Introduction
The holidays are a special time of year, and there’s nothing more magical than getting away with your family or friends to celebrate in style. Whether you’re looking for festive activities, winter wonderland getaways, or sunny beach vacations, there are plenty of amazing places to choose from for your Christmas vacation.
A survey conducted by AAA Travel found that over half of Americans planned to take at least one leisure trip during the 2019 holiday season. With so many exciting options, it can be hard to decide where to go. To help you narrow down your choices, here’s a look at 10 top destinations for a memorable Christmas vacation.
Top 10 Christmas Vacation Destinations
From cozy mountain towns to sun-soaked beach escapes, here are 10 popular spots to consider for your holiday getaway.
Location #1: New York City
New York City is the perfect destination for those who love the hustle and bustle of the holidays. From the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and ice skating rink to the dazzling window displays along Fifth Avenue, there’s no shortage of festive activities to enjoy. Plus, you can catch a Broadway show or explore the many museums and attractions this vibrant city has to offer.
Location #2: San Francisco
San Francisco is a great destination for a Christmas vacation. The city comes alive during the holidays with festive lights, decorated trees, and plenty of shopping opportunities. You can also take part in the Union Square Tree Lighting Ceremony, explore the San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker performances, or join a holiday tour of the city.
Location #3: London
London is an ideal destination for a Christmas getaway. The city is filled with holiday cheer, from the twinkling lights of Oxford Street to the festive decorations in Hyde Park. You can also visit the historic Trafalgar Square Christmas tree, explore the Christmas markets, or take a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride.
Location #4: Hawaii
If you’re looking for a sun-soaked escape, head to Hawaii. This tropical paradise is a great place to spend the holidays, with its white sand beaches, lush rainforests, and stunning views. Plus, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like snorkeling, surfing, and exploring the islands’ many waterfalls.
Location #5: Paris
Paris is another great option for a Christmas vacation. The city is known for its beautiful holiday decorations, from the Eiffel Tower to the Champs-Élysées. Plus, you can explore the Christmas markets, attend a holiday concert, or visit some of the city’s famous landmarks.
Location #6: Aspen
Aspen is a great destination for a winter wonderland getaway. This charming mountain town is known for its pristine ski slopes, luxury resorts, and picturesque views. Plus, you can enjoy a variety of winter activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, and dog sledding.
Location #7: Chicago
Chicago is the perfect destination for a festive Christmas vacation. The city comes alive during the holidays with its iconic Christmas tree lighting ceremony, holiday markets, and festive lights. Plus, you can explore the city’s many attractions, from the Art Institute of Chicago to Navy Pier.
Location #8: Vienna
Vienna is a great choice for a Christmas vacation. The city is home to some of the most beautiful holiday decorations, from the Rathausplatz Christmas market to the giant Ferris wheel in Prater Park. Plus, you can explore the city’s many cultural attractions, such as the Vienna State Opera House.
Location #9: Vancouver
Vancouver is another great destination for a Christmas vacation. The city is known for its festive holiday markets, from the Vancouver Christmas Market to the Robson Square Ice Rink. Plus, you can explore the city’s many attractions, from the Vancouver Aquarium to Stanley Park.
Location #10: Orlando
Orlando is the perfect destination for a family-friendly Christmas vacation. The city is home to a variety of theme parks, from Disney World to Universal Studios. Plus, you can enjoy a variety of holiday-themed events, from holiday parades to light shows.
Exploring the Christmas Markets of Europe
Europe is home to some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the world. From Germany to France, these festive markets offer a variety of unique gifts and treats, making them a great destination for a holiday getaway.
According to a survey conducted by travel company Expedia, the most popular Christmas markets in Europe include Nuremberg, Germany; Strasbourg, France; Vienna, Austria; Prague, Czech Republic; and Dresden, Germany. Each of these markets offers a unique experience, from traditional German gluhwein and bratwursts to handmade wooden toys and handcrafted jewelry.
When visiting a European Christmas market, make sure to dress warmly and bring cash for purchases. Also, don’t forget to sample some of the delicious food offerings, from roasted chestnuts to hot chocolate.
A Guide to Winter Wonderland Getaways
Winter wonderland getaways are the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the holidays. From cozy mountain towns to frozen lakes and snow-covered forests, there are plenty of magical places to explore.
Popular winter wonderland getaways include Banff National Park in Canada, Lake Tahoe in California, and Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. All of these destinations offer a variety of winter activities, from skiing and snowboarding to ice fishing and snowshoeing. Plus, you can explore the area’s many attractions, from hot springs to historic towns.
When planning a winter wonderland getaway, make sure to pack plenty of warm clothes and waterproof boots. Also, don’t forget to bring a camera and binoculars to capture the beauty of your surroundings.
Fun Family Activities for a Christmas Vacation
Christmas is the perfect time to reconnect with loved ones and create lasting memories. Whether you’re looking for festive activities or outdoor adventures, there are plenty of fun family activities to choose from for your holiday getaway.
Popular family activities for a Christmas vacation include building a gingerbread house, decorating the Christmas tree, or attending a holiday parade. You can also take a sleigh ride, go ice skating, or visit a local Christmas market. Plus, many cities host special holiday events, from light shows to carnivals.
When planning a family Christmas vacation, make sure to plan ahead and book all necessary reservations. Also, don’t forget to bring along a few board games and movies to keep everyone entertained.
Ski Resorts for a White Christmas
For those looking for a truly unique experience, a ski resort is the perfect destination for a white Christmas. Ski resorts offer a variety of winter activities, from skiing and snowboarding to tubing and snowshoeing. Plus, you can enjoy a variety of après-ski activities, from hot tubs and spa treatments to gourmet restaurants.
Popular ski resorts for a white Christmas include Deer Valley Resort in Utah, Whistler Blackcomb in Canada, and Val d’Isère in France. When planning your ski vacation, make sure to bring all the necessary gear, including skis, poles, boots, and helmets. Also, don’t forget to check the weather forecast before heading out on the slopes.
Enjoying the Holidays in the Caribbean
For those looking for a sunny escape, the Caribbean is the perfect destination for a holiday getaway. From pristine beaches to crystal clear waters, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in this tropical paradise.
Popular Caribbean destinations for a Christmas vacation include St. Lucia, the Dominican Republic, and Aruba. All of these destinations offer a variety of activities, from snorkeling and scuba diving to sailing and kayaking. Plus, many resorts offer special holiday packages, from Christmas feasts to holiday-themed activities.
When planning a Caribbean vacation, make sure to book your accommodations well in advance. Also, don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
Unique Christmas Experiences Around the World
For those looking for a truly unique experience, there are plenty of amazing places to explore around the world. From the northern lights of Lapland to the snow monkeys of Japan, there are plenty of magical places to discover.
Popular destinations for a unique Christmas experience include Iceland, Finland, and Norway. In Iceland, you can explore the country’s stunning landscapes or take a dip in the Blue Lagoon. In Finland, you can visit Santa Claus Village or take a reindeer sleigh ride. And in Norway, you can explore the fjords or visit the majestic North Cape.
When planning a unique Christmas experience, make sure to pack warm clothes and comfortable shoes. Also, don’t forget to bring a camera and a portable charger to capture the beauty of your surroundings.
Conclusion
Christmas is the perfect time to get away with your family or friends and celebrate in style. From exploring the Christmas markets of Europe to winter wonderland getaways and sunny beach vacations, there are plenty of amazing places to choose from for your holiday getaway.
We hope this article has helped you decide on the perfect destination for your Christmas vacation.
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