But I will be after the holidays.Therefore I'm already thinking of a winter escape to some where with plenty of sunshine a great beach,that's safe and laid back people.I'm looking for suggestions or possibly you may just want to chime in with your plans.I'd love to try cuba not sure if its open to regular Americans yet, the one thing for sure is I'm goin somewhere.

It's expensive but I've enjoyed it more than any other tropical destination I've been to.

Both are not expensive, very friendly people, not bombarded with tourists...and hobbying is an option if you need that, too.

OMG!
You literally took the words out of my head!
I ALWAYS am thinking warms sun, sand, and sangrias about this time of year!!

Costa Rica is my destination of choice when it's time to escape south!