Why Holiday Travel Starts Now: 5 Great Reasons to Get Away for the Holidays
Posted on 08/26/2025
When the holiday season approaches, it often feels like there’s only one way to celebrate: packed schedules, crowded malls, endless emails, and a long to-do list that somehow grows instead of shrinks. But it doesn’t have to be that way. More and more travelers are rediscovering the joy of escaping during the holidays, choosing to swap stress for serenity and memories that matter.
Instead of another December spent battling traffic or rushing from one obligation to the next, imagine Christmas morning on a sunlit terrace, brunch by the beach, or a New Year’s Eve toast beneath the stars. A luxury holiday escape offers moments that last long after the decorations come down. Here are five powerful reasons why planning your holiday getaway now can be the best gift you give yourself—and your loved ones.
1. Time Together, Not Tasks
The holidays are meant for connection, but all too often they become a season of obligations. Between cooking, hosting, shopping, and organizing, it can feel like there’s little time left to actually enjoy the company of friends and family. A holiday vacation flips that script.
Instead of spending hours in the kitchen or racing between events, picture uninterrupted conversations, shared laughter, and new traditions created in beautiful destinations. A villa on a Caribbean island, a suite overlooking the Pacific, or a cozy chalet in the mountains offers space and comfort for everyone—without the stress of managing the details.
Choosing to travel means you’re not just getting away from the tasks—you’re leaning into the joy of simply being together.
2. The Gift of Experience
The truth about physical gifts is that their novelty fades. Sweaters wear out, gadgets get replaced, and toys often lose their sparkle. But experiences? Those last forever.
Think of waking up to ocean views on New Year’s Day, watching snow fall outside your private chalet, or snorkeling together in warm December waters. These are the moments that turn into stories retold for years. A holiday getaway transforms time into treasure, creating memories that linger far longer than any wrapped box under a tree.
This year, consider gifting yourself and your loved ones something beyond the ordinary: a chance to share an experience that feels both meaningful and unforgettable.
Where to go for experiences that last:
Caribbean: Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club, perfect for families seeking sun and sophistication.
Mexico: One&Only Palmilla, where luxury and service meet effortless holiday charm.
Hawaii: The Fairmont Kea Lani Maui, offering space, wellness, and island celebrations.
Mountains: One&Only Moonlight Basin in Montana, for snow, fireplaces, and festive coziness.
Costa Rica: Waldorf Astoria Punta Cacique, where adventure and relaxation balance beautifully.
3. Less Rush, More Reward
The holidays are notorious for being overwhelming. From crowded shopping centers to holiday traffic, the season of “joy” can sometimes feel anything but joyful. Choosing to travel during this time is more than a vacation—it’s an intentional decision to trade in chaos for calm.
A wellness-focused resort in Hawaii offers mornings of yoga followed by afternoons on the beach. A peaceful European village glows with twinkling holiday lights and mulled wine by the fire. Resorts often elevate the season with festive dinners, holiday-inspired spa treatments, and private celebrations. Instead of managing everything yourself, you can simply enjoy the holiday, knowing every detail is taken care of.
When you step away from the seasonal rush, you gain the real reward: peace of mind.
4. The World Dressed in Wonder
Some destinations become even more magical during the holidays. Europe, for example, shines with sparkling Christmas markets and charming old-world traditions. Picture Vienna dusted with snow, sipping hot cocoa as you browse handcrafted ornaments. In France, skate beneath the Eiffel Tower before indulging in a festive feast. Or in Italy, enjoy cozy evenings in a Tuscan villa with loved ones gathered around the table.
For those who crave warmth, tropical escapes bring their own version of wonder. A private bungalow in Bora Bora, dressed with subtle festive décor, or the Riviera Maya in Mexico, alive with colorful celebrations and cultural traditions, offer unforgettable ways to celebrate.
No matter where you go, the holidays abroad remind you that joy can be found in countless forms—cozy, sun-soaked, or adventure-filled.
5. Travel Smart, Book Early
The biggest secret to holiday travel? Timing. The best options go quickly. Whether it’s the most sought-after suites, exclusive villas, or the perks that make a holiday feel extra special, booking early ensures you won’t miss out.
By planning now, you’ll have access to the widest selection, from festive city stays to beachfront resorts to alpine chalets. Early booking also means less stress—every detail is handled, leaving you free to focus on the excitement of what’s ahead.
The gift of peace of mind might just be the greatest holiday present of all.
Spotlight: Europe in Winter
While tropical escapes remain a favorite, Europe in winter is something extraordinary. The season transforms the continent into a storybook setting. Imagine sipping mulled wine in Germany’s historic squares, wandering through Prague’s cobblestone streets illuminated with fairy lights, or ringing in the New Year at a luxury hotel in London.
Elegant city stays, countryside estates, and alpine chalets all offer ways to experience the holidays with European flair. But just like at home, the best places book quickly—especially for Christmas and New Year’s. Planning ahead ensures you’ll secure the setting that matches your holiday dreams.
Making This Season Extraordinary
At the heart of it, the holidays are about meaning. Whether you crave quiet moments in a sunlit villa, the excitement of a new city, or traditions shaped by local culture, choosing to travel makes the season feel both special and effortless.
Instead of juggling endless lists, give yourself the freedom to celebrate in a way that feels right for you. A holiday escape is more than a vacation—it’s a chance to step away, reconnect, and create the kind of memories that last far beyond the season.
This year, why not gift yourself the joy of travel? The perfect holiday setting is waiting—you just have to say yes.