From my recent article in our local paper- the Marin Ij:
Holiday Travel Ideas
While there are many benefits for hunkering down at home with decades old family traditions for the holidays; staying in jammies all day, watching your favorite holiday movies and preparing your favorite Christmas meal. There are also as many reasons to buck tradition and create new memories for you and your family.
Whether you are seeking a Christmas vacation filled with old world holiday celebrations, or mulled wine at a Christmas market, perhaps a break from your cold weather or family squabbles. We have compiled a list of a few of our favorite holiday travel destinations.
Christmas Markets
One of the ways our family started picking a holiday destination was by picking a city with a popular Christmas Market. I love the tradition of the markets, the hand crafted gifts, mulled wine, the unique foods to each area, and the people. Both locals and vacationers.
Did you know:
Great Christmas Dickens Fair in our very own Daly City (Cow Palace) is listed as one of the best Christmas Fairs in the US.
Dresden Germany is known as the oldest and most picturesque Christmas market
Vienna is touted as the largest and best known Christmas Market in the World.
Also in the US Christkindlemarket Chicago, so popular that it has three locations.
Be sure to check dates/times before planning your trip as every market has different start/end dates.
Family Friendly Holiday Travel
NYC, NY- Of course! Not only because it is featured in so many holiday movies but the lights, the shopping, the restaurants! Families can visit the Rockefeller Christmas tree and ice skating rink, view window displays on 5th Avenue, and see the Radio City Rockettes Christmas performance. A fabulous tradition!
Romantic Christmas Getaway
French Alps-With its stunning snow capped mountains, horse-drawn carriage rides, candle-lit dinners in rustic alpine lodges and spectacular fireworks displays, the French Alps is brimming with Christmas cheer and romance. And did I mention fondue?!
Warm Weather Getaway
Puerto Rico-The historic town of Old San Juan looks even more magical dressed up for Christmas with lights, decorations and nativity scenes. Puerto Ricans go all out for their long holiday season.