Why Not Save on Heating Bills by Taking a Tropical Vacation?

If your winter heating bills are as high as mine, you may have noticed a strange phenomenon -- for the price of a month or two of utilities, you could buy a plane ticket to a tropical paradise. Since many tropical countries are relatively affordable, an American may be able to live well on just a few dollars per day, not counting the plane ticket. Once you're there, stay as long as you want, until you run out of money, or until spring comes and you can turn the heat down.

Practical Considerations

Of course, the workability of this plan depends on having ridiculously high heating bills in the first place. In addition, unless you have a portable income (such as writing internet content) you will not be able to work while you travel, so this could be the deciding factor for many people.

If you are considering saving on heating bills by taking a tropical vacation, plan ahead as soon as possible. The earlier you buy your plane tickets the cheaper they will be. There are also some foreign travel prerequisites such as passports, visas, and vaccinations that may take time to complete.

Before you go, make sure to turn the heat off and drain the pipes so they don't freeze and burst. Consider having your utilities shut off completely, depending upon how much work and expense it would be to have them turned back on in the spring.

Bonus: It's Green (More or Less)

Let's face it, flying around the world is never all that ecologically sound. However, if you've always wanted to travel, this is a great way to do it. While you'll burn a lot of fuel flying, you'll also save a lot by not heating your home all winter -- just don't go somewhere with air-conditioning, or the scales will tip against you.

If you want to feel even more responsible, consider taking a study or volunteering vacation. There are plenty of programs where you could spend a few months helping people improve their lives or learning something to enrich your own.

PS: I Recommend Thailand

It's gorgeous, friendly, and relatively cheap.

(image by tanakawho)