Where to Go This Holiday Season for Great Vacation- Places, Attractions

Updated On: November 07, 2023 by   Rahma Ali

Waiting for the perfect time is just like waiting for an eternity. If you dream of spending a fantastic vacation or want to travel around the world and you don’t have time or maybe money to do this, not to mention the uncertainties we all go through during the last two years of the pandemic, do this now. If you want to take some time off, again, do this now and plan for a great vacation this holiday season. No one does not like the spirit of Christmas when starting to show up in the streets.

It revives our hopes, dreams, and our energy to start over. Don’t get stuck in your home with your favourite drink while watching a movie -maybe Home Alone; instead, go around and spend unforgettable moments with your family in this special season.

We’re here to help, and we’ve created this updated list of the best places to visit during the Christmas vacation. You can also find a handful of tips before travelling anywhere to stay safe and amused.

Let’s see what I’ve got planned for you.

Connolly Cove Tips to Spend the Great Vacation in This Holiday Season 

• Book Right Now for This Holiday Season

You need to find the best date that is compatible with your budget. Not only that, but also the prices are going to surge dramatically from flights, accommodations, admission fees, and more. Our experts always advise you to book your great vacation as early as possible to avoid these unjustified rates. The earlier you buy your tickets and accommodations, the lower your costs will be.

• Check the Working Hours of Attractions Before Going Anywhere

In the holiday season, you need to double-check the opening hours of any place before heading to it. Many attractions could be closed in the high season; sometimes, they are not available to receive visitors on Monday, like some temples in India, or on Friday, such as mosques in Istanbul and Dubai. Check the official website of the attraction you intend to visit, or maybe you can post a question on TripAdvisor forums or simply make a call to the place.

• Have the Earliest Flight Ticket of Your Traveling Day

It’s easy to find yourself stuck in a jam-packed airport because of delayed flights. “We regret to announce that a thunderstorm in London has delayed several flights, and services will be resumed soon. Stay calm and safe until the further note!” Frustrating, anxious, and your enthusiasm goes to zero. Yes, true. And unfortunately, it’s expected when you are traveling during the peak season of Christmas due to unpredictable weather conditions.

But booking the first flight on your traveling day seems like a precautionary measure against these odds. It does not work every time, but you will minimize the possibility of being perplexed in the airport stuffed with crowds.

• Go to Countries that Do Not Require a Quarantine

Imagine this scenario; you have got vaccinated and tested negative for the coronavirus one day before traveling. Finally, you have reached your destination, “Yahoo!” but the officer in the airport told you that you couldn’t go directly to your hotel; you have to stay for a 14-day quarantine to make sure that you are outstanding.

“Seriously! What you are talking about!”

Yes, true. Again, unfortunately, some countries have imposed such restrictions to compact this virus with all possible measures. So, don’t waste your precious vacation time in this quarantine and please be sure that the place you will go will allow you to pass with your vacation certificate or whatever you need to prove that you are free from the Covid-19.

• Check the Best Time to Travel in This Christmas Holiday Season

According to many peripatetics and travel experts, the best time to travel in this holiday season is the day of 21 December, and the worst time is the day of 25 December till New Year’s eve. You are about to avoid congested roads, high fares of Uber rides, and so on. But if you want to witness the traditional feel of the country you are going to, it will be better to stay till the last minute of this year. It might cost you extra money, but the experience is worthwhile.

• Go to Less-Visited Places

Many people are thinking of going to popular Christmas destinations or maybe nearby countries to spend their fabulous vacation. But you will find many people have considered you just like you, and most spots are packed. Instead, go to Europe, for example. Besides its most delicate soul with colorful orientation, cheerful Christmas trees, stunning bulbs, and Santa Claus gifts, tourists prefer to go to a beach vacation that Europe can not offer during the holiday season. That’s why you can go around the continent and don’t be bothered by crowds.

• Keep Your Eye on the Weather Forecast

Of course, you need to check the best time to visit a place before planning your trip. It absolutely varies from traveling to South America to flying to Russia, for example. And don’t forget to check the weather forecast in your home country to ensure that your flight will go smoothly without delay. And if there is any news related to potential ice storms or floods, please call off your plans and be satisfied with Home Alone or some family gatherings.

Top 10 Places to Go This Holiday Season for a Great Vacation

Please note that some places on this list could be currently closed, or maybe it turns out to be very restrictive. Remember: keeping updated on the latest news is the best advice you should follow.

Spend Christmas in a Rich Cultural Country: New Zealand

Budget: Around $180 per day

New Zealand is the country that should be on everyone’s bucket list as it comes with many sightseeings ranging from mountains, breathtaking nature, and beautiful crystal beaches. With 700 islands, you have to organize your trip here very well; especially you are going to discover many exciting activities and places like fjords, rainforests, and magical waterfalls.

Why Should You Visit New Zealand?

Coupling the unbelievable vast landscapes, sunny beaches, and endless hiking trails with a unique Christmas spirit, that’s exactly why we mentioned New Zealand as one of the best destinations to go in the holiday season. 

In this country, no corner will fail to impress you. You are going to discover unlimited attractions and landmarks compounded with scenery, distinctive culture, and thriving nightlife.

What we like more about New Zealand is that it offers what you really need on your vacation. However, most parts of the country are sunny enough to go out without worrying about rains; the south islands will remind you that we are in December, and most places will be topped with ice.

For summer vibes, you have tones of white and golden sandy beaches to bliss out and help you unwind with your tropical cocktail in these extraordinary times, but  

The Coromandel Peninsula is the top of them. Not only watersports, but this island will also give you access to magnificent forests for camping and trekking.

Need more? Okay, keep reading!

Things to do:

• Spending a day in Queenstown is all you need to do on your great holiday. Many thrilling activities await you, from hiking, jumping from Kawarau Bridge to skydiving above impressive mountains, visiting Amisfield Bistro, and tasting the best wine.
• Heading to the picturesque coastal town of Kaikōura with its Turquoise water and panoramic views, not to mention that you will play with marine mammals; Whether you’re a solo traveller or planning a family trip, Kaikōura is set to meet your aspirations.
• Don’t miss out on your opportunity to visit the capital of New Zealand, Wellington, which is the best place for history and culture lovers. You will feel like driving in a location tangled with heritage and a healthy community offering fresh air.
• Explore the Westland National Park, which is one of the popular gems in this country. This place is perfect for people who could miss ice scenery in December as there are the most spectacular and purest glaciers in the world, Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier.
• For the sophisticated side of New Zealand, you can visit Auckland, where epic skyscrapers and fancy hotels cover the whole city. Plus, there are many free walking tours around the town along with trendy shopping malls.

Things not to do:

• Don’t disrespect Maori culture related to indigenous people in New Zealand. It’s common sense that you should not take offence to anything, but when it comes to people’s culture, it could be very different from yours, making you feel compelled to say anything abusive. Please don’t and show respect to their country and legacy.
• Don’t make the mistake of comparing New Zealand to Australia. Nonetheless, the two countries are known for their beautiful natural landscapes, with each having its own distinct flair in terms of culture, forests, wildlife, and cuisines. And both countries are unquestionably must-see destinations.
• Rugby is more than just a sport, don’t mess with a local when it comes to the All Blacks, the New Zealand national rugby union team; it’s really an inherent part of their culture. Don’t say something like, “What a waste of time!” or “How dull!” you will make a negative impression and have difficulty here.

Pro Tip: Don’t go to New Zealand without reading about the New Zealand road code if you want to drive here because you will drive through rough terrains among mountains and sometimes they are not always adequately paved. So, be careful and hire a local guide to help you get to your destination.

Where to Stay in New Zealand?

Best Hotels for families:

Novotel Queenstown Lakeside (around $118 a night)
Millennium Hotel New Plymouth Waterfront (around $110 a night)

Best Hotels for couples:

Chalet Romantica (around $319 a night)
Navigate Seaside Hotel (around $149 a night)

Best Hotels and Hostels for solo travellers:

Nomads (around $40 a night)
Rainbow Lodge (around $30 a night)

Why Not Go to Asia: Hong Kong

Budget: Around $200 per day

Wherever you go in this vibrant city, Christmas is always celebrated as a public event.  From central to narrow streets, you can feel the town’s heartbeat from decorative clubhouses, trees, bills, and excellent lights covered buildings that bring delight to your soul.

And all shopping centres are decked out in lavish and themed decorations to commemorate the occasion. It would be a rich experience, and you can snap along the way to record these happiest moments.

Why Should You Visit Hong Kong?

Christmas carols resonating in the streets, skyscrapers gleaming once the sun goes down, many places getting ready for celebrations and festivals, when the clock knocking and ticking at 12:00 a.m. announcing that a new year has just started, fireworks during the night to morning day- all of these will make your holiday in Hong Kong just dream come true.

 You can just roam around Lee Tung Avenue, where you see really different decorations, ranging from neon colours, large butterflies lightening up the sky, and bullies. A variety of western Christmas food can be found here as well, such as ham or turkey; even KFC always prepares a festival menu. Alternatively, you can just bring your ice cream while checking trendy restaurants and chic boutiques.

And, of course, nothing beats a trip to Disneyland, which kicks off its own festival in November and runs until New Year’s Day.

Things to do:

• Wander around the main city centre in Hong Kong to see the finer details of Christmas celebrations and make a stress-free trip.
• Go to Disneyland and enjoy its amusement-themed parks, and if you decide to go there on New Year’s eve, you will be treated to the most spectacular performance you have ever seen.
• Hit Opera Hong Kong, the perfect place for those who appreciate ballet and Nutcracker performances, or simply check out this impressive edifice coming with many entertainment utilities.
• Taste Chinese food and don’t forget to order a Chinese soup; ginger soup is highly recommended, like a flavoured medicine, very warm and rich.
• Spend a day at Hong Kong WinterFest, one of the top ten places you can visit in the holiday season in the whole world.

 

Things not to do:

• Please do not spit in the streets, even though it is standard behaviour in Beijing, which is thought to ward off evil spirits. You could face a fine of up to 5,000 Hong Kong dollars for doing so.
• Don’t come here for only one night. Hong Kong offers much more than you might imagine, and you will need at least four days to explore its attractions and gems. Thanks to the perfect transportation network, you can travel between sights with ease, even in the high season.
• Don’t talk openly and freely about politics and these controversial discussions. Many people have believed that authorities carried out a monitoring system to censor the Internet; whether it’s true or not, it would be better to be cautious about such matters.

 

Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on the laser audiovisual 3D display, which is part of WinterFest where flocks are coming from all over the city around the clock tower in the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui. You will see lightning drones dancing in the sky, creating shapes and patterns, one of the most innovative New Year’s shows. It will blow your mind.

Where to Stay in Hong Kong?

Best Hotels for families:

Hong Kong Gold Coast Hotel (around $135 a night)
Kowloon Harbourfront Hotel (around $135 a night) 

Best Hotels for couples:

The Ritz Carlton (around $381 a night)
Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel (around $150 a night)

Best Hotels and Hostels for solo travellers:

L’etoile de Mer – Hostel (around $32 a night)
Commune Castle Peak (around $22 a night)

Explore the Special American Way to Celebrate: Colorado

Budget: Around $250 per day

A hot destination around the year but in the holiday season, it turns out to be the best choice for a great vacation; it’s the US state of Colorado. Compiling a wide range of outdoor activities like hiking to rocky mountains, visiting public national parks, skiing and whitewater rafting, and camping, it’s a haven for everyone searching for new adventures.

 

Why Should You Visit Colorado?

As much as you could need to plan for a great vacation, Colorado has echoed as a heaven for voyagers. Located in the Western United States, you are about to embark on a new way of life here. It’s a laid-back spot dotted with many places and attractions you can visit as a solo traveller or with your family.

Moreover, Colorado has a rich cultural heritage loaded with history, and locals there have their own way to celebrate Christmas.

Since November is coming, every small town in Colorado gets adorned with dazzling lights creating a masterpiece of picturesque Christmas vibes that mingles cheerful features with breathtaking nature.

Colorado has already created from the chilly climate unique obedience to spend the best holiday ever, lightening ski slopes with torchlight and preparing parties in the shade of mountains. Engage in these ceremonies or spend a romantic night with your partner, no matter what you search for; Colorado will go beyond your wildest dreams.

 

Things to do:

• Visit the historic town of Telluride, where you can see many remnants of buildings indicating the legacy of this place, particularly if you head to the city centre filled with shops and restaurants against a backdrop of whitewashed mountains.
• If you come here in the first week of December, head straight to Durango, where people host daily festivals in a pleasant setting and don’t forget to ride the Polar Express Train to the “North Pole” to meet Santa and let your baby take his gift.
• Make time to visit the magic town of Georgetown, another wonderful small town peppered with popular markets and local bars. You can take a sleigh ride pulled by a horse and walk through Georgetown Christmas Market, and have an insight into its quaint cobblestone alleyways.
• Explore the national park of Black Canyon of the Gunnison, situated in western Colorado, where you are more likely to be awestruck by its terrific vast greenery with sheer cliffs and rocky towers offering a great chance for phenomenal photos.
• Attend a spectacular Christmas event, Race of The Santas, on the first Saturday in December if you are looking for a cultural carnival performance because that’s exactly what you will discover here- people dressing up in Santa suits roaming the streets.

Things not to do:

• However, it’s legal to buy marijuana in Colorado, it’s not legal to consume it in public, but it doesn’t mean that you will find no one smoking in parks or on the streets. Anyway, avoid doing that to keep yourself away from trouble.
• Don’t go for any tremendous activity on your first day in Colorado because you are more likely to suffer from some symptoms ranging from headache to fatigue due to the different nature of the state.
• Don’t leave this city without tasting its domestic beer. To be honest, it’s the best in the entire United States.

Pro Tip: Be prepared that you could not find many fast-food chains in Colorado, like Chipotle, Smashburger, and Noodles. The variety of cuisine options is a little bit limited.

Where to Stay in Colorado?

Best Hotels for families:

Sonnenalp Vail (around $395 a night)
Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center (around $328 a night) 

Best Hotels for couples:

Le Meridien Denver Downtown (around $170 a night)
Highland Haven Creekside Inn (around $181 a night)

Best Hotels and Hostels for solo travellers:

Ember Hostel (around $51 a night)
The Wanderlust Hostel (around $32 a night)

It’s Always a Good Idea: Go to Miami

Budget: Around $350 per day

However, it’s a coastal city with beautiful beaches, magnificent sand dunes, and luxury resorts. Miami is also a popular destination for the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy their time wandering around the beach, relaxing at opulent hotels, or even going shopping in high-end malls. There is always something you can do here. And, further down, we will discover little-known information about how to make your vacation here a seamless experience.

Why Should You Visit Miami?

Located in Florida, Miami is a multicultural spot and welcoming space where you can spend an existential moment enjoying its lively nightlife.

Not just pristine beaches, it’s an incredible metropolis and multicultural community thanks to its strategic location.

What makes this place a perfect alternative for you to come here during the Christmas holiday is its tropical climate, an excellent destination all year round.

While most USA states have been covered with snow in December, the average temperature here is between 26 °C to 17 °C. It means that you can go swimming during this trip, especially when the humidity goes down.

Nestled with large public parks, Miami gives you free access to many different attractions and activities, like Bayfront Park offering a beach area, rock garden, waterfalls, artworks, and monumental sculptures.

In the months leading up to Christmas, this park comes to be an avenue for festivals, concerts, and holiday celebrations mostly organized at the end of November in its theatre.

Things to do:

• Enjoy the night shows at Santa’s Enchanted Forest, one of the most significant holiday-themed parks in the world. This space permanently houses scream-inducing thrill coasters, performances by famous local artists, and other fun facilities.
• If you are looking for morning outdoor activities, go directly to Jungle Adventure, home to a large collection of wildlife, plants, and animals, and a great place for a family outing that takes visitors on an epic tour to see beautiful and endangered creatures.
• Pay for a cruise journey through the Winterfest Boat Parade, one of the most-visited highlights in Miami. It will take at least 2.5 hours around the city in a sailboat, beautifully decorated with floral patterns.
• One of the most impressive free activities in Miami is to head to South Pointe Park. This park offers beautiful long trails with a beach view, so lace up your walking shoes and come here for a lovely tour in the morning hours.
• A lovely hub for Christmas festivities, Deering Estate, you can stay here to have dinner in its adorned garden, or you can check the archaeological monuments for history buffs.

Things not to do:

• If you come here for a few days, don’t assume that you will go to parties every day. Many people have preserved a stereotype of lifestyle in Miami that they will go out every single moment to parties. But it’s not right. They are often held on weekends, and you will find many fun day trip ideas close to you, along with parties.
• Don’t take your alcoholic beverage out on the street with you. According to state law, you could be arrested.
• Don’t worry about being late in Miami. No one here comes on time. So, if your friend told you that he would meet you at 8:00 p.m., keep in mind that he would come after at least 15 minutes from the planned time.

 Pro Tip: If there were one thing locals would tell you about a vacation in Miami, it would be that drivers here are insane. Please be careful while crossing the street and don’t risk your life to get to the other side.

 

Where to Stay in Miami?

Best Hotels for families:

Regency Miami Airport (around $135 a night)
InterContinental Miami (around $210 a night)

Best Hotels for couples:

Loews Miami Beach Hotel (around $669 a night)
Novotel Miami Brickell (around $208 a night)

Best Hotels and Hostels for solo travellers:

Freehand Miami (around $40 a night)
Rock Hostel (around $70a night)

Go to Small Towns, Many Things Can Be Done: Ascot, England

Budget: $300

You need to hit up small towns around the big cities for the best holiday getaways, and we are now in England. You will feel that time has stopped here for almost thousands of years, especially if you choose to go to Ascot, which has a colourful history and an incredible legacy.  

 Why Should You Visit Ascot?

Just an hour away from London, Ascot is famous for its annual horse race that the royal family and its dynasty have always loved to attend for decades. But during Christmas time, the city turns out to be an ideal destination for everyone looking for the New Year’s festive mood.

Ascot will be packed with vibrant decoration, entertaining activities, and fascinating shows. One of the best things to do in Ascot is to attend Christmas at Ascot Racecourse on 30 November.

This festival brings tons of fun activities for all ages, from cooking lessons to knowing the secrets of making American cookies, participating in thrilling competitions, face painting, or even going around tiny alleyways to discover hidden piazzas. The whole city will be like a gigantic charming museum with bags of lightning sculptures, and long decorative trees, and Santa Clause is wandering around to let people take inspiring photos with him.

Also, you couldn’t be more excited if you decide to visit Lapland UK, a sizeable themed park offering something you can not find anywhere else.

Things to do:

• Visit Lapland UK, which will take you on delightful tours to hear lovely stories, roam around decorative castles, admiring the views of long trees adorned with colourful lights, a perfect place for your babies.
• Be royal and explore Ascot Racecourse to see horse riding and enjoy this extraordinary atmosphere of the UK empire, and you can order some snacks while watching this exciting race.
• Relax at Englemere Pond, which is a peaceful space and natural spot to keep away from crowds. It often misses out on the attention it deserves, which makes it an amazing place to visit when all destinations around become jam-packed.
• Go shopping in the nearby market brimming with traditional items and vintage antiques to keep this great vacation forever in your mind.
• Explore Lavender Park, a prominent landscape for fresh air and chill out in the heart of nature aside from being a large golf court. You can take lessons to practice this soothing sport or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Things not to do:

• If you travel to Ascot from London or even move around the town, don’t use cash in public transport as it has not been accepted since 2014. Instead, invest in an Oyster Card.
• Don’t miss your chance to taste British food. Many people assume that it’s terrible compared with other international cuisines, but you should try it at least once to get a sense of it.
• Don’t skip queues to take another person’s turn in any place in England, even if you used to do it in other countries. You are likely to receive some insults because you don’t respect the rule of lines.

 Pro Tip: Taking a cup of tea in the afternoon is one of the wealthiest inheritances in England. Set aside some time to sip your hot drink with an English cake to soak up the original feeling of what it’s like to be in England.

Where to Stay in Ascot?

Best Hotels for families:

The Royal Foresters (around $229 a night)
The Royal Foresters (around $141 a night)

Best Hotels for couples:

Coworth Park (around $800 a night)
Macdonald Berystede Hotel & Spa (around $326 a night)

Best Hotels and Hostels for solo travellers:

Safestay London Kensington Holland Park (around $49 a night)
YHA London Earl’s Court – Hostel (around $53 a night)

Live Deeper and Spend Christmas in Italy

Budget: $280

No other place can offer you what you will get there. That’s why there is no wonder that Italy is one of the top destinations people are flocking in the Christmas season. Generally, Italy is a place you will want to revisit again and again, and in the holiday season, joy spirits are eclipsed in each nook and corner. 

Why Should You Visit Italy?

Endless reasons are behind the answer to this question. I’m not here to talk about historical excavations in each Italian city or priceless mosaics art of most churches and museums that compete with the class-world artworks, along with grand cathedrals. And you already know that Italy has already increased the level of entertainment and adventuring. I am here to mention that you should make time to visit as much as you can during Christmas, and I bet it could be even more complicated.  

For example, from December 7-10th, head to Milan to enjoy one of the most prestigious shopping fairs in the world as the city gets ready every year to celebrate its patron saint, Sant’Ambrogio. 

You can easily pop in a large festival peppered with food, crafts works, and art collections, and many boutiques are decorated to welcome visitors. Not just Milan, you can find a wide variety of Christmas markets, no matter where you are in Italy, just be prepared that you are about to break the bank. (Kidding! You have to shop smartly)

 Things to do:

• Enjoy Skiing on your snowboard and admire the view of white-washed mountains in the Dolomites, located in northeastern Italy, with perfect icy slopes spread over 800 kilometres. Additionally, Sicily offers exceptional skiing activities, especially if you choose to go to the volcano there. Scary but awe-inspiring!
• Marvel at the Christmas ornamentations sprinkling over Italy. Many cities, from Roma to tiny towns, are going to be the best sites of Europe’s – arguably the world’s- Christmas destination with picturesque decorations and lights.
• Visit Florence, which sits at the heart of nightlife lovers. You don’t have to miss the Florence Light Festival, where the city’s most iconic landmarks are illuminated, bringing the most exhilarating experience you have ever had.
• Pay a visit to the most distinct churches in any city in Italy to watch nativity scenes depicting human symbols of the Holy Family. They are also used to embellish the main squares of Big Italian cities as well. Not to mention that the entire set is made up of classic Italian clothing.
• Go on hiking tours on the most famous mountains, the Italian Alps, and enjoy watching the stunning dawn offering a stellar vista.

 

Things not to do:

• We all are excited to taste pizza in the birthplace of Italy. But simply don’t order it with pineapple. No matter what your type of food, it’s impossible to like it. I bet that even Italians don’t ever eat it. It’s kind of torturing people.
• Don’t make the mistake of assuming that everyone in Italy speaks English. You’ll need a translation app in Italy to talk with people, so get one now.
• Even if you mean it, don’t say, “I want Espresso.” Simply put, coffee. Italian people consider Espresso to be the expected standard of coffee. If you need something else like americano or cappuccino, then you might be more precise and say, “Americano, cappuccino, please?”

Pro Tip: For romantic moments, you can take the snow slopes at night under the stars. The weather turns out to be bitterly cold, but you ought to have it at least once in your life.

 

Where to Stay in Italy?

Best Hotels for families:

Turin Palace Hotel (around $187 a night)
Turin Palace Hotel (around $188 a night)

Best Hotels for couples:

Hotel de Russie (around $915 a night)
Hotel Lungarno (around $496 a night)

Best Hotels and Hostels for solo travellers:

Ostello degli Elefanti (around $22 a night)
Hostel Trustever (around $24 a night)

Try a Taste of Magic: Visit Bali

Budget: $120

Even though many people think that Bali is not the best place to visit in December, this is not the case, or maybe it’s a matter of perception. If you don’t like heavy rain, you should think of going elsewhere because it’s the rainy season in Bali. In spite of this fact, there are many amazing things to do there in the holiday season. And you will get something that might be so different.

You might wonder now, “Well, what about the rains, could they ruin my vacation?”

Simply put, December is broadly defined as the rainy season, but it might begin as late as January or as early as November. So, there is no absolutely correct answer, and what you need to know is that rain is nothing you have to worry about. 

Why Should You Visit Bali?

Bali is known for its gorgeous islands, sunny beaches, and white cliffs with crystal clear water, which tourists perceive as the heaven gateway. Actually, millions of things can be found and done in Bali, ranging from exploring rice terraces, adventuring in jungle waterfalls, and visiting Buddhist temples. But please bear in mind that going to Bali in the festival season isn’t about getting into the Christmas vibes; it’s about taking a beach holiday and immersing yourself in the island’s natural beauty.

Spending your fabulous vacation in Bali means you will escape from lower temperatures and shiver under heavy layers. Along with discovering rustic shops and restaurants associated with the culture of this marvellous city.

Things to do:

• Appreciate the impressive architecture of the Balinese Hindu Temple and learn more about how Hinduism people do their ritual ceremonies.
• Stay at one of the posh hotels that have meticulously planned for New Year’s eve. Plus, many restaurants and bars will drive you to engage with their domestic parties.
• Pay for a white water rafting tour. Even if it rains, it’s totally safe to do this activity which will leave you breathless. But here is an important note, don’t go there alone, you might panic, and you need a hilarious companion with you.
• Visit lively avenues of the city where culture brings together many exciting stories about Bali traditions and culinary dishes.
• If you need to keep yourself away from the dry climate, visit Monkey Forest Ubud, ample green space for trekking, and fresh air. You will come across different species of monkeys who live in a united natural environment.

 Things not to do:

• Don’t wear your shoes inside any religious temple. It’s a sacred site and an inherent part of Indonesia’s culture to show respect to the place.
• Don’t do drugs unless you want to break laws and get arrested because of drug possession. Indonesia’s authorities treat this problem very seriously, as some offences carry the possibility of death plenty.
•   Do not drink water from the tap. Despite aspects of development you can witness around, Indonesia does not have an excellent filtration system, and you have to buy a mineral bottle of water wherever you go.

Pro Tip:  When visiting a Hudisim temple, you must adhere to a set of principles and norms. For example, don’t step on offerings of Canang Sari spreading across sidewalks. Every morning, local people come here to do rituals and bring these offerings to gods, including woven palms, flowers, and herbs.

Where to Stay in Bali?

Best Hotels for families:

Bombora Medewi Wavelodge (around $51 a night)
Villa Sonia Ubud (around $82 a night)

Best Hotels for couples:

Padma Resort Ubud (around $209 a night)
Sahaja Sawah Resort (around $181 a night)

Best Hotels and Hostels for solo travellers:

Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel (around $22 a night)
Arya Wellness Retreat (check for availability)

 

Go for a Sushi Date: Travel to Japan

Budget: $380

If you have put Japan on your travelling bucket list, there is no time better than December to make it. The Asian country offers many festivals and events shared by local and international artists with a strong sense of holiday season that attracts hordes of tourists every year.

Why Should You Visit Japan?

For winter sports enthusiasts, Japan provides charming snowboarding and skiing sports, making it a magical destination. Everyone who visits during this season describes it as a superb country to spend the holiday season.

One of the engaging activities to do in Japan throughout the Christmas vacation is to be part of illumination events, starting from November, which has plenty to offer to spend a great vacation and snapping instagrammable photos. Not just these unique festivals, I am going to let you in on a bit of a secret, which is that every place around Japan is just like a Christmas paradise.

Japanese people are masters of decking streets with beloved decorations that awe you and can not stop capturing photos.

Take advantage of being in Japan by sampling as many gourmets delight as possible. And, of course, it never makes any sense to be in the place of sushi without tasting it. However, you can experience more than sushi there, like Japanese soup, sausages, local desserts, and more. Located about five minutes away from different illumination events, you can visit many local markets like the German Christmas Market, a hotspot for shopaholics and heritage seekers.

Things to do:

• Explore the unique little gem of Japan in Christmas markets. There are many offerings there where you can do many things like drinking red wine, glancing at Japanese culture, and snapping pictures with Christmas trees.
• Go to shopping malls for great adornments and bring your coffee while browsing chic boutiques and antiques. 
• Attend one of the festivals or parties held in the main squares of big cities like Tokyo. These musical performances will add a touch of Japanese flair to your Christmas celebrations.
• Do some winter activities like skiing where you can find them in some mall centres or even in outdoor halls. Just remember that exploring these Japanese cities is like prancing around your own little film set inspired by cheerful Christmas-themed props.
• Act like a native Japanese person and eat fried chicken from KFC. I know it could be weird to do this in a country with rich dishes like Japan, but trust me, it would be a terrific idea to check their Christmas menu, ranging from salad, ice cream, and delicious cakes.

Things not to do:

• Don’t use chopsticks if you don’t know how to use them. You need to know how to eat with them before going to Japanese restaurants and letting everyone watch your poor skills. Additionally, it won’t be very respectful.
• Don’t eat or drink while walking. Yes, it’s not illegal, but you will get a stare of disapproval, and trust me, it’s far worse, especially when you are a foreigner. People are very aware of keeping streets very clean, so just stop for a while on the sidewalk, finish what you eat and then dispose of the waste in the trash.
•  If you get invited to someone’s home, don’t wear your shoes indoors. Just take them off before going inside, and you will find other slippers waiting for you to replace them with your unclean shoes.

 Pro Tip:  When using chopsticks, Never put them vertically upright into the rice as it’s part of funeral rituals, and no one wants to conjure up this image while having a nice meal, instead place them beside your plate.

Where to Stay in Japan?

Best Hotels for families:

Hotel Granvia Kyoto (around $176 a night)
Kyoto Hotel Okura (around $183 a night)

Best Hotels for couples:

Yokohama Royal Park Hotel (around $211 a night)
Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel (around $206 a night)

Best Hotels and Hostels for solo travellers:

Hotel Monday Haneda Airport (around $41 a night)
Book And Bed Tokyo Shinjuku (around $29 a night)

Enjoy a Romantic Weekend Getaway: Go to Woodstock, England

Budget: $290

Travelling to the British countryside during this holiday season is always a fantastic idea where it has miraculously survived the herds of mass tourism seen all over the country.

Imagine waking up to marvel at extensive landscapes decked out in decorative lights and icemen to celebrate Christmas. What a relief, what a surprise!

Certainly, you will have the best days of your life if you decide to go to Woodstock in England.

Why Should You Visit Woodstock?

Another pretty British town, Woodstock – located in Oxford County- is a humble, secret-laden, yet ideal and vibrant escape from your busy daily life and stressful thoughts. This town has everything to keep its visitors entertained, from attractions of incredible hidden in plain sight to the most breathtaking views of historical sites.

You can find a plethora of things to do there, ranging from cultural events, museums, vintage stores, and boutiques to a wide array of cuisines. December adds charm to this town as many things can please you, such as concerts, equestrian parades roaming the streets, giant statues of lights, and more.

Here, the shopping experience is drool-worthy, inspired by the heritage of this old city.

Plus, horseback riding or horse-drawn carriage rides can not be missed there to enjoy a romantic moment and discover the backdrop of Woodstock, which comes with a variety of activities to complete your itinerary exhilarated and amused. 

Things to do:

• Visit Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and in the holiday season, the royal palace hosts many intriguing events like Blenheim Christmas Markets and Lights Trail without entry fees. The castle is a masterpiece that many movies have been filmed here, like Cinderella and Harry Potter over the years.
•  Go to the fresh market runs every Saturday throughout the year. The market is a shopping spot more than ever before, equipped with vegetables, fruits, handicraft works, antiques, and other traditional goodies.
• Explore Woodstock art gallery, which will give you an insight into a great collection of works by local, regional and international artists. Don’t miss having a look at historical printing presses.
• Take a photo with an iconic tree here, the Harry Potter tree, located right next to Blenheim Lake. Actually, it’s older than Harry Potter himself, dating back to 300 years ago.
• For an extraordinary trip, go to Oxford Honey and Supplies, a hot tourist destination here. You will better understand the honey industry, how bees produce its precious liquid, and how we get it out from beehives.

Things not to do:

• Don’t assume that English folks don’t drink coffee. English tea is indeed more popular than coffee here, but you will find many coffee shops like Costa, Starbucks, and others.
• When using the elevator, just keep yourself on the right side to let people get in and out smoothly. If you don’t follow this advice, you will probably hear people talking about your rude attitude.
• Don’t be excited about driving in England if you don’t feel comfortable being stuck to the left side of the road. Instead, you can use public transformation, cosy and affordable.

Pro Tip:  If you wonder about a free activity or some things you can do in Woodstock without costing any money, here we go, Blenheim Palace will give you free access to stroll around. It has extensive landscapes to enjoy a sunny day between tons of wildlife animals jumping around you and treating your eyes with a natural vista.

Where to Stay in Woodstock?

Best Hotels for families:

Sturdy’s Castle Country Inn (around $108 a night)
Premier Inn Oxford Kidlington (Airport) Hotel (around $66 a night)

Best Hotels for couples:

Macdonald Bear Hotel (around $241 a night)
The Punchbowl Inn (around $182 a night) 

Best Hotels and Hostels for solo travellers:

Travelodge Oxford Peartree Hotel (around $54 a night)
Super 8 by Wyndham Oxford (around $51 a night)

Immerse Yourself in a Rich Culture and Sunny Beaches: Mexico

Budget: $280

Are you planning on a great vacation this holiday season? Do you want to know what to do, stay, and how to make use of your time, and are you aspiring to keep your vacation full of adventure and merriment?

You have ended up in the right place. Yes, it’s Mexico, the perfect place at any time of year, yet on Christmas, your trip will be the most enlightening ever. Mexico is always a haven for vacationers who need to introduce new adventures.

 Why Should You Visit Mexico?

In Mexico, you will see lovely attractions, chat with friendly locals, panoramic tours to explore the rich culture of this vivid country, and many rustic bars that are available 24 hours a day. Not to mention that you can go out for an out-of-town trip to indulge in the Mexican secrets. One of these secrets is that you will feel that Mexico has a mash-up of different cultures, including Spanish, tangled with a lengthy history. The Christmas celebrations here are likely to retain the Mexican traditions, starting from December till February, which tripping throughout the entire country.

 Being in Mexico is a spontaneous and adventurous experience; no words can describe how it looks; you will need to do it yourself. Mexico offers many exciting activities in store for you right now, ranging from going to the wildlife park of Baja California to seeing the sea coming together with the stunning desert, exploring high-end art galleries, and experiencing Mexican dishes. 

 Things to do: 

• Visit the city of San Miguel de Allende to fulfil your dreams of spending a great vacation during the festival season. This city is known for its traditional ceremonies in a very warm atmosphere. For a family vacation, this is a must.
• Do some diving and snorkelling activities inside the crystal water of historical caves in the shade of mountains in Pet Sematary. Don’t fret when you can find archaeological relics of ancient extinct animals. It’s a must-visited spot in Mexico.
• Visit the city’s popular museums like Templo Mayor Museum, coming up with a great collection of artworks. Absolutely, there are hot tourist attractions you can visit in Mexico city for reasonable rates that make Mecio preferable for many voyagers.
• Think of visiting Puerto Vallarta for Christmas activities; for instance, you can wander around the city to discover its historic buildings and churches, let yourself lose in its endless maze of streets, and try Mexican food.
• Explore Fort Veracruz, a medieval fortress overlooking the seaport of Veracruz. It becomes clear that this spot will pique the interest of everyone fond of culture and history.

Things not to do:

• Don’t drink from taps. It doesn’t offer clean enough water. So, be cautious of your eating habits in general, like avoiding eating green salads or drinking from domestic eateries, among other things.
• In the streets, don’t drink any alcoholic beverages. It’s illegal, and if the cops catch you doing it, you’ll be fined.
• Don’t throw your toilet paper in the toilet. Always dispose of papers in the trash spotted behind the bathroom.

Pro Tip:  Be sure that the mineral water you drink is perfectly sealed and not refilled, or you could suffer from diarrhoea and big troubles in your digestive system for days.

Where to Stay in Mexico?

Best Hotels for families:

Selina Tulum (around $321 a night)
Las Palomas Beach & Golf Resort (around $207 a night)

Best Hotels for couples:

Hotel Safi Royal Luxury Centro (around $59 a night)
El Palacito Secreto (around $271 a night)

Best Hotels and Hostels for solo travellers:

Hotel Safi Royal Luxury Centro (around $59 a night)
Moloch Hostel – Cancun (around $17 a night)

Common Questions & Quick Answers

Where Should I Travel for Christmas 2021?

For the past two years, We’ve all been trapped in homes because of the unprecedented scenario of Covid-19. A lot of fears were growing, no matter where you lived. Now after some good news about containing this pandemic and many countries have lifted restrictions on travelling, we think it’s the best time to go around in this holiday season.

You can check out our list above to decide where you can go for a great vacation and, in a nutshell, go for places where you can feel safe and sound like some USA states, Hong Kong, and Italy, and keep posted on any updates about the health concerns.

Where is a Good Place to Go on a Great Vacation Right Now?

Firstly, you have to think of the reasons behind your desire to travel to make up for your daydreaming of travelling; for identifying new cultures, discovering new places, going for a distinct adventure, or just relaxing. Hopefully, you have a variety of options to go with this holiday season. From Europe to Asia and America, each country around is an excellent place to go on a great vacation right now. All you need is to bookmark this list or send it to your partner on this trip to think of all potential destinations. Also, you can check out our guides for travelling around the world.

Where Should I Go for a Beach Vacation in December?

Going around the world is about travelling smart. Not all countries were created equal. For example, if you are searching for a beach vacation in December, maybe you can go to Brazil or Sri Lanka, Mexico, or even Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt. So it seems you can stretch on a beach while your hometown shakes beneath blankets. Interesting!

Pack your suitcase now and be ready to embark on the most amazing adventure in this holiday season. And don’t forget to save this link, you will need it further and share with us photos from your last trip on our social media pages with the hashtag #connollycove.

Fuel your vacation, you deserve it.