DH and I are trying to decide where to go on our next vacation. We are looking at going either March or June (doesn't matter to us, we just can't go April/May). We are in NJ and would like to fly somewhere, preferably within 8 hours and outside the US. We are trying to keep this trip more budget friendly due to home repairs and a larger trip planned for late 2015.... we're trying to shoot for airfare and hotel around 2k-2,500 (we know food and activities will cost extra and that's not part of that amount).
We try and alternate our vacations between beachy (just went to Hawaii) and adventure (Peru before that). We have no preferences for this vacation, except that we'd like to *try* to make it a little non-typical (ie no Mexico, Punta Cana) and we don't want a cruise. I also don't want a beach hotel where I have to get up at 5am to reserve a chair. We're not opposed to all-inclusive (we'd bump budget up to 3k) and we'd like to stay 7 nights, though would drop to 5 for something unique or special.
We usually pull up a world map to help us decide future trips, but trying to keep this trip within a budget is hindering us a bit. I know there are some well-traveled ladies here, so thought I'd ask for ideas. Any hidden gems or places off the beaten path? Or just a favorite destination?
*Because I know these destinations come up alot, I'll mention that Costa Rica and Belize are not options as we've been there before and we always try and see someplace new.