Whether you're traveling in the continental U.S. or abroad, here are 10 destinations that will fit most any travel budget:

OVERSEAS:

• Thailand. The rainy season ends by October, and in the winter months it's still warm enough to enjoy shopping, sightseeing, sports, and Thai hospitality.
• Egypt. Crowds and pollution are less of a factor in the winter months, and the pyramids and other historical sites are still just as accessible.
• Italy. If you're visiting Italy for the culture, you'll find that the museums, galleries, and musical venues are less expensive and less crowded in the winter--and the weather is usually mild. The Italian Alps are a good alternative for skiing.
• London. One of the two best cities in the world for theatre; prices are lower in winter; crowds are smaller; and it doesn't get as cold as in most of the U.S.
• Buenos Aires. It's summer, south of the Equator, and prices are low in this vibrant cosmopolitan city while the locals escape to the countryside.

IN THE U.S.

• New York City. Prices drop dramatically after the New Year, and Manhattan has mild winters, with more rain than snow.
• Las Vegas. You don't have to walk the Strip in the hot summer sun. Nights are cold, but daytime temperatures are delightful--and hotel rates drop after the Consumer Electronics Show in mid-January.
• Napa Valley, California. January is Restaurant Month, with fine dining and the most popular California wines offered at discount prices. Winter is cabernet season, and hotel rates can be 50% or more below peak.
• New England. The ski destinations are expensive, but outside the resort areas rates are low, shopping and dining are great, and the winter scenery is beautiful.
• Texas. Hill Country is spectacular in winter, and the cities are big draws for music and sports.