Shawdesh desk:

Americans can always find an excuse to book a beach getaway any time of year.

However, winter may add more excuses to the list with a few months of frigid cold weather.

The U.S. is home to many sunny getaways to escape the snow, but there are many more international destinations well worth a visit, too.

Having the right documents in order can be a hassle when traveling abroad. We all know a passport is needed, but sometimes a visa is required too.

The U.S. State Department has been issuing travel advisories and warnings of where not to go and what not to do, so it’s about time they deliver some good news!

That good news being Americans have a variety of international beach getaways to choose from for long-term stays.

There are 4 places in particular that stand out the most and all have sun, sand and flexible visa policies to spend up to half a year at incredible beaches.

Panama

One of the most vibrant cultural destinations in Central America has to be Panama – perfect for underrated beach escapes and welcoming expat communities throughout the country.

Central America isn’t always at the top of the list when it comes to beach vacations, yet there are absolutely jaw-dropping destinations calling your name.

Panama fits the bill with stunning tropical sights, such as Coiba Island and Tabago Island. Not to mention the fascinating city of Panama City – a waterfront treasure in its own right.

Panama is well-suited for an extended stay for Americans to immerse themselves into a new culture in sprawling concrete jungles or picture-perfect beaches. Plus, it’s widely considered to be very safe.

Barbados

The Caribbean island of Barbados is what everyone stuck in a cubicle daydreams about all day long.

Dreamlike blue waters, year-round sunny weather, and pristine beaches will make you want to extend your trip.

Instead of taking a typical weeklong vacation, Americans have the option to stay up to 6 months. Whether arriving by cruise or plane, you will instantly realize your troubles back home are a distant memory.

The island is considered very safe no matter where you explore. However, the charming capital Bridgetown is a great starting point filled with colonial history and captivating scenery.

Beyond the city, the island is brimming with breathtaking beaches and fun excursions. At the northern tip of Barbados, travelers highly recommend the Animal Flower Cave & Restaurant with rave reviews claiming, ‘stunning views and warm hospitality’.

Cayman Islands

When it comes to Caribbean travel, the Cayman Islands stack up with more popular destinations such as the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic, yet it’s still a little off the radar.

This tiny trio of islands is home to awesome beach resorts and snorkeling on the biggest island of all – properly named Grand Cayman.

Little Cayman, on the other hand, is the smallest of all but beams with life. Visitors will love the seemingly untouched beaches along with a vast array of wildlife from endangered iguanas to colorful bird species.

No matter which beach you find yourself visiting in the Caymans, you will be asking yourself why you should ever leave.

The gorgeous blue waters and postcard-worthy white sand are the perfect recipe to get you to stay longer for a blissful, sunny escape.

Mexico

Last, but not certainly not least, is one of Americans’ favorite countries to visit – Mexico. Our southern neighbors have some of the most beautiful beaches close to the U.S.

Many beach destinations are setting all-time tourism records this year, such as Cancun, Los Cabos, and even Puerto Vallarta.

There are other lesser-known gems to be discovered, such as Loreto, Ixtapa and Mazatlan as well. No matter which beach getaway you choose, you don’t have to rush to leave.

Americans stay up to 6 months anywhere in Mexico enjoying some of the top beach destinations in North America.

Definitely a plus for one of the digital nomads’ favorite countries and something to keep in mind with the exciting new Maya Train and Tulum International Airport now open.