On this date

 Typically this time of the year, we travel to a warm space.  Back in the 1990s. it might have been a trip to Florida, but when the temps were too cold, even there, we ventured further south to the Caribbean.  

There we found fresh fruits and vegetables, sandy beaches and snorkeling and best of all warm temps.

Here are some pictures from the 7 of January to help you warm up (currently 20 degrees F here).

I love fresh coconut water:

Oh yeah, a bit south west and Costa Rica and Arenal:

My name is Earl

Always a good thing to check out the weather in the Caribbean this time of the year. See http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ for the current excitement. The high pressure in the northeast should keep Earl away....but what about Fiona? The NC coast may be in for some breezy winds.

Tourism is down in the Caribbean

From a small sample of conversations with residents and businesses in the Caribbean, tourism is down 10-30%. Even in the slow season, tourists are either staying home (staycations) or seeking more affordable travel options.

If you are in the market for a second home, sales are slow and prices are dropping to more reasonable prices.

Interesting note, while some flights are booked, others (namely the weekly runs and not the daily runs) may have plenty of seats available. And given that this is the hurricane season, try booking at the last minute to get some great deals. How about $1000 for six nights in a hotel and flight? I sometimes use lastminute.com for ideas.