Hot Retreats, Cool Drinks*

It seems as if the news over the last week has either been about the bitter cold sweeping the nation or Justin Beiber. Both of which I hope go back to Canada because I'm so over them both.

To combat these winter blues, I have been searching for a quick, warm getaway. We skipped vacation last year in lieu of buying a house and we are both feeling restless to get out of town for a few days in the next couple of months.

Our requirements are:

1) warm-nay-hot and sunny

2) short flight from DC

3) not wildly expensive (see aforementioned house purchase)

4) someplace new to both of us 

We have been looking for the perfect destination without much success over the last couple of weeks.  Here are a few of our front runners:

Bermuda

Bermuda hits almost all of our requirements perfectly. The flight is short and surprisingly inexpensive and neither of us have been there before. It's not quite as hot as other Carribean islands since it is much further north, but it's still a huge step up from the sub freezing temperatures we're experience right now. And, as a bonus, I could sing "Kokomo" by the Beach Boys the whole time (Bermuda, Bahamas, come on pretty mama). 

Jamaica

I've heard wonderful things about Jamaica from friends that honeymooned there and are anxiously awaiting their next visit. I thought Brian had been there before, but luckily I was wrong and Jamaica is back on our list of possibilities. Flights, food, and accommodations are reasonable, and there are some great looking deals on social sites right now (although I've never booked a trip through such a site and it makes me a wee bit nervous). There are also many all inclusive resorts in Jamaica which makes my gluttonous heart happy.

Cancun(ish)

Although Cancun brings to mind images of out of control spring breakers (ie: not what we're going for), the area near

Cancun seems to be much more tame. I've somehow never been to Mexico despite my love for their food and it being our neighbor. Again, there are ample all inclusive places in the area and the shorter flight make it very appealing.

Arizona

I'm not opposed to a domestic vacation so long as the location is warm...which basically leaves the Southwest at this time of year (or Hawaii, which we don't have the time or money to do). Of course, if we went this route, I would want to go to the Cubs' spring training in Mesa, which would be considerably more expensive. 

Are you planning or dreaming of a warm getaway? Anyone have suggestions or thoughts on where we should go?  Who else is going to be singing Kokomo with me all day?

*Yes, my title is a play on the Dairy Queen slogan because blizzards are both topical and delicious.