As the holidays approach, it’s the perfect time to plan a festive escape or look ahead to 2025 getaways. From the Christmas markets of Helsinki to the sun-soaked beaches of Barbados and the serene deserts of Arizona, these ten destinations offer unique travel experiences for the holiday season and beyond.
1. Finnish Christmas Traditions in Helsinki
Discover the magic of a Finnish Christmas in Helsinki, where markets, lights, and holiday treats fill the air with festive warmth. Highlights include the historic Senate Square Christmas Market, with stalls offering glögi (Finnish mulled wine) and artisanal gifts. The Teurastamo market also provides modern holiday takes from local food artisans. Explore Helsinki’s festive traditions at My Helsinki.
Photo Credit: Jussi Hellsten
2. Tropical Vibes at Miami Mojito Company
Miami Mojito Company in Wynwood brings a slice of the Caribbean to Miami with its tiki-inspired bar and signature cocktails. Featuring flavors like passion fruit and coconut, this bar provides a vibrant and refreshing escape. With daily Happy Hour specials, it’s the perfect spot for a winter tropical retreat. Plan your visit at Miami Mojito Company.
Photo Credit: Julia Rose Photography
3. Vacation Ideas to Escape the Noise
For travelers seeking a peaceful getaway, there are numerous destinations that offer tranquility and natural beauty. Options include exploring Arizona by luxe RV with Blacksford’s scenic routes from Phoenix to Monument Valley, an Amazon birding expedition at Sacha Lodge, or serene bikepacking through Death Valley. Each of these escapes provides a chance to unwind in some of the world’s most scenic locales.
4. A Very Barry Christmas in Las Vegas
Celebrate the holiday season with Barry Manilow’s A Very Barry Christmas at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. This festive concert experience includes holiday classics and hits from Manilow’s celebrated career. Shows run from December 5-7 and December 12-14, making it a perfect holiday treat for friends and family. For tickets and details, visit Westgate Las Vegas.
5. Multi-Sport Adventure in Oregon
Escape Adventures offers a six-day multi-sport tour through Oregon’s high lakes region, with activities including mountain biking, rafting on the Deschutes River, and rock climbing at Smith Rock. This tour is perfect for outdoor lovers seeking a scenic, active getaway. Book this adventure at Escape Adventures.
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6. Family-Friendly Glamping at Jellystone Park, Tennessee
Opening in February 2025, the new Jellystone Park on Watts Bar Lake offers a blend of lakeside relaxation and family fun. With water slides, sports courts, and luxury glamping cabins, it’s ideal for those looking for a lakeside getaway with activities for all ages. For reservations and information, visit Jellystone Park.
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7. Grand Canyon Glamping Resort
Near the Grand Canyon’s western rim, the Grand Canyon Glamping Resort offers unique accommodations such as stargazing domes and covered wagons. Guests can enjoy helicopter tours, ATV rides, and horseback experiences, all set in a stunning desert landscape. Learn more about these adventures at Grand Canyon Glamping Resort.
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8. Michelin-Starred Dining at Il Visibilio in Chianti Classico
Il Visibilio, located at The Club House in Tuscany’s Chianti Classico, recently celebrated its Michelin Star and Passion Dessert Award. Chef Daniele Canella’s tasting menu combines local ingredients with innovative culinary techniques, offering a unique dining experience in Italy’s scenic wine region. For more details, visit Il Visibilio.
Photo: Chef Daniele Canella © Il Visibilio
9. Cena Negra at Hotel Matilda in San Miguel de Allende
Hotel Matilda in San Miguel de Allende hosted its 13th Cena Negra, a special Día de Muertos celebration. Chef Ricardo Muñoz Zurita’s menu highlighted traditional Mexican ingredients with a contemporary twist, paired with Casa Dragones Tequila and Jackson Family Wines. Visit Hotel Matilda for future events and reservations.
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10. Royalton CHIC Barbados and Black Friday Sale
Blue Diamond Resorts has announced the upcoming Royalton CHIC Barbados, which will join Marriott’s Autograph Collection in 2026 as an adults-only Caribbean escape. This Black Friday, travelers can also enjoy exclusive deals on stays at Blue Diamond Resorts across the Caribbean, perfect for gifting or planning ahead for a dream vacation. Learn more at Royalton Resorts.
© Blue Diamond Resorts
Embrace the Joy of Exploring
Whether you’re dreaming of a snowy European market, a beachside Caribbean getaway, or an adventure through the desert, these destinations offer a range of unique experiences for holiday and early 2025 travel. Embrace the joy of exploring, relaxing, and celebrating with unforgettable trips that capture the spirit of the season.
