With December and New Year’s fast approaching, now is truly the moment to begin planning your festive season travel. Personally, I’ve learned that the earlier I start arranging travel, especially for family trips, the smoother the experience. Many festive resorts enforce a seven- to ten-night minimum stay, so you’ll want to book early to secure the dates and rooms you really need.
Why You Should Book Festive Travel Now
1. Minimum-stay rules lock you in
Many destinations including ski resorts or beach hideaways impose minimum-stay requirements during peak holidays. By planning early, you increase your odds of getting exactly the nights you want, rather than being forced into less convenient dates.
2. Connecting rooms & family layouts
If you’re travelling with your family, it’s not just booking a room, it’s about securing connecting rooms or suites with layouts suited for kids. Those prime configurations vanish fast, so early booking is critical.
3. Flight prices climb fast
It’s no secret: as holiday nears, flights skyrocket. By locking in your tickets now, you’ll save money and avoid the stress of limited availability – or even missing out entirely.
4. Activities fill up early
Festive dinners, local events, ski lessons – they all sell out. Pre-booking lets you plan properly and secure memories instead of compromises.
Destinations That Shine This Holiday Season
Hawaii – For Families Craving Sun, Space & Spirit
We love Hawaii for its rare ability to meet a variety of needs in one single, stunning place. It’s not just sunshine and sandy beaches – though yes, you’ll find plenty of those. It’s also the sense of ease that greets you from the moment you land. Think: morning hikes along volcanic ridges, afternoons snorkeling with sea turtles, and evenings filled with hula shows and local cuisine under the stars. For families with mixed interests, Hawaii offers freedom.
Whether that’s chasing waterfalls, booking surf lessons, or just reading a book poolside while the kids join a holiday lei-making workshop. And yes, those villas and family-friendly resorts? They book up fast.
Our accommodation faves: Mauna Lani, Rosewood Kona Village, Montage Kapalua Bay, 1 Hanalei Bay.
Courchevel, France – For Luxe Snow-Lovers Seeking Alpine Magic
Courchevel in Les Trois Vallées is pure festive indulgence: powdery pistes, glamorous chalets, and twinkling lights that look like a snow globe come to life. We recommend it to clients who want the full winter wonderland experience, complete with skiing, après-ski champagne, and hot chocolate by the fire.
But Courchevel isn’t just about style, it’s substance, too: the ski schools are some of the best in Europe, making it perfect for both newbies and seasoned snow bunnies. And the seven-night minimums? Planning early ensures you secure prime slope-side access and that coveted private chalet with room for the entire crew.
Our accommodation faves: L’Apogee, Le Coucou (in Meribel).
Philippines – For Sun-Seekers Dreaming of Island Hopping
If you’re dreaming of turquoise water and white-sand beaches to ring in the new year, we will always point you toward the Philippines. With more than 7,000 islands to explore, it’s an archipelago designed for laid-back luxury. December is the peak season for both weather and festivities: island hopping between El Nido, Siargao, and Coron becomes a dream itinerary. Think private boat tours, seaside dinners, and barefoot celebrations. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want equal parts serenity and adventure.
Our accommodation faves: Amanpulo, El Nido, Shangrila Borcay.
Dublin & Edinburgh – For City Souls Who Want Culture & Cheer
For travelers who like their holiday with a side of storytelling, we always bring up Dublin and Edinburgh. These cities shine during the festive season with glowing markets, live music, whisky tastings, and literary tours – offering something a little cozier than the typical Christmas chaos.
In Dublin, the Temple Bar neighborhood lights up with carolers and warm hospitality, while Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Festival is the gold standard for New Year’s Eve, complete with torchlight parades and fireworks over the castle. Boutique hotels and historic stays fill up fast, so planning ahead ensures you’re right in the heart of the magic.
Our accommodation faves: The Westbury (Dublin), Gleneagles Townhouse (Edinburgh).
Morocco – For Couples Wanting Spice, Soul & Adventure
If you’re looking to trade tinsel for tagine and embrace something a little more offbeat, Morocco is unforgettable for adventurous couples planning their festive season travel. Spend your days wandering through the souks of Marrakech, soaking up the rich colors, spices, and artisan wares.
Then escape to the desert for a luxury camp under the stars or head into the Atlas Mountains for a wintery take on North African landscapes. The contrast of warm hospitality and cool December air makes it a deeply romantic option and early planning is essential for securing those bucket-list riads and experiential escapes.
Our accommodation faves: Villa des Orangers, Royal Monsour, Dar Ahlam.
In short, now is the time to plan your festive season travel – don’t miss out by waiting! Start exploring destinations now, from a family-friendly Hawaii escape to snowy adventures in Courchevel or lively New Year festivals in Ireland and Scotland. Book travel, rooms, and experiences early, your future self will thank you when everything is locked in, organized, and ready for carefree festive fun – and yes, we can help you book & plan it all.
