Whether craving a traditional festive scene with all the trimmings, longing to get away from it all on a warm tropical island, or perhaps a little bit of both, D&D PR has compiled a list of the top global destinations to celebrate this holiday season.
Caribbean Celebrations
Those looking to trade in their snow boots for flip-flops can head to two of the “hottest” destinations:
Ambergris Caye, Belize: Caribbean hot spot Belize boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine beaches. On the island of Ambergris Caye, the brand new Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club, Curio – A Collection By Hilton debuts this December. The new sustainably built, lavish resort was designed for those seeking relaxed adventure and is set within a lush 60-acre tropical landscape. Families can enjoy multicultural celebrations such as San Pedro’s Christmas Boat Parade where locals decorate boats with twinkling Christmas creations for all to enjoy. Nightly rates start at $369.
Cancun, Mexico: Spending the holidays in Mexico is as festive as it gets and guests of Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun are guaranteed to celebrate in style. Located on Cancun’s most secluded stretch of white sand beach, the all-suite oceanfront luxury resort kicks off festivities on Thanksgiving with their annual Christmas tree lightening ceremony. With a focus on Mexican tradition, guests can partake in piñata parties, musical and theatrical performances and more during the holiday break. At the Coral KidZ Club, young guests can learn to cook with a pizza making class and get in the spirit decorating Christmas cookies. Those looking to countdown the New Year in Cancun, can enjoy the interactive, high-tech ‘Coral Fire’ party, complete with a virtual gourmet dining experience, live entertainment and midnight fireworks show.
Saba, Dutch Caribbean: Untouched by recent hurricanes, the tiny island of Saba, the smallest in the Caribbean, offers a true off-the-beaten path destination to relax and recharge. Known for its spectacular diving and exceptional hiking, the island allows visitors to immerse themselves in a laid-back, sunny spot that captures a Caribbean way of life that has practically disappeared from the region. If the ideal holiday break means kicking back in a lovingly-restored historic cottage and basking in peace, quiet, and fresh air, then gift yourself a trip to Saba this year.
European Festivities
Europe celebrates Christmas with an unmistakable Old World charm. For those heading overseas and wishing to immerse themselves in the traditional holiday spirit, might we suggest embarking on one of the following journeys:
Rome: The eternal city of Rome transforms into a winter wonderland as travelers from around the globe bask in the twinkling lights and sparkling Christmas trees. Vacationers can venture off to Piazza Navona to enjoy the spectacular holiday decor, visit the Basilica of St. Peter’s classic Nativity Scene, ice skate at one of Rome’s festive ice rinks, attend a free concert at a beautiful church or shop Mercatini di Natale and indulge in fresh local Panettone or Pandoro bread. Experience the “Italian’s Italy” with bespoke travel outfitter Discover Your Italy. Based in Italy, the company provides customized itineraries that encourage guests to immerse themselves in the country as a local.
Christmas Markets: Travelers eager to embark on a holiday filled with culture and charm must experience Europe’s Classic Christmas Markets. Cox & Kings has developed a Christmas Cruise filled with the most festive destinations for 2017. A fifteen-day, fourteen-night voyage will escort travelers through a reverie of European cities, where they can stroll the cobble stone roads through classic Christmas markets and smell the fragrances of roasted chestnuts and gluhwein. This cruise begins in Budapest and finishes in Amsterdam and runs from November 30 to December 14. Pricing starts at $6,345 per person.
Stateside Seasonal Happenings
Those looking to stay within the U.S. can enjoy a host of unique holiday celebrations ‘sans passport’:
New York City: Few places dress up for the holidays as elaborately as New York City. From visiting the iconic Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center to ice skating and carriage rides in Central Park to viewing the picture-perfect window displays along Fifth Avenue, travelers have endless holiday options in New York. Shopping always tops the list at this time of year, and the timeless Sherry-Netherland Hotel offers guests a shopping package perfect for the holiday season! The iconic Central Park hotel package includes three $50 gift certificates for local retailers the Apple Store, Barneys New York and Coach. Guests can either treat themselves or buy a gift for someone on their naughty or nice list. Nightly rates start at $799.
Provincetown, Massachusetts: Winter is the perfect time to snap a photo on Ptown’s snowy beaches or experience the picturesque sunsets at Herring Cove. The Residence at Eben House offers travelers a home-away-from-home this holiday season. Visitors will enjoy snuggling up in their rooms, or in front of a warm, crackling fires, while indulging in the delicious rustic house-made daily breakfasts. Located just steps from Commercial Street, Eben House guests can shop and stroll the picturesque New England town and tuck in to a cozy bar or restaurant to ring in the New Year. Nightly rates start at $195.
Shelter Island, NY: Nestled between Long Island’s North and South Forks, Shelter Island makes a quiet country retreat for the holidays. The island’s award-winning stylish inn, The Chequit, offers a cozy lobby decked with festive trimmings and a roaring wood fire. To kick off the season on December 9th, 2017, the hotel will host its third annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Festivities range from a Santa Photo Booth, cookie and ornament decorating for the kids and of course, classic Victorian carolers serenading guests while sipping mulled wine, hot apple cider and hot chocolate. Nightly rates start at $195.
Ease the Stress of Holiday Travel with Safety Tips
For globetrotters headed to any of these vacation hot spots or even those closer to home, leading travel security and medical specialists International SOS has a healthy list of tips to make the holidays more rewarding and less risky while on the road. From basic advice such as leaving valuables at home to doing your homework on the destination in advance, the experts International SOS are available as expert sources on travel security at the holidays or any time of year.