The thought of Christmas is as intoxicating as those memories of eggnog and spiced nuts, gobbled down with freshly baked cookies. As you traverse cities and towns, you are bound to see the dazzling display of Christmas lights, plastered all over the skyline. Happy Santa Clauses, bidding everyone a ‘Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year’. The season is one filled with happiness and much cheer as families get together and loved ones do holiday travel from distant places to celebrate the season, in love. This is the time that is acknowledged all across the world.
Even though the traditional take on the Christmas holiday is lovely, how about something different? How about starting a new tradition to celebrate the season that you and your entire family will appreciate? How about indulging in adventure travel to a new destination for a Christmas vacation? There are a great many options to choose from, depending on whether you like a cold climate, like Prague’s legendary Christmas markets and Rovaniemi’s Santa Claus Village. Or, you book a flight to an island tropical getaway like Hawaii or even to Bahamas and Jamaica. The idea of sunny, white beaches sipping on coconuts and fruit juices is surely appealing.
Despite your fears of trying to make last minute Christmas travel plans, don’t worry you can still make the festivities. Continue reading the following travel tips, for a new experience this season.
Zurich, Switzerland
Switzerland has a lot to offer during the season, such as internationally acclaimed shopping and concert events. Some of their most recommended treats are their warm mulled wine called glühwein and hot chocolate otherwise known as heissi schoggi. Zürich has great Christmas markets and a grand 50-foot, Swarovski crystal-trimmed tree. Your kids will love bustling about the city in a streetcar known as the Märlitram. For first class accommodations, check out the Baur au Lac or the Dolder Grand.
Rovaniemi, Finland
This next city is a certified winter wonderland. Many have said it is the official home of Santa Claus. Rovaniemi is filled with heart warming festivities that will just leave you with memories for many years. Finland’s sleigh rides are a must and you can tour the area in a snowmobile. It will certainly be worth the Christmas travel. Have you ever slept in an igloo? Well, this is certainly a possibility if you book a room at the Igloo Hotel. Check out the Glass resort as well.
Charleston, South Carolina
Talk about a town bussing with southern charm and historic homes! Charleston offers Christmas celebrations filled with palmetto trees, magnolia wreaths, garlands and roasted pecans. If you are a history buff, then you will certainly enjoy the Downtown District, Rainbow Row, Centre market or King Street. They are also known for their bevy of churches. Accommodations are always available in the French Quarter, where you can sip on wine, apple cider, eggnog or hot chocolate. So put this enchanting destination on your adventure travel list.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Imagine magnificent castles, grand snow covered landscapes and sceneries right out of a fairy tale. Joy and cheer abounds in this Scottish city. You will have lots of opportunities for skating at St Andrew Square or enjoy the rides at the Big Wheel at East Princes Street Gardens. Multrees Walk is certain to thrill you with its posh boutiques. Make sure that the lovely Edinburgh Castle is on your list. You can rest your weary head after all the daily excitement at the Balmoral or the Waldorf Astoria.
Vienna, Austria
If you want an influx of Christmas-ness, this season consider this destination for your Christmas travel plans. Talk about a town filled with traditional Christmas celebration and attractions. Vienna offers many local customs that you will enjoy including treats to make your taste buds salivate in ecstasy. A colossal ice-skating rink is at Rathausplatz square and there is also a Christmas market, otherwise known as Christkindlmark. They have tons of vendors selling their handcrafted goodies. Grand Hotel Wien and the Park Hyatt Vienna are perfect for your stay.
Prague, Czech Republic
Don’t miss out on Prague’s popular sites; the Astronomical Clock, St. Vitus Cathedral, the Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge. They too have Christmas markets and you can enjoy the picturesque view with cobblestoned streets. You will be won over on your holiday travel by their tasty treats, including trdelník (cinnamon roll) and a cup of svařák (mulled wine). If you have always wanted to stay at a monastery then the Mandarin Oriental is a must; book your room now. You can also choose the InterContinental hotel in the city.
Florence, Italy
Known as the “Cradle of Renaissance”, this location is a filled with succulent cuisine, gorgeous architecture and an abundance of art. Music and mirth will fill you with happiness, for the next year as you remember your trip to Florence. Many people travel to the city for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception or L’Immacolata Concezione around December 8th. You will see nativity scenes and grand holiday markets. The St. Regis Florence is always a grand place to stay as well as the Hotel Lungarno that offers a treat with their Christmas brunch. Be certain to feast your eyes on the incomparable sights of the Ponte Vecchio.
Maui, Hawaii
If you are thinking about a warm weather escape then consider Maui for your Christmas travel plans. This island is a favourite of island travellers and ranked highly. It is perfect if you want a nice sun filled Christmas. Imagine going snorkelling and discovering the hidden depths of the ocean or surfing on a perfect wave. They also have the Banyan Tree Park, which will mystify you with its awesome display of Christmas lights. You might even catch a sight of migrating humpback whales. Accommodations are available at the Fairmont Kea Lani or the Grand Wailea.
These enthralling and effervescent destinations will certainly give you many memories that you and your family will enjoy. The world is filled with great wonders and they often come alive during the festive Christmas season. They offer activities not just for adults, but children will be caught up in the wonder of it all. They will be reiterating these adventures all their life and it will be a precious memory that you share, forever.
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