Spring weather is still weeks away and your clumpy Sorels and fleece-swaddled body have you traversing the icy streets like a frostbitten Michelin Man. But it doesn't have to be this way: apparently, not everywhere is as cold as an ice-cube with freezer burn at this time of year. But while hopping the first southbound plane out of snow-clogged Dodge is increasingly tempting, there are ways to warm your cockles without setting fire to your money. Here, for bone-chilled Canadians craving a winter escape, are some toasty—and diverse—trip suggestions that aim to defrost you without melting your budget.

By John Lee. Follow the Vancouver-based travel writer's adventures on Twitter (@johnleewriter).