If you’re already thinking about the holidays, you’re ahead of the game. Booking early can mean more choices, better availability, and more time to plan the little details that make a holiday getaway special. Whether you want sunshine, a nearby escape, or a cozy mountain retreat, these holiday vacation ideas can help you start planning now…
Trade Snow for Sunshine
For travelers dreaming of a warm-weather holiday, destinations like Aruba, Hawaii, and Mexico offer plenty of sunshine, beautiful beaches, and resort amenities. Aruba is a great choice for a relaxing Caribbean getaway, while Hawaii combines tropical scenery with outdoor adventures and plenty of ways to unwind. Mexico offers everything from beach escapes in Los Cabos and Cancun to cultural experiences and family-friendly resorts.
Tips for Planning a Tropical Holiday
- Check the weather before you go. Check temperatures and rainfall predictions before choosing your holiday escape.
- Plan around holiday activities. If you want to spend Christmas or New Year’s at a resort, check whether it offers special dinners, entertainment, or other seasonal events.
- Leave room for beach time. Avoid packing your itinerary to the brim with excursions–-unless that’s your thing–otherwise, build in downtime to enjoy the pool, beach, and luxury resort amenities.
Start planning a tropical holiday escape →
For the Homebodies: A Domestic Escape
You don’t have to travel far to enjoy a memorable holiday vacation. California, Florida, and Arizona all offer plenty of options for a change of scenery without an especially long journey. Spend the holidays near the coast in Southern California, enjoy theme parks and warm weather around Orlando, or head to Arizona for desert scenery, and plenty of golf.
Tips for a Domestic Holiday Escape
- Consider a road trip. Depending on your location, California, Florida, and Arizona are all great options for travelers who would rather drive than deal with holiday air travel.
- Look beyond the obvious attractions. Popular destinations can be busy during the holidays, so consider nearby beaches, state parks, smaller towns, or local holiday events.
- Think about the winter weather. Florida and Southern California can offer mild temperatures, while Arizona‘s desert areas can have chilly mornings and evenings—check the weather and pack light layers.
Plan a domestic holiday escape →
Cozy Up in the Mountains
For travelers who associate the holidays with snow-covered scenery, crackling fireplaces, and clocking plenty of time on the slopes; Colorado, Park City, and Montana are excellent choices. Ski towns offer downhill adventures during the day and plenty of opportunities to relax at night. Even if skiing isn’t your thing, mountain destinations can be ideal for snowshoeing, scenic drives, shopping, dining, and simply enjoying a stunning winter setting.
Tips for Planning a Ski or Snowy Getaway
- Book ski access early. If skiing is a priority, book your ski passes early and make sure to get a ski in/ski out resort early as well for maximum powder sessions!
- Plan for winter roads. Mountain roads can be snowy or icy, so check weather conditions and make sure your vehicle is prepared for winter travel. Alternatively, use public transit or resort transit while you are visiting (many resorts offer rides to and from downtown areas).
- Choose accommodations for downtime. A kitchen, fireplace, hot tub, or spacious living area can make a big difference when you’re spending more time indoors after a day in the cold.
Make Your Holiday Go Further with RedWeek
RedWeek can help travelers find vacation rentals at resorts in popular holiday destinations with spacious accommodations and amenities that traditional hotel rooms just can’t match—all for a fraction of the cost too! Start planning now, and you’ll have one less thing to worry about when the holiday season arrives.