Christmas can be a great time for couples to get away and experience the magic of the holiday season together.
Like every couple, every destination offers something different.
The holiday season has a way of evoking fuzzy feelings and what better way to enjoy them than to spend the days and nights of the season with your partner.
For some couples, a getaway looks like escaping the cold and heading South for sunshine and beaches, while others want to experience a snow-globe type Christmas with the more snow, the better.
No matter which type of couple you and your partner are, we have a destination that’s right for you. In this blog, we are going to cover our top 3 picks for a snowy Christmas, and our top 3 picks for a sunny Christmas.
The Snowy Christmas Edition
1. New York, USA
Christmas in the Big Apple is nothing short of extraordinary. If you are the type of couple that likes to stay busy with things to do and see, this is your city. However, pack a warm jacket as the temperatures in December average a high of 7℃ and low of 0℃.
One of the most icon things to experience in New York is ice skating in Central Park. Grab a hot chocolate or a famous Frrrozen hot chocolate desert from Serendipity 3 and head out onto the open-air skating rink. After skating, hop onto a horse-drawn carriage to cuddle up and experience more of Central Park. The buzz on the rink and throughout the Park during the holidays is like no other.
Aside from Central Park, be sure to experience the lighting of the Rockefeller tree. This large Christmas tree will be on display at Rockefeller Plaza from November 28th – January 7th.
The City of New York is always alive, but there is something about the holidays that takes it to another level.
2. Vienna, Austria
You may need to blink your eyes a few times after landing in Vienna during the Christmas season, as it closely resembles a childhood fairytale.
Softly falling snow, twinkling lights and marching bands dancing through the streets are a regular daily occurrence. Pair that magic with Christmas Markets, mulled wine, and lots of history, and you have Vienna during the Holiday season.
The temperature in December ranges from 4℃ – 1℃, so warm clothing will be necessary as you will want to spend lots of time outdoors experiencing the markets, parks and historic buildings.
If you are the type of couple that likes history, bratwurst, music and wine, this will be your dream Christmas destination.
3. Reykjavik, Iceland
This destination made it onto the list for the outdoorsy couples. Reykjavik is an outdoor adventure haven, and that doesn’t stop in the winter when the temperatures are between 3℃ and -2℃.
December marks the best time of year to spot the Aurora borealis (Northern Lights). This natural phenomenon is a spectacle to see and makes for a very romantic evening under the stars.
In addition to the Aurora borealis, adventure seekers will love walking on some of Europe’s biggest glaciers and snowmobiling the Golden Circle.
Last but not least, a trip to Iceland would not be complete without a trip to the Blue Lagoon, open year round. Soaking in this outdoor spa will feel great after a full day of adventure.
The Sunny Christmas Edition
1. Mayan Riviera, Mexico
Mayan Riviera (and Mexico, in general) offers exceptional packages for couples during the holiday season.
December is a great time to head to Mexico, as the storm season has passed and the temperatures are still comfortable. Couples will enjoy adults-only all-inclusive resorts, where you can sit back, relax and enjoy the day on the beach, lounging by the pool or participating in the fun activities around the resort.
Christmas in Mexico is a blast, with lots of festivals and cultural delights all over the resort and town. You won’t feel as though you have ‘missed out’ on the holiday celebrations at any point in your vacation to Mexico.
2. Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai is a great destination for adventurous couples looking for some sun on their Christmas getaway.
Hawaii has always been a good option for those of us living in Canada due to its close proximity. Here you can enjoy the warm weather with minimal travel time and jetlag. Kauai offers couples a bit more romance compare to the other islands due to its rugged natural terrain. Hikes and scuba diving are just some of the great adventures available on the island.
At night, cozy up at one of the bungalows, where Christmas is celebrated in a traditional Western style with some Hawaiian twists including roasted pig, poi, poke and of course hula dancers.
The spirit of Mele Kalikimaka, which is a Hawaiian phrase meaning ‘Merry Christmas’ is hard to miss throughout all of the Hawaiian Islands.
3. Palawan / Manila, Philippines
If you are looking to travel to somewhere exotic but still experience a Christmas celebration, the Philippines is a great option.
The Capital City of Manila is ideal if you want a buzzing atmosphere with lots of festivals and energy. However, if you’re hoping to be on a beach experiencing some Christmas traditions, Palawan is perfect. Palawan is less busy than sought-after Boracay, and offers some of the countries’ most beautiful beaches.
Christmas in the Philippines offers a mix of Western and Filipino traditions. People are very friendly and welcoming and want to celebrate a sense of community during this time. Christmas Eve is a busy time for mass, and Christmas Day is traditionally spent visiting friends and family. At resorts and around towns you will notice Christmas trees, Parol’s (a bamboo pole with a bright handcrafted star) and Christmas Carols.
The Magic of Christmas worldwide
Experiencing Christmas with your significant other is journey that will bond you.
Let the magic of the season bring you both closer together and celebrate the abundance of love and happiness, which is something that we often take for granted in the hustle and bustle of a Christmas at home.
Winter vacation packages are now on sale. Contact one of our travel agents today to learn more!
