign visitors.”

Donaldson recommended nearby Norway instead. Thanks to a favorable exchange rate, it is 30% cheaper to travel to Norway today than it was 10 years ago, according to VisitNorway.com.

Planning the perfect winter vacation doesn’t have to cost a lot or leave you out in the cold. Consider alternatives to major cities that may offer the attractions and atmosphere you want at reduced prices.

More from GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Destinations Retirees Should Avoid This Winter