Nearby, the Omni Grove Park Inn has been hosting its National Gingerbread House Competition since 1992. Want to take on an adventurous trip to Costa Rica this Christmas? Why we go: From the enormous Christmas tree in Pioneer Courthouse Square to the 1.5 million lights that illuminate the Oregon Zoo at ZooLights, Portland packs quite a bit of holiday spirit. 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. 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. Then find the Christmas spirit in fairytale small towns like medieval Rothenburg or go skiing in the German Alps but beware of the spooky Krampus, a frightening Christmas beast of local folklore. 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. Spend your Christmas holidays in this picturesque region in southern Germany. We're talking massive Christmas trees, rides, concerts, and markets selling local goods. When it comes to accommodations, opt to stay at The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown for easy access to the city's most charming neighborhood. 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. If you'd rather swap your snowshoes for a swimsuit this holiday season, head to the Maldives. The Most Affordable Winter Vacations in the U.S. We've updated our Privacy Policy, which will go in to effect on September 1, 2022. 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. They created this adorable Danish community, now known for its Danish businesses and European architecture. From sunny shores to winter wonderland ski resorts, these are the best places to spend Christmas this year. Head to one of the renowned Smithsonian museums to escape the cold weather, bundle up and visit the National Zoo, or walk along the National Mall and enjoy the holiday decorations (hot cocoa in hand, of course). 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. Enter Montreal. Take a scenic road trip through the Florida Keys, stopping at islands en route to famous Key West. As founder of www.SoloTrekker4U.com, Elizabeth Avery generally spends the Christmas holidays abroad. To get to this charming resort, guests take a ferry from Key West to the 27-acre island. Stay here: As if the Ritz-Carlton wasn't swanky enough, the hotel hosts Christmas parties, dinners, and afternoon teas all season. Why we go: Warming up with whisky is reason enough to visit, but Edinburgh's seasonal offerings extend far past booze. Kids Kicking Your Airline Seat? From Tokyo to Vienna, these cities come alive during the holidays. 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. 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. Elizabeth Rhodes is an associate digital editor at Travel + Leisure. Neighbors also love to outdo each other, especially on Peacock Lane. TRAVEL + LEISURE is a registered trademark of Travel + Leisure Co., registered in the United States and other countries. 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. Stay here: Channel ye olde holiday spirit and book a stay right on King Street at The Alexandrian Old Town Alexandria, Autograph Collection. This picturesque town is located in the southern Appalachian Mountains, within the Nantahala National Forest, so it's the perfect place for a cozy escape. Why we go: Christmas in London has timeless appealchalk it up to the decorated Georgian townhouses, lively pubs, and a dash of Dickensian charm. While some destinations and hotels have released their holiday plans, these are subject to change due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, so be sure to check before planning your trip. 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. 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. There's truly nothing like Christmas in New York City. Your post has been submited for moderation. During the Holiday Roundup from Dec. 24 to Dec. 31, guests enjoy family-friendly events like New Year's Eve fireworks. (If it's good enough for Kevin McCallister). Be warned: it will snow and it will be cold! 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. "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.". 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. (Good luck deciding whether to take a daytime tour or visit on a candlelit evening.) 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. Then there are the lights. There are several stunning slopeside lodges to choose from, including the luxurious Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa and the ski-in/ski-out Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole. Head to the nation's capital this December for the perfect combination of holiday cheer and interesting activities the whole family will enjoy. Pro tip: Though the markets will be full of delicious goodies, many choose to indulge in the king of Alsatian delicacies, foie gras, which is also a French Christmas tradition. Offers may be subject to change without notice. We stayed with a local family, and they were enthusiastic to show us a true Aussie experience. at a parilla,a typical Argentinean steakhouse. "Regardless of where you are, everyone gets into the Christmas spirit and I think that as a traveller, you're welcomed even more than normal because you're away from home.". We're not mad about the bauernkrapfen (fried pastries), either. Located in the heart of the scenic Ivalo regionreachable via a 1.5-hour flight from HelsinkiInari is a pure winter wonderland dotted with hotels and restaurants that keep things nice and cozy. 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. In Argentina, I spent the Christmas holiday in Ushuaia, at the very southern tip of South America. Photo: Shutterstock, "Moscow offers a magical mix of traditional and modern," explains Jacqueline Lewis, from World Gratitude Map. Luxurious Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, offers a full lineup of holiday activities from Dec. 21 to Jan. 1, including making gingerbread houses, visits from Santa, a traditional family Christmas dinner, and more. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Dine at Edinburgh Castle, which is known to host Christmas lunches (yes, really). Cond Nast Traveler does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 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. They've also been known to deck out their tree with Swarovski crystals. 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: One of the most famous illuminations is the Blue Cavern (Ao no Dokutsu) in Shibuya, which is inspired by the blue grottos of the Mediterranean. Stay here: The warm and inviting Grand Hotel Kempinski Vilnius is as close to all the Christmas delights as you can get. Of course, you can also spend your days lounging on the stunning beach or enjoying the many amenities and activities offered by the resort. The best Christmas vacations offer cheerful decorations and festive events that capture the holiday spirit, all set against the backdrop of a beautiful destination. But the Irish capital isn't just about drinking, of course. While the jollity may look a bit different in the midst of a pandemic (remember to always check local and regional restrictions before venturing anywhere), these global destinations keep the holiday cheer going year after yearand it's never too soon to start planning for holiday seasons to come. 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. 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. 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. Why we go: If your idea of Christmas merriment includes an authentic Irish pub crawl (we get it), then Dublin is your place. 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. Stay here: The 24-room luxury property, The Virginia Hotel, offers the best of both worldsa seaside ambiance with a cozy fireside lobby, plus in-room refreshment bars with snacks from local makers. Any information published by Cond Nast Traveler is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. 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). Her favorite things include beautiful hotels, surprise flight upgrades, and talking about the places she loves. Look out for spirited events like the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, and try to spot Waterskiing Santa along the Potomac River. The city is always phenomenal but it seems to be extra pretty around Christmas time.". 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. There are 12 in total to check out, which is sure to keep you busy. Stay here: The Park Hyatt hotel is within walking distance of St. Stephens Cathedral and features some of the largest rooms in Vienna. 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. Stay here: The immaculate Hotel de Russie, with its peaceful spa and secret garden, has the best aperitivos in the city. "It's an enchanting place to experience Christmas. She adds. 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. 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). "They have "bull fights" in these tiny little towns all around the country and the whole village comes out to watch. There's no better way to warm up on a cold Christmas night than with some black pudding and a few pintsand trust us, this city has enough cozy bars to last you through New Year's. This gallery was originally published in December 2015. The one thing to get you in the spirit: A live advent calendar at the Goundie House on main street features a downtown merchant emerging from the door at 5:30 p.m. every night with treats for all who are waiting. During the winter, the arctic landscapes are covered in snow, and you'll even have a chance to spot the northern lights. You can also choose to stay in one of the city's beautiful boutique hotels, like The Landsby or the Winston. 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. Holiday offerings include Christmas markets, decked-out shops on Grafton Street, and tree lighting ceremonies galore. 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. Why we go: Dubai does Christmas the same way Dubai does nearly everythingin true, over-the-top fashion. 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. Solvang is a small city in California's Santa Ynez Valley that was founded by a group of Danes in the early 1900s. 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. It's hard to imagine a more authentic winter holiday than one spent riding dog sleds, feeding reindeer, and chasing the Northern Lights. Old Edwards Inn and Spa and Half-Mile Farm (favorite hotels among Travel + Leisure readers) offer plenty of holiday cheer with festive decor and cozy accommodations. 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. Also nearby is the Nativity Trail and the Tree of Hearts. Follow her adventures on Instagram at @elizabetheverywhere. Essentially, it is just a bull in a dirt arena with a rickety wood fence surrounding it and a bunch of men inside the arena running from the bull. But perhaps the most unique PDX tradition is the Christmas Ships Parade that sails down the Columbia and Willamette Rivers for 15 nights. It has been updated with new information. Solvang typically hosts Julefest each holiday season, complete with festive events and decor check the website for updates about this year's celebrations. It was a warm, relaxing, and charming holiday.". Dont miss a drive through the Willow Glen neighborhood, where extravagant Christmas decorations line the streets. Why not spend the holidays in Santa Claus's hometown? Stay here: The light and breezy rooms sitting above the Atlantic Ocean at Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa are the perfect antidote to the winter blues. With most of the cold-averse tourists flocking south for the winter, Canada's chicest city reveals its true personality with cozy French restaurants, high-end shopping (hello, last-minute presents), and over-the-top festivals. Related: Where Can Americans Travel Right Now? Hit the slopes and enjoy the ultimate winter wonderland experience at Beaver Creek in Colorado. 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. 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. All the women and children stand on or around the fence and cheer the men on. The best places to spend Christmas, in our book, run the gamut from European classics with storybook Christmas markets, to Asian cities with over-the-top light displays, and even merry mainstays right here in the U.S. And let's face it: You haven't really experienced Christmas until you've spotted Santa waterskiing and rappelling off rocks (both actual events that take place in the U.S.). There's just something magical about spending the holidays in London. The bright lights are so popular, they stay up well past Christmas dayoften through January or February. The cobbled streets of the Old Town are packed with quaint shops and delicious bistros, all merrily decorated for the holidays. A Country-by-country Guide, Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe. 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. 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. Fancy spending your Christmas at the end of the world? Beaver Creek opens for the winter season on Nov. 24 with updated health and safety procedures. It's a real community event. 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. Stay here: We're huge fans of the impossibly luxurious Htel Les Haras, installed in Louis XVs historic stables in Strasbourg. 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). If you're looking for a charming, small-town Christmas experience that feels like it's straight out of a Hallmark movie, head to Highlands, North Carolina, this holiday season. Try Insight Guides' Costa Rica: Coast to Coast holiday or our Tropical Costa Rica trip. A popular ski destination among East Coasters, Stowe is within driving distance of several major northeastern cities. 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. One evening we hiked to the top of a rock formation and cooked lamb chops over the fire. (Celine Dion got married here, so you know it's good.) Why we go: You haven't seen Christmas lights until you've seen Sydney's Christmas lights. 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. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Follow the Winter Glow light trail with stops at 10 installations through the historic part of the city center, including lights at the Church of Our Lady Tower and a projection at Gruuthuse. Thanks to a wide range of accommodation options from resort complexes like Baha Mar with seemingly endless amenities to more intimate private island resorts like T+L reader favorite Kamalame Cay there's a perfect vacation waiting for you in the Bahamas. 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. If your idea of a "white Christmas" includes lounging on a warm, white-sand beach, head to one of the Caribbean islands accepting American tourists this holiday season, like Saint Lucia. You can even find nearby winter sports at Ski Santa Fe the tentative dates for the 2021-2022 season are Nov. 25 to April 3. 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. Travel + Leisure magazine may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. 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. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Stepping into Pittock Mansion during the holidays is like walking into a Christmas card. 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). 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. 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. These Scenic Train Rides Have the Most Stunning Views in the U.S. Elizabeth Rhodes joined the Travel + Leisure team in 2019 as an associate digital editor, covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. 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, the holiday season lasts an entire month here (take that, 12 days of Christmas) with "Sydney Christmas." Copyright 2022 Travel + Leisure Co. All Rights Reserved. Plus, daily reindeer feedings are available. 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. Plus, go on a holiday scavenger hunt that doubles as a city walking tour. Ad Choices. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement and Your California Privacy Rights. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Cond Nast. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Book a table at Restaurant Vita for some andesteg, a traditional Danish holiday dish of crispy, succulent roast duck served with prunes and apples. After all, the Biltmore opened its doors on Christmas Eve in 1895 and the annual decorations include 100 Christmas trees, 25,000 ornaments, 10,000 holiday lights, and 1,200 poinsettias. explains Danny Bamboat of BAMtravels. Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole, Where Can Americans Travel Right Now? Stay here: Hotel Borg, the city's oldest and most elegant hotel, still reigns supreme. We had to eat it before Christmas morning because of its strong scent!" Stay here: Aria Hotel Prague by Library Hotel Collection is located within walking distance of Prague Castle. Travel + Leisure is published by Meredith Corporation under license from Travel + Leisure Co. Our favourite travel bloggers and writers share their thoughts on where you should take your Christmas holiday Santa at Surfers Paradise Queensland Australia beachfront, one of the best holiday spot on the planet. (Heated windows ensure the snow doesn't cover your view.) Why we go: According to the World Happiness Report, Denmark is one of the worlds happiest countries, making it a great place to spend the holidays. There's also the sprawling holiday market at East Princes St. Gardens, skiing at Pentland Hills Regional Park, and ice skating at St Andrew Square. Start your adventure in Munich, where you'll sip mulled wine as you stroll through the charming city. Why we go: Vienna practically sparkles with holiday spirit during the Christmas season (the lights covering nearly every building certainly don't hurt). Upon arriving, you'll find serenity and quiet just a short ride from the attractions of Key West. A Country-by-country Guide. 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. Stay here: The Enchanted Christmas package at Biltmore includes a stay in a room decorated for the holidays, plus four-course Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meals. Why we go: Holiday spirit is serious business in the Blue Ridge Mountains town of Asheville. 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. You can find updated information about COVID-19 measures on the Stowe website. And with many ideal holiday destinations located across the country, you're never further than a road trip from a perfect December vacation. 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. 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.
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