ere's truly nothing like Christm

2022.07.31
why does my kitten chew on everything

ere's truly nothing like Christm

There's truly nothing like Christmas in New York City. Photo: Shutterstock, "Moscow offers a magical mix of traditional and modern," explains Jacqueline Lewis, from World Gratitude Map. If you'd rather swap your snowshoes for a swimsuit this holiday season, head to the Maldives. Look out for spirited events like the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, and try to spot Waterskiing Santa along the Potomac River. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Stepping into Pittock Mansion during the holidays is like walking into a Christmas card. A popular ski destination among East Coasters, Stowe is within driving distance of several major northeastern cities. Also nearby is the Nativity Trail and the Tree of Hearts. Why we go: If you're looking to escape winter during Christmas, you can't do much better than Cape Townit's summer in the Southern Hemisphere, after all. You'll have to show a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken within five days of arrival and submit a travel registration form, but then you can relax at a COVID-19-certified property for the rest of your stay (find the full protocols on the Saint Lucia website). Why we go: Hong Kong's yuletide urban offerings rival that of NYC's, with holiday markets, window displays, and concerts galore (they even have a Santa Con). Christmas lunch was a rather large steak (of course!) The one thing to get you in the spirit: Take a break from the food and drink booths to ride the two-floor Gdask carousel. Start your adventure in Munich, where you'll sip mulled wine as you stroll through the charming city. All rights reserved. It's a real community event. We had to eat it before Christmas morning because of its strong scent!" She ended up buying me the unusually pungent tropical fruit durian so I could try it for the first time. A few of our favourite bloggers share their favourite places in the world to spend the December holidays1. Stay here: Channel ye olde holiday spirit and book a stay right on King Street at The Alexandrian Old Town Alexandria, Autograph Collection. There are 12 in total to check out, which is sure to keep you busy. Her favorite things include beautiful hotels, surprise flight upgrades, and talking about the places she loves. Stay here: Finnish Lapland is known for its glass-igloo accommodations, and you can't do much better than the in-house winter activities and cozy, panoramic cabins at Aurora Village. "It's an enchanting place to experience Christmas. Stay here: In the heart of downtown, The Fairmont San Jose is across the street from Cesar Chavez Plaza and a 10-minute walk to the inventive eats at San Pedro Square Market. Between the glittering lights, holiday markets, themed pop-up bars, and ice skating outside the Natural History Museum, the city really comes alive during the holiday season. Stay here: The warm and inviting Grand Hotel Kempinski Vilnius is as close to all the Christmas delights as you can get. Basil at the Red Square decorated for New Year and Christmas. With roots dating back to the 15th century, sing-alongs and traditional wind music are as much a part of the festivities as the mulled wine and market stands. Our step-by-step guide to spending the holidays in London covers the perfect place for afternoon tea, a steak to tuck into after a day spent gift shopping, and a martini to sip on Christmas Eveand that's just for starters. Stay at The Lanesborough, London for a truly festive experience the luxurious hotel has beautiful holiday decorations, a festive afternoon tea in collaboration with popular Peggy Porschen, and even private, in-suite shopping from Harvey Nichols. Celebrations are centered around the Christkindlmarkt at the SteelStacks, with more than 50 booths featuring artisan crafts, as well as live music and special events with Santa Claus himself. It's quite the experience!". Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images, The Best Time to Visit Florida for Fewer Crowds, Better Weather, and Travel Deals, 10 Festive Hotels in the U.S. That Make the Holiday Season Even More Magical, 25 Festive Christmas Towns to Visit for the Holidays, The Most Festive London Hotels at Christmastime, The Best Christmas Light Displays in Every State, 13 Hotels in Warm-weather Destinations That Will Still Get You in the Holiday Spirit, 25 Best Girls' Weekend Getaways Around the World, 20 Birthday Trip Ideas for Every Type of Traveler, Best Places to Travel in December This Year, Disney World's Wilderness Lodge Is the Best Place to Spend Christmas at the Park, 9 Festive Christmas Markets in Europe To Visit, Best Places to Spend New Year's Eve in 2021. Why we go: Old Town Alexandrias brick-lined streets already feel lifted out of a Charles Dickens novel. (Good luck deciding whether to take a daytime tour or visit on a candlelit evening.) The one thing to get you in the spirit: Enjoy the crystalline tones of the one and only Vienna Boys Choirwhich has been around for more than 500 yearsand traditionally performs in its hometown during the holidays. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Wonder at the 3,500 twinkling lights at the Strand Arcade or the 85,000 twinkling LEDs at the incredible Pitt Street Mall Canopy of Light. We stayed with a local family, and they were enthusiastic to show us a true Aussie experience. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Celebrate Christmas with mass atNotre-Dame Basilica, arguably one of the most gorgeous churches in the world. This can be the perfect time of year for an extended vacation in a far-flung destination, so make the most of it by heading to the place that tops many travelers' wishlists. The one thing to get you in the spirit: A private Northern Lights safari will have you sitting in a heated sleigh and sipping sparkling wine while waiting for the aurora to dance. "I had a unique Christmas in Hoi An, Vietnam. The season offers festive activities the whole family will enjoy check the resort's calendar for a full lineup of holiday events. Take a scenic road trip through the Florida Keys, stopping at islands en route to famous Key West. If you won't have a chance to wander the charming streets of London or Munich this winter, you can get that European feel here in the United States. Why we go: Love the idea of a European holiday but hate the idea of a transatlantic flight? The city is known for its markets, with the Viennese Christmas Market at City Hall and holiday tree at Rathausplatz stealing the show. Why we go: Vienna practically sparkles with holiday spirit during the Christmas season (the lights covering nearly every building certainly don't hurt). Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands offer luxurious accommodations plus activities the whole family will enjoy. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Don't miss the Christmasland section over in the Fuzhong Business district, with a magic forest and Boshou light park. Why we go: For nearly three decades, the little town of Bethlehem in Pennsylvania has channeled its name and transformed into Christmas City for the holidays. wagoners But perhaps the most unique PDX tradition is the Christmas Ships Parade that sails down the Columbia and Willamette Rivers for 15 nights. Stay here: Standing next to the railway station, the Craft Beer Central Hotel Gdask lets you continue the merriment into the night at the in-house brewery. In Copenhagens Tivoli Gardens, antique amusement park rides decorated with lights are surrounded by yet another adorable, alpine-village style Christmas market selling gifts and snacks. Cond Nast Traveler does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Stay here: Located a block away from both Notre-Dame Basilica and the Nutcracker Market at Palais des Congrs, Hotel Place d'Armes is as convenient as it is aesthetically pleasing. Plus catch Santa on the Chimneyyup, the big guy ditches his reindeer and goes rappelling in Chimney Rock State Park. Solvang is a small city in California's Santa Ynez Valley that was founded by a group of Danes in the early 1900s. Zoom down icy tracks overlooking the city on a wooden sled reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. The one thing to get you in the spirit: The superlative market sits beneath the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, the tallest surviving structure built entirely in the Middle Ages. You can even visit one (or several) of the South African city's holiday markets without having to wear a coat and scarf. The "most wonderful time of the year" is quickly approaching, and even though holiday celebrations might look different this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, you can still find the festive spirit in destinations across the United States and the world. Dont miss the tree lightings happening around town, including the ones at Towers Rotana, Fairmont The Palm, and The Irish Village, and then catch the jolly ol' St. Nicks making a run for it at the Santa Run. There are all kinds of Christmas concerts in amazingly beautiful churches that bring tons of people out. Heres How to Handle It Politelyand EffectivelyAccording to Flight Attendants, 8 Hidden Greek Islands to Discover on Your Next Trip, From Antipaxos to Thirasia, The Most Underrated European Cities, According to Seasoned Travelers. Stay here: If it's views you're after, you can't do much better than The Balmoral, which overlooks the Old Town and Edinburgh Castle. December is a popular time to visit these beautiful islands, so you may want to opt for a secluded stay at Sunset Key Cottages, voted the best Florida resort in T+L's 2021 World's Best Awards. Every year, a theme like literary favorites or animal antics is chosen, and volunteer decorators put their own spins on a roomand it all comes together as a wildly imaginative trip down Christmas lane. Spend your Christmas holidays in this picturesque region in southern Germany. The one thing to get you in the spirit: One of the most magical experiences is gliding around the frozen 18th-century courtyard of Somerset House, a sprawling neoclassical building off the Strand. It was a warm, relaxing, and charming holiday.". Kids Kicking Your Airline Seat? Stay here: Grand Hotel Casselbergh (steps away from the Markt) has inviting touches like exposed wooden beams in the rooms, a lobby bar with a fireplace, and a wellness center located in a 16th-century cellar. You can also choose to stay in one of the city's beautiful boutique hotels, like The Landsby or the Winston. Seeing the city decorated with twinkling lights and impressive trees as you shop for last-minute gifts or sip hot cocoa is really an experience everyone should have at least once in their life.

Take advantage of perfect skiing and delightful holiday events at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort this December. Stay here: Claridge'sbecause there's no better place to ring in Christmas than in one of the best hotels on the planet. Dont miss a drive through the Willow Glen neighborhood, where extravagant Christmas decorations line the streets. Loved for its culture, food scene, and picturesque setting, the city typically also hosts a number of holiday events throughout December, although these are subject to change due to the pandemic. Why we go: It's not surprise that the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old City that served as the backdrop for The Sound of Music also fills its famed Christkindlmarkt with song. My girlfriend and I bought each other small gifts at the local markets. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Take a Victorian Candlelight Tour through the 160-room Winchester Mystery House, once the home of arms heiress Sarah Winchester. Elizabeth Rhodes is an associate digital editor at Travel + Leisure. Anthony, from The Travel Tart, has spent Christmas overseas in New Zealand, Argentina, and Spain: "Spending it outside of your hometown is always an interesting experience.

Why we go: The streets around Rome will be festively alight, sure, but the home to the seat of Catholicism is an excellent option for folks seeking a more sacrosanct Christmas experience. ", View of Kremlin and Cathedral of St. The ski season here is slated to start on Nov. 19, so this is an ideal place to go if you're looking for a white Christmas (and plenty of outdoor activities). Why we go: Prague's holiday markets easily make the city one of the world's best places to spend Christmas: They run for a full month, with locals and travelers passing through for mulled wine, sticky pastries, and roasted ham. at a parilla,a typical Argentinean steakhouse. ", "You'll also experience two Christmas holidays for the price of one: the Western Christmas is celebrated as usual on the 25th December, while the Russian Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on 7th January."

Stay here: Jumeirah Al Naseem (opened in 2016) earns high marks for its posh rooms and easy beach accessand its penthouses, just debuted this year. (Heated windows ensure the snow doesn't cover your view.) The Symphony of Lights showheld nightly at 8 p.m.will leave you breathless thanks to an extravagantly choreographed neon show displayed across more than 40 of the citys iconic skyscrapers, along Victoria Harbor. Editor's Note: Those who choose to travel are strongly encouraged to check local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19 and take personal comfort levels and health conditions into consideration before departure. When it comes to accommodations, opt to stay at The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown for easy access to the city's most charming neighborhood. During the Holiday Roundup from Dec. 24 to Dec. 31, guests enjoy family-friendly events like New Year's Eve fireworks. Why we go: Reykjavk shines on the streets and in the sky in December. Stay here: The immaculate Hotel de Russie, with its peaceful spa and secret garden, has the best aperitivos in the city. "After dinner, we went for a boat ride on the river before lighting a traditional lantern and letting our Christmas wishes float away. Why we go: Europes best-preserved medieval city oozes charm year-round, but especially during the holidays. The weather is perfect at this time of year. Why we go: Christmas isn't a public holiday in Taipei, but it's easily one of the best places to spend Christmas, as the city celebrates with incredible lights displays and festive attractions and events. Rome, Italy, "Ask any local about the best way to spend the Christmas day in Rome and theyre likely to recommend il dolce far niente: the sweetness of doing nothing," explains Lindsay Stein of citywonders.com. Join a walking tour, organized by the areas residents. The one thing to get you in the spirit: They're not quite like Santa's elves, but the estimated 2,000 to 3,000 African penguins at Boulders Beachwhere you can get close enough to take portrait-mode photos of themare sure to warm your heart just the same. Travel + Leisure is published by Meredith Corporation under license from Travel + Leisure Co. Although both destinations are Buddhist countries, there are resorts and restaurants galore that have Christmas dinners the week of Dec 20 in anticipation of tourists. Highlights include advent windows, a magical snow globe, a sleigh ride flight simulator, and a speaking elk. Want to take on an adventurous trip to Costa Rica this Christmas? Stay here: Our readers love the Mandarin Oriental for its decadent decor and wide range of food options. Why we go: The city turns the voltage up each year with its winter illuminations, with different districts competing to create some truly sensational displays. These Scenic Train Rides Have the Most Stunning Views in the U.S. Stay here: The Hyatt Regency Cologne has great views of the Cologne Cathedral, plus a seven-course menu at Glashaus Restaurant on Christmas Eve. A Country-by-country Guide. Traditionally the Christmas season is followed by the Hogmanay Festivala three-day bacchanal celebrating the New Year, with outdoor concerts, fireworks, and dancing Scots. Why we go: When the holidays roll around, the warm and cozy feel of this storybook port city goes into overdrive, especially at the month-long Christmas Fair. Ad Choices. 2022 Cond Nast. Prices are extremely low. Sign up for our newsletters to receive the latest and greatest on all things travel. In Bangkok, even in early January, there were still Christmas trees galore and lots of festive spirit. Stay here: You can't go wrong with Auberge Saint-Antoine and its lobby fireplace, heated bathroom floors, and a Christmas package that includes a five-course dinner and a personal visit from Santa in your room. Try Insight Guides' Costa Rica: Coast to Coast holiday or our Tropical Costa Rica trip. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Dubai's malls transform into festive enclaves, with some of the chicest decorations at the WAFI Mall and Mall of the Emirates. They created this adorable Danish community, now known for its Danish businesses and European architecture. Past spectacles have included an 88 foot tall tree with 6,000 branches that looked like a chess queen piece. The best Christmas vacations offer cheerful decorations and festive events that capture the holiday spirit, all set against the backdrop of a beautiful destination. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Experience the Symphony of Lights during a harbor-front dinner cruise.

Nearby, the Omni Grove Park Inn has been hosting its National Gingerbread House Competition since 1992.

"A Mekong River cruise with solo travel before and after, around Cambodia and Thailand. Why we go: Warming up with whisky is reason enough to visit, but Edinburgh's seasonal offerings extend far past booze. What started as one mans idea of bringing seasonal spirit to his community in the 1950s is now a major downtown event, with animated displays, and trees decorated by local schools and other organizations. Stay here: Hotel Bethlehem is a wonderland of its own, with 35,000 Christmas lights, 36 wreaths, life-sized toy soldiers, and a gingerbread house of the hotel. One evening we hiked to the top of a rock formation and cooked lamb chops over the fire. December is the height of summer there, which was disorienting at first. Wondering where you can actually travel for Christmas in 2021? Why we go: Christmas at the beach has a festive vibe, thanks to Cape Mays Victorian homes that feel like gingerbread houses come to life. Skyler Jackson Reep, from StayAlfred suggests a trip Down Under: "My family spent a Christmas in Melbourne, Australia, when I was a teenager. The city also touts an Olde Fashioned Christmas celebration with a holiday home decorating contest, carols karaoke, and tree lighting at Rotary Park. People were warmly welcoming. (Rough life, huh?). (Celine Dion got married here, so you know it's good.) Related: Where Can Americans Travel Right Now? Stay here: The Park Hyatt hotel is within walking distance of St. Stephens Cathedral and features some of the largest rooms in Vienna. There's just something magical about spending the holidays in London. Why we go: Theres no shortage of ways to make your New York City Christmas magical, whether it's ice skating at Rockefeller Center, window shopping on Fifth Avenue, or lurking around 34th street hoping to witness a miracle. Add to that a serious dose of holiday mirth, with seasonal lights at the indie boutiques on King Street, and its the merriest way to get through your holiday gift list. And with many ideal holiday destinations located across the country, you're never further than a road trip from a perfect December vacation. Plus, daily reindeer feedings are available. Even though it was summer, it's still cold and you have almost 24-hour daylight. Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole, Where Can Americans Travel Right Now? The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Cameron Run water park transforms into a winter village called Ice & Lights, where you can ice skate around light displays and through a 100-foot tunnel arch. Plus, the holiday season lasts an entire month here (take that, 12 days of Christmas) with "Sydney Christmas." In Argentina, I spent the Christmas holiday in Ushuaia, at the very southern tip of South America. "You'll find plenty of Christmas Markets around the city to get your shopping on, including handmade Russian gifts, Matryoshka dolls, sumptuous scarves and crocheted lace.". During the winter, the arctic landscapes are covered in snow, and you'll even have a chance to spot the northern lights. By signing up, you agree that your email address will be stored in line with our, Copyright 2021 Apa Digital AG, all rights reserved.Insight Guides is a trademark owned by Apa Group with its headquarters at 7 Bell Yard, London WC2A 2JR, United Kingdom. During the weeks between mid-November and the New Year, pretty much the entire Banqiao District transforms into Christmaslandwhich is exactly what it sounds like. Talk to our local expert today about creating your ideal December holiday in Argentina or browse suggested itineraries online now. The one thing to get you in the spirit: It's literally Christmas all year round at the Christmas in Salzburg shop on Goldgasse, known for its frilly ornaments (especially those hand painted on eggshells). Why we go: While most tourists flock to the Lapland city of Rovaniemi come Christmas, we suggest heading even further north (like, within reach of the Arctic Ocean north) to the village of Inari. It has been updated with new information. Follow her adventures on Instagram at @elizabetheverywhere. Photo: Shutterstock, From barbecues on the beach to cruises down the Mekong, your Christmas doesnt have to be twinkling lights and decorated trees at home. Stay at The Lodge at Spruce Peak for beautiful mountain views and the only ski-in/ski-out access in town. All the women and children stand on or around the fence and cheer the men on. As for a hotel, stay at the nearby Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, which offers a range of festive amenities, or spend the night on the historic Santa Fe Plaza when you book a room at La Fonda on the Plaza. Strings of glinting Christmas bulbs illuminate the city during its very long nights, and on the clearest evenings, the Northern Lights can be seen from the citys darker streets and parks. You can find updated information about COVID-19 measures on the Stowe website. Travel + Leisure magazine may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Beloved holiday traditions, like the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes and holiday markets, are back for the 2021 season, so it might be the perfect time to spend Christmas in the city. She adds. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Stay here: Celebrate with a Christmas Day lunch followed by a nap by the rooftop pool (remember, it's summertime down under) at the 2017-launched Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour. Why we go: Dubai does Christmas the same way Dubai does nearly everythingin true, over-the-top fashion. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Au 1884 toboggan run by Chteau Frontenac (open from mid-December to mid-March) is one of the citys oldest traditionsand quite the thrill. Why we go: Tech companies and holiday cheer may not seem like the likeliest mix, but this Silicon Valley city has long been home to Christmas in the Park. Stay here: We're huge fans of the impossibly luxurious Htel Les Haras, installed in Louis XVs historic stables in Strasbourg. With pleasantly warm December weather, the Florida Keys are an ideal escape for those looking to spend the holidays in a U.S. beach destination. The one thing to get you in the spirit: For 64 years, The Moving Crib in St. Martin Apostolates basement has been charming families with its mechanical figures depicting scenes like Noahs Ark. Explore Cambodia during Christmas on one of Insight Guides' holidays: from uncovering temples at Angkor to learning to cook in Siem Reap, touring the capital Phnom Penh to cruising the Mekong, you'll find activities to suit your interests. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Dine at Edinburgh Castle, which is known to host Christmas lunches (yes, really). Photo: Shutterstock, This article was originally published on 30th September, 2016, Talk to our local experts today by submitting a trip request or browse alternative holidays online, Top 5 places to spend Christmas in Thailand. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Cond Nast. Stay here: Aria Hotel Prague by Library Hotel Collection is located within walking distance of Prague Castle. All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. Spend your Christmas Day in the Italian capital by booking Insight Guides' Eternal Rome for the Weekend trip. Why we go: Strasbourg is home to the oldest of Frances Christmas markets, dating back nearly 450 years. Why we go: Nothing embodies old-world yuletide charm like the Christmas market, and nobody takes Christmas markets more seriously than the Germans, with Colognes drawing four million visitors each winter. Stay here: Hotel Sanders is practically perfect, with fireplaces in the apartment suites. We spent the week bouncing around the outback, looking for exotic animals. "They have "bull fights" in these tiny little towns all around the country and the whole village comes out to watch. Why we go: Christmas in London has timeless appealchalk it up to the decorated Georgian townhouses, lively pubs, and a dash of Dickensian charm. (If it's good enough for Kevin McCallister). Stay just 26 feet away from the closest chairlift at The Osprey at Beaver Creek, A RockResort, which offers luxurious accommodations and an outdoor heated pool, or book one of just 60 rooms at The Pines Lodge, A RockResort, which boasts incredible views and ski-in/ski-out access. Cond Nast Traveler may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. Our local experts can design your trip based on your preferences, Santa at Surfers Paradise Queensland Australia beachfront, one of the best holiday spots on the planet.