By Clara Ferance

Spring is in full bloom, and it’s only a matter of time before the winter holidays are here! And since it’s such a popular time to travel for many families, it’s important to start planning Thanksgiving or Christmas vacations well in advance to ensure availability (and to get the best deals!). Here are some destinations recommended by the Rosedale Travel team to help you get inspired for your 2023 holiday travel:

For Those Who Love Sunshine:

Depending on your travel preferences, a beach or island vacation can be the perfect getaway from the cold winter months. If you’re looking for a warmer destination to soak up the sun, consider booking incredible accommodations in places like Hawaii, the Caribbean, or Mexico to enjoy tropical climates and stunning natural landscapes. Many resorts offer special holiday packages with festive decorations and holiday-themed excursions.

• Hawaii:

If you want an island vacation but don’t have a passport, Hawaii is a popular destination for sun seekers, with an average temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Each island offers a variety of black and white sand beaches, cultural activities such as hula dancing or lei making, as well as the most delicious indigenous cuisine. In addition to its unique culture, Hawaii is a romantic spot for couples looking to enjoy hiking, surfing, snorkeling and other outdoor activities together.

• Turks & Caicos:

Turks & Caicos is a beautiful island chain located in the Caribbean with crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and excellent snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. The island chain is also known for its luxury resorts, spas, and fine dining. Plus, for those that prefer minimal walking and a relaxed itinerary, Turks & Caicos is the perfect stop for many cruise ship routes.

• Costa Rica:

With a warm tropical climate and diverse landscapes (including rainforests, beaches, and volcanoes) Costa Rica is a country that thrives on outdoor excursions and eco-tourism. There are plenty of eco-lodges and sustainable tours that support conservation efforts while giving access to the best local food, hotels, wildlife excursions, and must-have activities such as ziplining.

For The Fitness-Lovers

Although cold, the winter season is well-loved by many, especially athletic travelers who enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-based activities. Whether you’re looking for a top-notch ski resort for your next family holiday trip or you plan to visit some national parks you’ve been wanting to cross off your bucket list, Rosedale Travel has some hidden gems to recommend!

• Colorado & Montana:

The western United States has some of the most breathtaking national parks in the whole country. Because of this, Colorado and Montana are two states that are home to some of the best skiing destinations, with a variety of terrain options for all skill levels. From beginner slopes to advanced backcountry trails, explore the coziest lodges in Vail, Breckenridge, and Aspen, Colorado while enjoying scenic views, hot springs, and charming mountain towns. Montana also offers opportunities for snowshoeing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing across the vast slopes of Glacier National Park, Yellowstone, or best-kept-secrets like Big Sky. Remember to check weather and snow conditions before booking your trip and be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear.

For The Most Magical Holiday

Holiday season is the most magical of all! And that means no matter where you go, there will be cheerful lights, decorations, and festive celebrations with family. As a Virtuoso member, Rosedale Travel grants our travelers access to all types of amenities to elevate your trip and make it absolutely unforgettable! Check out our top recommendations that are sure to make the magic happen:

• Disney:

Disney is a great trip for the winter holiday season because it brings joy and excitement to both kids and adults. The parks are decorated with fairy lights, the trees are decked out with creative Disney-themed ornaments, and there are special holiday shows and parades featuring beloved Disney characters. With seasonal goodies, such as gingerbread cookies and hot cocoa, and unique holiday-themed merchandise, visiting Disney during your next winter holiday will create a sense of wonder and delight for the whole family!

• Northern Lights:

Whether you fly across the Atlantic to visit the wintry landscapes of Scandinavia or book an Alaskan cruise, there are many countries that are astonishing winter wonderlands, specifically viewing the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. From October to March, there’s a good chance to catch a glimpse of these miraculous, colorful phenomena. And who wouldn’t want to take in the rugged, sprawling beauty of the wilderness in Norway, Sweden, or Finland while they’re at it? In the meantime, you can enjoy snowmobiling, dog sledding, and drinking hot chocolate to keep warm!

• Christmas Markets:

A classic winter tradition that began in Germany, Christmas markets are open November & December in many countries throughout Europe. Walk around the cute shops decorated with lights to buy handmade trinkets for Christmas presents while enjoying a glass of hot mulled wine and hot candied almonds. In addition to the delightful snacks and souvenirs, you can enjoy ice skating, live music, and other special offerings depending on the market. To see as many markets as possible, there’s always the option to take a Christmas market river cruise along the Danube or the Rhine to act as your “floating hotel” as you make stops in cities like Cologne, Heidelberg, or Basel.

At Rosedale Travel, our team will help you customize the perfect holiday vacation yet with incredible memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’d like lay on a relaxing beach in the sun, take to the slopes at a world-renowned ski resort, or want to prioritize your family’s must-see places, we’ll help you put together the best itinerary for the 2023 festive holiday season. Simply reach out to us to get started—we’ll make sure everything is booked early and remains flexible with your travel dates, so you can have the best, stress-free holiday trip yet!