8 Holiday Trips You Can’t Afford to Overlook

     While some families like to be home for the holidays, others want to take to the road, sky, or water. So if you’re thinking about taking a trip for the holidays this year, here are eight ideas to get you started. You’re only limited on where you go by your own creativity and what your budget will allow.

8 Holiday Trips You Can’t Afford to Overlook

The Caribbean

     The perfect holiday vacation for you and your spouse might be filled with sand, sun, and the brilliant blue waters of the Caribbean. Maybe you’re thinking of the holidays in the Bahamas, or a trip to Jamaica at one of the Sandals resorts around Montego Bay may be just the ticket at less than $200 per night, per person. You can also enjoy more family-centered resorts at locations around the Caribbean such as Turks & Caicos and Jamaica. Look for holiday discounts and/or all-inclusive vacation packages that take the worry out of carrying a lot of cash to cover expenses.

New York City

     From not to be beat shopping to taking in performances of The Nutcracker or ice skating at Rockefeller Plaza, a holiday trip to New York City can't be beaten. There are an infinite number of exciting things to do and places to visit. Check ahead of time for holiday week discounts and hotel packages that include admission to some of the city's holiday festivities.

Las Vegas

8 Holiday Trips You Can’t Afford to Overlook

     Casinos and adult-themed stage shows are not the only attractions awaiting you if Las Vegas in on your holiday trip wish list. According to Family Travel Forum, you can take in Glittering Lights at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, ice skate at hotel pools that transform for the holidays or catch the annual gingerbread display at the Four Season Hotel, Las Vegas.

Rent a Castle

     If you think your home is your castle, how about renting one? Check out Celtic Castles for your very own selection of castle accommodations in England, Ireland, and Scotland. You can choose to be just minutes away from major cities like Dublin or London, or maybe you prefer a bit more isolation. You and nine of your friends can enjoy Mingary Castle on the west coast of Scotland, but be prepared to step up to pay for this three-night holiday experience. 

Cruise Through the Holidays

     Windstar Cruises offers trips to locations ranging from Alaska to the Mediterranean. Cross the ocean from Aruba to Portugal. The ships are smaller than some of the other cruise lines, carrying maybe one-tenth the number of guests to give travelers a more personalized experience. If the price is a concern, last minute cruise deals on larger ships can be had for a fraction of the cost.

Williamsburg, Virginia

     Maybe what you’re looking for is a little quieter approach to the holidays with some history thrown in to boot. Historic Williamsburg offers visitors a chance to tour the old colonial village all decked out for the holidays, shop at area outlet malls, or check out the lights at Busch Gardens’ Christmas Town. A tour through the Jamestown Settlement gives visitors a taste of a Colonial Christmas. 

Washington D.C.

8 Holiday Trips You Can’t Afford to Overlook

     We all know the National Christmas Tree is the capital’s claim to fame during the holidays, but there are plenty of other holiday lights to be seen through Washington. A can’t miss visit to ZooLights should be on the list, with the National Zoo decked out with more than a half-million LED lights. There are always plenty of activities to fill the days. Best of all, if you’re willing and able to walk, a lot of the attractions are free, which makes this a very cost-effective holiday trip. 

Skiing

8 Holiday Trips You Can’t Afford to Overlook

     Not everyone's ready for sun and sand. Let's not forget taking advantage of the winter weather too. December and January are prime skiing months for resorts all around the United States, including those in the southern Appalachians. Book ahead of time, and you may be able to get a deal that throws in an extra night free. In addition to traditional skiing, many resorts offer snowboarding, tubing, and—depending on snow cover—trails for cross-country skiing.

     The bottom line for anyone thinking about traveling for the holidays is to plan ahead. You can find some great deals and travel however near or far you wish. One thing you know for sure, there are bound to be plenty of exciting activities for the entire family, no matter where you decide to spend your holiday vacation.