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Have you had enough of the crazy world of politics back home, or you’re simply craving a break from the gloomy weather and monotonous suburban life?
Man, we feel you.
It feels as if everything we can think of lately is relocating somewhere the sun is (almost) always shining, rows upon rows of palm trees extend as far as the eyes can see, unfolding along virgin white sands, and the cost of living isn’t sky-high.
You know where we’re going with this: there’s no better place to be at this very minute than the balmy tropics, but in case nobody ever told you, moving abroad, however temporarily, does not come without its bureaucratic hurdles.
From visa applications to meeting financial thresholds for emigrating, leaving the States for the season can be a grueling task for most, but there are select destinations in the Global South that welcome all Americans, regardless of social or economic background, with very few requirements.
In fact, these 5 destinations accept U.S. passport holders for up to 6 uninterrupted completely visa-free, if, you know, you’re ever in need:
Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
A no-brainer for sunseekers and long-term travelers alike, Playa Del Carmen is a convenient Mexican Caribbean town to relocate due to its well-established expat community, great infrastructure for digital nomads, amazing weather and low criminality.
It is characterized by its scenic, reef-bounded main beach, and the busy Quinta Avenida, a pedestrian thoroughfare running adjacent to the coastal promenade, where all the best shops, restaurants, and coworking venues are.
It’s not somewhere you go on an overly strict budget (Airbnb prices go from $1,059 to $2,006 when renting monthly), though the $8 taco servings at Taquería Los Compas and the $ 20-day passes for some of the best-equipped local gyms will help offset accommodation costs.
The best part is that, unlike most destinations worldwide, Playa Del Carmen is not eager to send Americans back where they came from after only a couple of weeks: they get to stay (in Mexico as a whole) for 6 months by virtue of being U.S. citizens alone, completely visa-free.
Caye Caulker, Belize
A tiny Caribbean island off the coast of Belize, an equally-offbeat country just south of Mexico many Americans have only vaguely heard of, Caye Caulker is a paradisiacal sunny getaway that’s certain to appeal to nature lovers keen on beating the crowds.
Picture virgin-white sands hugged by warm, teal waters, rows upon rows of giant palm trees lining the shoreline, and a plethora of diving sites, including the world-famous Caye Caulker Marine Reserve, which borders the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere.
There’s more: you can book an entire fully-furnished studio right on the beachfront in Caye Caulker village, the island’s only settlement, for $1,806-a-month––not a big ask, considering the level of exclusivity–-and as an American, you get to stay for 180 days.
Belize has a very generous visa policy towards U.S. passport holders, and it has established that, so long as they’re not carrying out paid work with a Belize-originating source of income (in other words, no looking for side gigs while in the country!), they can stay half a year visa-free.
Cartagena, Colombia
A much-overlooked gem––and one that’s not as expensive as the previous option––Cartagena is one of the oldest European-built cities in Colombia, with a rich history dating back to the Age of Discoveries and a vibrant port city:
La Ciudad Amurallada, comprises a walled, colonial-era center where cobbled streets are lined with brightly-painted facades, while the contrastingly-modern Bocagrande district has skyscrapers casting shadows on a long waterfront.
Between taking day trips out to the unspoiled Islas del Rosario, with their powdered-sugar sands, and gorging on fresh seafood in the picturesque Old Town for under $6, chances are you’ll end up falling in love with Cartagena’s unique blend of Caribbean slow life and Old World charm.
Guess it’s lucky for you Colombia allows Americans to stay for six months in total, with a slight caveat: you’ll be getting a free, 90-day stay upon arrival, and in order to stay the full 180 days, you’ll need to apply for a formal extension for around US$30 (find out how here).
En Tuco, El Salvador
Before you scroll down to the comment section to decry the inclusion of El Salvador on this list, have you heard the country is now among the safest destinations in Central America (if not the Americas, in general) thanks to the sitting President’s tough stance on crime?
That being said, onto El Tunco: what a gorgeous little coastal community, with an astounding natural beauty, thriving surfing and backpacking scene, and incredibly friendly locals, and just what you need to slow it down a notch coming from a bustling American metropolis.
The beach itself is highly sought-after by surfers, largely thanks to its epic waves, but as a foodie on a budget, you’re definitely in for a treat, from the charming creekside Dale Dale Cafe, where they serve top-grade ceviche to the locally-run Restaurant Cristy, your go-to spot for $1 takeout pupusas.
And guess what? Not only are Airbnbs fairly affordable, with month-long rental starting from $457, U.S. citizens are allowed to stay in El Salvador for 180 full days––unlike in Colombia, no need to request extensions while inside the country!
Bocas Del Toro, Panama
Bocas Town, as it is known among locals, this is a laid-back coastal settlement on the southernmost end of Isla Colón, one of those many unheard-of dots in the Caribbean you’d miss out entirely had you not zoomed in on the map, and an expat heaven waiting to be discovered.
The sheltered Starfish Beach is truly one of the most beautiful we’ve ever seen, with––of course––dozens of colorful starfish swimming near the crystal-clear shoreline.
If you’re looking to take up surfing as a hobby, you should check out Bluff Beach, which is to the east of Boca.
In the heart of town, there is a grid of lively streets bordered by local businesses, artisan shops, and authentic, family-owned Panamanian restaurants (can you smell the tortillas and pot paellas yet?). It’s arguably inexpensive by tropical island standards, with foreigners spending $2,200 a month.
Oh, and as a citizen of the U.S. of A, you’re granted the privilege of staying in Panamanian territory for an uninterrupted 180 days––a privilege that, we must add, is only extended to Canadians! Europeans, we’re sorry, but you only get 3 months.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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