December 18, 2024
Ah, the holiday season is here!
My goal in 2024 was for balance so I’m trying especially hard this holiday season to embrace the chaos and enjoy it all…because it goes way too fast indeed.
So I keep my Amazon app handy for any last minute gift exchanges and my oven constantly pumping out Christmas Cookies to help me survive the season and all the unpredictable pop-ups that occur.
Any other holiday hacks that I need to add?
I still haven’t written out my Christmas cards or started wrapping any presents but I will get it all done (because we always do)!
Cheers to another incredible year at Thirsty for Travel Designs…I hope that you get to take some time to rest and recharge during this festive season whether it be in travel or at home.
In this edition, we’ve gathered a selection of enchanting places where festive traditions come to life — from snowy European villages to sun-kissed tropical paradises. Wherever your heart desires to celebrate, let the spirit of the season guide your travels as you create lasting memories and bask in the joy of the holidays.
NEW YORK CITY
Visiting New York City during the holidays is a magical experience, filled with festive energy and iconic attractions. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, with Christmas lights, holiday decorations, and special events. Envision this – a horse-drawn carriage ride filled with dazzling holiday lights, a festive cocoa and caroling cruise, vibrant holiday markets, an exclusive ‘Home Alone 2’ tour, skating under the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center and the world-famous Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall!
ICONIC TRAIN TRAVEL
Just imagine curling up to a warm cup of hot chocolate and watching Switzerland’s stunning winter wonderland right out your window. Known as the “slowest express train in the world”, the Glacier Express offers breathtaking panoramic views of snow-covered landscapes, alpine villages, and majestic mountains, making it an unforgettable journey, especially during the holidays.
COZY SKI RETREAT
Set slope-side on Beaver Creek Mountain, in the serene and exclusive Bachelor Gulch of Colorado, The Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch delivers the ultimate luxury mountain experience. With ski-in and ski-out access, a 21,000 square foot spa and the Fireside Bar just steps away from the lift for après-ski enthusiasts, this property is the perfect winter retreat. They pull out all the stops for the holiday season including Santa visits, reindeer encounters, Menorah lightings and New Year’s Eve celebrations making it a hit for all travelers.
VITAMIN SEA
Sometimes, all you want for Christmas is your feet in the sand and the sunshine on your face. Visiting Antigua during the festive season offers a vibrant mix of traditional Caribbean holiday cheer, cultural celebrations, and tropical beauty. The island is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights and festive displays, with many towns and resorts adorned in holiday décor. Expect to hear Christmas carols in both English and Antiguan Creole, as locals celebrate with their own cultural twist.
EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS MARKETS
Of course, our list wouldn’t be complete without the fan favorite…European Christmas Markets. Visiting Europe last December was absolutely magical as they go all out with Christmas decorations and truly embrace the magic of the holiday season. Each city has their unique take on their Christmas Markets showcasing their traditional crafts and regional dishes which makes for an authentic way to experience Europe at its best.
