Everyone may be talking about the World Cup, but new flights are our “World Cup”.
Here at Travel Off Path, we understand the old adage “you get what you pay for” doesn’t always apply to the travel sphere.
If that were the case, I’d maybe have 14 countries under my belt instead of 44 I’ve traversed.
Nevertheless, budget airlines are the ultimate travel hack to score great deals to renowned paradises.
As a former Spirit credit cardholder, I didn’t max out my credit line (thankfully) but did max out every opportunity possible on their surprisingly impressive route map from Medellin to Kingston.
But, times they are a-changin’. Spirit is barely hanging on while up-and-comers like Breeze Airways seem to announce exciting new routes every month.
What’s become arguably America’s trendiest airline is not only affordable, but continues to add incredible getaways Americans crave year-round.
In this case, travelers from one major southern city can soon vacation in style in one of the Caribbean’s most popular resort destinations come summer, and tap into the Pura Vida lifestyle for the first time in a quarter century come fall.
Breaking News: Tampa To Welcome First Costa Rica Flight In 25 Years 🇨🇷
Tampa proper is one of the most under-hyped cities in Florida. When you think of vibrant culture in the Sunshine State, it’s likely the powerhouse of Miami comes to mind first.
Some might say rightfully so, but Tampa’s overlooked Ybor City Cuban culture shouldn’t be skipped.
That said, Tampa’s cluster of postcard beach towns, such as Clearwater and Siesta Key, may be jaw-droppers, but Costa Rica’s Pura Vida lifestyle goes unmatched.
With all the retirees living in and around Tampa, this makes for an easy escape for old-timers looking for adventure at a slower pace, while also delivering more than enough adrenaline-inducing thrills for the younger crowd, like 36-year-old me, who definitely does not pluck white beard hairs on the daily…
Truth be told, Costa Rica has been on the wrong side of headlines at times over recent years, but few and far between violent occurrences have not deterred the masses from pouring into this iconic country, as a new report claims it’s still on a tear, welcoming over 600,000 visitors thus far in 2026.
For example, Panama is actually on more of a tear. Despite some eye-catching security concerns our Travel Safety Index proves Costa Rica indeed feels safer than even Panama, long viewed as a safe haven for expats.
The point is Breeze nailed this one. Tampa can greatly benefit from a rare nonstop link to one of Latin America’s most in-demand escapes.
Flight Info:
- Departure: Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- Arrival: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
- Frequency: 2x weekly
- Launch: July 2, 2026
Punta Cana: Tampa’s New Summer Escape 🇩🇴
Take it from someone who lives in San Diego and make trips to Tampa every year — it doesn’t matter if you live in a sunny vacation hotspot, you still get the itch for sun and sand elsewhere, especially when your beloved beaches are crawling with tourists.
I can’t speak for South Floridians, but I’d imagine we’re one and the same by taking advantage of our beautiful shorelines during the off-season and getting out of dodge when retirees and screaming kids invade our coastline.
You don’t need me to tell you Florida is a raging hotspot during summer, no matter if it’s July 4th weekend or a random Tuesday.
That’s why Breeze’s new Tampa-Punta Cana flight is a sneaky big deal. In fact, there’s only 2 current routes, and they’re both seasonal, operated by Frontier (ending September) and JetBlue (ending June).
Not to throw anyone under the bus, but a search on TikTok shows which airline travelers favor more.
Let’s just say flying Frontier is not always a…breeze.
Punta Cana is one of the most sought-after Caribbean getaways nowadays, but as this new route proves, it’s not as connected as you might think.
Tampa may be gorgeous with its shimmering skyline and never-ending waterways, but Bavaro Beach just doesn’t hold a candle to Siesta Key — and I’ve been to both.
That’s why Bavaro earned a Blue Flag, the international stamp of approval ensuring the utmost quality.
Better yet, Punta Cana is one of the most affordable all-inclusive destinations in close reach to the states.
As new reports claim Cabo is averaging upwards of $400 per night, our data shows you can score great rates for $250, and maybe less with a little digging.
Flight Info:
- Departure: Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- Arrival: Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)
- Frequency: 2x weekly
- Launch: October 3, 2026
