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Ah, Christmas. A time for family, festive cheer, and… travel pandemonium? For many Australians, the allure of a snowy escape or a sun-drenched beach getaway during the holidays is undeniable. But let’s be honest, traveling at Christmas can be a bit of a mixed bag. I’ve been crafting dream holidays for years, so I understand the unique joys and pitfalls of a Christmas journey.

The Festive frenzy: Why travel at Christmas?

There’s no denying the magic of experiencing a Christmas wonderland in a new destination. Imagine:

• Festive Feasts around the World: Ditch the pavlova and delve into traditional Christmas delicacies from around the globe! Imagine savoring a steaming plate of roast goose in a cozy German pub, indulging in a decadent bûche de Noël (Yule log cake) in a Parisian café, or enjoying a tropical Christmas barbecue on a sun-drenched Fijian beach
• A dazzling display of Holiday cheer: Immerse yourself in the dazzling lights, festive decorations, and joyous atmosphere that permeates many destinations during the holiday season. Picture strolling through enchanting Christmas markets in Prague overflowing with handcrafted ornaments and twinkling lights, or marveling at the awe-inspiring Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center in New York City.
• Family togetherness (or Escape?): Christmas is a time for family, and some might say, a time to escape family. (Just kidding… mostly.) But seriously, creating lasting memories with loved ones in a new environment can be truly special. Imagine building snowmen in a Finnish winter wonderland with your kids, snorkeling in Koh Samui with your partner, or simply relaxing on a secluded Hawaiian beach with your closest friends (because let’s be honest, sometimes a little adult escape is just what the doctor ordered!).

The reality check: Navigating the Christmas rush

While the festive spirit abounds, traveling at Christmas does come with its share of challenges:

• Peak season crowds: Brace yourself! Christmas is peak travel season, and popular destinations can become incredibly crowded. Be prepared for longer lines, higher prices, and potentially sold-out tours and activities.
• Sky-High prices: With increased demand comes inflated costs. Flights, accommodation, and even car rentals can see a significant price hike during the holiday period. This is a time for strategic planning and early booking to secure the best deals.
• Limited availability: Popular tours, activities, and restaurants often book up well in advance during Christmas. Be sure to research and reserve your desired experiences early to avoid disappointment.

Popular Christmas destinations for Aussies:

So, where are our fellow Aussies jetting off to during the festive season? Here are a few iconic destinations I booked for my customers for Christmas 2024 :

• Lapland: Experience a true winter wonderland in the heart of Finnish Lapland. Meet Santa Claus himself, go on a magical reindeer sleigh ride, and witness the breathtaking aurora borealis dancing across the night sky.
• USA: Immerse yourself in the classic Christmas spirit of America. Visit Disneyworld in Orlando for a magical holiday experience, explore iconic Christmas markets in cities like New York and Chicago, or head to the snowy slopes of Colorado for a winter wonderland retreat.
• Hawaii: Escape the summer heat and embrace a tropical Christmas paradise. Picture relaxing on pristine beaches with a festive cocktail in hand, enjoying a traditional luau with a Christmas twist, and soaking up the warm sunshine while the rest of the world shivers in winter coats.
• Japan: Experience a unique Christmas twist! While Christmas isn’t a major holiday in Japan, many cities embrace the festive spirit with beautiful illuminations and special Christmas markets. Plus, there’s something truly magical about spending the festive season on the slopes of Japan. With its world-class ski resorts, powder-soft snow, and unique cultural experiences, Japan offers a winter wonderland that’s hard to beat.
• Cruising with Royal Caribbean: Imagine waking up to a new festive destination every day! Royal Caribbean offers incredible Christmas cruises with themed activities, onboard carolers, and delicious holiday feasts. Think Christmas cheer with a side of ocean views.

Planning Makes Perfect: Tips for a Smooth Christmas Getaway

Traveling at Christmas can be an incredible experience, but it requires a little extra planning. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:

• Book early, like seriously early: The earlier you book your flights and accommodation, the better chance you have of securing the best deals and availability. Don’t wait for those last-minute Christmas miracles!
• Embrace Flexibility: Be flexible with your travel dates and destinations. Consider traveling slightly before or after Christmas to avoid peak crowds and prices.
• Research Local Customs: Many countries have unique Christmas traditions. Learn about local customs and plan your activities accordingly.
• Manage Expectations: Be prepared for larger crowds and potential delays. Embrace the festive spirit and go with the flow!

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to travel at Christmas is a personal one. Weigh the pros and cons based on your priorities and budget. Whether you crave a festive escape or prefer a cozy Christmas at home, I can help you plan the perfect holiday experience.

But here’s the thing: Christmas 2025 is just around the corner! With peak season approaching rapidly, now is the absolute best time to start planning your dream Christmas getaway. Don’t wait and risk missing out – contact me today, and let’s turn your festive travel dreams into a reality!

Photo’s from my last Christmas escape…. I mean holiday.